Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips

By Christian Jensen - 04.02.2026

The Mountain Code has been part of Norwegian outdoor culture for decades. Originally created after a series of tragic mountain accidents in the 1950s and later updated by DNT and the Red Cross, the rules are designed to help everyone travel safely in the outdoors. In every season, with modern equipment, and across all types of terrain. Each rule reflects a mindset of awareness, responsibility and continuous evaluation before, during and after a trip.

The Rule

“Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.”

Key Points

• Dress for the conditions and remember how quickly weather can change.
• Bring extra clothing and the equipment required for the terrain.
• Pack extra food and water in case the trip takes longer than expected.
• Be prepared to help others if needed.

My Experience With This Rule

I’ve spent time in the mountains on everything from one‑hour outings to month‑long expeditions. The planning looks different for each type of trip, but the underlying principle never changes: prepare for as many scenarios as you reasonably can. Good preparation isn’t about overpacking — it’s about making thoughtful choices.

You don’t need a 40‑liter pack full of emergency supplies for a short walk with the dog in your local hills. But taking a moment to look out the window, check the weather, and prepare for the conditions makes a big difference. Once you’re heading out for several hours or more, shelter becomes essential. I usually bring a fjellduk — a lightweight emergency shelter — and mine doubles as a poncho, which gives it multiple uses. It’s one of those items you rarely need, but when you do, nothing else can replace it.

I also tend to carry a small candle or two. Inside a fjellduk, a single candle can provide surprising warmth. Another habit of mine is packing an extra T‑shirt. Changing into something dry at the summit is incredibly comfortable, and it can be the difference between a pleasant lunch break and a freezing one.

For full‑day trips, I often add a down jacket and a couple of extra sandwiches. And instead of bringing a thermos, I prefer a small gas burner. It lets me melt snow, boil water, and make as much hot drink as I want — and the whole setup weighs less than an empty thermos anyway.

In the end, preparation isn’t about fear. It’s about giving yourself options. The mountains reward those who think ahead.