Family RV Itinerary in Scandinavia - Kid-Friendly Routes 2026

Best Scandinavia RV Itinerary for family rv rental — Overview

Embarking on an RV adventure through Scandinavia offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for families. A typical RV itinerary in this stunning region covers 1,000-2,500 km over 7-14 days, allowing ample time to explore diverse landscapes. For a focused exploration of a specific area, a minimum of 7 days is recommended, while a more comprehensive journey through broader Scandinavian highlights will benefit from 14 or more days.

The prime season for RV travel in Scandinavia is undoubtedly June to August. During these months, you'll experience the most favorable weather, with temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and the longest daylight hours, especially in the northern regions where the phenomenon of the midnight sun can be witnessed. This summer period also ensures that all roads, including mountain passes, are fully accessible, and most tourist attractions and campgrounds are operating at their peak capacity. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, check out RV PLANET (rvplan.net) — a great tool for locating available spots along your route.

7-Day Classic Route in Scandinavia

This classic 7-day route through Scandinavia provides a fantastic introduction to the region's natural beauty and cultural highlights, covering approximately 1,325 km. It's designed to offer a taste of Norway's majestic fjords and charming cities.

Day 1: Oslo → Geilo (220 km). Begin your adventure in Oslo, picking up your rented RV. Drive towards Geilo, a gateway to the breathtaking Hardangervidda National Park. Overnight at Geilo Camping.

Day 2: Geilo → Bergen (250 km). Enjoy a scenic mountain drive as you head towards Bergen, the iconic city nestled among fjords. Settle in for the night at Bergen Camping Park.

Day 3: Bergen Exploration. Dedicate this day to exploring Bergen. Wander through the historic Bryggen Wharf, take the Fløibanen Funicular for panoramic city views, and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Overnight again at Bergen Camping Park.

Day 4: Bergen → Flåm (170 km). Journey through stunning fjord landscapes to the picturesque village of Flåm, famous for its scenic railway. Your overnight stay will be at Flåm Camping & Youth Hostel.

Day 5: Flåm → Lærdal → Borgund → Fagernes (175 km). Experience the engineering marvel of the Lærdal Tunnel and visit the ancient Borgund Stave Church, a preserved wooden church from the 12th century. End your day by staying at Fagernes Camping.

Day 6: Fagernes → Lillehammer (150 km). Head towards Lillehammer, the host city of the 1994 Winter Olympics. Explore the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum to step back in time. Overnight at Lillehammer Camping.

Day 7: Lillehammer → Oslo (180 km). Make your way back to Oslo, allowing ample time for RV drop-off and any last-minute souvenir shopping or city exploration before your departure.

14-Day Extended Journey in Scandinavia

For a more immersive Scandinavian experience, consider this 14-day itinerary, covering approximately 1,230-1,300 km, offering a deeper dive into Norway's dramatic landscapes and cultural treasures.

Days 1-2: Oslo to Telemark Region (approx. 180 km). Begin your extended adventure by exploring the Telemark Canal region, delving into its cultural and industrial heritage, including the Rjukan-Notodden UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Days 3-4: Telemark to Hardangerfjord (approx. 200 km). Drive through increasingly scenic landscapes towards the renowned Hardangerfjord. This region is celebrated for its waterfalls and fruit orchards, with charming areas like Odda and Eidfjord to explore.

Days 5-7: Hardangerfjord Exploration. Dedicate these days to truly experiencing the Hardangerfjord. Consider a hike to the famous Trolltunga (requiring pre-planning and good fitness), visit the Folgefonna National Park, or simply enjoy leisurely drives along the fjord's intricate arms.

Days 8-9: Hardangerfjord to Bergen (approx. 150 km). Travel to the captivating coastal city of Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its historic Bryggen wharf, vibrant fish market, and narrow, colorful streets.

Days 10-11: Bergen to Sognefjord (approx. 170 km). Journey to Norway's longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Discover picturesque villages such as Flåm and Aurland, and perhaps take a memorable fjord cruise.

Days 12-13: Sognefjord to Jotunheimen National Park (approx. 180 km). Head into the heart of Norway's mountainous interior, the Jotunheimen National Park. Visit Lom, known for its beautiful stave church, and revel in the majestic mountain scenery.

Day 14: Jotunheimen towards Oslo (approx. 150-200 km). Commence your return journey towards Oslo. You might choose to stop in a city like Lillehammer for a final cultural experience before returning your rented RV.

