Norway Road Trip Guide

Introduction

Imagine a land where the sun barely sets and the whisper of ancient legends lingers in the crisp, clean air—welcome to Norway, a realm where reality feels like a dream. This is a place where Viking sagas come to life amidst the stunning backdrop of majestic fjords and shimmering auroras. From the pulse of Oslo’s urban beat to the tranquil embrace of its timeless nature, Norway offers an adventure of contrasts and endless discoveries. Hit the open road and let the Norwegian landscape guide your spirit, where each mile unfolds a new chapter of your unforgettable journey.

Car Rental Tips

Book in Advance

Generally, we recommend that you make your reservation one month in advance so that you could choose the desired vehicle and date.

If you proceed directly to the car rental store without a booking, it is likely that the car you need might be unavailable.

If you are already a QEEQ diamond member, you only need 1$ to freeze your booking and make the rest of the payment before pick-up, which does not affect your credit card limit.

Required Documents

Passport, Driver’s License, IDP (Optimal), Credit Card

International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, which allows you to drive legally in countries that need one.

If it is inconvenient for you to apply an IDP, generate a free driver’s license translation on QEEQ.com (Japanese site only).

Tips: Please be aware that most rental companies require drivers to have held their license for at least one year. Additionally, some companies have age restrictions, and drivers under a certain age may need to pay a young driver fee.

Other Essentials to Consider

• Car Phone Mount

As Norway law prohibits the use of mobile phones while driving, having a phone mount in your car is highly recommended.

• Child Seats

Norway regulations require children to use appropriate car seats, or you could face significant fines. You can easily add a child seat to your booking on the rental car order page.

Car Choices

The choice of your car depends largely on the duration of your trip, passenger number, luggage amount and road conditions.

• City Driving for small groups (1-3 passengers)

If you are a couple, or travel with a friend or two, or if you travel alone, a reasonably priced small car would be a good choice.

Compact size cars have 4 to 5 seats. We recommend sparing one passenger capacity so you could relax and have more space.

• 4 to 5 passengers including children and elderly

Medium and large size cars are recommended. These models could still possess a fair mount of space with 2 to 3 suitcases. SUVs are suitable for hybrid road conditions. Eco-friendly cars such as the Prius could save your spend on gasoline. Choose what you need giving you peace of mind on long trips.

• Traveling in a group of 6 or more

It would be a wonderful experience to choose a van for everyone to have his or her own seat. These models accommodate a passenger capacity from 7 to 12 people. While it is noticeable that large cars cannot make quick and sharp turns. So we recommend renting two small or medium-sized cars if you spend a lot of time driving through towns.

Online Booking Process

We are endeavoring to make your booking as convenient as possible. Enter our website QEEQ.COM, log in, enter the required information, and follow the instructions, you are free to rent your desired car.

Insurance

What Insurances Are Available?

*For Autopilot Cars:

1. Insured: Protection for the person renting the car, including passenger accident insurance and personal accident insurance (PAI). This includes the personal safety of the driver, passengers, and their personal belongings.
2. Automobile Insurance: protection for the vehicle of the renter. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is one example.
3. Third-party Insurance: insurance that protects third parties other than the renter and the car rental company. Basic Third Party Liability (BTL) insurance, etc.

International car rental bookings will include the basic insurance required for car rentals: Vehicle Damage Coverage, Theft System, and Third Party Liability Insurance.

The deductible is the maximum amount of money you’re liable for in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen as long as you follow the conditions of your rental agreement. For example, the deductible is 1000 dollars, if the damage to the rented car is less than 1000 dollars, the customer pays; if the damage is more than 1000 dollars, the customer pays up to 1000 dollars; and the store’s insurance company pays for the part exceeding 1000 dollars.

Many travelers want more comprehensive coverage and purchase additional insurance. Personnel, vehicle and third-party coverage varies by insurance type. Here are some examples of common types of insurance (note: more checks means more coverage):

When and How to Purchase Insurance

There are two ways to obtain insurance: one is to purchase insurance when booking the car online; the other is to purchase insurance at the local store where the car is rented when picking up the car.

Generally, insurances provided by rental car companies usually has narrower coverage, higher premiums, so purchasing insurance online when booking the car is highly recommended.

