Are you wondering how to travel to Lofoten islands in Norway on a budget? After living in Norway for 7 years, and visiting Lofoten four times, I have the best tips for you! I love the wild, raw beauty of Lofoten, but also know how expensive things are here. So I’ve learned tricks to enjoy it without breaking the bank. I hope this helps you plan your own adventure.
LOFOTEN ISLANDS ON A BUDGET
I first visited Lofoten in late spring, then early summer, late summer, and then again in early autumn. Every time the landscape changed dramatically, my understanding of the islands grew.
I’ve done hundreds of trips across Norway, since I live here now, and I have a lot of tips of how to travel Norway on a budget.
Yes, Norway is expensive. But Lofoten? It’s even more, especially in the summer when everyone wants the postcard view from Reine or Hamnøy, or to visit the dream beaches like Haukland. But if you plan smartly, you can experience its magic without emptying your savings.
In this post, I share the things I wish I knew on my first trip to Lofoten – where to stay cheap, how to move around, how to eat without spending too much, but also how to enjoy Lofoten in a way that respects the land and people, because that matters – especially in such fragile, high-tourism places.
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Seasons & Timing – When to Go to Lofoten to Save Money
One of the biggest hacks to save money in Lofoten is to know when to travel there.
It might be obvious, but if you find yourself in the busiest place in Lofoten in the middle of July, you’d understand that it’s not as obvious as it sounds.
Peak summer (mid-June to mid-August) in Lofoten
Summer is when you can find the highest prices in Lofoten. It’s much harder to find inexpensive lodging, wild camping spots are blocked or forbidden, many campsites are full, the roads are full of cars, and parking spaces are impossible to find.
Sounds not so great? And it often is – that’s why I recommend everyone to travel in the shoulder season (see below).
Shoulder season (spring and autumn)
Late spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) are the sweet spots to travel to Lofoten – you can still be lucky with nice weather, the trails are usually still good (apart from early May, when there can still be snow), there are fewer tourists, and lower prices.
The weather can still be good. On my last trip to Lofoten, at the beginning of September, we had many sunny, warm days, and just wonderful weather the whole two weeks. That being said, the weather in Norway in autumn can be unpredictable, but the weather in Lofoten can also be patchy even in the summer, so it’s always hit or miss.
Late spring is also a good bet – the days are getting longer, and by the end of May, you can already experience the midnight sun. In fact, the first time I went to Lofoten was mid-May, and I loved it! There was still some snow on the mountains that made them look more dramatic, days were sunny, nights were crisp, and there were no crowds. Many of the hikes were already accessible too.
Winter in Lofoten
Winter in Norway is stunning and winter in Lofoten is dramatic.
There are Northern Lights, snow, and ice, but it also is much harder. Some roads are closed, there are accessibility issues, you need more gear. Many trails are inaccessible, or simply dangerous. Driving can be very hard and also dangerous. Winter could be cheaper for flights, and lodging, but much riskier.
I can recommend it only if you are experienced with harsh Arctic winter climates (such as Tromso in winter), or if you know what to prepare for, but you don’t drive yourself, and you use the tours instead.
Accommodation in Lofoten on a budget
A place to stay often eats up a big chunk of the budget, so choosing wisely is crucial. Here are different types of accommodation that you can find in Lofoten on a budget, and my tips.
Camping & Wild Camping in Lofoten
If you know me, you also know that I love camping and wild camping in Norway in the summer. But in Lofoten, things are a bit different…
Organized campsites (campgrounds)
Campsites are a good budget choice. You can expect to pay around NOK 150-300/night for a tent site. They often have facilities like a kitchen, shower, and electricity.
They are usually the best bet in a good weather, and if you don’t mind walking outside to go to the bathroom – the tent sites are usually located a distance away from the facility building.
In the high season – the most popular campsites can be fully booked.
Wild camping (tent)
Wild camping in Lofoten is allowed under allemannsretten (the right to roam). BUT in Lofoten, contrary to wild camping in the rest of Norway, there are stricter local regulations and “no camping zones” in popular areas.
Important rules are to stay at least 150 meters from nearest building or cabin, avoid cultivated land, limit to max 2 nights in one spot. Some areas are off-limits (e.g. near Reinebringen) because of overuse.
To check if the area you plan to camp is allowed, have a look at this map.
The best way to wild camp in Lofoten? Out in nature, far away from any houses or civilization. Go on a hike, take your tent and camp there. Some of the exellent places for that, that allow wild camping are Bunes beach and Kvalvika beach.
