We are going to Norway this summer, however I started thinking of what to pack last summer, Women’s Norway Packing Guide. So you might be wondering why I was already thinking about packing. Well, there are a few reasons. First, by starting early, I’m hoping to avoid any impulse purchases and stick to what I actually need. I already have a rain jacket and a few other essentials on my list, so it’s mostly about filling in the gaps. Second, spreading out purchases like hiking shoes throughout the year helps me manage the cost without feeling rushed. We will be gone for two weeks.
This is an updated post to my first one. I still like everything I have in the first post. In this post, you will see many overlaps. However, as time goes by, I am narrowing down what I actually am going to want to wear. Here is the Women’s Norway Packing Guide!
Link to the first post on Norway packing.
Things to consider
When it comes to packing, there are a few key factors I’m keeping in mind. For one, I know Norway’s weather can shift from cold to warm and back to cold in a single day. Living in the Midwest, especially during spring, I’m familiar with the unpredictable nature of this kind of climate, so layering is definitely the way to go. But we’re not just visiting Norway – we’ll also be stopping in Denmark. Since those will be city stops, I’m factoring in the need for slightly different outfits for urban settings as well. Another thing I’m thinking about is packing light. I plan to bring a carry-on size suitcase and a backpack, and my goal is to avoid overpacking. Below, I’ve outlined what I’m thinking of bringing.
If you’re looking for packing ideas for your under-the-seat carry-on, check out this post. I also did some research on the best bags for personal items – here are a few options I found!
Tops
I’m planning to pack 4-5 basic tees and one long-sleeve shirt for our trip to Norway and Denmark. The tees will be perfect for layering, especially in the warmer parts of the day or when we’re exploring cities. The long-sleeve shirt is more of a backup for cooler evenings or unpredictable weather—plus, it’ll come in handy if we find ourselves near the coast or in the mountains where the breeze can be a bit chillier. I like to keep things simple and versatile, so I can mix and match with the rest of my wardrobe, depending on the day’s activities.
Links: Athletic Blue Tee, Blue tank top, Brown Tee, Beatles Tee, Athleta Tee Beige (another option), Long-sleeve, Amazon long-sleeve
Jackets
I’m definitely bringing a rain jacket, plaid shacket, and a beige shirt for layer. A denim shirt would also be for layering during our time in Norway and Denmark. The plaid shacket is something I already have and matches what I’m brining so that is a change from the first post. The rain jacket is a must for the unpredictable weather—especially in Norway, where you never know when it might pour. The others can be used for layering even with the rain jacket for colder weather. The denim shirt is a bit of a style choice, but also practical for layering. It’s lightweight enough to toss on over a tee or under a jacket, and I can easily dress it up or down for city days in Denmark. All three pieces are versatile enough to mix and match, so I’ll be ready for anything!
Links: plaid shacket, rain jacket, beige shirt, Denim Shirt, Could replace shacket with a cardigan
Shoes
For shoes, I’m keeping it practical but comfortable. I’ll be packing a sturdy pair of hiking boots for our outdoor adventures in Norway, especially since we’ll be exploring some of those amazing trails. I was going to do tennis shoes for walking around the cities—something comfortable for all the sightseeing and wandering we’ll do in places like Copenhagen and Oslo. However, I’m now leaning more towards close toed sandals. I’m not a fan of socks especially in the summer these are great for long walking days. Finally, I’m adding a pair of easy-to-pack flats for dinners or evenings out. They’re lightweight and stylish enough for a more polished look but still comfortable enough to wear after a long day of exploring. To be honest if I got the Teva’s I don’t think I’d need a dress shoe. I did buy a pair of Old Navy flip flops for walking around the house, easy to slip into the suitcase. Keeping it simple, but ready for anything!
Links: hiking shoes, flats, sandals (I have these and love them, I am thinking of buying a new pair), Sandals (I like these too, maybe a little more fashionable), Teva Sandals (this might be my first pick), Flip-flops
Pants
When it comes to pants, I’m planning to mostly pack quick-dry options that will keep me comfortable and dry during all the outdoor activities we’ll be doing. They’re lightweight, versatile, and perfect for layering. In my first post I decided against the jeans, well I’m back to bring Jeans, these are so comfortable. In total, I want to bring four pairs of pants—two quick-dry, one jean, and one spare for good measure. Currently I have six, I might need to narrow it down. I have these plaid pants that are light weight and fun. Also a pair of brown leggings that was was going to wear hiking. If I had to choose right now I would bring the plaid pants, Jean’s, Leggings, and Wide-leg quick dry pant. I’m wearing the plaid pants on the plane because they are comfortable.
Links: Wide-leg Sweatpants (Old Navy Option), Athleta Joggers (Amazon Joggers), Wide-leg quick dry pants (Amazon Wide-Leg), Jeans (mine are sold out here some options, drawstring, wide-leg, Amazon), Brown Leggings, Free people pant (the color I have is sold out but there are other color options, Amazon look-alike)
Dress
I’m planning to bring one dress for nights out or nicer dinners. I love this particular one because it has pockets—such a game changer for carrying essentials without needing a bag. If I end up feeling like having a little more variety, I might add a second dress, but for now, I think one will be enough. Another thing I like is the sleeves are long just in case it cooler outside. It’s versatile enough to dress up or down depending on the occasion, and since it’s lightweight, it won’t take up too much space in my suitcase either!
Link: Dress (sizes are limited; this is the one I got) shirt dress, Black Dress (I’m thinking this one might be more me)
Accessories and other items
For accessories, I’m keeping it simple but functional. I’ll be bringing a crossbody purse for easy access to essentials while exploring the cities, plus sunglasses to protect my eyes from the bright Scandinavian sun. I’ll bring two sunglasses.
Regarding basics, I’m packing seven pairs of underwear and 3-4 bras to ensure I have enough for the trip. I’m also throwing in a swimsuit, just in case we have a chance to dip into beautiful water. Wool socks to wear with hiking boots (2 pair). For pajamas, I’m going to wear the lightweight sweatpants listed above and a T-shirt.
Links: Socks, sunglasses, blue sunglasses, sweatsuit, purse, sling purse, underwear, bra, T-shirt
Conclusion
Overall, I’m trying to keep my packing light, practical, and versatile for our Norway and Denmark adventure. With a focus on layering, comfortable shoes, and a few key accessories, I feel confident I’ll be prepared for whatever weather or activity comes my way. I’ve planned out the essentials while leaving room for flexibility, and I’m excited to see how everything comes together as the trip approaches. Hopefully, this gives you some ideas if you’re planning a similar trip! Feel free to check out the other posts linked for more travel tips and packing ideas.
Other Blog Links: My first packing list
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