Driving a campervan in Norway – Roads, ferries, tolls and tips
Norwegian mountain road
Photo: Color probe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
Norwegian roads are among the most beautiful in the world, but they can also be narrow, steep and winding. Here's what you need to know to drive a campervan safely and comfortably in Norway.
Narrow roads and passing places
Many of Norway's most spectacular roads are narrow, especially in the fjords and mountains. The roads have regular passing places where you can pull over for oncoming traffic.
- Drive slowly and keep to the right on bends with poor visibility.
- Use the passing places – whoever is closest to a passing place pulls over.
- A campervan is easier to manoeuvre than a motorhome, but remember it's wider than a regular car.
- Be extra careful on roads marked 'smal veg' (narrow road) or single-track roads.
Tunnels
Norway has over 1,100 road tunnels. Some are short and well-lit, others are long and dark. Some are also subsea tunnels with steep gradients.
- Always have dipped headlights on in tunnels.
- Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front.
- Some tunnels have only one lane with traffic lights.
Ferries – part of the journey
Many Norwegian ferry crossings are a natural part of the travel route. The ferries are efficient, reliable and give you a break with great views. In Norway some ferries are free, while others charge a fare. If you need to pay, you can do so automatically with AutoPASS or by card on board.
- Most ferries don't require advance booking – just drive into the queue.
- For popular routes in high season, it's worth arriving early.
- Check timetables on the ferry company's website – some routes have less frequent departures.
Ferry in Norwegian fjord landscape
Photo: Frokor / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
Tolls and AutoPASS
Norway has many toll stations, and most are automatic – you just drive through. With an AutoPASS tag you get a 20% discount on all toll stations and toll rings on roads, bridges and tunnels. Without a tag you pay the full price and are invoiced based on your registration number.
- The rental company will usually inform you about how tolls are handled.
- Tolls vary from a few kroner to over 100 NOK for larger toll stations.
- Check vegvesen.no/trafikk for information on which roads and especially mountain passes are open. Many mountain passes can be closed in autumn and winter.
Speed limits and fuel
Speed limits in Norway are lower than in many other European countries. Generally 80 km/h on country roads and 50 km/h in built-up areas, but always check the signs.
- Fines for speeding are high in Norway – respect the signs.
- Petrol stations can be far apart in remote areas – fill up in good time.
- Most petrol stations also have good toilet facilities, and the option to fill up the fresh water tank.