Recommended RVPlan Trip for Scandinavia

For an extensive Scandinavian RV adventure, Avi Bandana highly recommends the RVPlan trip: "Luleå Round trip - Timeless Scandinavia: Fjords, Forests, and History". This meticulously crafted 15-day itinerary, accessible via Self Drive Holidays - Swedish Lapland & Lofoten, embarks from and returns to Luleå, covering approximately 2,911 km.

This route offers a unique exploration of Swedish Lapland and Norway's stunning Lofoten Islands, masterfully blending Arctic landscapes, Viking history, and vibrant local culture.

Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)

Beyond the major attractions, there are unique stops that truly enrich the Scandinavian RV experience. Avi Bandana personally recommends these for a more authentic journey:

• Porjus Hydroelectric Power Station Museum: Avi Bandana recommends a visit to this significant local industry site, offering a fascinating look at Sweden's engineering history and commitment to sustainability.
• Lofotr Viking Museum: Step back in time with Avi Bandana's pick for an immersive traditional visit to the Viking age, complete with reconstructed longhouses and interactive exhibits that bring history to life.
• Stentorp Experience Lapland: This traditional visit provides a genuine opportunity to engage with Sami culture, including storytelling and traditional crafts, offering a unique local immersion into indigenous heritage.
• Bergmans Fisk & Vilt: For an authentic taste of the region, Avi Bandana highlights this establishment as an excellent source for fresh local fish and game, perfect for preparing traditional Scandinavian meals in your RV.

Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Scandinavia

Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average for family RV travel in Scandinavia. This approach emphasizes slow travel, allowing families to truly enjoy the scenic routes, connect with the local culture, and permit spontaneous stops at points of interest.

Typical drive times for popular routes illustrate this: Oslo to Lillehammer takes approximately 180 km, requiring about 2.5 hours. The Bergen to Flåm route, roughly 170 km, demands 2.5-3 hours (excluding potential ferry waits). Driving from Stavanger to Lysefjord (for Preikestolen parking) is about 60 km and takes 1.5 hours, plus additional time for ferry crossings.

Best RV Class for This Itinerary — Couple & Family Picks

Choosing the right RV from Bandana's global fleet is key to a comfortable Scandinavian adventure. For couples, the **Class B - Camper Van** stands out as an ideal choice. Averaging 5.8 meters in length, these compact yet capable vehicles typically offer sleeping places for around 3.2 individuals and comfortably accommodate 2.7 adults.

Its compact size ensures easy maneuverability on Scandinavia's often narrower roads and simplifies ferry crossings. For families, the **Class C - Alcove** motorhome is highly recommended. These RVs, averaging 7.5 meters in length, provide ample sleeping places for 5.8 individuals and typically accommodate 4.4 adults, with generous load capacity for family gear.

The dedicated alcove bed offers extra space and privacy, making it perfect for families. For those who appreciate seamless planning, consider Bandana's "Rent & Plan" service, which combines your chosen RV rental with a pre-made itinerary crafted by travel experts. This service grants you full access to trip-planning software, removing the hassle of organizing your adventure.

What is the best way to travel around Scandinavia with a family?

An RV rental offers unparalleled flexibility, comfort, and potential cost savings for families exploring Scandinavia. It allows for spontaneous stops at breathtaking natural wonders and provides access to remote locations that might be difficult to reach otherwise.

The ability to prepare your own meals within the RV can significantly reduce food expenses, making Scandinavia's reputation for high costs more manageable. With a full kitchen onboard, families can budget more effectively by cooking with local groceries. An RV truly provides a comfortable home-on-wheels, which is especially beneficial for families with children who thrive on consistent routines and appreciate easy access to their belongings and familiar comforts. For ideas you can prep on the road, watch our RV-friendly recipes playlist on YouTube. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.

What is the best month to visit Scandinavia?

The prime months for an RV trip through Scandinavia are typically June, July, and August. These summer months offer the warmest weather, the longest daylight hours—including the magical midnight sun in the far north—and ensure full accessibility to mountain roads and attractions.

During this peak summer period, all campsites are fully operational, and the conditions are perfect for a wide array of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the dramatic fjord landscapes. While shoulder seasons (May and September) can present fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, it's worth noting that some higher mountain passes or more northern routes might still be closed or experience cooler, more unpredictable weather.

Can you freedom camp in Norway with an RV?

Norway's renowned "Allemannsretten" (Freedom to Roam) generally permits freedom camping with an RV, but it comes with specific, important restrictions crucial for responsible motorhome use. RVers must park at least 150 meters from any inhabited house or cabin and must not park on cultivated land (such as fields or gardens) without explicit permission from the landowner.

