Prepare for the Norwegian climate
- The winter season in Oslo is from December to late March, with temperatures ranging from -15C to 5C. (5F to 41F).
- The winter climate in Oslo is generally milder than other parts of Norway.
- Norway has a mild summer climate. In Oslo, the average temperatures range from 11C to 25C (50F to 77F) during the summer (June-August). You can expect some rainy days, cool nights and warm afternoons.
Pack for the different seasons
In order to dress for the different climate you may experience during your time in Norway we recommend that you bring the following:
-
Raincoat/wind-resistant jacket
- Water-resistant winter boots
- Clothes containing wool (for December - March):
- long underwear,
- sweaters,
- scarfs, gloves/mittens, hat,
- socks
- Winter jacket/coats
Essentials for your student housing
- Ethernet cables
- Router (Can be purchased in Norway, but it may be cheaper to buy it in your home country)
- Adapter (a typical two-pin European plug)
- Bedding (duvet, pillow, sheets)
- This can be bought for a reasonable price in Norway, but you should bring something to use for the first nights.
- Kitchen cutlery is not included in the student housing, but previous students often leave behind cutlery they do not want to bring back home. We recommend that you wait to buy equipment until you have moved in to your room.'
Norway is a cashless society
We recommend that you bring your credit/debit card from your home country. Norway is more or less a cashless society, many services and shops prefer cards. More about bank account and cash in Norway.
Hiking in Norway
The weather in the Norwegian mountains changes quickly, and it can be dangerous to not have the right equipment. Every year rescue teams have to rescue tourists who did not bring the right equipment with them.
Visit the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) for information on how to stay safe while hiking and skiing in Norway.
Tips on how to dress for hiking
- The key to dress for the mountains is layers. Several thin layers are easier to put on/take of when you need to regulate your body temperature, than to only put on a few thicker layers. Going on a hike in the Norwegian mountains is physically demanding, and you will get warm and even sweat.
- Wool and fleece are the fabrics that keep you warm when you are wet and are ideal on a hike.
- Wet cotton will only make you cold and uncomfortable on longer hikes.
- On top of your layers, you should have a windproof and comfortable clothing, also a hat and gloves. The air is crisper than in Oslo, and the weather may change often.
- Bring an extra sweater.
- The excursion leaders can deny students who do not have proper shoes to participate in the hike.
- Pay attention to the forecast, and listen to advice from the tour guide and other locals.