Important items to pack
Documents
Please see the Before Arrival checklist
Medications
If you use medication, remember to bring translated prescriptions for medications you take and a fresh supply of prescription medicines (at least 3 months' supply).
Please note that the exact prescription drug may not be available for you in Norway.
Electronics
You will have to use your personal laptop for your studies and some types of exams.
Smartphones and apps are also widely used for bus tickets, ordering at restaurants and other practical tasks.
Remember to bring chargers for all your devices and an adapter for type C or F (Norwegian standard), if you need one.
We also recommend bringing a camera to capture your adventures in Norway.
Clothing for Norwegian weather
Essential items
- Waterproof jacket. Rain is common year-round
- Warm winter coat. Temperatures drop below freezing from November to March.
- Comfortable walking shoes. You'll walk more than you expect.
- Waterproof boots for winter and rain.
- Layers. T-shirts, jumpers, and cardigans work better than heavy clothes.
- Essential or preferred toiletries
Seasonal additions
- Swimwear. Some Norwegians swim year-round, including winter sea swimming!
- Warm hat and gloves for winter months.
- Sunglasses. Snow creates bright glare in winter.
Housing items
Your room won't include:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bed linen and towels
- Kitchen supplies (pots, pans, plates, cutlery)
- Cleaning supplies
We recommend that you bring one set of bed linen and a towel to use immediately. You can get the rest in the SiA swap rooms, budget-friendly shops or local second-hand stores.
SiA swap rooms is a free utility room with a variety of things previous students have left behind for new students to use. Please check the swap rooms and second hand stores before buying new things.
Personal and cultural items
- Favourite photos of family and friends
- Small cultural items to share with new friends
- Recipes from your home country
- Music playlists to introduce others to your culture
Money
Norway is a cashless society, so make sure to bring your debit or credit card. Remember to remove the region block in your bank if you have it actived. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, and contactless payment is very common.
Do not bring cash, it can be very difficult to convert foreign currency in Norway.