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Is Travel Insurance Necessary for Norway?

A 200 Norwegian Krone banknote and a 100 Norwegian Krone banknote with a stethoscope on a dark surface

Is Travel Insurance Necessary for Norway?

Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to top
A 200 Norwegian Krone banknote and a 100 Norwegian Krone banknote with a stethoscope on a dark surface

After years of traveling, I’ve learned one thing: anything can happen on the road. Lost bags, surprise illnesses, even unexpected injuries—it’s all part of the adventure.

Being in touch with travelers from all over the world I often get the question, should I buy travel insurance for my trip to Norway? My answer to this is always; yes, you should, and make sure it covers medical expenses.

However, there are certain factors to take into consideration, and in this article, I’ll explain why it’s smart to be insured.

Don’t have time to read, and want to go straight to my recommended travel insurance for Norway?


👉  Learn more about SafetyWing travel insurance here.

 

 

Who should have travel insurance for Norway?

First, insurance is not mandatory for traveling to Norway. However, according to NAV (Norwegian Labour and Healthcare Administration),  you are not a member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme while on holiday in Norway.

The type of insurance you should consider depends on your nationality and travel plans.  Here’s a breakdown:

For EU/EEA Citizens:

If you’re an EU/EEA citizen, your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) provides access to necessary public healthcare in Norway on the same terms as Norwegian citizens.

However, the EHIC doesn’t cover everything. It won’t cover things like repatriation, private healthcare, or lost luggage. Therefore, even with an EHIC, it’s strongly recommended to have additional travel insurance for comprehensive coverage.

For Non-EU/EEA Citizens:

If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, travel insurance is highly recommended. Healthcare in Norway can be expensive, and without insurance, you could face significant costs for medical treatment.

Regardless of Nationality, Travel Insurance is Recommended for:

  • Activities:
    • If you plan to participate in activities like skiing, hiking, or other outdoor adventures, travel insurance is crucial. These activities carry inherent risks, and insurance can cover potential injuries.
  • Trip Cancellations/Interruptions:
    • Travel insurance can protect you against financial losses if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Lost Luggage/Personal Belongings:
    • Travel insurance can cover the cost of replacing lost or stolen items.
  • Emergency Repatriation:
    • In case of a serious medical emergency, travel insurance can cover the cost of returning you to your home country.
  • Rental Car Coverage:
    • If you plan on renting a car, travel insurance can cover that as well. For instance, when I rent a car I never pay for the extra insurance, because I know I’m covered by my travel insurance.

 

A 200 Norwegian Krone banknote and a 100 Norwegian Krone banknote with a stethoscope on a dark surface

 

 

👉 Cancelled or delayed flight, or lost luggage? Read how Airhelp can be of your assistance.

 

Why get travel insurance for Norway?

Even though Norway is a safe and well-developed country, purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended. Here’s why:

  • High Medical Costs:
    • Healthcare in Norway is excellent, but it’s also expensive. If you require medical treatment, even for minor injuries or illnesses, you could face substantial bills without insurance.
  • Outdoor Activities:
    • Norway is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Hiking, skiing, kayaking, and other adventures carry inherent risks. Travel insurance can cover potential injuries and emergency evacuations.
  • Trip Cancellations and Delays:
    • Unexpected events like flight cancellations, weather disruptions, or personal emergencies can disrupt your travel plans. Travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses.
  • Lost or Stolen Belongings:
    • While Norway has a low crime rate, theft can still occur. Travel insurance can cover the cost of replacing lost or stolen luggage, electronics, and other personal items.
  • Emergency Repatriation:
    • In the event of a serious medical emergency, repatriation to your home country can be incredibly costly. Travel insurance can cover these expenses.
  • Winter Weather:
    • Norway has very intense winter weather. This can cause travel delays, cancelations, and other issues that travel insurance can help with.
  • Peace of Mind:
    • Knowing that you’re protected against unexpected events allows you to relax and enjoy your trip to Norway without worrying about potential financial burdens.

Where to get travel insurance for Norway?

Having a solid travel insurance is a must, and I’ve come across the company SafetyWing (founded by a Norwegian!) which has two great options:

Essential Plan
Starting at $2/day, this plan covers up to $250,000 in emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays and urgent care. It also includes trip protections like lost luggage and travel delays. If you’re into adventure sports or carrying pricey electronics, you can add extra coverage.

Complete Plan
For digital nomads and long-term travelers like me, this plan offers up to $1.5 million in emergency medical coverage, plus routine check-ups, mental health support, maternity care, and trip protection. It even covers cancer treatment and wellness services. 

 

A banner advertising for SafetyWing travel insurance

Sign up for travel insurance!

 

 

Why choose SafetyWing travel insurance?

SafetyWing has become a distinguished provider of insurance solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of both short-term and long-term travelers.

Below is a detailed overview of their travel insurance offerings:

Key Features:

  • Nomad Insurance:
    • It provides coverage for unexpected medical expenses, including hospitalizations, doctor visits, and emergency evacuations, in most countries worldwide.
    • It also includes coverage for travel-related disruptions, such as lost luggage, travel delays, and trip interruptions.
    • A key feature is that it provides coverage for short home country visits.
    • It also has add on options for adventure sports, lectronic theft and more.
  • Focus on Flexibility:
    • SafetyWing emphasizes flexible, subscription-based plans that can be easily adjusted to accommodate changing travel itineraries.
    • Their online platform allows for easy policy management and claims processing.
  • Global Coverage:
    • A core strength of SafetyWing is its extensive global coverage, providing peace of mind to those who frequently cross borders.

 

In essence, I believe SafetyWing’s travel insurance aims to provide a reliable and affordable safety net for travelers to Norway.

👉 Sign up for travel insurance here!

 

Enjoy your trip to my home country! Thanks for reading and sharing.

Your friend in Norway,

Pål

Pål of Norway With Pål

Pål of Norway With Pål

Norway native, veteran travel guide, sailor, filmmaker, and writer (you might have seen me in one of Rick Steves’ guidebooks!). I want to help you enjoy Norway the right way — like a local. Learn more about me.

DISCLAIMER: Products on this page may contain affiliate links, and I might make a small sum per purchase. For you this does not affect the product price, but supports me and my work, and makes me able to continue sharing my passion for Norway with you. Read the Disclaimer policy. Thank you, tusen takk!

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