Gas supply in Scandinavia – What do I need to consider when travelling with a motorhome or caravan?

Dreamlike fjords, endless forests and long summer days – Scandinavia is considered a paradise for campers. Those travelling the region with a motorhome or caravan enjoy pure freedom, but should keep an eye on their gas supply while on the road.

Whether heating during cool nights, cooking on remote pitches or having hot water available on the go: LPG is indispensable. At the same time, the supply systems in Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland differ in part significantly from those in Central Europe. German small cylinders cannot be exchanged or refilled in some places, and the connections vary as well. With the right preparation, suitable adapters and a safe LPG installation system, however, nothing stands in the way of a carefree journey through Scandinavia.

LPG in Scandinavia – What you should know

In Scandinavia, propane is used almost exclusively. The reason is simple: propane remains gaseous even at sub-zero temperatures, whereas butane stops evaporating around freezing point. For campers, this is a crucial advantage, because even in summer, nights can be cool in the (far) north.

In principle, the infrastructure for gas supply is well developed in all four countries, but it differs in certain details. Denmark and Norway rely mainly on exchange systems, while in Sweden and Finland travellers usually need to purchase local cylinders. Important: Brought-along German small cylinders may generally not be refilled at LPG dispensers in Scandinavia. This is only permitted with permanently installed gas tanks or LPG tank cylinders equipped with an 80-percent fill stop.

The operating pressure is identical everywhere: 30 mbar, as in Germany. The old standard of 50 mbar for LPG systems in recreational vehicles continues to be permissible. For smooth operation, adapter sets such as the Euro-Set D Professional are recommended in order to connect a German pressure regulator to European gas cylinders. Depending on the specific application, further useful adapters for travelling across Europe are available.

Denmark – Two systems and straightforward supply

In Denmark, gas supply for campers is fundamentally uncomplicated, although two different systems exist and should be noted. In addition to cylinders with screw threads, which are compatible with German connections, models with so-called clip-on valves are widespread. These clip-on cylinders can be connected easily using a suitable adapter – for example the GOK clip-on adapter (21 mm or Jumbo version).

German small cylinders are not exchanged in Denmark, as only a national cylinder exchange system exists. It is therefore advisable to purchase a Danish bottle at the start of your trip and enter the local system. Particularly convenient is the well-developed network of automated exchange stations, which allow cylinders to be exchanged around the clock – ideal when arriving late or staying away from urban areas.

Independent filling of loose cylinders is not permitted in Denmark. Refilling may only be carried out by authorised specialists or at official exchange points. Many campsites also have clear safety requirements: cylinders must be stored upright, securely fixed and well ventilated. Those carrying both adapter variants – screw and clip-on connections – stay flexible and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Sweden – Familiar system, new cylinders

In Sweden, gas supply for campers is generally good but organised differently from Denmark. So-called composite cylinders are widespread, such as models from AGA (Linde Group) or Primagaz. These lightweight, robust cylinders consist of glass-fibre-reinforced plastic and offer the advantage that they do not rust, and the fill level is partly visible from the outside. Only the evaporation performance is lower due to better thermal insulation.

For German campers, an important detail is that the connection of these Swedish cylinders usually corresponds to the local industrikoppling system and is not compatible with German KLF connections. This means that standard Euro adapter sets are often not sufficient. A special Swedish high-pressure hose or a country-specific adapter equipped with a so-called POL soft connection with wing screw is required. These adapters or HD hose assemblies are available from camping retailers. Anyone purchasing a Swedish cylinder should therefore also obtain the correct connection at the same time.

The exchange system is well developed but operates through traditional retailers and fuel stations – there is no nationwide automated network as in Denmark. German cylinders are typically neither exchanged nor refilled in Sweden. It is therefore advisable to arrive with a sufficient supply of German gas and, for longer stays, switch to a Swedish cylinder early.

For refilling, the same rules apply: only permanently installed tanks or approved LPG tank cylinders may be refilled at LPG pumps. The usual connector at LPG stations is the DISH system – the appropriate adapter should therefore be part of your travel equipment.

Norway – Strict regulations and good infrastructure

Norway offers campers an excellent infrastructure for LPG, while also enforcing clear safety regulations for filling and operation. Propane is the standard almost everywhere and is available from numerous retailers, exchange systems and modern automated lockers. German small cylinders are not exchanged as standard. Travellers arriving with a German cylinder should use it first and then switch to the Norwegian exchange system.

Particularly important: independently filling loose cylinders carried on board is not permitted in Norway. Refilling is only allowed for permanently installed tanks or LPG tank cylinders with automatic 80-percent fill limitation. Some specialist providers – such as LPG Norge – are permitted to refill foreign cylinders under controlled conditions. Such refilling is only carried out at specially authorised facilities, not at public fuel dispensers.

Campers will encounter both clip-on systems and cylinders with screw valves. Clip-on valves require a suitable adapter, while screw threads may be compatible with German regulators depending on the model. Because availability of these variants varies regionally, an additional high-pressure hose for Norwegian connections is recommended.

For safe storage, the Norwegian safety authority requires cylinders to be transported or stored upright, well ventilated and securely fixed. Although primarily aimed at domestic use, these rules provide good guidance for campers – especially on long journeys or changing road conditions. These basic requirements also apply in Germany and other European countries.

Finland – Gas supply in the vastness of the north

Finland presents particular challenges for campers: the infrastructure is significantly less dense than in Denmark, Sweden or Norway, and German cylinders are neither exchanged nor refilled. Travellers should therefore start out with sufficient gas reserves and be prepared to purchase a Finnish propane bottle locally.

