Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ section! Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our campervans, rentals, and exploring Lofoten. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!

Van Features & Equipment

We don’t charge extra for essentials like bedding or towels—everything you need for a comfortable trip is included in your rental. 

This is included when you book a campervan:

  • A fully equipped kitchen (gas stove, fridge, sink with running water, coffee maker and kitchenware)
  • A composting toilet
  • Bedding (duvet, pillows, and sheets)
  • Microfiber towels
  • Heating system
  • Extra battery and USB charging ports
  • Water tanks (clean and grey water)
  • Indoor seating and dining table
  • Bluetooth speaker

While we provide everything you need for a comfortable stay, here are a few things you might want to pack:

  • Warm and waterproof clothes – Lofoten’s weather can change quickly, so pack layers.
  • Toiletries – We don’t provide shampoo, soap, or toothpaste, so bring your own.
  • Renting in winter? – See our recommendations here.

Yes, all our campervans come with multiple USB ports, so you can easily charge your phone and other small devices. Depending on your choice of vehicle, you may also be able to charge your laptop or camera directly from the USB port or inverter.

You’ll have no trouble finding fresh water in Norway. You can refill at all gas stations, most campsites, and public restrooms. The water is safe to drink and refreshingly clean. Since the fresh water cans are portable, you can fill them up at almost any tap you come across.

All our vans come with a composting toilet, conveniently hidden under the couch and easy to use. Unlike chemical toilets, it’s odor-free and can be emptied in regular facilities.

We are big fans of composting toilets for their ease of use and environmental friendliness. The system separates liquids and solids. It doesn’t require a waste station, and we provide clear instructions on how to use it.

Our vans were originally emergency preparedness vehicles from the Norwegian Civil Defense. With less than 20,000 km on the clock, they were barely used—so we gave them a new life as cozy homes on wheels. Ready to take one on an adventure? 😉

Booking & Pricing

Every rental includes Basic Insurance at no extra cost. It is possible to upgrade to Standard Insurance or Premium Insurance for reduced liability. If the driver is under 26 years old, the Under 26 Insurance is mandatory. Here are the options:

  • Basic Insurance (Included)
    Liability: 20.000 NOK per incident
  • Standard Insurance (Upgrade)
    Liability: 10.000 NOK per incident & Free Roadside Assistance
  • Premium Insurance (Upgrade)
    Liability: 5.000 NOK per incident & Free Roadside Assistance
  • Under 26 Insurance (Mandatory for drivers under 26)
    Liability: 20.000 NOK per incident

If the campervan is damaged, you are responsible for covering the costs per incident up to the liability limit of your chosen insurance.

Yes, a deposit is required before departure and will be charged at pickup on your credit or debit card. The amount is based on the liability of your chosen insurance package, so ensure your card has sufficient available balance:

  • Basic Insurance: 20.000 NOK
  • Standard Insurance: 10.000 NOK
  • Premium Insurance: 5.000 NOK
  • Under 26 Insurance: 20.000 NOK (mandatory for drivers under 26)

The deposit will be refunded after your rental, typically within a few days, but no later than 30 days, provided there are no additional charges. It will be used to cover any additional charges during your rental, including:

  • Damages to the campervan
  • Parking fines
  • Toll roads and ferry tickets charged to the vehicle
  • Failure to return the campervan with a full fuel tank
  • Additional cleaning fees if the campervan is returned dirty inside or outside

You are responsible for any damage to the campervan up to your chosen liability per incident. Other costs, like parking fines and tolls, are charged on top of that. If the total amount is higher than the deposit, the remaining balance will be charged to you.

You can cancel your booking by emailing us with your booking number.

Cancellation fees:

  • More than 4 weeks before rental: 1,500 NOK cancellation fee.
  • 2–4 weeks before rental: 50% of the total rental cost.
  • Less than 2 weeks before rental: 100% cancellation fee.

If you have purchased Flexible Cancellation, the fees are lower:

  • More than 2 weeks before rental: Full refund (excluding the Flexible Cancellation fee).
  • 4–14 days before rental: Choose between a 50% refund or a 100% travel voucher (both excluding the Flexible Cancellation fee).

The minimum rental period is 2-4 days, depending on the season. You can check the details on our website for the specific rental requirements and pricing.

