What should you consider before heading out to a DNT cabin? Whether you are a first-time visitor or planning to bring friends and family on their very first cabin adventure, here is the complete "recipe" for a successful trip.
Are you dreaming of a stay in a DNT cabin? The most affordable option is our simple, unstaffed cabins. A bed in an unmanned or self-service cabin starts at NOK 340 for adults, and half price for youth.
Pro Tip: Children who are DNT members stay for free at the vast majority of our unmanned and self-service cabins!
Bakken farm in the Lysefjord is a lovely cabin for the whole family.
While our cabins are well-equipped, you are responsible for your own personal gear and provisions.
Must bring: A sleeping bag liner (sheet bag) or bed linen. Using your own covers on top of the provided duvets and pillows is strictly required for hygiene.
Food: Check if your cabin is self-service or no-service.
Gear: If you lack hiking equipment, you can borrow gear for free from BUA or Skattekammeret locations throughout Norway.
If you are staying at a self-service cabin, you can purchase food from the pantry.
Selection: You will find canned goods, pasta, oatmeal, and spreads. There are no fresh products like milk or bread.
Payment: Use the DNT App to pay for provisions and any unbooked stays
Self-service cabins have a food pantry where you can purchase provisions, while at no-service cabins, you must bring all your own food.
What to expect at a no-service cabin:
Our cabins are simple, cozy, and full of character. Most do not have running water or electricity, offering a true escape into nature. Here is what you will find:
Cozy living area: Often stocked with board games, books, and sometimes even a guitar for that authentic cabin atmosphere (hyttekos).
Fully equipped kitchen: A functional kitchenette with all necessary pots, pans, and cutlery.
Cooking facilities: Propane gas burners for preparing meals.
Heating: A wood-burning stove to keep the cabin warm and cozy.
Sleeping arrangements: Comfortable beds equipped with duvets and pillows.
Outdoor facilities: An outdoor toilet (utedo) and a woodshed.
Water source: Most cabins have a natural water source nearby (stream, lake, or well).
Extra perks: Some cabins offer canoes and/or fishing rods for guests to borrow.
3. Arrival and Cabin Life
Most DNT cabins operate on a trust-based system where guests share the responsibilities.
Entry: Use the standard DNT key or follow the specific instructions in your booking confirmation.
The Protocol: Upon arrival, sign the visit protocol (guestbook). This is vital for safety and statistics.
Water & Wood: Most cabins do not have running water or electricity. You are expected to fetch water from the nearby source and chop wood for the stove.
Power: Many cabins use solar power for basic lighting, but always carry a headlamp just in case.
The simple cabin life! At most DNT cabins, you have to fetch your own water from a nearby source.
How to light a fire
The Base: Place two small split logs on each side of the stove with the split (rough) side facing inward.
Kindling: Fill the space between the logs with crumpled paper, fire starters (tennbriketter), and small, dry twigs.
The Stack: Place small pieces of wood in a criss-cross pattern on top of the kindling, and finish with a larger log on the very top.
Airflow: Open the air vents on the stove door, light the paper/fire starters, and close the door.
Simple Rules for a Great Stay:
Quiet Hours: Please respect other guests; the cabin should be quiet between 23:00 and 06:00.
Cooking: Use the propane gas stove provided. Always turn the cylinder valve to "Open" before use and "Closed" before going to bed or leaving the cabin.
Drying: Hang wet laundry to dry by the oven or in the drying room.
Toilet: Use the outdoor toilet (utedo). Use the provided bark or peat to sprinkle over the waste after use.
Hygiene first: Place your liner or bed linen on top of the bedding provided at the cabin.
4. Departure: Leaving the Cabin "A Little Better"
The golden rule of the DNT cabin culture is to leave the cabin in the condition you would like to find it—or ideally, even better.
Cleaning: Sweep all floors and wipe down all surfaces used. Cleaning supplies, brooms, and soap are provided in the cabin.
Firewood: Prepare the cabin for the next guest by bringing in a fresh supply of firewood and kindling.
Gas: Double-check that the gas cylinder regulator is turned off.
Trash: Review the local rules posted in the cabin. At many locations (especially in Oslomarka), you must take all your trash home with you. Always bring a plastic bag for this purpose.
Windows & Doors: Ensure all windows and doors are securely closed and locked before you leave.
Clean the cabin: Remember to make it pleasant for the next guest who arrives!
Remember: At the cabin
Read the info: Find the notices about water, firewood, and wastewater.
Gas safety: Ensure you know how to use the gas burners safely.
Enjoy: Light the stove and enjoy the authentic cabin atmosphere!
Departure: You must clean and wash all rooms you have used.
Are you wondering what meets you at a DNT cabin and what you need to pack? Take our free digital course, and you will be well prepared to spend the night in a DNT cabin!