How to Choose Insurance

If you are traveling with limited budget, it is better to choose the kind of insurance policy with the most comprehensive coverage. The main reasons are:

1. Repairing fee for the car would probably be higher abroad.
2. In case of an accident, the medical cost and compensation are very high.
3. The wider the coverage, the less the troubles you would deal with, which saves tons of time and energy.

Taking automobile insurance as an instance, comparing to common insurance policies, the most comprehensive insurance coverage, including glasses, tires, chassis protection, and considerations for special road conditions such as sand and rocks, is very necessary, but basic insurance of car rental companies usually does not include full coverage as such.

Picking Up the Car

Check Before Departure

Before proceeding to the car rental shop, make sure you have brought with you all necessary documents for picking up the vehicle, and two international credit cards is recommended to ensure that there is enough credit limit for pre-authorization.

Proceed to the Car Rentals

If there is a pickup store nearby, you could just walk there, following signs for airport rental cars.

If the rental car center is far away, there is usually a free shuttle bus bound for the rental car center. Shuttle buses run every 10 minutes approximately, so take the bus when you see the logo of your car rental company.

If the shuttle is not available, you can contact the car rental company and wait for staff member to pick you up at designated location. In case you have difficulty communicating with the store staff, please call QEEQ and we will assist you in English or other languages.

Inspect the Car

When you receive your reserved vehicle, inspect the bodywork for damage. At that time, it’s a good idea to document the entire process with your smartphone camera or take a picture of the dashboard. Because if you forgot to check the condition of your vehicle before departure, you may be charged for wronged damage repairs when you return it.

Payment  

Payment is due on the day of the rental unless you are paying online or purchasing a tour package.

Insurance is usually included in the rental price, but some car rental companies offer paid options for more comprehensive coverage.

Last but not least, keep all contracts and documents safe for possible further usage. Once you have received your keys, check the seat heights, mirror positions, secure child seats, and then you are ready to go!

Traffic Rules and Signs

Cross-Border Travel Tips

When booking your rental car, make sure to select the option for “Cross-Border Travel” to see if the vehicle is permitted to be driven into other countries.

Important Tips:

1. When you pick up your rental car, inform the staff that you plan to drive across borders. If you don’t, your insurance might become invalid once you leave the country.
2. Cross-border fees need to be paid at the local rental office after you cross the border. Be sure to confirm the exact costs with the staff at the local office.

If the car you want to rent isn’t allowed for cross-border travel, it could be due to the rental company’s policies or restrictions on that specific vehicle model. In such cases, try choosing a different rental company or a different vehicle model.

Traffic Rules

• Drive on the Right

In Netherlands, please remember to drive on the right side of the road, with the driver’s seat positioned on the left.

• Pedestrians Have Priority

In Norway, drivers must always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, even when there are no traffic lights.

• Always Wear Seat Belts

Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, including passengers in the back seats.

• Child Safety Seats

In Norway, children under 135 cm or weighing less than 36 kg must be secured in an appropriate safety seat, and they must sit in the back seat.

• Use Headlight

Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day, to enhance visibility and safety. Avoid using high beams unless absolutely necessary to prevent dazzling other drivers.

• No Cell Phone

If you need to make or receive calls while driving, utilize your phone’s speaker function or a Bluetooth device. This ensures your hands remain on the wheel, allowing you to concentrate on driving safely.

• Use Winter Tires

During the winter months (November to April), ensure your vehicle is equipped with tires that have the snowflake symbol to ensure safety on icy or snowy roads.

• Follow Right of Way

Be sure to adhere to Norway’s road priority rules; vehicles on main roads and those already in roundabouts have precedence.

Signs

• STOP Signs

At STOP signs, it’s required to come to a complete halt for at least three seconds. Look both ways and proceed only when safe. If a four-way intersection has STOP signs in all directions, vehicles should take turns moving forward based on the order of arrival. When vehicles arrive simultaneously from different directions, alternate in passing through the intersection instead of following the queue order. 

• Yield Signs

Yield signs are often found where side roads meet main roads. It’s essential to slow down, prepare to stop if necessary, and give way to other vehicles and pedestrians to ensure safety before proceeding.

