Allemansrätten - Sweden's Freedom to Roam
The Allemansrätten (Every Man's Right or Right to Roam) is a unique Swedish tradition enshrined in the constitution that gives everyone access to nature. This ancient right allows you to walk, camp, pick berries, and enjoy the outdoors almost anywhere - including private land - completely free of charge.
What You CAN Do
- Walk and hike: Cross any land except gardens and cultivated fields
- Camp: Pitch a tent for one night (two in remote areas)
- Swim and boat: In any lake or sea, land briefly on shores
- Pick: Wild berries, mushrooms, and flowers (not protected species)
- Cycle and ski: On paths and tracks
- Make fires: Where safe and permitted (not on rocks)
What You CANNOT Do
- Cross gardens: Stay away from private houses (at least 70m)
- Damage: Never damage trees, fences, or property
- Disturb: Livestock, crops, or wildlife
- Litter: Take all rubbish with you
- Drive off-road: Motor vehicles must stay on roads
- Hunt or fish: These require separate permissions/licenses
- Make fires recklessly: Never during fire bans or on rock
Wild Camping Tips
- Choose a spot out of sight of houses (minimum 70m, ideally 150m+)
- Avoid cultivated land and grazing pastures with livestock
- Stay only one night in the same spot (unless in wilderness)
- Leave no trace - pack out everything you brought
- Use existing fire rings where possible
- Be considerate of nature and other visitors
Countries with Similar Rights
The Right to Roam exists throughout Scandinavia:
- Sweden: Allemansrätten
- Norway: Allemannsretten
- Finland: Jokamiehenoikeus
- Scotland: Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Best Places for Wild Camping
- National parks (some restrictions apply)
- Along hiking trails like Kungsleden
- Forests and wilderness areas
- Lake shores and islands
- Swedish Lapland - vast wilderness with few restrictions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permission to wild camp in Sweden?
No permission is needed under Allemansrätten. You can camp for one night on most land, including private property, as long as you're out of sight of houses, don't damage anything, and leave no trace.
Can I make a campfire anywhere?
Fires are allowed where safe, but never on rocks (which can crack) or during fire bans (common in dry summers). Use existing fire rings when possible. Always fully extinguish fires. Check local regulations.
Can I pick any berries and mushrooms?
Yes! Wild berries (blueberries, lingonberries, cloudberries) and mushrooms can be picked freely. Protected plants and orchids cannot be picked. Be 100% certain of mushroom identification before eating.