🚗 What expenses should you consider when renting a car in Norway: tips and advice for tourists

Car rental is one of the best ways to explore Norway's amazing nature and unique sights. It gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to plan your own itinerary. However, it is important to consider not only the basic rental price, but also the many additional costs that can significantly affect your budget. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what costs you should consider in advance, how to avoid hidden fees, and how to save as much as possible when renting a car in Norway. Useful links to blog sections: ‘Transport, roads, car rental’, ‘Prices and costs’, ‘Budget life hacks’.

❓10 FAQs about car rental costs in Norway

1. How much does it cost to rent a car in Norway?

The average cost of car rental in Norway varies from 400 to 1500 NOK per day, depending on the season, type of car and rental duration. In summer, during the high tourist season, prices are significantly higher. Renting a compact economy car usually costs NOK 400–600 per day, while SUVs and minibuses can cost NOK 1,500–2,000 and above. It is important to book your car in advance through international websites (such as Rentalcars.com) to get the best rates and discounts. For budget planning tips, see the ‘Prices and costs’ section.

2. What costs should I consider when renting a car, apart from the daily rate?

In addition to the daily rental fee, you should consider the cost of fuel, toll roads, ferries, additional equipment (GPS, child seat), insurance, additional drivers and possible fines. Fuel is expensive in Norway (petrol costs 20–25 NOK per litre), so this factor has a significant impact on your budget. Toll roads are paid automatically, and bills are sent later through the rental company. There are also regular ferry costs, especially when travelling along the west coast. For more information about roads, see the section ‘Transport, roads, car rental’.

3. Do I need to buy additional insurance when renting a car in Norway?

Basic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but it often has a high excess (from NOK 8,000 to NOK 20,000). To reduce financial risks, it is better to purchase additional insurance with a minimum excess (e.g. CDW or Super Cover). It is often cheaper to purchase additional insurance in advance online through brokers rather than at the rental office. This will save you from large expenses in the event of an accident or damage to the car.

4. How to pay for toll roads and bridges in Norway?

In Norway, toll roads and bridges are paid automatically through the AutoPASS system. Tourists simply drive through — cameras automatically register the car's number plate, and the bill is sent to the rental company after the rental period ends. This is usually an additional amount of 200 to 500 NOK per trip within the country. It is important to check the terms of payment for toll roads in advance in the car rental agreement.

5. Do I need to pay for ferries in Norway?

Yes, ferries in Norway are subject to tolls and can significantly increase your travel costs. The price of a single ferry trip usually varies from 100 to 400 NOK depending on the route and type of vehicle. Payment is made directly on the ferry (by card or cash), and it is not usually necessary to book ferries in advance, except for the most popular tourist routes during the high season.

6. How much does fuel cost in Norway?

Fuel in Norway is one of the most expensive in Europe. The average price of petrol is around 20–25 NOK per litre, diesel is slightly cheaper (around 18–24 NOK per litre). To save money, it is better to choose fuel-efficient cars and use self-service petrol stations, where fuel prices are usually 1–2 NOK per litre lower. Self-service petrol stations: Uno-X, Automat and other chains.

7. How to avoid hidden costs when renting a car in Norway?

To avoid hidden costs, read the rental agreement carefully, check the cost of all additional services (insurance, additional equipment, additional driver) in advance, check the car before picking it up and returning it, and take photos of any damage. Make sure that the fuel tank is returned in the same condition as when you received the car to avoid additional refuelling charges.

8. Are there additional charges for an additional driver?

Most rental companies in Norway charge an additional fee for each additional driver (usually 30–70 NOK per day). If you plan to alternate drivers, it is best to clarify this in advance when booking and include all drivers in the rental agreement to avoid penalties.

9. Are there penalties for returning the car late?

Yes, rental companies usually charge large penalties for returning the car later than the time specified in the contract. This is usually the price for an additional day plus an administrative fee. To avoid such penalties, plan the return time carefully and, if you are running late, be sure to notify the rental company in advance.

10. How can I save money on car rental in Norway?

The main ways to save money are to book your car in advance through international aggregators, avoid additional equipment (GPS can be replaced with free mobile apps), refuel at cheap petrol stations, choose an economy class car with low fuel consumption, avoid additional drivers and purchase insurance online in advance.

By knowing all the ins and outs of car rental and planning your budget correctly, you will get the most out of your trip to Norway without any unexpected expenses. Enjoy the freedom and unforgettable landscapes while travelling by car!