However, do remember to leave the place as you found it, take all your waste with you and manage your toilet situation in a way that nobody would notice that you were there (if you don’t know how, then maybe it’s not a good idea for you to go wild camping).
Semi-wild camping
Some areas have established camp zones for tourists, with basic facilities (like a toilet), and a sign that it’s allowed to camp there.
One example is Haukland beach, that has a facilities building with toilet, outdoor shower and a cafe. However, the parking there is paid, and for overnight it usually equals to 200-300 NOK (depending on when you arrive and leave). Haukland is a beautiful beach though, so in my opionion is worth it.
A similar option is Uttakleiv beach, located just after the tunnel from Haukland. However, there the facilities are more limited, and the payment is taken automatically, or in the parking machine, which often doesn’t work. Many tourists complain about being overcharged. Overnight parking costs around 300-400 NOK.
You can find more of the established free camping areas in the map I linked above.
Campervans and motorhomes in Lofoten
Staying in a campervan or a motorhome in Lofoten is possible, but can be tricky.
Many municipalities have specific rules. You must stay only in the parking zones that are permitted to campervans and use motorhome pitches. You cannot drive into terrain or block entrance or space for parking for a hike, for example. Waste and toilets must be emptied only at designated stations.
Many of these rules are common sense and just regular being a decent person, but when you travel in Lofoten and see every single parking space packed by campervans, so there is no space to park a car and go for a hike, it gets tiring. Not even mention the waste, which is another issue.
That’s why it’s not a surprise that locals are increasingly frustrated with campervan “free parking” that leads to litter, crowding, and disrespect. So if you plan to come to Lofoten with a camparvan, use campsites or official motorhome pitches.
In this case, also the season you visit Lofoten in matters. In off-peak (September, early spring) there will be more space, fewer restrictions enforced strictly, better weather odds (less mosquitos, but more rain). Winter wild camping needs more gear and care.
Campervan pitches on the campsites usually cost around 300-400 NOK per night.
Hostels & Shared Rooms
Some of the cheapest accomodation in Lofoten (that still has a roof ;)) are hostels.
Apart from the fact that you can easily dry your items when the weather is wet outside (and the weather changes quickly in Lofoten, even in the summer), it’s also an excellent place to meet other travelers.
Some hostels also offer rooms, that you can share with your friends, instead of staying in a bigger dorm. Many also have simple private rooms, that are cheaper than in more expensive hotels, or cabins.
Remember to book ahead, especially for the peak months (summer).
A Lofoten Hostel I Recommend – Stamsund Hostel
If you only choose one hostel in Lofoten, make it Stamsund Hostel. This place is legendary among budget travellers in Norway.
We were invited to spend over a week staying in Stamsund Hostel and it was a-m-a-z-i-n-g!
What makes it so special?
Location
Perched right on the edge of the sea in the little fishing village of Stamsund, the hostel has amazing views of the fjord and the mountains. You can literally walk out the door and be in nature in minutes, yet you’re close to a bus stop and local shops.
Some of my favourite sunset views from that trip to Lofoten were at a little hill, 30 second climb from the hostel. That’s how I spent my breaks with a hot cocoa in hand and stunning view in front of me. This was also the best place to watch Northern Lights from!
Community vibe
Unlike many hostels where people just sleep and go, Stamsund feels like a home. The owners, Mattias and Alexandra, as well as Joakim, and the kindest volunteers, have a way of bringing people together. Expect shared dinners, music nights, and conversations that last until the sun sets (or doesn’t, in the summer), or until the Northern Lights appear.
Once, we were so involved in a conversation between fellow travellers in a cozy room with a fireplace, that we would have missed the amazing show of the Northern Lights outside. Luckily, in a hostel everyone looks out for each other, so quickly we were notified by the knock in the window and a scream “Northeeeeern Liiiiiights are out!! Come now!“. Long story short, it was one of the best Northern Lights I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen a lot).
Free activities & extras
SUP boards, row boats, and fishing gear, as well as bikes, are all free to rent. This only makes it worth a stay there! And you might get invited on spontaneous adventures with other travelers. Hiking trails start from the village, and the staff or other guests are usually full of tips.
Sauna with a view
Yes, there’s a sauna right by the water. Imagine sweating it out after a day of hiking, then jumping straight into the Arctic sea. And you can even watch Northern Lights from there! It’s unforgettable, and one of those true Lofoten experiences that stay with you for years to come.
