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As Scandinavia consists of three countries: Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, it is not surprising that this region is a must-have on any traveller’s bucket list. So, if you are planning on visiting the Scandinavian Peninsula anytime soon, we have compiled a list of 4 essential travel tips for first-time visitors!
Let’s dive right into it!
1. Stick to Your Budget
Going on holiday should be affordable, and if you find that it is making a rather large dent in your bank account, then it might be time to reconsider your spending habits. In particular, Scandinavia is one of the more expensive areas to visit. Expenses from dining to accommodation can be costly, but this does not necessarily mean that you will break the bank by visiting this region.
When organising a trip here, it is important that you plan your budget and stick to it. In fact, you might even find that visiting the region aboard the Britannia cruise ship offers a more affordable option, instead of flying to Scandinavia and travelling across the region via train, bus, or car.
Cruises that take you to Scandinavia are often all-inclusive, so the price that you see includes travel, accommodation, food, and more.
2. Don’t Forget Your Bank Cards
Scandinavia is a region that is mostly cashless. Sweden, in particular, is considered to be the most cashless country in the world. As a result, it might be worth using digital wallets and carrying around your cards, instead of cash and coins.
We also recommend that you keep your phone charged – smartphone payments (such as Apple Pay and Google Pay) are common, so you might not even need to worry if you also forgot to bring your physical cards.
Both credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, so you can use your card for almost every purchase.
3. Check the Weather & Dress Accordingly
Do not make the mistake of thinking that since your trip is in spring, you only need springtime clothing. No matter the season in Scandinavia, it is a good idea to bring clothes for all weather conditions. From winter coats to waterproof jackets, make sure that you are prepared for the unpredictable weather of Scandinavia. You should even bring sunscreen and sunglasses!
By packing for all weather conditions, you are therefore better prepared to embark on a Scandinavian adventure, regardless of the weather. As the famous Norwegian saying goes, “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” – there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!
4. Prepare for the Outdoors
It is well known that Scandinavia is a wonderful place for those with an adventurous spirit. The real beauty of Scandinavia lies with its raw and beautiful nature, with a number of rural areas open to tourists for stargazing, hiking, cycling, and more.
Plus, for a truly magical experience, you can even witness the aurora borealis, or the Northern Lights, in Scandinavia, too! Head to Northern Scandinavia that lies above the Arctic Circle, making the area a prime spot for watching the Northern Lights. This spectacular light show provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is unforgettable.