You must be at least 21 years old to rent a campervan with us and have held a full driver’s license for at least 2 years. Please note that currently all our vans are manual transmission, so you’ll need to be allowed to drive manual vehicles.

In addition to the rental price, a standard service fee applies to every booking to cover administrative and processing costs (450 NOK). If you plan to pick up or drop off your camper outside our regular pickup and drop-off times, an early or late fee may apply.

Renters are responsible for any additional charges incurred during the rental period, including tolls, parking violations, and ferry costs. Midnight Campers may also charge fines for various violations, such as not refueling the tank before return, returning the vehicle in an unacceptable condition, failing to empty the toilet, or causing damage beyond normal wear and tear. Other penalties may apply as outlined in our Terms and Conditions, which we strongly recommend reviewing before your trip. We try to be transparent and fair in how we price and charge, so let us know if anything is unclear.

Please have a look at our Terms & Conditions page for all the details.

Driving & Road Rules

To rent and drive a campervan, you must have a valid driver’s license that meets Norwegian requirements. Your license must be valid for driving a car (Category B) with a manual transmission and must have been held for at least two full years.

We will take a copy of the license from every driver. If your license is not in the Latin alphabet, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation. Generally, all licenses are accepted, but please double-check that yours meets the requirements for driving in Norway here.

Make sure your license is valid and not expired before or during your trip.

Lofoten itself is toll-free, so there are no toll charges while you're exploring the islands. However, if you travel outside of Lofoten, you will encounter toll roads. Tolls are automatically charged to the car and will be deducted from your deposit after your rental period.

In Norway, ferry crossings generally do not allow for advance reservations. You’ll need to drive to the ferry terminal and wait for your turn to board. Some ferry routes, especially during the summer season, can get very busy, so it’s a good idea to arrive on time or check the traffic on the route in advance. The ferry fee will be automatically billed to the campervan, and the cost will be deducted from your deposit after the rental period. If your deposit has already been used for other charges, we will charge you separately for the ferry fee or you can pay directly at drop-off.

For the Bodø–Moskenes route and some other routes, reservations are possible. You'll need the campervan’s license plate number, so you can only make the reservation after your rental has started.

If you receive a parking fine during your rental, we recommend paying it as soon as possible to avoid any additional charges or complications. Parking fines in Norway can quickly accumulate interest if not settled promptly.

If you're unable to pay the fine while on the road, we can assist by processing the payment on your behalf. Please send us an email with a photo of the fine on the same day you receive it. Note that we charge a service fee of 250 NOK for handling the fine, in addition to the amount of the fine itself. The total amount, including the fine and the service fee, will be deducted from your deposit after the rental period.

If you prefer to handle the fine yourself, be sure to use the KID number provided on the fine as the payment reference. This will ensure that your payment is correctly applied.

Unpaid Parking Fines
If a parking fine remains unpaid at the end of your rental, we will be required to settle it on your behalf, and the total cost, including an additional service fee, will be deducted from your deposit. If the fine is not paid within the required timeframe, additional administrative fees and interest may apply. We strongly encourage you to address parking fines promptly to avoid these extra charges.

In Case of Damage

  1. Contact Us for Assistance:
    • For any major accidents or emergencies, contact emergency services by dialing 112.
    • Please notify us immediately so we can guide you through the process of reporting the damage to the insurance provider.
    • For roadside assistance, call  +47 214 92 400.
  2. Document the Damage:
    • Fill out the damage report, which can be found in the glovebox of the camper. If the report is missing, we’ll send you one to complete.
    • Take clear photos of the damage and the surroundings.
    • Submit the damage report and photos to us as soon as possible, as this is required by our insurance provider.
  3. Damage Assessment & Repair Costs:
    • After receiving the damage report and photos, we will assess the situation. The cost of repairs will be based on market rates for parts and labor.
    • If the damage is covered by your insurance pack, your deposit will be used to pay the damages.
    • If the damage is not covered by your insurance or falls under exclusions, for example when an unregistered driver was driving, you will be responsible for the full repair cost.

Existing Damages

  • Upon pickup, we document and photograph all existing damages. Feel free to take your own photos as well for reference.
  • By signing the rental agreement, you confirm the campervan’s condition before the rental period begins.