Budget-friendly
Dorm beds here are some of the most affordable in Lofoten, and the communal kitchens help you cut food costs. The value for the experience you get is unbeatable.
For groups who travel together, you can easily book shared rooms just for yourselves, so you can reduce room costs. For example, as a group of four, you can book a room for all of you, which saves you money rather than booking two rooms for two.
Facilities
Stamsund has a wide range of facilities, that make your stay easier. You can use washing machines and dryers to dry your clothes (essential in wet Lofoten weather).
There are several communal kitchens, fully equipped to cook food. Toilets and showers are located on every floor. You will find several communal spaces to hang out with other travelers. A fireplace that is always lit up in the evening, for that extra coziness. Guitars, and ukulele available for these singing nights. Darts to play outside, and board games or chess to play inside. Strong internet for remote workers, and many areas to work from.
Digital Nomads in Lofoten
Apart from budget travelers, Stamstund hostel is also popular amongst digital nomads. Who wouldn’t like to work with a stunning view like you have from there? Strong internet is enough for video calls and downloading files, and there are many areas you can work from.
Stamsund Hostel isn’t your typical luxury, but it’s deifintely rich in atmosphere and experiences. It’s the kind of place where people come for one night and end up staying for a week.
If you’re traveling to Lofoten on a budget, this is the perfect mix of affordability, community, and authentic Lofoten life. Trust me! Book Stamsund Hotel here.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Another acommodation option in Lofoten are smaller hotels or guesthouses/airbnb. Unfortunately, most of the time they are quite expensive. If you are lucky, you can find a room in a small guesthouse for a cheaper price, but book well in advance. Aim for the ones that have shared kitchens to help you save on food.
Rorbuer (Traditional Fisher Cabins) on a Budget
Staying in a rorbu is dreamy – you get more of the Lofoten experience. But many are expensive. If you time it right (off-peak seasons, shoulder seasons) and pick simpler cabins, you might get a rorbu at a decent price.
Book early. The most iconic ones go fast. If you can split cost (group, family) or accept more basic amenities, rorbuer can be a highlight.
Transport on a budget in Lofoten islands
How you get to Lofoten and how you move around once you’re in Lofoten can make or break your budget. Distances might look short on the map, but the roads are narrow and winding, bridges link the islands, and buses don’t always run often. Planning ahead saves both money and frustration.
Getting to Lofoten cheaply
Flights
The quickest option to get to Lofoten is to fly into Leknes (LKN) or Svolvær (SVJ), but those flights are pricey and usually involve connections through Bodø or Evenes with Widerøe. A budget-friendlier option is flying to Evenes/Harstad–Narvik (EVE) or Bodø (BOO), then continuing by bus or ferry.
Train + ferry/bus combo
If you have more time, consider taking the train from Oslo to Bodø (a scenic, long ride). From Bodø, ferries run to Moskenes in western Lofoten, and express boats connect to smaller villages. This route can be cheaper if booked early.
Seasonal deals
Out of the summer season, airlines like Norwegian and SAS offer occasional discount fares if you book in advance and fly mid-week. Check flights using Skyscanner.net or Kiwi.com, to find the best prices.
Getting Around within Lofoten
There are several ways of getting around in Lofoten, and I’ve personally used all of them. On my first trip I hitch-hiked and used public transport, on the second one I rented a car, on the third one used public transport again and on my last one, renting a car Evenes airport again (this time we did it too late and the last option was a mini-van ;)).
Renting a Car
Renting a car remains the most flexible way to explore, especially if you’re chasing hikes, sunsets, or hidden beaches. I like the flexibility it allows, plus, if it rains, you can just opt for a road trip and visit places that way, rather than get soaked every day.
In the summer, small cars can cost NOK 900–1,200/day, but outside peak season prices can drop to NOK 500–700/day. Fuel is still expensive (~NOK 20/L). Insurance and one-way rental fees (if you return the car to a different location) add to costs, so check for these.
Use Rentalcars to find the best deal, book early online, pick a smaller, fuel-efficient model, and share the cost with travel partners.
Parking prices
It’s worth to mention the cost of parking when driving around in Lofoten. Especially in the most popular areas – it can be a lot. Like 100 NOK for parking on a hike to Ryten, or a 100-200 NOK for parking in Haukland beach. Take that into consideration when planning your trip.
Public Transport
Buses
Buses run along the E10 and connect main hubs like Å, Reine, Leknes, Henningsvær, Svolvær, and Stamsund. They’re reliable but not very frequent, especially outside of school commuting hours. In September, the summer “tourist schedules” end, so buses may run only a few times per day. Always check timetables at reisnordland.no.
