Catch the best prices: when to buy in Norway and how to save money
Yes, Norway is expensive, but it's worth every penny! But this is where sales really shake things up — if you know the best places to shop! Get ready for some amazing deals because the most generous discounts are during the "romyulsalg" immediately after Christmas and the January "januarsalg" marathon, during the summer sales of seasonal collections, and during November's "Black Week." This guide is your key to unlocking amazing savings! You'll discover the best times to shop, where to hunt for the best prices (from outlets to price aggregators), and how to put together a working set of money-saving strategies — from reading price tags according to Forbrukertilsynet rules to smart shopping planning.
When are the best times to buy discounted souvenirs in Norway?
There are three main sales:
- Romjulsalg after Christmas
- Januarsalg throughout January
- The summer finale in July and August, when you can get the last of the season's knitwear and outdoor equipment at reduced prices
The best time to buy Christmas and New Year's gifts, as well as technology and beauty products, is in November. The best time to buy summer gifts is at the end of the season. The dates are different for each chain, but there is a pattern to it.
Where can you find the best discounts on goods in Norway?
Look at three places at the same time. Outlets: for example, Oslo Fashion Outlet (Vestby, about 30 minutes from Oslo) — permanent discounts of 30–70% and separate summer "Final Sale" events. Price aggregators: Prisjakt keeps track of prices and shows you the best deals on "januarsalg" and "romyulsalg". Media recommendations: tech publications like Tek.no show "best offers" during busy times, which is handy for finding what you're looking for quickly. In summary: check the price on the website that shows you all the prices, use shops and supermarkets as a base, and follow media guides and shortlists for "trendy" categories.
What's the best way to save money when shopping in Norway?
Plan your purchases for sales and sign up for brand newsletters: early access often gives you an extra 10–20% off total discounts. Check the price history on Prisjakt before paying. Look for 'førpris' (which means 'previous price') on price tags. From 1 October 2023, there will be a new rule that says discounts will be based on the lowest price over the last 30 days. This will help to stop people using false discounts. If you are a tourist, you must register any large purchases you make with Tax Free (see the separate article for more information). And don't forget about second-hand and vintage items — in Norway, this is normal and a great way to save money.
When are the winter and summer sales in Norway?
Winter. The big sale starts right after Christmas Day. Then comes the January sale, and many chains keep their prices low throughout January. This is one of the biggest sales periods of the year. Summer. Sommersalg usually starts in early July, with some retailers starting as early as late June, and the final markdowns (Final Sale) take place in late July–August. Black Week is in the last week of November and is the perfect time to get some great deals. Check the specific dates with the stores you want to buy from, as there is no "single" official sales schedule in the country.
Sales in Norway are not chaotic, but a highly predictable wave of amazing discounts! Get ready for amazing deals! Christmas and New Year's souvenirs and gifts, summer essentials at the end of the season, and incredible Black Week offers on electronics and beauty products. Just imagine: a country where you can combine outlets, price aggregators and price tag reading rules. Yes, this expensive country is set to become a place for smart shopping!
Come and try this amazing "Nordic discount surfing" for yourself and let us know in the comments what you managed to snag at the best price. Share your photos and questions — we'll update this guide with your finds for next season.
