Norwegian version here

(Originally written for Redinks customer Obs)

All photos: Trine Sirnes Model: Nemi Sirnes

1. Pitch a tent in the backyard

It doesn’t take much to create a little adventure. Set up a tent in the garden, fill it with soft mats, pillows, books or board games. It’s always a hit – whether you join your kids for a night under canvas, they invite friends over for a sleepover, or it becomes a cozy little daytime hideaway. And on warm summer nights? Ditch the tent altogether and sleep under the stars.

2. Go on a camping trip

Take the whole family on a real tent adventure. Norway’s Outdoor Recreation Act lets you camp for up to two nights just about anywhere – as long as you’re 150 meters from the nearest house and not bothering anyone. That means your weekend "cabin" could be on a beach, in the woods, by a lake, or up in the mountains. Bring good food, maybe a camping stove (be aware of rules for open fire in nature), a whittling knife, some crab-catching gear – and enjoy the simple life. The kids will love it.

3. Make the most of after-work time

Even if you’re working this summer, you can still get that holiday feeling. Plan a beach evening or picnic after work. Shop for supplies the day before to save time. There’s plenty of daylight left – and by the time the sun sets, you might forget you were at your desk earlier.

4. Go for a bike ride

Biking in the summer is bliss – whether it’s just around the neighborhood, to the beach, or part of a longer trip with overnight camping. There are bikes for every need, even trailers for small kids or luggage. If you’re not into pedaling too hard, electric bikes make longer trips more doable (and more fun).

5. Create backyard fun

Make your yard the place to be. Pick up a badminton set, a football, jump ropes or sidewalk chalk. Invite your kids’ friends over and host a mini “stay-at-home summer camp.” Chances are, screen time will take a backseat.

6. Indoor adventures for rainy days

Rainy summer? Head to a local activity center. If there isn’t one nearby, hop on a train and turn the travel into part of the adventure. From waterparks and climbing gyms to skate parks and indoor playgrounds, there’s usually something fun for every age – and it’s a guaranteed winner.

7. Summer camps and activity schools

All over the country, you'll find summer camps or day programs for kids – football, athletics, general activity clubs. Many are free and can be a great fit for working parents. Look early and locally to find a spot. Or send your child off for a whole week – in the woods, on the coast, or up in the mountains. It’ll be a memory for life (and some well-earned grown-up time for you).

8. Plan a full-on evening

Cinema is a classic for a rainy day – and you can make an evening out of it with dinner before or after. Or combine it with a bike ride and a picnic if the weather’s on your side. No cinema nearby? Turn your living room into one – gather some of your child’s friends, serve popcorn and pizza, and host a movie night they won’t forget.

🎈Pro tip:

What kids want most of all is time with you – and as little stress as possible. A little water and a lot of play can go a long way. Happy summer memories don’t have to cost a fortune.

Talking to Kids About Vacation Expectations

As summer nears, expectations start to rise – especially when kids hear about what “everyone else” is doing. Trips abroad, amusement parks, and other big-ticket activities can be tough to compete with, whether due to finances or family values. As a parent, this can feel tricky.

– “It’s hard – no doubt about it,” says psychologist Peder Kjøs, known from VG and the NRK series “Jeg mot meg.”

– “Kids compare themselves to others and often assume they should have access to the same things. Not being able to do what others are doing can be painful – and children feel that.”

We live in a wealthy country, which means children must navigate the reality that some families can afford to do just about anything. That’s why being honest is important. Say you can’t afford it if that’s the case – or explain your environmental concerns and why you choose to limit travel.

– “Try to have a great time anyway – even if not every wish can be granted. I personally think it would be great if we weren’t always driven by money, and if we all got a bit more creative when planning vacations. Not least for the sake of the environment,” says Kjøs.