Single tickets are around NOK 50–150, depending on distance. You can pay with the “Reis Nordland” app or onboard (cash is not always accepted, card works).
If you plan multiple bus rides, you can use travel pass nordnald, a 7-day pass for NOK 1,350 (2025 price) covers unlimited travel on buses and express boats in Nordland county. Great value if you’re moving a lot without renting a car.
The main drawback is that the buses rarely stop right at trailheads. You might need to walk a few extra kilometers from the bus stop to the start of a hike. But for villages or longer distances between main townds, they work fine.
Ferries
Local ferries connect small islands and villages (e.g., Bodø–Moskenes, or smaller crossings like Ballstad). Many of them are free for foot passengers. That means that you need to pay for the ride if you have a car, but if you just travel on foot, it’s free.
One of the best budget friendly ways of getting to Lofoten is to fly to Bodø and then take a Bodø–Moskenes ferry.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking in Lofoten is quite common – I traveled like that a few times and it worked every time. It’s popular, because there are many tourists, who are happy to give a lift to others, and the islands have one main road (E10), so the route is predictable. Many locals are used to backpackers standing by the roadside with signs, especially near trailheads or bus stops.
My favorite part of hitchhiking in Lofoten, is not it’s budget friendly appeal, but the way of meeting new people. I’ve met amazing people this way and heard the best local tips and crazy stories.
In terms of safety, Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, but as everywhere, you need to use common sense and trust your gut, as hitchhiking carries the usual risks. In general, in Lofoten it’s considered safe, especially during the day.
A few tips on how to hitchhike in Lofoten:
- Stand at spots with space for cars to pull over.
- A friendly smile and a sign with your destination in Norwegian (“Reine” or “Leknes”) can help.
- Be prepared to wait longer in shoulder season when traffic is lighter
- Always have a backup plan (bus timetable, a tent).
- Be prepared for changing weather, so you don’t caught up in rain
- Be prepared to walk for some time, in case you get droped off in the incorrect location etc.
Cycling
Cycling Lofoten is also a popular way of travel. Some issues to keep in mind are that the roads are narrow, traffic can be busy in summer, and the weather is unpredictable – the rain and the wind can be extremely strong sometimes.
But if you feel adventurous, it’s a beautiful way to explore the islands! And a cheap way to travel in Lofoten.
Timing & Off-peak Benefits for Transport
Off-season car rentals are cheaper, and buses are less crowded. Hitchhiking may be slower due to fewer cars, but the rides you do get are often longer (locals driving between towns rather than tourists hopping short distances).
If you don’t have a car, it helps to stay in villages with better bus connections (Svolvær, Leknes, Reine or Stamsund in Stamsund Hostel). From there, you can reach hikes and nearby attractions more easily.
Food & Grocery Tips
What and where you eat makes a huge difference. Eating out in restaurants can easily add hundreds to your travel bill and make cheap travel in Lofoten much harder.
Self-catering and Cooking
This is the cheapest way to manage food in Lofoten – cook it yourself. That’s why it’s useful to have accommodation that has a kitchen it in, or to carry a gas cooker with you if you plan on camping.
The cheapest supermarkets for food are Kiwi and Rema 1000 – you can find more information on how to find the cheapest food in my post about Norway on a budget.
Cheapest Meals in Lofoten
For cheap lunches, local cafés, bakeries are often more affordable than restaurants. You can find options such as soup or sandwiches.
Another place for cheap cooked food is petrol stations. Many of them have places that can make a hot dog or a burger with fries. There is also hot coffee at a good price. The food is definitely not healthy, but at least it’s warm.
When to Eat Out
If you want to try local specialities such as bacalao, or fish burger – find a restaurant in a less popular area to try them out, to pay less. You can of course also find these dishes in the supermarket and then heat them up, if you are really on a budget.
Oh, and, of course, as everywhere in Norway, alcohol is very expensive. So it’s better to either skip it, or bring your own.
Free Activities in Lofoten
One of the best things about Lofoten is that nature is your playground. That’s why people come to Lofoten – to admire the beautiful nature, and that, luckily, is free.
Hiking
One of the best free activities in Lofoten is hiking. Some of the best hikes in Norway are located in Lofoten, so strap on your hiking shoes and go for it! But remember to check the weather, trail conditions and bring a proper gear and food, and water.
