Dos and Don'ts on Norwegian Roads

Before one plans to visit forests, lakes or mountainous regions, one must be well equipped with enough insect repellents. Campfires are strictly banned in many areas during the summer months.

For a trip to the sea, seek local advice to know the exact weather conditions and be well- guarded since due to Norway's northerly latitude, the weather can change rapidly, producing Arctic conditions even in summer on exposed mountain tops.

Though Norway is less dangerous for crimes than other western countries, there has been a recent increase in assaults against women. In general, people should avoid shortcuts and desolate bylanes.

There have been quite a number of cases of valuables being stolen from British nationals who just arrived in the country.

There is no need for an International Driving Permit to be able to drive in Norway. One should just ensure that one has arranged appropriate vehicle insurance cover prior to traveling.

Care should be taken while one is on the road. The narrow and winding lanes can be dangerous, mostly in the winter months. Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 15 April

As many as 210 road deaths were reported in Norway in 2010, according to DFT.

This equates to 4.3 road deaths per 100,000 of population and is greater than the average 3.1 road deaths per 100,000 of population in the UK in 2010.

Headlights should be kept on at all times and speed limits should not be crossed. Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high.

Vehicles over 3,500 kg traveling on Norwegian roads have to be equipped with snow chains in winter.

Travelers' must also keep in mind that certain driving laws differ in Norway. For example, on roads which are not marked with a priority sign (a yellow diamond), drivers must give way to traffic coming from the right.

Drunken driving is an absolute no-no in Norway. Alcohol limits for drivers are far stricter than that in the UK. Roadside checks are common, and surrender to a breathalyzer is mandatory.

Penalties for driving after alcohol consumption are severe and can lead to a prison sentence. The 0.20ml limit means no alcohol 12 hours before driving.

Doing drugs is also punishable by the law and one should be aware that laws are stricter in Norway than in the UK.

Possession of even small quantities of drugs can lead to heavy fines d/or imprisonment. This includes the possession and/or importation of khat/qat which is prohibited in Norway, though legal in the UK.

Travelers should always have enough as bank opening hours are more restrictive than in the UK - especially in summer. However, most Norwegian cash points accept Visa, Master card and Cirrus cards issued by British banks.

One thing that has to be borne in mind is that credit cards are generally not very well accepted as a means of payment in Norwegian supermarkets and petrol stations.

Money can be transferred electronically to Norway through Western Union, which has offices in Oslo and Bergen.

Travelers' are asked to take extra care of their passport, money and credit cards and valuables.