Hiking gear for a multi-day adventure in Norway
I know preparing for a hike in new terrain is daunting. As a South African, I had no idea what to expect from the Norwegian wilderness. Luckily, I had my local Norwegian friend to guide me.
I have taken some of her knowledge and shared them here. I hope they will help you in planning your hiking vacation in the Norwegian mountains and fjords.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare yourself for a summer or autumn hiking trip in Norway. Remember, safety first, always take plenty of provisions of food and warm clothing in case of a sudden weather change. Happy hiking!
All hiking routes in Norway are marked with a red ‘T’.
What to pack
Are you going on hiking or camping? Planning on a one-day hike or an overnight stay? Know your trip and pack accordingly.
For sleeping: tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner
For hiking: water bottles, water filter, hiking poles, headlamp, map, battery back, phone charger
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, face wipes, moisturiser, lip balm, disinfectant, vaseline, sanitary products
Extras: repair kit for tent/clothing, insect repellent, 30cm cord
Technology: portable charger, charging cables, headlamp, and of course, my camera equipment!
Heavily loaded on our first multi-day hike in Norway.
What to wear
The key to hiking is layering. Make sure you have the right layers so that you can best moderate your body temperature. This will depend on the route, elevation gain, altitude and whether your body runs hot or cold.
Our pack list tends to be similar regardless of summer or autumn, give or take a base layer. For me, these items have been useful in June as well as September.
On my top: merino wool t-shirt, sports fleece, synthetic wool insulator jacket and finally, a waterproof jacket
On my bottom: shorts, winter hiking pants
On my feet: merino wool socks, waterproof hiking boots
When I sleep: merino wool base layers
Accessories: buff/neck warmer, beanie, gloves, sun hat, sunglasses
Layered in all our clothing to greet the sunrise at 4 am in the Norwegian summer
What to eat and drink
Even though Norway is a cold and wet country, it’s important to stay hydrated. Both Oda and I hiked with 3-litre water bladders and extra filter bottles to filter lake or river water along the way. Remember, you will be using water for drinking, cooking and cleaning, so make sure you always have enough with you.
Pack whatever food you would like to eat. Remember, it should be relatively light and non-perishable.
Condiments: salt, pepper, oil, mayonnaise, tomato sauce
Snacks: health bars, chocolate, biltong, nuts & raisins
Food: mushroom risotto, lompe (flat potato bread), dehydrated tomato soup, sausage, rusks, oats, apples and bananas
Drink: water, tea, coffee and condensed milk!
Utensils: bowl, cup, cutlery, sharp knife, outdoor kitchen, fuel, lighter, small sponge, eco-friendly soap
Cooking a delicious mushroom risotto while hiking across Hardangervidda.
Soninke Combrinck
I write about connecting with nature as I chase my own adventures around the world.