Good to know - Sweden Edition

Some of you have been to Sweden once, twice, or many times before - and for some of you it's your very first time in this rather strange yet wonderful place. Have a read below to learn more about our culture and quirks. Enjoy! :)

Cash is not King

Sweden is nearly cashless. Visa, Mastercard, and mobile pay apps are widely accepted.
If you have a contactless card, you can usually just tap it to pay, but if your card doesn’t have that option, you’ll generally need to be prepared to enter a PIN or show ID (Passport) to complete your transaction.

I Survived Swedish Weather!

This is Swedish autumn. A beautiful, moody season that feels like nature’s dramatic teenager: unpredictable, chilly, and occasionally soggy.

What to Pack:

Light jacket, sweaters, jeans
Comfortable shoes

“On Time” Means… You’re Already Late

In Sweden, “on time” means arriving at least 5 minutes early, looking calm, composed, and ideally already holding a cup of coffee.
Whether it’s a board meeting or a brunch date, punctuality is like a secret handshake—it quietly says: “I respect your time, I understand your culture, and no—my watch isn’t still on local time.

Respect the Bubble

Local closeness might feel friendly, but in Sweden, there's a sacred arm’s-length bubble around each person.
Invade it, and you’ll witness the famous "lean back and smile politely" defense move.

Be Street Smart in Busy and Lonely Areas

Pickpocketing can happen in Trams/buses during rush hour.
- Tip: Use a zipped bag worn across your body. Don’t leave your phone or wallet in jacket pockets or on café tables.
Avoid walking in bike lanes, watch for quiet trams and fast cyclists, and always follow traffic signals for a safe and respectful experience.
If you’re wandering in the streets after 8.00 p.m, go in pairs
Trust your instincts, stay aware of your surroundings

Queuing: A National Sport

Swedes take queuing very seriously. Always wait your turn.

Don’t Smoke in Public Spaces Without Checking

Smoking is banned in most public areas, including bus stops, train stations, and restaurants. Look for signs before lighting up.

Hotel & Airbnb Safety - Secure your Valuables

Use in-room safes if available.
Don’t leave passports and electronics lying around unlocked.

Nightlife & Alcohol

Alcohol is expensive and strong. Pace yourself!
Never buy alcohol or other substances from strangers—it's illegal and unsafe.
Use Taxi Göteborg or Bolt/Uber via app. Avoid unlicensed taxis at nightclubs.

Buying Antibiotics

All antibiotics require a prescription from a licensed doctor.
Pharmacists will not sell antibiotics without one, even for common infections.
Bring the required medicine along with you.

Don’t Forget Receipts for Expenses (Work Travel)

Keep receipts for reimbursements and tax reporting.