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Scandinavia On A Shoestring Budget: Can It Be Done?

After writing earlier about the special deals on Sterling Air flights to Scandinavia, we got to thinking about what would motivate cash-strapped backpackers to visit what are known to be some of the most expensive cities in Europe.

It’s not easy to visit Scandinavia on a budget, but it can be done, with a little help from some of these great resources we dug up.

For overall tips on visiting Scandinavia on a shoestring, it’s worth taking a look at these tips from Terri Mapes, and read through this article, written by travel-guide-meister, Rick Steves.

As far as individual cities go, here are a few useful sites and articles we think are worth checking out:

Oslo, Norway

• Streetwise Guide – brilliant online guide dedicated to providing budget tips for backpackers and other independent travellers.
• Rick Steves – a few budgeting tips from Rick Steves.
• Oslo on a budget – brief article about ways to stretch the budget.
• ivebeenthere.co.uk – a few useful tips from people who’ve been to Oslo, including hostel recommendations and places to eat without breaking the bank.
• ‘How to have a good time in the world’s most expensive city’ – great article from The Guardian. Basically explains the ‘Streetwise Guide’ (mentioned above) and puts it to the test.

Copenhagen, Denmark

• ivebeenthere.co.uk – budget tips from travellers who’ve spent time in Copenhagen. Cafes, sights and hostel recommendations.
• Visit Copenhagen – tips on the cheapest transport options, free attractions, the Copenhagen card and where to shop more cheaply.
• useit.dk – Copenhagen on a ‘low budget’. Tips for free events, cheap sleeps, transport, and an overall city guide.

Stockholm, Sweden

• Visit-Stockholm – Stockholm on a shoestring. Tips on where to eat, shop, stay, and even which bathrooms you can use (for free).
• home and away – blog about life, language, culture and food in Sweden. Specific tips from a short visit to Stockholm.
• i’vebeenthere.co.uk – tips from those folks who’ve been there.

So, there you go – Scandinavia isn’t so scary after all. Just don’t stay too long – severe budget constraints can be taxing on one’s enthusiasm!

Related entries:
Scandinavian Routes On Sale: Cheap One-Way Fares For Backpackers
Europe’s Low Cost Airlines: Put To The Test
Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Tips For Getting Around Europe, On A Budget
Europe Travel Tips: To Buy A Railpass, Or Not To Buy A Railpass…

Travel resources backpackers might find useful:
SkyScanner – compares prices of low-cost airlines in Europe.
Low Cost Airline Guide – Low cost airline guide, primarily European airlines.
Cheap Hostels – find and book your hostels online, choose from over 12,000 worldwide!

Travel Insurance – instant, cheap travel insurance for backpackers
Travel newsletter – sign up for our free monthly travel newsletter ‘From The Road’

(Copenhagen photo by Trent Maynard/Flickr)

Posted in Backpackers Bookmarks, Destinations, General Travel, Travel Tips & Planning, Travel Tools