Typical Norwegian

Norwegians have always lived in harmony with nature, and the elements have left their imprint on the national soul. A harsh climate with cold winters and wet summers, but always set in a spectacular landscape, has formed behaviour, habits and interests in a country where many enjoy being active and spending time outdoors.

Outdoor pursuits

In Norway, outdoor life is synonymous with spending time in the open air, being active and use nature as a place of recreation.  Walks/hikes, cycling, fishing, berry and mushroom picking, campfires, peak climbs and camping are examples of outdoor pursuits most Norwegians take part in at least once during their lifetime. Many are also licensed amateur hunters, and enjoy hunting as a hobby.  However, big game like elk, red deer, roe deer and wild reindeer requires a special permit specifying the type of animal you can shoot in a particular area. In order hunt, you first have to pass an exam to obtain a hunting license.

It is often said Norwegians are born with skis on their feet, and most children learn the art of skiing from their parents, when in nursery or when at school. Both cross-country and alpine skiing are typical outdoor pursuits for both adults and children during winter. In the Lillehammer region, with its excellent snow conditions and stable climate, skiing activities are very popular.  However, where there is less snow, such as in the large cities and the western part of Norway, these pursuits are not equally common.

In Norway, spending time in the open air is an important part of people's lives. With the public right of access, everyone is entitled to roam, explore and enjoy the Norwegian countryside. This is a free public good, and part of Norwegian cultural heritage. You have a right to use the outdoors regardless of who owns the land. 

Cabin life

Many Norwegians have access to a cabin, either in the mountains or by the coast. These holiday homes are often used at weekends and during school holidays – mainly to enjoy the outdoors and to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life – and are an ideal get-away for some peace and inspiration in harmony with nature. A few decades ago the cabins tended to be basic and without running water and electricity, but today they are often of the same standard as a private home and have shower facilities, dishwasher and TV.

For many Norwegians, the cabin is a second home in which they spend a significant amount of time. Dreaming of owning one of these properties is common, and they are often passed down from generation to generation. It is often a place where the various family members meet during holidays.

Packed lunch

Bringing a packed lunch and a flask is another typical Norwegian tradition. This is food, prepared and wrapped at home, to be enjoyed later when you are out and about. A typical Norwegian packed lunch often comprises sandwiches with various types of filling, and is often accompanied by a flask of hot chocolate or coffee when out walking. It is also common for adults to bring their own lunch to work, and for children to bring a packed lunch to school.

Mountain lodges popular among hikers often offer their guest the opportunity to prepare their own packed lunches to put in their backpacks.

Temperament and way of life

The cold climate and challenging surroundings have made their mark on the Norwegian temperament and way of life. Norwegians may seem reserved and distant when they meet new people, but many have been raised and live in small hamlets and villages and are not used to large communities. However, most are warm and friendly once you get to know them, and are often happy to share their knowledge of local history, traditions and culture.

The family unit is an important aspect of the Norwegian society, and it is not common for several generations to live together in the same household. Norwegians are proud of their short, but exciting, history, ranging from Viking conquests and national romanticism to the country becoming one of the wealthiest in the world.

Democracy is strong, and is a cornerstone of the Norwegian society. The Constitution Day on 17 May is a celebration with children in focus. All Norwegian school children march to band music, and both young and old dress in either national costume (if they own one) or their best clothes.

Bunad – the national costume

Bunad is the name of the different Norwegian national costumes inspired by the traditional dresses used by farmers in parts of the country in the 1700s and 1800s.

These beautiful costumes have been used for various occasions and purposes for 150 years – a type of use that is unique in a European context. In most countries national dresses are first and foremost associated with traditional dancing, whereas the Norwegian bunad is a festive dress used for a range of special occasions and by most people – young as well as old. These days it is more popular than ever, and some 450 different costumes and dresses exist – a rich and diverse collection.