Where to borrow sports and outdoor equipment for free in Sweden

How Fritidsbanken works: borrow sports and outdoor equipment free of charge for up to 14 days, what you need and how to check availability.

Sports equipment can be expensive, especially if you only need it a few times a year or your children quickly grow out of it.

Sweden has Fritidsbanken, a service where you can borrow sports and outdoor equipment free of charge. Think of it as a library for leisure equipment rather than books.

Is it really free?

Yes. Fritidsbanken’s core principle is simple: anyone can borrow, and everything is free. There are no loan fees, deposits or late fees. You are still expected to return the equipment by the agreed date.

How long can you borrow equipment?

The maximum standard loan period is 14 days.

Who can borrow?

Anyone can borrow. There is no general age limit. You normally only need to give your name and mobile number. You may then receive an SMS showing what you borrowed and when it needs to be returned.

Rules for minors

For equipment with a higher risk of injury, staff may require permission from a parent or guardian before lending it to a minor. Alpine skiing equipment is one example.

What can you borrow?

The selection varies by location and depends on what has been donated. Typical examples include skis, ski boots and poles, ice skates, inline skates, helmets, balls, floorball sticks, football boots, life jackets, tents, camping stoves and fishing equipment. Some locations also offer adaptive equipment for people with disabilities.

Where does the equipment come from?

The equipment is used and donated by individuals, organisations and businesses. Fritidsbanken inspects and services items when needed before lending them again.

Can you check availability online?

Yes. The Fritidsbanken website lets you search equipment at many locations. However, online availability is only indicative and is not a guarantee that a specific item or size will still be available when you arrive. An item may have just been borrowed, be waiting for inspection after return, or be stored seasonally. If you need something specific, contact the local branch first.

What if something breaks?

Fritidsbanken generally does not seek compensation if equipment breaks through normal wear, an accident or a similar event. You should still return the damaged item. Different rules apply if equipment is deliberately damaged, lost, sold or not returned.

Safety

Borrowers are responsible for making sure the equipment is suitable and used as intended. Some activities also require appropriate protective gear.

How to find your nearest Fritidsbanken

1. Visit the official Fritidsbanken website.
2. Search for your town or nearest location.
3. Check the address and opening hours.
4. Look at the indicative online availability.
5. Visit the branch and borrow what you need for free.
6. Return it by the agreed date, no later than 14 days.

Official sources

• Fritidsbanken — How it works
• Fritidsbanken — About us

Sources checked: 8 September 2026.