Guide: How to pack your backpack for a summer hike in the Norwegian mountains

Be prepared for all weather conditions

It's important to check the weather forecast before going hiking. However, the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it's important to be prepared for everything. Every year, several tourists are brought down from the mountain because they don't have the right footwear or clothing. If you don't have experience with mountains and hiking, it can be difficult to predict what your needs will be.

What you should wear:

• Hiking boots for hiking in the mountains
• Wool socks
• Wool underwear
• Wool sweater
• Wind- and waterproof trousers and jacket or other clothing made from quick-drying materials.

Extras to pack in your backpack:

• Hat and mittens
• Thick wool jumper
• Rainwear
• Extra clothes in case you get wet
• Swimwear for the extra fashionable

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Pack enough food and drink

When hiking in the mountains, it's important to bring enough food, and what "enough food" is, is typically something we underestimate. Hiking in general and climbing in particular is something that requires a lot of energy – much more energy than you think. As a rule of thumb, the longer the hike, the more food you need to bring, and it's better to bring too much than too little. Enjoying a slice of bread and Norwegian brown cheese from your packed lunch in the sunshine when you get back to your cabin isn't a bad idea either.

What food and drink you should bring with you:

• Snacks - before you sit down to eat, there will undoubtedly be times when you need to refuel. A quick snack is almost mandatory on a hike, but chocolate biscuits, nuts and bananas are also great options. Stopping to snack is also an excuse to take a breather without admitting you're tired.
• Packed lunch - whether you want to bring bread or something else entirely, remember that your food should contain enough energy for the ride. Think good carbohydrates and enough fat and protein to give your body what it needs for many hours. If it's a very long ride, make several portions to ensure you have enough.
• Hot drinks - Carrying around a heavy thermos bottle may seem a little unnecessary, but enjoying a cup of coffee, hot chocolate or other hot beverage with your packed lunch and the view is an experience you won't want to miss.
• Water - it's incredibly important to have enough to drink for the entire trip. In Norway, the water is so clean that you’re able to drink running water in the mountains pretty much everywhere, but make sure you know the water source well before drinking from it and also check local recommendations. Remember to bring enough water for the whole trip if you don't plan to fill up along the way.
• Trash bag - never leave anything in nature, even things like orange peels or anything else you might think will decompose over time.

Don't forget sunscreen!

The higher up in the mountains we get, the more critical it feels to apply sunscreen. There's a reason why Norwegians return from their Easter holidays in the mountains with a sunburn. Health and safety are important elements on a mountain holiday, and sunscreen is one of the most important.

You should always have this in your backpack:

• Sunscreen - remember high factor and apply every two hours, whether the sun is out or not.
• Sunglasses** - the sun feels stronger in the mountains, so remember sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• First aid kit, sports tape and blister plasters** - it's not worth the risk of running without them. Remember to top up every time you use something so you always have enough in your backpack.
• Headlamp** - if you end up on the mountain after dark, a headlamp can make an uncertain situation feel a little safer and make it easier for rescuers to find you.
• Map and compass** - don't assume you have coverage in the mountains. Also, always follow the labeled hiking trail.
• Walking staffs - if you're feeling a little insecure or have challenges that require extra support, staffs can be an invaluable hiking companion.

Don't go hiking without the Norwegian help app

Maps, compass and marked hiking trails will help you navigate, but in the unlikely event of an accident, it's your mobile phone that could end up being your best friend.

Therefore, remember:

• Charge your mobile phone and take a power bank with you.
• Keep your mobile phone waterproof (in a plastic bag for example)
• Download the Help 113 app. If you fall and hurt yourself or fall ill in the mountains, the app will be able to tell the rescue centre exactly where you are with precise coordinates. If you call the emergency number via the app, which is also free, the emergency centre will automatically receive information about your exact location, making rescue work much easier.

We hope you're excited to pack your rucksack and embark on new adventures. Book a Landfolk cabin for your next cabin trip and look forward to exploring the summer mountains. There are many great mountain trips in Norway and just as many great cabins.