Wind Damage

  • The strong winds on Lofoten can cause damage to the camper’s doors. Be cautious when opening them in windy weather to avoid wind damage.

Yes, roadside assistance is included with our upgraded insurance packages, Standard and Premium, and is available 24/7. If you have Basic or Under 26 Insurance, roadside assistance is still available at an additional cost. If you encounter any issues during your rental, please call us first. Outside our availability, you can contact the roadside assistance service directly at +47 214 92 400.

Yes, you can drive the campervan to both Sweden and Finland. Note that driving into Russia is not allowed. Please let us know if you plan to travel outside of Norway to ensure everything is in order.

Pickup & drop-off

Pickup is available every day from 14:00 to 18:00, and drop-off is between 08:00 and 11:00. If you need to pick up or return the camper outside these hours, we offer flexible options for an additional fee. Early pickup between 08:00 and 14:00, late pickup between 18:00 and 22:00, and late drop-off all cost 800 NOK each, with fees applied automatically during booking. While we don’t have staff on-site at all times, someone will always be there to meet you when you arrive.

When picking up your campervan, make sure to bring the following:

  • Your valid driver’s license.
  • A credit or debit card with enough available funds to cover the security deposit.
  • Your booking number.

When returning the campervan, please follow these steps:

  1. Fill up the Tank: Ensure the fuel tank is full, as it was when you picked up the campervan.
  2. Clean the Campervan: The interior must be cleaned before return, including removing trash, wiping down surfaces, and emptying the toilet if used. Exterior cleaning is also required if the camper is dirty from mud or salt roads. Cleaning instructions are provided in the van. If you prefer, you can book a cleaning service as an extra.
  3. Final Check: Double-check that everything is in order and leave the campervan in the agreed location. Drop off the keys in the key box or give them back in person.

Our pickup and drop-off location is just outside Svolvær, right along the main road, at Våganveien 40, 8310 Kabelvåg. You’ll find a bus stop (Kabelvåg kirke) just 100 meters from the property. We are located a 12-minute drive from Svolvær Airport (SVJ). If you’re arriving by car, you’re welcome to leave it parked at our place during your rental, just let us know beforehand.

Winter

Winter roads in Lofoten can be challenging, with snow, ice, and occasional storms. The main roads are typically cleared and salted regularly, but side roads, particularly in more remote areas, can be more difficult to access. Our campervans are equipped with spike tires, which helps a great deal with driving on icy or snowy roads. During the winter months, it’s important to drive cautiously and always check the weather and road conditions before heading out. Conditions can change quickly, so be prepared for snow, ice, or high winds.

For winter rentals, our campervans are equipped with everything you need to stay safe and comfortable. This includes:

  • Spike tires for better traction on snow and ice.
  • Powerful heater and insulated interior to keep you warm.
  • Extra warm winter duvet for cozy and warm sleeps.

For your winter campervan trip in Lofoten, make sure to pack the following:

  • Warm clothing: Layers are essential, including warm clothes and socks for sleeping. The heater in the campervan will keep you cozy and warm, but it might cool down overnight if you prefer not to run it continuously, so a cozy beanie or balaclava is key for comfort while you sleep.
  • Footwear: Waterproof, insulated boots will keep your feet warm and dry when walking through snow or ice.
  • Headlamp: A reliable headlamp is essential for navigating outside in the dark, especially during long winter nights. Don't worry if you don't have one—we also rent them out!

This is a question that’s hard to answer for us, as it depends on the individual’s comfort level and experience. While prior experience driving in snowy conditions is helpful, it’s not required. What’s most important is to drive cautiously and adjust your speed to the weather and road conditions. Our campervans are equipped with spike tires for better traction on snow and ice, but always check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.

Lofoten / Norway

In Norway, you’re generally allowed to wild camp almost anywhere thanks to the "Allemannsretten" (Right to Roam). This means you can park your campervan in nature, but there are important guidelines and restrictions to follow:

  • Distance from houses: You must camp at least 150 meters away from private homes or cottages.
  • Adhere to guidelines: Always obey signs indicating camping restrictions. Most public parking lots clearly display no camping notices.

