🇳🇴 Driving in Norway: The Ultimate Budget Road Trip Guide

By Tight Travellers

If you’re dreaming of fjords, waterfalls, and midnight sun, there’s no better way to explore Norway than by road. It’s not the cheapest country to visit, a road trip can actually save you money and give you access to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe — all on your own terms.

Here’s everything you need to know before you hit the Norwegian roads.

Why Road Trip in Norway?

Let’s be honest: Norway isn’t a cheap destination. But road-tripping gives you control over your budget — especially if you’re travelling as a couple or group.

With a car, you can:
✅ Camp or sleep in your vehicle (free in many places!)
✅ Cook your own food
✅ Skip expensive trains and ferries
✅ Reach remote hikes, villages, and waterfalls that public transport doesn’t touch

What You Need to Drive in Norway

✔ Valid Driver’s License

EU/EEA licenses: no problem
UK, US, AUS, etc.: no IDP required for short stays — but it’s recommended for car rentals

✔ Minimum Driving Age

18 years old to drive
Most rental companies require you to be at least 19–21 with one year of experience

✔ Car Insurance

Basic third-party coverage is required (included in rentals)
Consider extra coverage for peace of mind — Norway’s terrain can be rough!

️Road Rules You Should Know

Drive on the right-hand side (obvious)
Headlights must be on at all times (day or night!)
No mobile phone use while driving
Speeding fines are very high — up to €500+
Seatbelts are mandatory for everyone
Blood alcohol limit: 0.02% (basically = no drinking and driving), and we did get stopped on the empty roads by a parked up Police officer to do a breathalyser.

Speed Limits:

Cities/towns: 30–50 km/h
Country roads: 80 km/h
Highways: 90–110 km/h

💰Norway Driving Budget Tips

1. Use toll roads strategically

Norway has lots of automated tolls
Most rental companies register your car automatically
You get billed later — budget around €10–€30 per day if using major roads
Use toll-free scenic roads when you can (more beautiful anyway)
You can also get a toll pass which gives you discount.

2. Fuel is expensive

Average price: €1.80–€2.10 per litre
Save by filling up at large supermarkets or border stations
Diesel is usually cheaper

3. Bring your own snacks & cook meals

Eating out is $$$ (€20+ per plate)
Shop at Rema 1000, Kiwi, or Coop Extra
Many rest stops have free grills or picnic areas

4. Camp for free (legally!)

Thanks to Allemannsretten (Everyman’s Right), you can wild camp almost anywhere — just follow the rules
Must be 150m from buildings, respectful of nature, and stay max 2 nights
Use apps like Park4Night or Campercontact

️Scenic Drives You Can’t Miss

Atlantic Ocean Road: A dramatic 8km stretch of twisting bridges between islands

Trollstigen: Hairpin turns and jaw-dropping mountain views — open May to October. Remember to still check if it is open before driving – when we got there the road was closed due to rockfalls.

Geiranger to Åndalsnes: Deep fjords, waterfalls, and UNESCO-level beauty

Hardangervidda: Vast mountain plateau with wild reindeer and icy lakes

Lofoten Islands: Arctic beaches, fishing villages, and otherworldly sunsets

️Parking in Norway

Most towns use paid parking meters or apps (EasyPark, Parkopedia)
Rural areas = free or roadside pull-ins
Blue zones = paid
Yellow/red = no parking

Watch for signs marked “avgift” (fee) or “forbudt” (prohibited)

Where to Sleep on the Road

Wild camping (free)
Campsites with showers: around €15–€30/night
Motorhome or van camping areas: often €0–€15
Hostels or cabins: €50–€80, but often have kitchens

What to Pack for a Norwegian Road Trip

🧥 Warm layers + waterproof jacket (yes, even in summer)
🥾 Sturdy shoes for hikes
🍽️ Portable stove or gas burner
🔌 EU plug adaptor
🧻 Toilet roll + biodegradable soap
🗺️ Offline map (mountain signal is sketchy)
📷 Camera — you’re going to want it

Other Tips

Norway is spotless — take your trash with you
Tap water is safe (and delicious!)
Watch for sheep in the road in mountain areas
In summer, it doesn’t get dark — bring an eye mask!
In winter, you’ll need snow tires and extra prep — not ideal for first-timers
If you’re looking for a roof top tent, you can use our Tentbox discount code

Is Driving in Norway Worth It?

Absolutely.
Yes, fuel and tolls add up — but the freedom to explore jaw-dropping fjords, scenic passes, and quiet nature spots on your own schedule is worth every kroner. If you camp, cook your meals, and drive smart, you’ll get an unforgettable road trip for less than you’d expect.

Want Our Free Road Trip Planner?

Includes a packing checklist, daily itinerary template, and budget tracker — perfect for planning your Norway route.
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You can also grab our 4 week route around Norway (when it is ready).