❄️Lofoten and Tromsø: internet in rorbu/hytte and plan B 🏡

The Arctic is stunningly beautiful, but it can be a bit of a challenge for communications. The terrain blocks direct visibility to towers, islands disrupt signals, and the weather and sparse development add to the unpredictability, which makes it all the more exciting! So, let's talk about how to make the most of your trip! First, check coverage for a specific fjord, request details from your host, and have a second eSIM/modem and a plan for "dead spots" in the village. Below are some practical answers that will make your trip even more amazing! You will learn how to read maps for islands, how to assess Wi-Fi in a rorbu before arrival, and what to do if you find yourself in a "black zone".

Where is the most stable connection in the regions?

It is more stable closer to populated areas and open water: villages with ports, the Tromsø airport area, the "belt" along the main roads and low-lying areas near the water. There will be "shadows" in remote bays and mountain cirques. Take three measurements (morning/afternoon/evening) at your accommodation and in the nearest village. Keep in mind that the closer you are to a window or water and the higher the point, the better the uplink.

How to read the coverage map for islands/fjords?

On islands and along fjords, slope orientation and "line of sight" are important. If there is a mountain ridge between your home and the supposed tower, the map may "promise" good coverage, but in reality, the connection will be interrupted. Look at the indoor/outdoor layers, test different bands (4G/5G), and most importantly, confirm the forecast with a field test at your rorbu and in a "quiet spot" in the village.

How can I evaluate Wi-Fi in a rental before arrival?

Write to the host in advance: ask for the router model, connection type (optical/cable/fixed radio channel/LTE), a screenshot of the speed test in the evening, and specify where the router is located (preferably near a window). Find out if there is a guest network and 5 GHz support. For your convenience, we have prepared a questionnaire template — send it to the host or fill it out for yourself.

What backup should you have (eSIM + router)?

At a minimum, a second eSIM from an alternative network with a 5–10 GB package. Ideally, a mobile router near a window and a fast plan for switching to a hotspot. For important weeks, get two independent channels (eSIMs from different operators). Practise: switch data with two taps and make a 5-minute call on your backup.

How to work near a port/marina?

Ports often have stable Wi-Fi and better mobile signal (open water, less "shadow"). Find a quiet café/library near the pier, check the power outlets, and ask for the Wi-Fi password. Arrive 15–20 minutes before the meeting, sit closer to the window, and turn on VoWiFi or wired Ethernet if available.

What about coverage on trails/viewpoints?

On trails and lookout points, connectivity is unpredictable: better on ridges, dead in hollows. For safety and communication, keep offline maps, share your route and return time, take a power bank, and don't rely on a single eSIM. Work calls on the trail are a bad idea: plan calls before/after you leave.

How do weather windows affect quality?

Storms and wind do not "break" the network themselves, but they do lead to overload (people go home, everyone streams) and logistical delays. Check the forecast and plan calls for quiet windows — early in the morning or late in the evening. If bad weather is forecast, arrange a dial-in in advance and prepare materials offline.

How to plan calls during high tide/windy weather?

In coastal areas, transport and excursions are dependent on tides/wind — schedules are subject to change. Allow for flexible 30-minute windows around the meeting so that you have time to find a "quiet spot". Add an alternative to the invitation: "If the connection drops, I will switch to audio/dial-in, with a backup slot at 18:30."

Offline checklist: files/maps/contacts

Download offline maps, ferry/bus schedules, work files and presentations, prepare a message template "I'm reconnecting, 2 minutes," write down contacts (host, taxi, emergency services) and the location address. Have a plan B: a co-working space/library in the nearest town.

What to do in a "black zone"?

Don't waste time trying to "magically" get a signal. Algorithm: 1) switch to audio and send a short message in the chat; 2) hotspot from another device/second eSIM by the window/outside; 3) change location — port/café/library; 4) assign a backup slot. Record the place and time of the failure — it will be useful for planning the following days.

The north is full of strong emotions and weak signals — and that's a really exciting thing! But don't worry, with a field test near your accommodation, pre-checked Wi-Fi, a backup eSIM/modem and an offline checklist, you can transform "black spots" into a manageable risk. Come and experience the incredible natural beauty here, and leave the rest to a highly competent Plan B!

I would absolutely love to hear from you if you spot any inaccuracies or updates on regions, connectivity or practices. Just write to us via the feedback form in the catalogue and we will check and update the article as soon as we can. And don't forget to share your "quiet spots" and case studies in the comments — we're here to help others get ready!