Exploring Spitsbergen: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Svalbard

Does Svalbard have shops?

When it comes to traveling to remote places like Svalbard, the first question that comes to mind is whether there are shops available or not. After all, these places are not your typical holiday destinations with shopping malls and supermarkets at every corner. Svalbard is no exception, located in the high Arctic and more than 500 miles away from the mainland of Norway.

The basics of shopping on Svalbard

If you’re looking for the convenience of a shopping mall, then Svalbard may not be the place for you. The archipelago’s largest settlement, Longyearbyen, has a population of around 2100 people, and it has some shops and restaurants to cater to the local community and tourists.

However, compared to most cities, the selection of goods available is quite limited. For example, fresh fruit and vegetables are flown in, so they are more expensive than in other parts of Norway. It’s important to note that Svalbard is a unique and remote place, and shopping here can be an adventure in itself.

The shops in Longyearbyen

The main town of Longyearbyen offers several shops and stores where you can purchase food, clothing, souvenirs, and other necessities. For example:

• Coop – Coop is the largest supermarket chain in Norway and Svalbard, and it has a store in Longyearbyen. Here you can buy food, drinks, toiletries, and other essentials. The store is open Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 12 pm to 8 pm.
• Polar Permaculture – Polar Permaculture is a local greenhouse project that produces fresh herbs and vegetables throughout the year in an environmentally friendly way. You can buy their fresh produce in Coop or directly from their greenhouse.
• Spitsbergen Travel – Spitsbergen Travel is a tour operator that also has a shop in Longyearbyen that sells outdoor gear, clothing, and souvenirs.
• Northern Outfitters – Northern Outfitters is another shop that sells high-end outdoor clothing and gear. They also offer rental equipment, such as snowmobiles, sleds, and camping gear.

Other things to consider

Before packing your bags and heading to Svalbard, there are a few things that you should consider, like the cost of living. The prices of goods and services are generally higher in Svalbard than in mainland Norway, due to the high cost of transportation and logistics. Also, although most places accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit small towns or villages outside Longyearbyen.

Conclusion

Overall, does Svalbard have shops? The answer is yes, but they may not be as abundant as you might find in more urbanized areas. However, the unique and remote location of Svalbard offers an unparalleled experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. It is a true adventure where shopping is just part of the journey.