• Priority Signs

In Norway, priority road signs mean that vehicles on that road have the right of way, so other drivers must yield. Trams always take precedence, and at intersections, vehicles coming from the right have priority. In mountainous areas, vehicles going downhill have the right of way, and uphill drivers must yield.

• Roundabouts

In the Norway, roundabouts are frequent, and it’s essential to yield to traffic already inside the roundabout. If there are vehicles in the circle, be sure to stop and let them pass first. Additionally, vehicles coming from the left have the right of way when entering the roundabout.

• Speed Limits

In urban areas, speed limits are set between 40-50 km/h, while regular roads have limits of 60-80 km/h. On highways, the speed limit is typically 100 km/h. However, in conditions with low visibility or slippery roads, speed limits may be stricter. Always pay attention to posted speed limit signs. Fines for speeding vary based on the severity of the offense.

• Other Common Signs

For more road signs in Norway, please refer to: Road signs in Norway – Wikipedia

Road Conditions and Toll Payments

Road Conditions

1. Norwegian roads are typically narrow, often with two lanes, and some highways are marked with center lines while others are not. Many roads feature wider passing areas. When encountering oncoming traffic, drivers may need to pull over into a passing bay or onto a wider shoulder to allow the other vehicle to pass safely.
2. As a region characterized by fjords, Norwegian roads often wind alongside mountains and water, making them twisty and challenging. In winter, snowfall can significantly affect road conditions, so equipping your vehicle with winter tires is essential. Always drive cautiously during these months.

Toll Information

Norway’s highways generally have no tolls, but cities like Bergen and Oslo charge entry fees, and some new bridges and tunnels may also have tolls. Additionally, Norway’s roads connect with those in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden. If planning to cross borders, check each country’s highway toll systems in advance.

For the latest on tolls in Norway, please refer to sources like Tolls.eu and The Local Norway.

Toll Payment:

• Electronic Tolling

Most rental cars are equipped with an AutoPass device, which automatically registers your passage at toll stations. A green light on the roadside indicates successful registration. The charges are settled by the rental company at the end of your trip and deducted from your credit card. More information can be found on the AutoPASS official site.

• Manual Tolling

In some areas, you can pay tolls manually, similar to traditional highway toll booths. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

• Ferries

Norway boasts a comprehensive ferry network connecting its islands, coastal towns, and fjords. Ferries generally run every 15 to 30 minutes. It’s advisable to obtain a ferry schedule. Typically, you pay the ferry fee, which ranges from 83 to 210 NOK, after boarding.

Driving onto a ferry is straightforward: queue at a booth similar to a toll gate to pay, wait in line for the ferry, and follow instructions to board. Once the ferry reaches your destination, simply drive off and continue your journey.

Fueling

Fueling Services

Fuel stations are plentiful across Norway, so you should have no trouble finding one. You’ll encounter a range of brands, each offering different types of fuel.

At most stations, you’ll find three types of pumps: green handles usually indicate 95-octane petrol, while the other colors represent two different diesel options. These diesel types come with varying prices, so make sure to select the right one for your vehicle.

When filling up your car in Norway, always use the fuel type specified on the fuel cap or in the vehicle manual. If you’re unsure about which fuel to choose, feel free to ask the rental staff when you pick up your vehicle.

Important: If you accidentally use the wrong fuel, contact the rental agency immediately to arrange for the fuel system to be cleaned and the engine inspected. Avoid starting the engine to prevent damage.

Self-Service Fueling

Fuel stations in Norway are mostly self-service, accepting both credit cards and cash.

• Credit Card Process

1. Insert your card.
2. Choose your language.
3. Enter your four-digit PIN (check this with your bank first).
4. Confirm and remove your card.
5. Select the fuel type and start pumping.
6. Replace the nozzle and print your receipt when finished.

Note: A temporary hold might be placed on your card for pre-authorization, but this will be refunded.

• Cash Payment: After refueling, head inside to pay and ensure you get a receipt.

Parking Guidelines

Parking in Norway

In Norway, aside from city centers and popular tourist spots, many areas offer free parking, making it quite convenient for travelers.

Parking fees in city centers generally range around 40 NOK per hour, while in suburban areas, rates are much cheaper, typically between 6 to 10 NOK per hour. Be mindful of illegal parking, as fines range from 350 to 500 NOK.

