Traveling to Norway with camper is easy and worthwile. While the campsites are one of the most expensive in Europe, however there is also abundance of free parking locations and great supporting services for emptying and getting water. There are few things you need to decide in advance and then you can plan and enjoy the trip.
1. Getting to Norway
If you are traveling to Norway with camper from mainland Europe, you have two main options: by ferry or drive all the way over Oresund bridge between Denmark and Sweden.
By ferry
Why choose – Fastest option, safe on gas and other expenses related to long driving
I have not used this option, but use search options on google or HERE
By Oresund bridge
Why choose – Enjoy other sites along the way, avoid guaranteed customs on the ferry
If you cross between Denmark and Sweden at least twice, it is worth signing up to OresundGO. You will pay annual fee and each crossing is relatively cheap. This can be useful if you plan few trips, otherwise remember to cancel it. Alternatively, you can purchase other versions of tickets (single/return) without membership, which are not as cheap but still at lower rate than paying directly at the bridge. Read more HERE
In addition in Denmark there is paid Strobaelt bridge but unless you commute many times a year, the offered promotions are not worth it and it is best paying directly at the bridge.
2. AutoPass
Autopass is automated system for payment of tolls and ferries in Norway. Once you are set up, all tolls are dedacted automatically. The same system works on majority of the ferries. In both cases you also save money as you will get better rates than if you had to pay after the fact or on a spot.
More information HERE
Ordering of toll tag
Important note: You must sign up for this system and the toll tag about 2 months before your trip. It is not possible to do this while in Norway!
You need to order the Toll Tag with external company, check on the Autopass websites one of the authorized providers. Just select one (I have used Skytell), you will need to register and sign contract and they will send the physical tag to your address. This might take few weeks.
Once the toll tag arrives you can apply it somewhere on the front window and you can enjoy your trip, no need to worry about anything else.
EPass
If you do not have time to sign up for AutoPass and receive your toll tag, you must sign up for Epass, you will get charged at higher rates. Depending on your set up, you might remember to pay fees and it might not be applicable for ferries.
ProTip: Make sure you have the EPass set up at minimum otherwise you are risking fines.
3. Campsites
Free
Norway is known to be very camperfriendly location. You are allowed to stay for free anywhere provided there is no sign prohibiting camper stay and that you keep area clean and dont inhibit camping behaviour (awning, camp chairs,….).
ProTip: Check my other post for the best Apps for both free and paid campsites as well emptying locations HERE
Paid
Norway has one of the most expensive campsites in Europe. Most of them average around 350NOK, often with electricity and showers to be paid on top of that. Some are cheaper and some more expensive, it also depends on location. In return you get safe and maintained grounds, clean facilities etc.
4. Emptying and getting water
Traveling in Norway with camper is so common and user-friendly so many petrol stations have emptying facilities for both grey and black water and sometimes also water refil. These services can be free or at small charge, depending on petrol station. Some campsites also offer this for a fee. Some municipalities set up emptying services in designated areas, check one of the apps.
5. Keep your lights on
In Norway it is mandatory to have your day lights on at all times while driving. This is applicable all year round, even during day time. Keep this in mind to avoid fines. Norwegian drivers will often flash their lights to remind you of this, if you forget.
