Safety and health in Norway: how much does peace of mind cost (2025 guide)

It's so lovely to hear that Norway is consistently ranked among the three safest countries in the world! And its healthcare system is also in the top 10 according to OECD indices. But, my dear friends, you might want to keep in mind that the state doesn't usually cover the costs of medical treatment for foreigners. And a helicopter trip from the fjords might set you back a pretty penny. We all know how important it is to make sure you don't go over your travel budget because of unexpected medical visits. So, let's take a look at the real rates for 2025: insurance, doctor's appointments, pharmacy prices, tests, parking at clinics, and the finer points of evacuation.

How much does travel insurance for a trip to Norway cost?

According to Forbes Advisor, the average travel insurance policy costs 4-6% of the tour price, so for a week-long trip costing €1,000, it would cost €40-60 (≈ 480-720 NOK). Hey, I totally get it, €100,000 in medical coverage, trip cancellation and baggage coverage is a huge deal. And I know that upgrading to evacuation coverage up to €500,000 will bump up the price a bit, but it's all for your peace of mind, right? Especially for those adventurous tracks above 2,500 m and ski tours.

And how much would it cost to visit a private doctor without insurance?

The Volvat network charges 1,620 NOK for a 15-minute consultation with a general practitioner; evening or weekend appointments cost 1,930–2,170 NOK. Don't worry - we've got your back! If you need a blood test, we'll be happy to add 100–300 NOK to the price. And if you need X-rays, we'll be happy to add 780–1,050 NOK. A state GP for tourists without EHIC/BSMS costs 235–403 NOK, but you may have to wait for days for an appointment.

I was wondering if you could tell me how much a day in a Norwegian hospital costs for a foreigner?

We all know how expensive Norway is, and it's no surprise that it's one of the most expensive countries in the world for hospitalisation. The average cost per day for a patient without a national number is around US$1,343 (14,500 NOK). The bill includes a bed, medical staff and basic diagnostics; operations, medication and evacuation are paid for separately. Hey, I totally get it, I was really worried about my son's accident too. But I'm happy to tell you that our insurance policy has a limit of at least €200,000. That means that, even if he's in intensive care for five days, we'll be covered.

How much does a pack of 1 g × 20 tablets of paracetamol cost?

You'll be happy to know that at Apotek1, regular Paracet 500 mg is just 44.90 NOK. And the great news doesn't stop there, because generics are even cheaper at just 39 NOK! The good news is that the medicine is available without a prescription, but it is only sold in pharmacies or at Coop/REMA supermarkets at the checkout.

And how much do visitors pay for parking at Oslo University Hospital?

Hey guys, just a heads-up that from January 2025, the rates will be the same for all buildings. You'll be pleased to know that the rate is 54 NOK per hour or 340 NOK per day (EasyPark code 3004). And the best part is, you can pay with the app! But just a heads-up, EasyPark does charge a 15% commission. And if you're a parent with a child under 18 who's in hospital, don't worry about parking - you can get free parking at reception.

I'm looking for a child seat for my car, do you know how much it costs?

Most rental companies (like Avis and Budget) charge NOK 100 for the whole rental period, no matter how long you need it for. And the great news is that the same rate applies to a second child seat! What's more, booster seats for children aged 4-12 are also included! Top tip for saving money: Pack a foldable booster backpack, because airlines transport them for free! This will save you money on rental, especially if you're going away for two to three weeks.

Do I need separate insurance at a ski resort?

I'm so glad to tell you that rescue operations in Norway, including helicopter rescue, are officially free! The system is funded by the state and volunteers, so you can rest assured that you're in safe hands. But, if you need to go to a clinic or get more treatment, you'll have to pay for that yourself. And be warned: if you go with a private air ambulance outside the state programme, the bill can easily be more than 100,000 NOK. So, if you're a skier or mountaineer, it's a good idea to take out a 'search and rescue' insurance policy or Alpenverein membership.

How much does a certified Covid-19 rapid test cost?

If you're looking for a antigen test, you'll be pleased to know that private clinics Kry and Volvat charge 695–750 NOK for this (15 minutes) + 195–340 NOK for a 'fit-to-fly' certificate. I totally understand that PCR express tests can be expensive, but they're really worth it. They cost between 1,300 and 1,890 NOK, which is still much cheaper than other options. Don't worry - most airlines no longer require a test, but just so you know, tour operators in the Arctic (Spitsbergen) ask for a certificate within 48 hours.

How much does it cost to call an ambulance and what is the emergency number?

Hey, just so you know, the main medical number is 113. The good news is that it's free even without a SIM card! For those times when you need a little extra help, but it's not a emergency, give 116 117 a call. It's the out-of-hours GP service and it's totally free! If the team decides that hospitalisation isn't needed, you won't have to pay for the call. You'll only be charged for any further clinic services.

What happens if you are injured on the slopes without insurance?

I totally understand how important it is to be able to access first aid when you're at a ski resort. I'm happy to tell you that, according to the laws here, the first aid station is obliged to provide first aid free of charge. But, if you need to go to the hospital for more tests, X-rays, a plaster cast or rehabilitation, you'll have to pay for all of that yourself. And if it's a really bad break, the bill can easily reach NOK 30,000 per day! Luckily, a standard travel insurance policy with medical coverage and cancellation for sports will cover the costs, so you won't have to worry about that. If you don't have insurance, you'll have to pay by card on the spot, but I'm sure you won't have to! Hey, here's a little tip for you! Make sure you grab your 'SkiStar Insurance' (only 130 NOK for the whole day) before you hit the slopes. This sweet insurance policy will take care of any costs you might have for equipment or any treatment you need.

Don't worry, the myth of the inaccessible price of Norwegian medicine melts away if you know the rules of the game! Hey, just so you know, if you keep your insurance premium at 5%, you'll be laughing - you won't even have to pay a six-figure bill! And paracetamol will only set you back two cups of coffee. Plus, if you're ever in a pickle and need a rescue, the state service will whisk you away from the fjord for free - as long as you're innocent of breaking the law, of course! Hey, before you head out on your adventure, why not take a moment to check your policy? Download those offline maps from the 113 App, jot down those emergency numbers, and then you're all set to tackle those troll tongues and ski slopes with a smile! We all know that health is so important, and that's why we're here to help. Here in Norway, we believe that your peace of mind starts with a budget that's easy to understand.