Where to Park

• Parking Lots

Shopping centers and large supermarkets usually offer designated free public parking areas. Tourist attractions and busy districts generally have paid parking facilities.

• Street Parking

Street parking often comes with time restrictions. Pay close attention to parking signs. For example, parking may require payment from Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Outside these hours, parking could be free for up to three hours.

For more on parking regulations, please refer to sources such as Norway Today and Oslo Kommune.

Where Not to Park

• Prohibited Areas

Parking is not allowed in handicapped spaces unless displaying a valid permit, at building entrances, next to fire hydrants, or at bus stops. Refer to the signage for details—unless there is a person with disabilities in your vehicle, parking in these designated areas is prohibited.

• No-Parking Zones

Do not park where “No Parking” signs are displayed. Failing to comply with these signs can result in fines.

• Private Parking Spaces

Parking is forbidden in spots marked as private, which are reserved for specific individuals or businesses.

Parking Payment

• In Parking Lots

1. Press the button upon entering to get a parking ticket.
2. When leaving, insert the ticket into the payment machine.
3. Use a chip-enabled credit card and enter your PIN to pay.
4. Once paid, the machine will eject a card to lift the exit barrier.

• For Street Parking

1. Park your car and locate a nearby payment machine.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Insert your credit card.
4. Adjust the parking time using the “+” or “-” buttons; the machine shows the amount due.
5. Confirm and remove your card.
6. A receipt will print with your parking info—place it on your dashboard for checks.

Parking Tips

1. When you want to stop for a photo, always park in designated areas—don’t just pull over on the roadside.
2. Map out your parking spots ahead of time based on your travel itinerary. This proactive planning will save you time and help you keep parking costs in check.

Accident Handling

If you are involved in a traffic accident, do not panic. Check whether the passengers are injured, help yourself and seek help from passersby. Emergency contacts are available at any time.

• Emergency services

Police: 112

Fire Department: 110

Ambulance/Emergency Medical Services: 112

• Roadside Assistance Number

Viking: +47 06000

Falck: +47 02222

• Embassy Numbers by Country

Norway – Embassies and consulates

• You can also call your car rental company

For the rental company’s phone, please refer to your rental confirmation.

Here are the steps to handle different types of accidents:

Minor Collisions

1. Ensure everyone’s safety.
2. Move the vehicle to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic.
3. Call 112 to report the accident.
4. Take photos or videos of the vehicle’s condition.
5. Have the police document the accident and keep the accident report.
6. Contact the rental company and your insurance provider.

Vehicle Break-Ins or Theft

1. Call 112 to report the incident.
2. Have the police document the incident.
3. File an insurance claim.
4. Verify the information.
5. Receive compensation.

Vehicle Breakdown

1. Open the car’s trunk and hood.
2. Hang a white object on the door handle to signal for help.
3. Call the rental company.
4. The rental company will dispatch staff for towing or repairs.

If the rental company cannot resolve the issue, ask the police for towing assistance. Repair costs can be high, so having full insurance is important.

Car Return Process

Important Reminders

After your enjoyable road trip, it’s essential to return the vehicle on time. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the 24-hour customer service hotline.

Car Return Tips

• Refuel Before Returning

If your rental agreement requires a full tank upon return, make sure to refuel within 5 kilometers of the drop-off location and keep the receipt to show the rental staff.

• Keep the Car Clean

Return the car in a clean condition to avoid cleaning fees. Note that smoking in the car may also result in additional charges.

• Reconcile the Fee

When you return the car, the staff will inspect it and provide a final invoice. Carefully review the invoice and address any discrepancies immediately or contact customer service for clarification.

• Keep the Contract and Document

Retain the rental agreement and receipts after returning the car for future reference.

Early or Late Return

• Early Returns

Returning the car early usually does not result in a refund for unused days.

• Late Returns

If you need to return the car late, call the rental location in advance to get approval and confirm any additional charges.

After-Hours Returns

If you can’t return the car during business hours, check if the rental location allows after-hours returns. If permitted,

1. Park in the designated area
2. Lock the car
3. Take photos of the fuel gauge, odometer, and car exterior
4. Drop the keys in the key/drop-off box.

