Products that are worth buying in Norway include premium wool, artisanal treats and high-tech outdoor gear. Iconic options include wool sweaters from Dale of Norway, chocolate bars from Freia, sweet caramel brown cheese (Brunost), and botanical gin from Bareksten. Outdoor brands such as Helly Hansen and Norrøna also offer excellent value for money.

Here are the best Norwegian items to look out for:

1. Wool and outdoor gear

Norway's harsh winters have made it a world leader in knitwear and cold-weather clothing.

Sweaters: Brands like Dale of Norway are legendary for their high-quality, traditional patterned wool sweaters.

Socks and base layers: Ulvang is renowned for its merino wool socks and outdoor activewear.

Outerwear: Look to local brands such as Norrøna and Helly Hansen for top-tier hiking and sailing gear.

2. Edible souvenirs and treats

Norwegian supermarkets and specialist shops are treasure troves for local produce.

Brunost: This famous Norwegian sweet brown cheese, which tastes of caramel (like Tine Gudbrandsdalsost), pairs perfectly with waffles.

Freia Melkesjokolade is Norway's classic creamy milk chocolate and often bears the motto "Et lite stykke Norge" (a little piece of Norway).

Kvikk Lunsj is a popular Norwegian alternative to KitKats with a distinctive retro wrapper featuring three stripes — a must-have snack for hiking.

Cloudberry Jam: Made from the rare, golden "Arctic Gold" berries found in speciality food halls such as Oslo’s Mathallen.

3. Spirits & Crafts

Akevitt (Aquavit): A traditional Norwegian potato-based spirit flavoured with caraway and cumin. It is aged in oak casks and makes a great after-dinner drink.

Bareksten Gin: Produced by Oslo Craft Distillery, this botanical gin has won international awards for its unique flavour profile.

Hand-carved goods: Authentic Sámi handicrafts (duodji), such as reindeer leather goods and traditional wooden folk art painted in the rosemaling style.

A comprehensive list of Norwegian online shopping sites >>