How to Travel Norway on a Budget: Real-Life Tips for Summer

Budget Travel Scandinavia: My 40-Day Journey Through Norway and Sweden

The Oslo waterfront is like a hipster postcard, flaunting its modern architecture and parked sailboats under a sky that's as moody as a teenager. It's the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful city view, with the fjord photobombing in the background.

In the heart of the Nordic summer, I set off on a 40-day journey through Southern Norway—not the towering fjords and epic peaks you're used to seeing on Instagram, but the flatter, culturally rich regions where the high cost of living meets unforgettable charm.

This wasn’t just a vacation. It was an immersion. A quest to experience Scandinavia without draining my savings. If you’re wondering how to travel Norway on a budget in 2025, I’ve lived it—and survived to tell the tale.

Scene DescriptionIn Oslo, on Karl Johan's gate, the atmosphere is alive with the sounds and sights of a rainy night. People stroll leisurely under colorful umbrellas, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of a vibrant city street.Visual ElementsWeather: Rainy nightLighting: Warm glow from streetlights and building lightsActivity: People walking, enjoying the ambianceAtmosphere: Lively and vibrantOverall ImpressionThe combination of rain, warm lighting, and the presence of people creates a cozy yet dynamic environment, showcasing the charm of Oslo's nightlife.

Sticker Shock: Norway’s High Prices in 2025

I’d visited Norway before in the winter, so I thought I was prepared. But in summer 2025? The prices felt even higher. A simple cheeseburger and a beer? Around $20 USD. Dining out regularly? Forget it. If you're looking for Norway travel tips for 2025, this is rule number one: avoid restaurants unless you're ready to splurge.

Step right into TAEPs in downtown Fredrikstad, Norway, where the scene is as inviting as a warm hug from a Viking! Behold the glorious lineup of draft beers and spirits, all standing at attention behind the bar like they're ready for a group photo. The menu board is lit up like it just got a great idea, and the shelves are so well-organized they could win a tidiness contest. It's a promise of a wild and wonderful adventure for anyone brave enough to enter!

Cheap Places to Stay in Norway? Sometimes It’s About Who You Know

I was lucky—I stayed with my ex-fiancée’s mother. Free accommodation and access to a kitchen? It was a budget traveler’s dream. If you’re not blessed with local connections, you’ll need to dig deep to find cheap places to stay in Norway. Look for:

• Rural guesthouses

• Budget hostels (check HI Norway Hostels)

• Off-season Airbnb rentals

• Farm stays (yes, really—they’re cheaper and memorable)

And always prioritize places with a kitchen. Cooking your own meals is key to saving money in Norway.

Imagine waking up to a breakfast party where seeded bread is slathered with strawberry jam like it’s getting ready for a jam session. Meanwhile, smoked salmon lounges on toast, feeling fancy with a drizzle of mayonnaise and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like it's dressed for a culinary red carpet. And then there are the soft-boiled eggs, cooked to perfection and wearing a crown of roe, because even eggs deserve to feel royal once in a while!

Smart Grocery Shopping: How to Save Money in Norway

Even groceries can feel pricey in Norway—but there’s a hack: shop smart, shop local, and look for the budget brands.Enter First Price—my hero of Norwegian supermarket shelves. Their frozen pizzas, canned goods, and pantry staples were lifesavers.

Some of our go-to budget meal staples:

• Norwegia cheese (a must-try!)

• Whole grain bread

• Tubed mayo (don’t knock it)

• Simple pasta dishes

And yes, every traveler in Norway needs to invest in an ostehøvel (Norwegian cheese slicer). It’s the cheapest luxury you’ll find.

Scene DescriptionPicture a chill day on a docked sailboat, where someone’s jamming on the keyboard while the rest of the crew kicks back and enjoys the sunny vibes by the water.Follow Captain JackStay in the loop with Captain Jack by following him on Instagram: @Jackmikkel.

Cross-Border Hack: Why We Shopped in Sweden

Here’s one of the best Norway travel tips for 2025: cross the border into Sweden for groceries and supplies. Prices in Sweden are significantly lower, and the variety is better too.

We drove from Fredrikstad, Norway, to Strömstad, Sweden—a short and scenic trip with a huge payoff. Think of it as a grocery run and mini-vacation rolled into one.