Note that you are responsible for the car until the rental location reopens. To avoid issues, it’s best to return the car when staff are present.

Help after Trip

Traffic Citation

• Unexpected Charges After Returning Home

If you find unexpected charges on your credit card after returning home, it may be because the rental company settled a traffic fine for you. These charges often exceed the original fine due to additional administrative fees. If you’re unsure about the details of the violation, it’s best to contact the rental service’s customer support for assistance.

Traffic regulations in Norway are strictly enforced, and fines can be substantial, so it’s crucial to follow all traffic laws carefully.

• Ways to Pay Fines

1. If the rental company pays the fine on your behalf, expect the charge to be higher than the fine itself because of service fees.
2. If you need to pay the fine yourself, follow the instructions on the ticket. This usually involves visiting a specified website, entering the ticket number, and completing the payment with a credit card.
3. Address fines promptly to avoid incurring significant late fees. Paying within the designated timeframe is essential.

Before your trip, it’s wise to review your route for toll roads and potential traffic restrictions to avoid any surprises. If you receive a fine, settle it as soon as possible to prevent additional penalties.

• No Violations During Rental

If you have no traffic violations during your rental period, the deposit will typically be refunded to the primary driver’s credit card within a month.

Insurance Claim

If you bought a full coverage insurance, you would receive a fast claim settlement. The following documents should be prepared:

1. Passport
2. Driver’s License
3. Credit Card Checkback History
4. The Car Rental Contract
5. Car Damage Deduction Bill

For more detailed information, check the terms and conditions of insurance company:

QEEQ.term

Classic Routes

• Lofoten Islands Adventure

The Lofoten Islands, known for their dramatic peaks and sheltered inlets, offer a stunning backdrop for exploration. Start your road trip from Svolvær, traveling along the E10 highway to discover charming fishing villages like Henningsvær, famous for its architecture and vibrant arts scene. In Reine, a highly photographed village, savor local seafood and capture breathtaking vistas. Don’t miss hiking opportunities to beaches such as Unstad for surfing or Kvalvika for panoramic views. This route provides ample chances for hiking and photography amidst the Arctic Circle’s raw natural beauty.

• Atlantic Road

Known as “the road in the ocean,” the Atlantic Road seamlessly links wind-swept islands with bridges offering breathtaking sea views. Drive across this iconic route, spanning 8.3 kilometers, and enjoy the striking architecture and stunning ocean vistas, especially at the famous Storseisundet Bridge with its dramatic curves. This road is not just for travel; it’s an experience of nature’s power and engineered beauty, perfect for photographers seeking unique coastal landscapes.

• Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord

As two of Norway’s most renowned fjords, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord feature towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Journey through this fjord heartland starting at Sognefjord, where steep cliffs dominate the landscape, then continue to Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for waterfalls like the “Seven Sisters.” Enjoy fjord cruises or kayaking for close encounters with these natural wonders, along with cultural stops in quaint fjord-side villages.

• Glacier National Park Circuit

Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, is a prime spot for glacier exploration. Embark on this drive to experience Jostedalsbreen National Park, diving into pristine glacial landscapes. The park is a hiker’s dream, offering trails up close to the ice and educational visitor centers about glacial geology. Briksdalsbreen is particularly accessible and picturesque, ideal for various hiking experiences, perfect for exploring Norway’s icy landscapes.

• Norwegian Countryside Cultural Journey

Discover Norway’s cultural depth amidst stunning rural landscapes from Oslo to Trondheim. Begin by driving through Trollstigen, with its eleven hairpin turns and breathtaking mountain views. Along the way, visit the Norwegian Folk Museum to learn about the country’s rich history, Viking legacies, and traditional stave churches, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the scenic yet culturally rich Norwegian panorama.

Useful Website and Numbers

• Netherlands’s official tourism website

Visit Norway | Official travel guide to Norway

• Emergency services

Police: 112

Fire Department: 110

Ambulance/Emergency Medical Services: 112

• Roadside Assistance Number

Viking: +47 06000

Falck: +47 02222

• Embassy Numbers by Country

Norway – Embassies and consulates

• You can also call your car rental company

For the rental company’s phone, please refer to your rental confirmation.