Packing list

Moving to Norway to study, but not sure what to pack? Check out our packing list, to make sure you bring the right clothes for both rainy weather and winter in Norway. 

 

Clothes

Norwegian student style is usually casual or sporty during the day and semi-casual when going out. Formal clothes are rarely needed. It's more important to be prepared for changing weather with practical clothes you can layer.

Must-have items for Bergen

Bergen is a rainy city surrounded by beautiful mountains.To enjoy it fully, adopt the Norwegian mentality: "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." Here are two essentials for embracing Bergen's climate:

  • Rain gear: A rain jacket and rain pants are ideal. 
  • Base layers: If you plan to hike (a popular Norwegian activity), base layers are key. Wool is considered the best fabric for this.
     

General clothes list

  • T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, jacket, winter coat

  • Leggings, long underwear, pants, jeans

  • Scarves, gloves, hats

  • Socks, underwear, bras

  • Specialized clothes like workout gear or skiing gear
     

Shoes

Bergen is a walkable city with lots of cobblestones and rain. Bring comfortable, waterproof shoes for all-day wear.

  • Hiking boots
  • Rain boots
  • Running/training shoes
  • Casual/semi-formal shoes
     

Household essentials

Whether you are staying in a student hostel or a flat, there are a number of household items you may need.

Linens

Linens are not included when renting a room or a flat. This can of course be bought in Norway, if you don’t find room for it in your luggage.

  • Towels, washcloths, hand towels, dish towels.
  • Duvet, duvet cover, sheets, pillowcases.

Depending on your type of accommodation, you might also need tableware, pots and pans.

 

Toiletries

You will find all toiletries you need in Norway, but the brands might not be the ones you are used to. If there are particular brands from your home country that you simply can’t live without, you might want to bring supplies.

Note that some over the counter medicines in your country, might require a prescription in Norway. Medicines and supplements can also be more expensive in Norway.

Before you arrive we advise you to research availability of any medicines you rely on and bring a sufficient supply. Be sure to check if there are any restrictions to which medicines you are allowed to bring into the country. Asking other expats for help might me useful if in doubt, check out Facebook groups such as Norway Expats or Bergen Expats.
 

Study supplies

Study supplies are available in Bergen, but can be more expensive than back home. Only certain types of calculators are allowed in exams, so check what your institution requires.

  • Academic books
  • Writing /highlighting implements
  • Post-its/adhesive page markers
  • Notebooks/folders, etc.
     

Electronics

Ensure you have the right converters or adaptors for your electronics. 

Important documents

Make sure you bring any vital documents along with you. Examples include:

  • Passport
  • Driver’s license
  • School transcripts if needed
  • Letter of Acceptance from the Norwegian institution
  • Prescriptions
  • Up-to-date healthcare insurance 

You probably don't have room in your luggage to bring everything you will need for your whole stay in Norway. Don’t worry, though—while Norway is expensive, you can still find items that fit a student budget.