‘Should you take an umbrella with you when travelling in Norway: tips for tourists on how to protect yourself from the rain’

If you're planning a trip to Norway, it's just a heads-up that rain is pretty much a part of the deal here, no matter what time of year you go. Many tourists wonder whether they should bring an umbrella or choose other means of protection from the rain. Actually, you know, the question is actually more important than it might first of all appear. When the rain comes down in Norway, it often comes with strong winds too. So, having an umbrella just isn't going to cut it! In this article, we'll take a detailed look at whether you need an umbrella in Norway, what alternative ways of protecting yourself from the rain are more effective, and provide some useful recommendations to help you travel comfortably and stay dry in the country.

I totally get it, though – why isn't an umbrella always convenient in Norway?

I totally get it, an umbrella just isn't the most practical accessory in Norway! The main reason is the wind, which can be a bit unpredictable at times. It's so important to be careful when it's raining and windy on the west coast and in the northern regions of the country. The strong gusts of wind can break even the strongest umbrellas, so please be careful! Also, lots of tourist activities like hiking, cycling and fjord cruises need you to have free hands, so having an umbrella isn't really practical and can even be dangerous.

I was wondering if you could tell me what the best alternatives to umbrellas in Norway are?

When it comes to the best alternatives to umbrellas in Norway, you can't go wrong with a waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood (a raincoat), a poncho or storm clothing. I would really recommend investing in a good waterproof jacket made of Gore-Tex or a similar material. They provide such reliable protection from rain and wind, and they allow you to move freely and keep your hands free. This is especially important for outdoor activities or hiking in the mountains.

And how often does it rain in different regions of Norway?

How much rain there is really depends on the region. The west coast (especially Bergen) is considered one of the rainiest regions in Europe, with an average of 200 days of rain per year. The southern and eastern regions (Oslo, Kristiansand) are less rainy, but precipitation is also regular, so you can be sure of lovely weather. The northern regions (Tromsø, Lofoten) have less intense but frequent precipitation, which can easily give way to clear weather in a matter of minutes – it's amazing how quickly the skies can change!

What clothes should I take with me to protect myself from the rain?

When it comes to staying dry in Norway, the best clothes are a waterproof and breathable jacket with a hood, some rain trousers made of the same material, waterproof footwear (like hiking boots), and other handy accessories like waterproof covers for backpacks and bags. It's really important to have a change of dry clothes, especially if you're going on long hikes.

When is an umbrella useful?

An umbrella is a really useful thing to have when you're out and about in a city like Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim. If you're on a short walk and the wind is a bit gentle and the rain isn't too heavy, an umbrella can be a real lifesaver! In this case, a compact umbrella is a good solution so you don't have to wear a raincoat, which is great! But, even in the city, it's still a good idea to have a sturdy, windproof umbrella just in case.

Do you think I need an umbrella for a trip to the fjords?

Don't worry if you're thinking of going on a fjord cruise and you're worried about the weather. Umbrellas aren't usually very effective on the ferry deck because the wind and rain are so strong. I'd really recommend going for a good quality raincoat with a hood – it'll definitely keep you dry and comfortable! We know how much you love exploring the great outdoors while travelling on Hurtigruten cruise ships, so we've made sure that our open decks are often equipped with canopies and awnings. This means you won't need to worry about bringing an umbrella!

How can I protect my backpack and personal belongings from the rain?

We totally get it, waterproof covers for backpacks are a must! Or if you prefer, you can always go for a waterproof model. And don't forget to keep your personal belongings and documents safe and sound by popping them in some sealed bags inside your backpack. This will keep them dry, even if it's chucking down!

Do you think I should take an umbrella with me to Norway in summer?

It rains a lot in Norway in the summer, but unfortunately umbrellas don't really work because the wind is so strong. I would really recommend having a compact raincoat or a light waterproof jacket with you. But if you're only visiting the big cities and want to be able to get around without any hassle, then a compact folding umbrella could be just the thing you need.

I know it can be tricky, but how can tourists prepare for rainy weather when they're hiking?

When you're out hiking, you might find that an umbrella isn't really that useful. It's really important to make sure you're wearing high-quality storm clothing, including a waterproof jacket and trousers. And don't forget to take a spare set of dry clothes, especially if you're planning to spend the night outdoors. When you're choosing trekking shoes, it's really important that they're sturdy and waterproof.

Do you know if there are any shops in Norway that sell rain gear?

Absolutely! Norway has a fantastic selection of top-notch, reliable rain gear (like Helly Hansen, Bergans, and Norrøna). Hey, no matter what city you're in, you'll always find a place where you can get all the sports and outdoor gear you need. There are plenty of shops where you can find the perfect clothing and accessories to make your trip even more special.

We all know how windy and changeable the weather can be here in Norway, so umbrellas aren't always the best option. I would really recommend choosing high-quality, waterproof and windproof clothing so you can enjoy your trip, even on rainy days! With a little bit of planning, you'll be all set for whatever weather might come your way, and you'll have an amazing time exploring all that beautiful Norway has to offer!