Beaches
Sunbathing above the Arctic Circle? Why not! When the weather is good, visiting beaches like Haukland, or Uttakleiv can feel like in a tropical country (but with much much colder water), and it’s entirely free!
Museums or small cultural spots
Lofoten is not specifically a place to go to the museums, but still there are are a few here. And though they are usually not free, the entrance fee is not that high.
Guided tours
Guided tours are nice, but they do cost money. If you really want one, I recommend scanning the internet for the best deal or using tours through Get Your Guide – they have free cancellation and a good selection of tours.
Extra Costs
One other cost to incorporate into your Lofoten budget travel plan is toilets. Yes, many of them are paid, usually with a card. They don’t cost that much – usually 10-20 NOK, but it can add up if you don’t plan for it.
Respect Nature And Local Community
When you travel cheaply in Lofoten, it’s important not to overdo it, because budget travel doesn’t mean being careless. In fact, for Lofoten, being respectful matters a lot.
Over the years of Lofoten getting more and more popular, the local communities have struggled with the influx of reckless tourists that leave nature and their home in a bad state. That’s why it’s important to respect the place where you are and not to annoy the locals (many are already quite upset).
Here are some of th rules to follow.
The Allemannsretten (Right to Roam) – yes, wild camping is allowed in many areas under this law. But – stay at least 150 meters from inhabited houses or cabins, avoid cultivated land, stay no more than two nights in one place. Leave no trace.
Respect local “no camping” zones. They are located around Reine, Hamnøy, certain beaches, lakes near villages etc. Even if you fulfill the general wild camping rules, some areas are still restricted. Maps from Lofoten municipalities or Lofoten Outdoor Council show red/orange zones. Always check before you pitch your tent ( I linked it above in the camping section)
If you travel to Lofoten in a campervan, don’t just park wherever. Use campervan/motorhome designated pitches when possible. Do not park on private roads or block roads. Use official disposal stations for waste and toilets.
Support locals whenever you can. Buy groceries locally, eat at local cafés, use local guides. Avoid big chains when possible. Your money helps communities that live here year-round dealing with increasing tourist pressure. You might think that the locals get a lot of money from tourists – it’s not entirely true, due to local politics and money going to Oslo. Therefore, support local whenever you can.
Leave no trace. Pack out trash, don’t break plants, avoid disturbing wildlife especially during breeding seasons. Respect seasonal restrictions.
If you are respecful and nice to local area and people, they will be nice to you too!
A Sample Budget in Lofoten – what a few days might cost
Here’s a rough estimate for someone traveling alone, or two people sharing, in shoulder season, moderate budget (hostels, some camping, cooking most meals, few paid activities):
| Item | Cost per day (NOK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (hostel dorm / simple guesthouse) | ~ 300-1000 NOK | If camping sometimes, use cheaper nights. |
| Food / groceries | ~ 200-400 NOK | Cooking breakfasts & dinners; occasional café or restaurant. |
| Transport (local bus/ferry / occasional rental split) | ~ 150-400 NOK | Depends on how often you drive or use buses. |
| Activities (free hikes + one paid tour) | ~ 100-300 NOK | One paid boat/kayak etc. rest hikes, nature. |
| Misc (coffee, small gear, laundry etc.) | ~ 100-200 NOK | A little buffer. |
| Estimated total per day | ≈ 900-2500 NOK | If camping and cooking your own food – the lower range. |
If you go very budget (wild camping, full cooking, hitch-hiking or minimal transport), you can push that lower. If you go more lux (nicer hotels, more tours) it goes up fast.
For example costs of products in Norway check out my Norway on a budget post.
Is Lofoten on a budget possible?
Lofoten is one of my favorite places in the world. It’s worth a long way to get there, and any sacrificies on the way.
If you want to plan a perfect trip to Lofoten on a budget:
- aim for shoulder season – the days are still decent, crowds thinning, prices dropping.
- pick a base or two, mix camping & hostels.
- cook most meals, plan one or two splurges.
- prioritize free hikes, beaches, viewpoints.
- double-check wild camping zone maps
- carry warm layers and rain gear – weather changes fast.
Traveling “Lofoten on a budget” doesn’t mean doing less. It means doing it smartly. It means seeing the same epic views, sleeping under the same stars, but with peace of mind, kindness toward nature and locals, and more money for experiences rather than surprises.
Read more:
Senja – the less visited island in the north
The Best Northern Norway Itinerary For Your Next Trip
I hope you’ll fall in love with Lofoten too – I always do, every time. And let me know if you have other tips for traveling on a budget in Lofoten!
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