The right typically allows for a maximum stay of two nights in the same spot, especially in more accessible areas. Longer stays are usually permitted only in truly remote, unpopulated locations. It is imperative to "leave no trace," meaning you must carry out all waste, including grey and black water, which have designated disposal points. Always respect local signage and environmental regulations to preserve these beautiful landscapes.

Is driving an RV in Norway difficult?

Driving an RV in Norway can present challenges due to its narrow, winding roads, steep inclines, and numerous ferry crossings. However, it is entirely manageable with careful planning, cautious driving habits, and a clear understanding of specific RV logistics.

Many roads, particularly in the dramatic fjord regions and along mountain passes, are narrow with sharp turns, requiring reduced speeds and meticulous maneuvering, especially for larger RVs. Norway's extensive ferry system is essential for crossing fjords, so factor in ferry schedules, potential waiting times, and the associated costs (which vary based on RV length) when planning your route. Additionally, be aware of Norway's automated toll system (AutoPASS), which applies to many roads, bridges, and tunnels, and can typically be managed post-rental or through pre-registration with your rental provider.

How do I choose the right RV for my family?

Selecting the ideal RV for your family's Scandinavian trip involves balancing the number of required sleeping berths, the overall vehicle length for navigating local roads, and your desired onboard amenities, such as a kitchen and bathroom facilities.

Consider the composition of your travel group: ensure the RV has enough comfortable sleeping places and the correct number of seatbelts for everyone. This might lead you to opt for a Class C - Alcove model, which often features dedicated beds offering more space. Evaluate the RV's dimensions, as smaller models like Class B camper vans provide superior maneuverability on narrow Scandinavian roads and can be more economical on ferry crossings.

Reflect on your family's travel style: will you be cooking extensively, thus requiring a well-equipped kitchen, or are you comfortable with simpler meal preparations? This decision impacts the need for extensive storage and counter space, influencing your final choice.

Is a campervan worth it in Norway?

Absolutely, a campervan or RV is highly worth it for a family trip in Norway. It provides unparalleled freedom to explore Norway's stunning, diverse landscapes at your own pace, offers exceptional flexibility with accommodation arrangements, and can lead to significant cost savings on food and lodging.

The ability to spontaneously stop for breathtaking views, adjust your itinerary on the fly, and truly immerse yourselves in Norway's magnificent natural beauty makes RV travel an exceptional way to experience the country. With a full kitchen onboard, families can save substantially by preparing meals from local groceries, effectively mitigating Norway's higher dining costs. Furthermore, an RV offers the comfort and convenience of having your own private space, bathroom, and beds, which is particularly beneficial when traveling with children and seeking a reliable base for outdoor adventures.

How much does it cost to rent an RV in Scandinavia?

The cost to rent an RV in Scandinavia typically ranges from €80 to €250 per day, heavily influenced by the season, RV class, and rental duration. Beyond the rental price, additional expenses for fuel, campsites, tolls, and ferries will significantly impact the total budget.

Fuel consumption for Bandana's global fleet of Class SI and Class C RVs is generally around 10-12 Liters/100 km; current fuel prices must be factored into your budget. Campsites usually cost €25-€50 per night. Opting for permitted wild camping can offer substantial savings, though it requires planning for necessary facilities like water refills and waste disposal. Remember to budget for ferry crossings (costs vary by RV length and route) and road tolls via the AutoPASS system, which are integral to Norway's infrastructure.

What documents do I need to rent an RV in Europe?

To rent an RV in Europe, including Scandinavia, you will typically need a valid national driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required if your license is not from an EU/EEA country. A credit card is essential for the rental deposit.

Ensure your driving license is valid for the weight class of the RV you intend to rent. For example, a standard B license usually covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs). A passport or national ID card is required for identification, and it's always advisable to carry your rental agreement and insurance documents. Familiarize yourself with mandatory European vehicle requirements, which may include carrying safety vests, warning triangles, and headlight beam adjusters; rental companies typically ensure these are included with the vehicle.

Can you cross borders in Scandinavia with a rental RV?

Yes, crossing borders between Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland) with a rental RV is generally permitted and is a common practice for travelers. However, it is crucial to confirm cross-border travel permission directly with your rental provider before booking.

Most reputable rental companies allow international travel within Scandinavia, though some may require prior notification or charge a nominal cross-border fee to cover insurance and administrative aspects. Ensure your rental agreement explicitly states authorization for travel in all intended countries to avoid potential issues with insurance coverage or roadside assistance. While border checks within the Schengen Area (which includes Scandinavia) are typically minimal, always have your passport, driving license, and RV rental documents readily accessible.