Hey fellow travelers! I’m writing to you from the stunning country of Norway, where I’ve just completed an epic 4-week backpacking adventure from top to bottom. And the greatest part of all ? I did it all on a broke ass budget of less than $15 a day!
Week 1: Tromsø and the Arctic Circle
I started my journey in Tromsø, the “Gateway to the Arctic”. I stayed at the Tromsø Camping and Hostel (€10 per night) and explored the city’s charming streets, visiting the Arctic Cathedral and the Polar Museum. I even took a free bus to the top of Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking views of the city.
Week 2: Senja Island and the Lofoten Islands
Next, I headed to Senja Island, Norway’s second-largest island, where I hiked to the top of Mount Senja (free) and enjoyed stunning views of the ocean. Then, I took a bus to the Lofoten Islands (€10) and stayed at the Lofoten Youth Hostel (€12 per night). I hiked to the top of Reinebringen (free) and explored the picturesque villages of Reine and Å.
Week 3: Trondheim and the Fjords
From Lofoten, I took a bus to Trondheim (€10) and stayed at the Trondheim Youth Hostel (€12 per night). I explored the city’s historic center, visiting the Nidaros Cathedral and the Old Town Bridge. Then, I took a bus to the fjords (€10) and hiked to the top of Mount Fosen (free).
Week 4: Oslo and the South
Finally, I arrived in Oslo, Norway’s capital city. I stayed at the Oslo Youth Hostel (€15 per night) and explored the city’s vibrant streets, visiting the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Viking Ship Museum. I even took a free ferry to the Bygdøy Peninsula and hiked to the top of Mount Bygdøy (free).
Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: €10-15 per night
- Transportation: €10 per bus ride
- Food: €5-10 per meal
- Attractions: Free or €5-10 per person
Total: Less than $15 per day!
Transportation:
Norway is a vast and beautiful country, but getting around can be expensive. However, with some planning and research, you can explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cities without breaking the bank. Here are some affordable transportation options to help you get around Norway for very cheap:
Bus
- Single ticket: €5-10
- Rechargeable card (€20): cheaper fares
- Long-distance buses: €20-50
Train
- Discounts for booking in advance
- Student and youth discounts available
- Long-distance trains: €50-100
Hitchhiking
- Free!
- Meet locals and see the country
- Popular among backpackers
Ferry
- Short distances: €5-10
- Long distances: €20-50
- Student and youth discounts available
Food:
Street food in Norway is a delicious and affordable way to experience the country’s cuisine! You can find traditional Norwegian street food like hot dogs (known as “pølse” in Norwegian) and waffles (known as “vafler”) at markets, festivals, and street food stalls. Hot dogs are typically served with a variety of toppings such as ketchup, mustard, and pickled cucumbers, while waffles are often served with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Additionally, you can also find other international street food options like kebabs, tacos, and falafel. Street food in Norway is a great way to try local flavors and snacks without breaking the bank, with prices ranging from €5-10 per serving. So, be sure to try some street food during your visit to Norway!
Nightlife:
Norway’s nightlife scene is vibrant and exciting, but it can also be expensive. However, with a little creativity and exploration, you can find affordable bars and random gems to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for experiencing Norway’s nightlife on a shoestring budget:
Happy Hour Deals
- Look for bars with happy hour deals (usually 4-6 pm) for discounted drinks and snacks
- Enjoy a beer or glass of wine for around €5-7
Student Bars
- Visit student bars for cheaper prices and a lively atmosphere
- Try places like Studenten in Oslo or Studentersamfunnet in Bergen
Random Finds
- Explore neighborhoods like Grünerløkka in Oslo or Nordnes in Bergen for hidden gems
- Try bars like Fyret in Oslo or Apollon in Bergen for a unique experience
Tips and Tricks
- Research and plan ahead to find affordable options
- Look for bars with free entrance or live music
- Try a “kveldstur” (evening stroll) to explore different bars and find the best deals
Tips and Tricks:
- Stay at camping sites or budget-friendly hostels.
- Use public transportation or hike to save money.
- Cook your own meals or try affordable street food.
- Take advantage of free attractions and outdoor activities.
With these tips and tricks, you can explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cities without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the time of year and availability.