Tips and rules about camping and canoeing in the Swedish wilderness

If you want to enjoy nature, it is important that you prepare yourself. 

First aid and safety: Always make sure to bring a first aid kit on your trip, as well as important telephone numbers. Emergency number is 112. Put your phone in a watertight bag so you can use it in case of emergency even if you are in the water.

Swimming: Adults must be able to swim, and lifejackets are mandatory in Sweden when paddling.

Sweden’s right of public access: In Sweden you are allowed to go camping as long as you respect the ancient rural code of “allemansrätten” which is the right of public access. You’re free to choose your own camping spot as long as you keep away from houses, don’t disturb the landowner and don’t cause damage to nature. Watch the following video and read the following brochure to learn about all the do’s and don’ts.

Wild camping spots: On the numerous uninhabited islands and alongside the deserted riverbanks on any of our tours, you will find beautiful spots where you can pitch your tent. Some places are even equipped with a small shelter. You are free to pick your spot, as long as you keep distance to other houses

Getting the canoe ready: Try to load the canoe in the water. The best way is to have the canoe parallel with the shore. One person can load the canoe while the other holds the canoe steady. Fasten the luggage with rope on the inside of the canoe. Have a small bucket/cup attached to the canoe to get out water if needed. During the night you pull the canoe on land and turn it upside down to create a dry place where you can also store materials.

Luggage: Clothes for all weather types and extra (dry) shoes are a must have during your tour! All of your camping equipment, food, clothing and other necessities can weigh a lot. Take this into account when packing for your trip. Store your sleeping bags and some dry clothes in the watertight barrels in case of rain or capsizing. Put the rest in smaller  (back)packs.

Portages: In Sweden, not all lakes and rivers are connected. That’s why  you will have to cross land carrying or rolling your canoe regularly over various distances. The length of these crossings can be somewhere between 50m and 4km, depending on the tour. Each canoe and kayak are equipped with a set of wheels. You tie these wheels under your canoe or kayak and now the whole thing is easy to move. Occasionally, you may find you will need to carry your canoe, but this is only for short distances. As an indication: a land transport of 1 km takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The amount and the length of the land transports define the level of the tour.

Capsizing: In the unlikely event that you capsize: stay calm and hold on to your paddle and canoe. The canoe will float, even when it is filled with water. If you are close to land, turn the canoe around and go on land where you can empty the canoe. Paddle always along the shore as much as possible and avoid crossing large open waters and lakes if possible. Check here the information about capsizing and, if possible, test capsizing in a controlled environment without luggage.

Weather: Go straight on land if there is a lightning storm and wait till it’s over. It is best to always paddle along the shores of the big lakes, instead of crossing the open water. This way you are not far away from land in case of a change in weather. With hard wind and big waves definitely paddle along the shore, or don’t paddle at all and wait for better weather conditions. 

You can use www.yr.no to check the weather in this area.

Dams: Be careful with dams and keep your distance when you take the canoe out of the water or when you put the canoe back in the water. There can be a strong current.

Drink water: The water in most lakes is of good quality. Therefore it is possible to drink it straight from the lake. But better is to boil the water before drinking it.

Fire: Make sure you are well informed about the up-to-date fire risks in the area before starting your tour. Use the app Brandrisk Ute or the phone number (+46)54155015 for the current situation. Don’t make a fire when there are any risks, for example when it is windy or very dry. Use only existing fireplaces, don’t start any new ones. If you make a fire, choose a place where the fire cannot spread and there is a water supply to extinguish the fire. Check afterwards if the fire is completely out! Only small and loose wood may be gathered, you are not allowed to break branches or use fallen trees as firewood. 

Toilet: Use a small spade to create your own outdoor toilet away from any trails, water or camping sites. Dig a hole in the ground and bury the evidence before you leave. Toilet paper may be buried when it is grey/biodegradable toilet paper. Otherwise you can burn it or take it with you in the trash.

Environment: Take all your waste with you! If you spot some trash on your way, please take it. At the campsite all trash can be sorted. Do not put your trash in private containers.

Wildlife: With some luck you can spot deer, moose, crane birds or other wild animals during this trip. Respect nature and all wildlife. Keep your distance and also do not go near breeding birds. 

Fishing: If you want to fish in Sweden, a fishing licence is required from the age of 16. You can purchase the fishing licence for Deglunden and Upplunden at the reception of Värmlandsgården. For other areas, you can purchase the permit online or at nearby businesses. Here you can see where and how you can buy them.

Alcohol: Don’t paddle and drink.

Rented material: The equipment must be returned well cleaned and undamaged. With damage or problems with material, please report to one of the staff members. 

Transport: If unplanned or additional transport are required, an extra charge may apply. 

Last but not least: During your tour there is plenty of time for swimming, fishing, going on your own moose safari or just reading a book next to your own campfire. Take your time to enjoy all nature has to offer. Leave no trace and have fun!