Widespread are cylinders from suppliers such as AGA, Linde or Tehokaasu, available at fuel stations, major retail chains and DIY stores. As in Sweden, composite cylinders are common. Depending on the model, clip-on connections are predominant, but screw valves also occur – so an appropriate adapter or high-pressure hose for wall-mounted gas pressure regulation systems is essential. As systems may vary regionally, it is advisable to buy the correct connection together with the cylinder.

There is no nationwide automated exchange network, and in sparsely populated regions – such as the east or Lapland – supply points can be far apart. For longer trips, it is sensible to carry a reserve cylinder or switch to the Finnish exchange system early. LPG dispensers are rare in Finland; permanently installed gas tanks or tank cylinders therefore often cannot be refilled.

In any case, careful planning is essential, and the approximate gas demand should be assessed realistically. Depending on travel duration, season and appliances in use, one or two small cylinders may be sufficient; however, sometimes even a fully filled large permanently installed gas tank is not enough.

Using gas tanks and tank cylinders in Scandinavia

As mentioned in the respective sections, strict rules apply for filling cylinders in Scandinavia – and these differ markedly from German handling of portable cylinders. In principle, loose cylinders may not be refilled at LPG pumps in any Scandinavian country. Refilling is only permitted if the cylinder is a permanently installed gas tank or an approved tank cylinder with an 80-percent fill stop.

The use of such tanks – whether with external filling point, underfloor tank or tank cylinder – offers campers several advantages: they can be refilled throughout Europe, feature standardised safety mechanisms and allow flexible gas supply independent of national exchange systems. This is particularly useful in countries with limited infrastructure, such as Finland.

However, there are limitations: Norway and Sweden have an LPG network, but not nationwide coverage. Finland has virtually no LPG supply, so a permanently installed tank is only practical if a full filling lasts for the entire trip – or topped up before crossing the Finnish border. Sweden and Norway use both the DISH and bayonet connectors depending on the station – an appropriate adapter set is therefore essential.

For safe operation, campers should ensure that tank cylinders and fixed tanks are operated according to the same principles as traditional cylinders: the system must be leak-tight and in technically sound condition, hose assemblies must be intact, and ventilation of the cylinder or tank compartment must be guaranteed.

Safety on the road – What you should consider

Safe use of the LPG installation is one of the most important aspects of any journey – and this applies in Scandinavia just as in Central Europe. Anyone wishing to use gas while driving, for example for heating or refrigeration, must observe certain requirements. In some European and non-EU countries, operating the gas system while driving is only permitted with a so-called crash sensor – a safety device that automatically shuts off gas flow in the event of accident-related separation. When using high-pressure hose assemblies upstream of the regulator, a shut-off device must be installed that also shuts off the gas flow in the event of significant hose damage.

Note

Extract from DIN EN 1949: CEN members are the national standards bodies of Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, the United Kingdom and Cyprus.
Although Norway is not an EU member, it is a CEN member state and is therefore bound by the requirements of DIN EN 1949.

Regular inspection of the LPG installation is also essential. While Scandinavian countries do not require formal proof such as the German G 607 inspection, individual ferry operators or campsite owners may request an up-to-date inspection sticker or report. Irrespective of this, an inspected system increases safety and provides protection in the event of an insurance claim. No one wants a technical problem with the LPG installation in the middle of Lapland or at a remote Norwegian fjord.

A gas filter for gas tanks or for gas cylinder systems can be a useful addition to your equipment. It protects the system from particles or oily residues that may occur depending on gas quality and extends the service life of regulators, hose assemblies and appliances. The use of hose rupture protection devices is also recommended – or even mandatory – particularly when the system is operated while driving.

On ferries, additional rules apply: before boarding, cylinders must always be closed, and the filling valve must remain easily accessible. Some ferry companies also limit the amount of gas carried or carry out spot checks. It is therefore worthwhile checking the current transport regulations of the respective operator before booking.

Conclusion – Well prepared for the north

LPG supply in Scandinavia differs in many details from practices in Central Europe. Different cylinder systems, regional adapter variants and sometimes large distances between supply points make forward planning essential. Those who familiarise themselves in advance with the particularities of each country, carry the right adapters and check the condition of their LPG installation will travel much more relaxed.

Propane is the standard in the north and performs reliably even at low temperatures. Entering the local exchange system – whether in Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland – ensures reliable supply on site. Additionally, permanently installed tanks or approved tank cylinders offer a flexible alternative, especially for longer journeys or in regions with limited infrastructure, such as Finland.

With good preparation, proper equipment and the right accessories, nothing stands in the way of a safe and comfortable journey through Scandinavia.

FAQ – LPG supply in Scandinavia

Can I have my German gas cylinder refilled in Scandinavia?
Generally not. Denmark, Sweden and Finland do not refill foreign cylinders. In Norway, refilling is only possible at specialised facilities – not at public LPG dispensers.

Which gas cylinders and connections are used in Scandinavia?
Denmark uses screw and clip-on cylinders; Sweden predominantly composite cylinders with industrikoppling; Norway both clip-on and screw systems; and Finland mainly composite cylinders with clip-on connections. A universal adapter set is recommended.

Are LPG autogas stations available?
Norway and Denmark have a growing network. Sweden’s network is sparse, and Finland has virtually none. For permanently installed tanks or tank cylinders, DISH and bayonet adapters should be carried.

Can I use butane in Scandinavia?
It is not advisable. Butane evaporates poorly at cool temperatures. You will find almost exclusively propane in Scandinavia – ideal for year-round use.

Do I need a crash sensor?
If you wish to use gas while driving, a crash sensor is essential for safety. German vehicles require it to comply with inspection regulations – regardless of the country of travel.

Do I need to have my LPG installation inspected before travelling?
There is no legal requirement in Scandinavia. However, German G 607 inspection documentation may be requested by ferry operators or campsites. In any case, a current inspection improves safety.