Most importantly, you are obligated to leave the place as you found it. This means absolutely no littering or using the bushes as a toilet. Always dispose of waste properly, and leave the area clean and undisturbed. If you can, it’s always appreciated to clean up any trash you find while you’re there—Lofoten is experiencing an increase in campervan traffic, and we aim to be a positive impact on the area.

For finding wild camping spots, apps like Park4Night are great resources to help you locate areas that are suitable for camping.

There are several ways to reach Svolvær, depending on where you're coming from.

By plane, the fastest and most direct option is to fly to Svolvær Airport (SVJ) from Oslo or via Bodø. A good alternative is flying to Leknes Airport (LKN), which is about an hour from Svolvær by car or bus. The most affordable option is to fly to Evenes Airport (EVE), which has more airline choices and lower fares. From Evenes, there is a direct bus to Svolvær that takes about three hours.

By car, the E10 highway connects Lofoten to the mainland, making it possible to reach Svolvær from Evenes in about three hours or from Narvik in around four hours. If you're coming from Bodø, you’ll need to take a ferry as part of the route.

By boat, you can take the express boat from Bodø to Svolvær, which takes about three and a half hours, or travel with the Hurtigruten coastal ferry, which stops in Svolvær as part of its route along the Norwegian coast.

Finding a shower in Lofoten is usually easy. Most campsites have shower facilities that you can use for a small fee, even if you’re not staying overnight. You can also book our simple outdoor shower as an extra. Apps like Park4Night can help you find available facilities nearby.

Fishing in the sea (Atlantic) is free for everyone in Norway, so you don’t need a permit to fish from a boat or the shore. However, if you plan to fish in freshwater (rivers and lakes), you do need a fishing permit, which can be purchased online or at local convenience stores. Be sure to follow local fishing regulations, including catch limits and protected areas. Read more here.

Yes, you can! Andenes, located just outside of Lofoten, is one of the best places in Norway for whale watching, offering high chances of spotting sperm whales throughout the year. The prime time for whale watching is from mid-January to April, when the whales are closer to the shore. You can also spot humpback whales and orcas during the winter months. Several companies offer guided boat tours, typically lasting a few hours, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak season.

Andenes is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Svolvær, including a ferry crossing, perfect for a day trip or an overnight excursion.

Drinking and driving

Norway has strict drink-driving laws, with a legal limit of 0.2‰ blood alcohol content—one of the lowest in the world. Driving under the influence is a criminal offense and can result in heavy fines, license suspension, and jail time. Police conduct routine checks, and even a small amount of alcohol can put you over the limit.

Important: If you exceed the legal alcohol limit, your insurance will no longer cover you in case of an accident, as it is a breach of our terms and conditions. If you plan to drive, it's safest to avoid drinking altogether.

Buying alcohol

Alcohol sales in Norway are regulated. Low-alcohol beverages are sold in grocery stores, but only before 8 PM on weekdays and before 6 PM on Saturdays. Wine and spirits can only be purchased at Vinmonopolet, the state-run liquor store. In Lofoten, there is one Vinmonopolet in Svolvær and one in Leknes. Alcohol sales are not allowed on Sundays or public holidays.

Miscellaneous

5% for the Planet is our commitment to donating 5% of our profit to sustainability initiatives that help offset our footprint and protect the environment. Instead of just talking about sustainability, we’re making it a core part of how we run Midnight Campers.

At the end of each calendar year, we calculate our profit, and 5% of that amount is set aside for projects that create a real and measurable impact. We are currently exploring the best ways to allocate these funds, but we’re looking at initiatives like reforestation, carbon offsetting, renewable energy, and local conservation efforts.

We know that campervan travel has an impact, and while we can’t eliminate it completely, we believe in taking responsibility and helping protect the places we love to explore.

We also believe in transparency. As we finalize our chosen projects, we’ll share updates on how our contributions are used, so you can see exactly where the money goes and the impact it creates.

Yes, you are welcome to bring your dog! Due to limited space in the campervan, we have a maximum weight limit of 40 kg. Please make sure to select the Pet Fee when booking to cover the extra cleaning. If your dog causes any damage to the interior, such as scratches or bite marks, repair costs will be charged.

Have a different pet in mind? Send us a message 😉

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