As avid travelers and remote workers, we had always dreamed of trying van life. When the opportunity came to explore Norway in a camper van, we knew it was the perfect way to blend adventure, relaxation, and quality time together.

Choosing the Perfect Camper Van

We rented a Knaus Boxlife 600 from WebCamper in Luxembourg. Their selection of vans made it easy to pick one tailored to our needs, with everything from compact models to fully equipped homes on wheels. The van was ready to go, complete with a functional kitchen, bathroom, and cozy sleeping space—ideal for our small family.

Our Route Through Norway

We chose Norway for its van-friendly culture, safety, and stunning natural beauty. The country’s rural charm, low population density, and endless scenic roads promised an escape from urban chaos.

Our Journey

1. Drive from Luxembourg to Hirtshals, Denmark
   Our road trip began with a drive from Luxembourg to Hirtshals in Denmark, where we caught the ferry to Larvik, Norway. (The ferry was around 260€ one way)
2. Larvik to Notodden
   Our first night in Norway was spent in the cozy village of Notodden, a small but charming spot to rest before heading further north.
3. Notodden to Geilo via Tinnsjå and Austbygdi
   From Notodden, we ventured through Tinnsjå and began climbing the mountains from Austbygdi to Geilo. This stretch offered some of the most stunning mountain views, a natural landscape truly one of a kind. After soaking in the beauty, we spent the night in Geilo.
4. Geilo to Beitostølen via Valdres and Gjúvfossen Waterfall
   The next day, we wandered through Valdres, discovering hidden gems like Gjúvfossen Waterfall. Continuing our route, we arrived in Beitostølen, a quaint ski village where we stayed the night. Morning views in Beitostølen were unforgettable, setting the tone for what became our favorite scenic drive.
5. Valdresflye Scenic Route (Our Favorite)
   Driving through Valdresflye was nothing short of breathtaking. This route compelled us to stop every 10 minutes to admire the landscape. Key stops along the way are listed here.
   We stopped for fuel in Vågåmo and enjoyed an incredible meal at Bokhandel'n Bakeri & Mathus. For €50, we had a cozy dining experience that was well worth it.
6. Dovre and Rondane National Park
   After resting in a campsite near Dovre, we ventured north through snow-filled routes toward Oppdal. The beauty of the snow-covered landscapes was unmatched, though the intensifying snow led us to change course. We headed south, taking the Rondane National Park route, which was equally mesmerizing. Important stops along the way are here.
7. Lillehammer
   We spent the night in Lillehammer, where camper vans are allowed only in designated campsites. Before leaving, we visited the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics, a highlight of our trip.
8. Oslo Adventures
   Finding a parking spot for our camper van in Oslo was challenging, but we eventually located a city center parking area that allowed camper vans (In front of the Clarion Collection Hotel Bastion). Though it wasn’t entirely clear if it was officially allowed, we stayed for two nights and enjoyed exploring Oslo’s food and vibe.
9. Aarhus Stopover
   On our way back to Luxembourg, we stopped in Aarhus, Denmark. This vibrant city was a delightful surprise and is a must-visit if you’re traveling to or from Norway.

Plan vs. Spontaneity

While we planned part of the route, spontaneous detours led us to stunning places we didn’t expect. Despite the weather not being ideal for hiking, scenic routes allowed us to experience Norway’s magic from the comfort of our van.

Life on the Road

Our days started early with hearty breakfasts cooked in the van’s fully equipped kitchen. After hours of driving, we’d find a quiet place to park for the night, ending the day with movies, board games, or snuggling up under the stars. Each morning, we woke up to views that made the journey worthwhile—whether it was a misty mountain or a tranquil lake.

The biggest challenge we faced was adapting to the “no hiking” situation due to weather. However, digging deeper into information about the lesser-known eastern parts of Norway led us to hidden treasures that weren’t in the guidebooks.

Essentials for the Journey

• A portable water boiler for morning coffee.
• Snacks for long stretches of driving.
• A small vacuum to keep the van tidy.
• Scented candles for a cozy ambiance.

Lessons from the Road

Traveling in a camper van taught us that life’s best moments are simple: sharing intentional time with loved ones, enjoying nature’s beauty, and living minimally. We learned to appreciate experiences over possessions and found joy in the slower pace of van life.

Tips for Aspiring Van Lifers

• Don’t overpack: Food, clothes, and essential documents are all you need to start.
• Use the right tools: Apps like Park4Night, Google Maps, and Nasjonale Turistveger were lifesavers for planning and navigating.
• Plan wisely: Research destinations and seasons to avoid surprises. Low season, for instance, can mean closed attractions.

What We’d Do Differently

Next time, we’ll research prices and local activities more thoroughly. While spontaneity is part of the charm, understanding what to expect helps you prepare for the unexpected.

Final Thoughts

This trip was not just about exploring Norway—it was about creating lasting memories with our little family and embracing a lifestyle that values experiences over things. If you’re considering van life, our advice is simple: go for it. The road might surprise you in the best possible ways.