Equipment

The most convenient way to travel is light. Hiking along the St. Olav Waterway does not require acquiring large amounts of food in advance, as there are a lot of grocery stores and kiosks along the way. However, in regard to clothing, you should consider different weather conditions.

Spending the night

If you want to sleep indoors for the duration of your travels, there is accommodation available along the route. Visitors interested in camping should come prepared with a sleeping bag, sleeping pad and tent.

Camping areas:

Most accommodation services offer bedding, or it is available for purchase. Service packages make travel and planning easier.

Eating

Along the route there are several grocery stores, kiosks, cafés and restaurants you can stop by to buy food or enjoy a meal. If you prefer cooking, you will need a camping cooker. A meal-in-a-bag and boiled water that you can carry in a thermos is an easy way to prepare food.

Hydration is important when backpacking, so remember to take a water bottle along. A sitting pad makes sitting on the ground more comfortable and frees you from having to worry about moisture.

Clothing

Sturdy yet comfortable shoes are an important part of successful backpacking. It is worth using the shoes beforehand in order to break them in and ensure that they fit you well. If you are carrying a lot of weight, trekking shoes are the best choice, as they are designed to support the arch of your foot and your ankle. It is also wise to come prepared with some blister plasters.

We recommend rain gear and warm clothes, as the weather can be capricious. Especially clothing made from natural fibres, like wool and silk, breathe and work well even in cool temperatures. Be sure to bring a hat and gloves, because they might be useful even in the summer. Weather can be surprisingly chilly at sea.

Prepare yourself for warm weather by bringing a swimsuit and a towel that dries easily. In hot weather it might be more comfortable to wear sandals.

Other equipment, that might be useful:

 

  • Maps and a compass for following the route and navigation
  • Small first aid kit (plaster, bandages, painkillers)
  • Mosquito repellent, tick tweezers
  • Thermos, water bottle, mug and sitting pad
  • Headlamp or flashlight, belt knife (puukko) and toilet paper
  • Notebook to jot down memories and ideas