Pro tip: If you're near the border, schedule a bi-weekly shopping trip to Sweden. Your wallet will thank you.

Picture this: Stromstad docks in Sweden during the off-season, where the boats are on vacation, and the seagulls are running the show. The place is so peaceful, even the waves are whispering. It's like the town decided to take a nap, but in the most charming way possible.

Ride the Ferry: A Cheap & Scenic Travel Experience

One of the most budget-friendly experiences in Scandinavia? The ferry ride from Fredrikstad to Strömstad. For about $15 USD round trip, but for a little more we enjoyed:

• Scenic ocean views

• Remote island vistas

• A cold beer with the wind in our hair

• Duty-free shopping (yes, that’s a carton of cigarettes and brunch with beer for two for under $50)

This isn't just a transportation tip—it's a travel memory in the making.

Heading to Fredrikstad: An Exciting Ferry Journey from Stromstad Embarking on a journey to Fredrikstad is an experience that combines the thrill of travel with breathtaking natural beauty. As you prepare to hop on the ferry from Stromstad, anticipation builds, knowing that both excitement and stunning scenery will accompany you throughout this delightful voyage. The ferry ride itself is an adventure, offering a unique perspective of the picturesque coastline. As the vessel departs from Stromstad, you are greeted by the gentle sway of the waves and the refreshing sea breeze, which invigorates your senses and sets the tone for the journey ahead. The panoramic views of the archipelago, with its myriad of islands dotting the horizon, create a captivating backdrop that is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you glide through the sparkling waters of the Oslofjord, take a moment to soak in the surroundings. The vibrant colors of the landscape shift with the changing light, showcasing lush greenery and rocky shores that are characteristic of this stunning region. Keep your camera ready, as the scenery is not only breathtaking but also ever-changing, providing countless opportunities for memorable photographs. Onboard the ferry, you have the chance to meet fellow travelers, each with their own stories and adventures to share. Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or family, the atmosphere is filled with a sense of camaraderie as passengers exchange tips and recommendations about their experiences in Norway. The ferry's amenities ensure a comfortable ride, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey, whether you choose to sit indoors or bask in the sun on the deck. As the ferry approaches Fredrikstad, the anticipation intensifies. The charming town, known for its well-preserved fortress and vibrant cultural scene, awaits your exploration. The journey serves not only as a means of transportation but also as a prelude to the rich history and unique experiences that Fredrikstad has to offer. In conclusion, hopping on the ferry from Stromstad to Fredrikstad is more than just a simple trip; it is an enriching experience filled with excitement and stunning scenery that enhances the overall adventure. As you embark on this journey, you are not merely traveling from one point to another; you are immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of Norway, making memories that will last a lifetime.

What to Know About Vaping in Norway in 2025

Here’s a curveball: if you're trying to quit smoking and switch to vaping, Norway might frustrate you. In 2025, nicotine vape juice is still banned in Norway, so you’ll need to make a quick detour into Sweden to stock up legally and affordably.

Sailing the open waters between Norway and Sweden, I'm embracing my pirate lifestyle, indulging in waffles and beer—all without taxes! Who would have thought that the international waters between Fredrikstad and Strömstad could be so delightful? Arrr, matey!

Norway Travel Tips 2025: Getting Around Cheaply

Scandinavia is known for its sleek, efficient public transport—and Norway is no exception. To save money in Norway on transportation:

• Use local buses and trains (book in advance for best prices)

• Rent e-scooters or bikes in cities

• Take ferries instead of domestic flights when possible

• Just WALK! (civil engineering makes just about everything a walkable distance)

And always look out for monthly travel passes if you’re staying longer.

Peeking over the harbor in Gothenburg, Sweden, you’ll spot the historic Hotel Barken Viking ship posing like a maritime celebrity, while the quirky red and white "Lipstick" building adds a splash of color to the skyline, making it look like the city got a makeover!

Final Thoughts: Living the Scandinavian Dream Without the Price Tag

Norway is stunning—no doubt about it. But it's also one of the most expensive countries on Earth. With a little planning, some local knowledge, and these budget travel Scandinavia tips, you can have the adventure of a lifetime without emptying your bank account.

So if you’re planning your next trip and wondering how to travel Norway on a budget, just remember: cook your meals. Shop in Sweden. Ride the ferry. Slice your cheese like a local. And never pay full price unless you absolutely have to.