Budget travel in Scandinavia without a car — is it possible and what does it cost?

Norway by public transport: the NSB rail network covers the main cities (Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim) and connects to spectacular fjord buses and ferries. The Bergen Line (Oslo to Bergen, 7 hours, $50-80 booked in advance) is one of the great rail journeys. The Flåm Railway spur is touristy but genuine. Budget $100-120/day for Norway by public transport (accommodation $50-60, food self-catered $25-30, transport $20-30).

Sweden by public transport: Stockholm is manageable on a single-day metro card ($4.50). The overnight train from Stockholm to Narvik (for Northern Sweden) is spectacular and saves a night's accommodation. SJ (national rail) has good value advance fares.

Denmark: easiest of the Scandinavian countries for public transport. Copenhagen is walkable or bikeable (free city bike share). Trains to Jutland and other islands are regular and reasonably priced. Budget €75-90/day.

Finland: Helsinki is compact and walkable. The archipelago is accessible by ferry. Overnight trains cover the country efficiently.

The budget hack across all four: book accommodation at Finnish and Norwegian summer cottages (mökki/hytte) which rent cheap in early June and September. Self-catering in a lakeside cottage is often cheaper per night than a hostel dorm in a major city and dramatically more atmospheric.