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A smooth journey through Norway, Sweden or Denmark stands or falls with good preparation. The most common mistakes during a train holiday in Scandinavia are underestimating travel times and forgetting to reserve seats. This leads to unexpected costs, missed connections and unnecessary stress. Curious how to avoid this? Read on and discover how to sidestep pitfalls for a comfortable and carefree trip.
Why good planning is half the battle
Scandinavia is vast and the distances between cities such as Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo are considerable. Many travellers misjudge how long a train journey takes, especially in the mountainous regions of Norway or the wide open landscapes of Sweden. An overly tight schedule without built-in buffers for delays is a recipe for trouble. Trains are cancelled or delayed, and a missed connection can throw your entire itinerary into disarray.
Use the journey planners of the local railway companies such as SJ in Sweden or Vy in Norway. These give a realistic picture of travel times, including transfers. Don’t pack your days too full. It’s tempting to try to see a lot, but by allowing plenty of time for travelling you create calm and flexibility. This gives you the freedom to discover unexpected hidden gems without the pressure of a ticking clock.
The necessity of seat reservations
Many travellers with an Interrail pass skip seat reservations. This mistake is often made by those who are used to flexibility. In many Scandinavian long-distance and night trains, reservations are compulsory, even if you already have a valid ticket or an Interrail pass. Without a reservation, you simply won’t be allowed on the train. This certainly applies to popular routes, such as the scenic journey from Oslo to Bergen or the night train to Swedish Lapland.
It’s sensible to book your seats, and especially berths in night trains, as early as possible. You can usually arrange this easily online via the railway companies’ websites. Don’t leave this until the last minute, because once a train is full, it’s full. By reserving in advance, you guarantee yourself a place and avoid disappointment on the platform.
‘ A rigid travel schedule is a stumbling block here. ’
Flexibility is your best friend, especially on night trains
Night trains cover large distances while you sleep. They don’t just save you a hotel stay, but also precious daytime travel time. Connections between, for example, Stockholm and Hamburg or Oslo and Gothenburg are popular. However, the availability of sleeping compartments is limited and demand is high, especially in peak season.
A rigid travel schedule is a stumbling block here. If you have to travel on a specific date, the night train may already be fully booked. By being flexible with your travel dates, you greatly increase your chances of getting a berth. Consider planning your journey a day earlier or later. This small bit of leeway can make the difference between a comfortable night ride and having to completely rearrange your travel plans.
Luggage and local conditions
A smart traveller packs light. Large, heavy suitcases are impractical on crowded platforms and when getting on or off the train. It’s better to opt for a handy wheeled suitcase or a comfortable backpack. Also bear in mind that the weather in Scandinavia can change quickly, even in summer. Take layered clothing and a waterproof jacket so you’re prepared for both sunshine and an unexpected shower.
Also think about local transport. In cities such as Stockholm and Oslo, public transport is excellent. Hiring a bike is a fun way to explore the city. However, a public transport pass often offers more efficiency and convenience, especially immediately after arriving on a night train.
Prepare your trip down to the last detail
Good preparation is more than just mapping out the route. It also means being aware of the rules and customs. A few practical tips:
- Book tickets in advance: On most Scandinavian trains it’s not possible to buy a ticket on board. Make sure you always have a valid ticket before you get on.
- Special luggage: Are you travelling with a bike or other large luggage? Then check the conditions in advance. Often a bike has to be dismantled and packed in a bike bag.
- Travelling with children: Long train journeys can be a challenge for children. Bring entertainment such as books, games or a tablet. Their own little wheeled suitcase can also enhance their sense of adventure.
On the Traveler Tips website you’ll find many more articles to help you plan your ideal holiday. Whether you’re looking for the most beautiful train routes through Norway, tips for an Interrail trip through Sweden or advice on the best time of year to travel, here you’ll find the practical and reliable information you need. Discover more and turn your trip into an unforgettable experience.
Frequently asked questions
To avoid popular train routes or night trains in Scandinavia being fully booked, it is essential to book your tickets well in advance, especially for night trains such as those from Hamburg to Stockholm or to Lapland and Jämtland. Use the official websites of the railway companies, such as SJ.se for Sweden and Vy.no for Norway, to view routes and make timely reservations. Although Interrail offers flexibility, it is advisable to check the local rules and consider booking night trains that save on hotel costs. Also avoid planning too many activities per day so you can remain flexible if there are any delays or changes.
On train holidays through Scandinavia, budget mistakes are often made by underestimating travel times and delays, which can lead to unexpected costs for, for example, taxis. Not booking train tickets in advance is also a common mistake, as tickets are often not available on board. In addition, luggage that is too heavy or unsuitable can cause unnecessary expenses for extra transport or new solutions on the spot. Ignoring night trains for long distances can likewise lead to higher hotel costs, whereas they can actually be budget-friendly.
To avoid problems with luggage and discomfort during train journeys in Scandinavia, choose wheeled suitcases instead of heavy backpacks and limit your luggage to essentials. Plan your trip flexibly, with sufficient buffer time for possible delays, and avoid overly tight schedules. Always book train tickets in advance and check local rules, especially for special luggage such as bikes. Consider night trains to save on hotel costs and avoid long daytime journeys.
When planning a train journey through Scandinavia, there are various pitfalls to avoid. Don’t underestimate travel times and possible delays; plan with buffer time to prevent stress. Choose practical luggage, such as wheeled suitcases, to make travelling with transfers easier. Always buy train tickets in advance and check local rules, as tickets on board are often not possible. Take into account the changeable Scandinavian weather and plan routes with overnight stays to prevent exhaustion.
