Norway for shopaholics: how much do souvenirs cost and how to get up to 19% VAT refund in 2025

Norway is a place like no other. Its stunning fjords are just one of its many highlights. And its pure wool designs, delicious Brunost and charismatic trolls are just a few of the things that make it such a special place to visit. Hey, I totally get it – we all love a bargain! But did you know that with a smart shopping strategy, you can actually get away with spending less than you might think? The Tax Free system refunds up to 19% of the VAT you pay, and choosing the right shop saves you time and commission. We've put together a list of the ten most frequently asked questions about souvenir prices and how to get the most out of your kroner in 2025.

Hey, I just wanted to check: what's the lowest amount you can spend to qualify for Tax Free?

Hey, just a heads-up that as of 1 January 2025, the rules are staying the same. For standard goods (with a 25% VAT rate), you'll need a receipt from one shop that's at least 315 NOK, and for food (with a 15% VAT rate), it's 290 NOK minimum. When you reach the border, the cash register will print out a Global Blue or Planet form. Please remember to show your passport right away, as well as the stamp. We really want you to be able to enjoy your shopping experience, so please bear in mind that purchases cannot be combined – it is important that each receipt exceeds the threshold.

How much VAT will actually be refunded and what fee will be deducted?

Rest assured, you'll get back at least 19% of what you paid, minus the 3–6% service fee that the operators keep. Don't worry - Global Blue charges a fixed 35 NOK for transferring money to a card. They also deduct an additional 3% in cash at border points, so you can rest assured that you'll always get a good deal. Don't worry - the money will be on your card really soon, within 5-10 working days of the barcode being scanned. Hey, just a little life hack for you: when you're at the bank, go for the 'card refund' option. That way, you'll get a better exchange rate than if you were to exchange cash.

How much does a Dale of Norway sweater cost?

You can find our lovely basic models (100% wool) on the official website and in Oslo outlets for between 2,100 and 3,200 NOK. And if you're looking for the collectible Olympic models, you can get those for up to 4,500 NOK. Hey, I just wanted to let you know that at the Norwegian Outlet Vestby outlet, you can get an amazing 30% discount, bringing the price down to just NOK 1,750. Hey, just so you know, your sweater totally qualifies for Tax Free! You'll get a refund of about NOK 350, which is awesome.

How much does 500 g of the legendary Brunost cost?

Hey, just so you know, the Gudbrandsdalsost brown cheese (500 g) is going for around 55–65 NOK in Kiwi/Coop supermarkets. But, if you're an expat and you're looking to buy it online, you might have to pay up to 146 NOK for delivery. You'll be pleased to hear that it's cheaper to buy a 750 g family pack for 85-90 NOK locally. The cheese is vacuum-packed, so you can take it with you when you're on the go without having to worry about a cooler bag.

And how much should you pay for 500 g of dried cod (klippfisk)?

You'll be pleased to know that a half-kilogram of klippfisk in the Bergen fish markets will set you back just 85-110 NOK, and a 250-gram package for air travel will only cost you 55 NOK. Hey, just so you know, online shops in the EU charge $9.25 for ¼ lb (that's about 83 NOK for 115 g), which is super helpful for figuring out the local price range. Hey, here's a little tip for you: when you're at the airport, go for the vacuum-packed 'Ready for Air' option. That way, you won't have to worry about customs taking a closer look at the smell.

Troll magnets: a budget gift or a marketing scam?

Hey, so at the main Karl Johans gate, you can find some really cool stuff for super affordable prices! For just 35 NOK, you can get a small 'Happy Troll' magnet, and if you're looking for something a bit bigger, there's a 3D magnet for only 60 NOK. Don't worry - online shops usually have similar prices, but just remember there's a small shipping charge to think about. You can save money in the souvenir departments of large Coop Mega supermarkets, where a '3 for 2' promotion reduces the price to ≈ 28 NOK per item.

How much do real hand-knit wool socks cost?

Hey, so a pair of super snug and cosy wool socks from Norsk Snøfnugg on Etsy or in village cooperatives will set you back just 80-120 NOK at fairs and $45-50 (that's about 470 NOK) if you buy online. Just a heads up, though, because of the handmade nature of the product and platform fees, the price might be a little higher. Hey, I totally get it, you're thinking of buying in person. And you're right, it's a great way to save some extra cash. Plus, you can pick the 'selburose' pattern, which is a bonus!

Hey, have you ever wondered what a fair price is for a 925° silver drakkar pendant?

At Oslo fairs, you'll be delighted to know that a pendant weighing 4–6 g costs just 390–550 NOK. Hey, so I just wanted to let you know that on Etsy, you can find some really lovely 925 silver items for around $45–65 (that's about 470–680 NOK). And that's without shipping, which is pretty amazing! Hey, just a friendly reminder to ask for a tax-free receipt! The jewellery is so affordable that it easily reaches the minimum threshold, and you'll get a refund of 60–90 NOK.

How much does a souvenir Viking knife cost?

Hey, if you're looking for a little something to remember your trip, how about this cute little folding Viking ship knife? You can find it in tourist shops for around 250-400 NOK, or if you're feeling a bit adventurous, you can even grab it online for just $22-30! It's not considered a cold weapon, so you can easily stow it away in your luggage since the blade is less than 6 cm long. We are delighted to present our beautiful collection of luxury Helle Viking knives, each one meticulously crafted with a handle made from the exquisite Karelian birch. These knives are available for purchase at the very reasonable price of $149, which is equivalent to around 1,600 NOK. We believe that these knives would be a wonderful addition to any collector's cherished collection.

Hey, I totally get it – how can we all save as much as possible when we're out shopping?

Here are some handy tips to save you some money: apply for Tax Free at the checkout as soon as you can — they won't accept receipts later on; choose 'instant refund' at the airport — you'll get your money back faster; pay by card — Global Blue's commission is lower; combine 'Outlet Days' (up to 70% off) with your bank's cashback; get a tourist 'AutoPASS tag' — parking at Norwegian Outlet Vestby will be free. Hey, just a heads-up: when you're checking exchange rates, it's worth keeping an eye on the €1 to NOK 12.1 conversion. Sometimes, prices in euros can be a great deal!

Norwegian shopping is all about finding that perfect balance of practicality and that unique Scandinavian flair. Imagine a sweater that will keep you warm for years and years, a cheese so delicious you'll want to share it with everyone, and a troll that will bring a smile to your face every time you look in the fridge. Don't worry if the price seems a bit high. There are lots of other ways to save money, like getting VAT refunds, going to seasonal sales and outlet stores, and finding other ways to cut costs. A well-chosen shopping list for NOK 315 can save you a pretty penny, and a photo with a 'drakkar' around your neck is a memory that will last you a lifetime. When you buy something, let it remind you of the beautiful fjords, the amazing northern lights and the warm, welcoming Norwegian spirit that generously shares its treasures with attentive travellers.