Travel to Iceland – Things to Know
10 Top Things to Know Before Traveling to Iceland: A 2024 Essentials Guide
When it’s your dream to see the northern lights and learn more about Viking history, there’s only one place to go: Iceland. Traveling to this country can shape up to be the trip of a lifetime. To ensure you have a trip to be remembered forever, it’s vital to equip yourself with the top things to know before traveling to Iceland. We’re here to help you out!
Let our Iceland travel guide be your travel companion. Here, we’ll share essential tips and insights that you need to know before you even start packing your bags. We’ll help you get ready for your Icelandic adventure with confidence and ease.
Growing up in Pakistan, I was always interested by the world around me. I have always been good behind the lens of a camera and I love documenting my journey through words. I have only recently started travelling and already have learnt so much, I thank god to give me the opportunity to visit new places.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
Key Takeaways
- Understand Iceland’s varied climate to pack suitably for any weather eventuality.
- Learn about the local customs and culinary landscape for an immersive cultural experience.
- Get insights into navigating a cashless society with ease.
- Gain knowledge to safely explore Iceland’s dramatic terrain by staying updated with weather and road conditions.
- Discover why strategic planning is vital to experience the best attractions Iceland has to offer.
- Embrace responsible travel practices to help preserve Iceland’s pristine natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit
Familiarizing yourself with the best time to visit your destination of choice is important to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Let’s explore the ideal times to visit Iceland, what you can expect, and tips on how to navigate each season.
Iceland’s Seasons and Conditions
It’s important to note that Iceland’s weather is a bit unpredictable and can change in a snap. However, it has four distinct seasons:
| Seasons | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | December to February | Cold temperatures, shorter days, and a chance to see the Northern Lights |
| Spring | March to May | Milder weather, longer days, and flowery landscapes |
| Summer | June to August | Mild temperatures, extended daylight hours (midnight sun), and greeneries. |
| Autumn | September to November | Cooling temperatures, shorter days, and the peak of the Northern Lights |
Plan Activities According to Season
Each of Iceland’s seasons offers you an opportunity to create your own adventure, and we advise you to plan your activities ahead according to the seasons.
The Northern Lights is a big tourist draw in the country, and the best time to experience it is during the winter. From late September to early April, nights are longer and the skies are in their darkest. This allows for a greater chance to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.
If you’re a fan of hiking, summer is an ideal time to visit. Visit from June to August, where the weather is not harsh and trails are accessible.
Dealing with The Changing Weather
Iceland’s weather is as unpredictable as it is breathtaking. Being prepared for the changing weather is essential. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
- Bundle up! Dress in layers so you can adjust to Iceland’s ever-changing weather on the go and add or remove clothing as needed.
- Bring waterproof gear. Invest in waterproof gear, such as clothing and footwear, especially if you plan to explore Iceland’s great outdoors.
- Check weather forecasts. Conditions can change quickly, so be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Always stay informed. Follow local news for latest information on possible road closures, weather warnings, and safety advisories.
- Keep your itinerary flexible. Make sure your plans are flexible to changes. Have backup plans and alternate activities, just in case.
Packing Guide
When preparing for any trip, packing the right gear can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment.
Clothing Recommendations
We mentioned earlier that layering is important when in Iceland due to the unpredictable weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer and build on your trip wardrobe by adding mid-layers like fleece or wool for insulation. Top it off with waterproof and windproof outers.
Include a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect you against winds. Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must, especially in exploring rugged terrains.
Essential Items
Pack on the essentials to keep you comfortable throughout the trip. Iceland uses the European-style Type F plug, so don’t forget to bring a power adapter that includes this. Also consider bringing a reusable water bottle for hydration. Iceland’s tap water is potable, so you can save a couple of bucks for water and refill anywhere. You can also pack some quick snacks, as long drives and hikes could be aplenty in this trip. Don’t forget your camera! Iceland offers a multitude of once in a lifetime experiences. The insta360 gives you a 360 capture experience while being durable and lightweight.
Other Items To Bring
Iceland is also known for geothermal hot springs, and if you’re interested to check them out and take a dip, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit. Also, bringing a camera or something to capture the country’s beauty if highly recommended. If that might be too much for you, a good camera phone will do.
Lastly, don’t head out without sunscreen. Even in the winter months, when the sun isn’t even that harsh, its reflection off the snow and ice can still cause sunburn. You wouldn’t want sunburn to spoil your trip. Making sure that you have Insurance is vital. Companies like Safetywing offer comprehensive coverage for a great price.
Must-See Attractions
Iceland is known for its beauty, but did you know that their cultural heritage is also a highlight? The country has multiple must-see attractions that will leave anyone in wide-eyed awe. Here are some of our favourite go-to places in Iceland.
| Attractions | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Blue Lagoon | Soothing geothermal waters with a blue hue, known for its rejuvenating properties. |
| Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Massive icebergs with mountains in the backdrop. |
| Reykjavik | Iceland’s capital city with iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church. |
| Viking Museums | Learn about the vikings and the Norse mythology in museums like the Viking World Museum in Reykjanesbær or the Saga Museum in Reykjavik |
| Whale Watching | Starting from Reykjavik or Husavik to the waters, see humpback whales, orcas, and blue whales up close. |
| Lava Cave Tours | A guided tour to discover locations like the Raufarhólshellir lava tube or the Vatnshellir Cave. |
Getting Around Iceland
Depending on how you want to navigate Iceland, planning your transport options should be one of your top considerations. There are several ways to explore the country like self-driving, public transport, or guided tours.
- Renting a car. If you want the freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace, renting a car will be your best bet. You won’t have to worry navigating Icelandic roads, they are well-maintained and the wonderful scenery will make your drive worth it.
- Public transport. The public transport network is limited outside the capital of Reykjavik, but buses and coaches connects major towns. One thing to note, however, is that schedules can be infrequent. Planning your itinerary carefully is key if you plan to use only public transport.
- Guided Tours. This is the most convenient way to ensure you get to explore everything that Iceland has to offer. Guided tours have locals and experts at the helm, so getting to know more about the country is guaranteed. If you are planning on booking a private tour, then you can look into whale watching!
Best Navigation Tools
You can make navigating Iceland a breeze with the right tools and apps. Here are some of our must-haves.
| Apps | Category | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Klappið | Public Transport | Companion app for Iceland’s city bus system “Strætó”, real-time bus tracking, Advance purchase of tickets and passes |
| EasyPark | Parking | Simplified parking location and payment for rental cars, remote parking duration extension, GPS-guided navigation to parking spots |
| Waze | Navigation | Real-time traffic updates, route planning, turn-by-turn navigation |
| Google Maps | Navigation | Detailed maps, turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic updates |
Klappið
Klappið is the main app supporting Iceland’s bus system Strætó. The app promises to simplify your public transportation experience, particularly in Reykjavik and Akureyri. Its key features are route planning, real-time bus tracking and in-app ticket purchases.
EasyPark
If you plan to rent a car to get around Iceland, the EasyPark app is a must install. This parking app helps users find, manage and pay for parking. It has a parking locator to help you find available parking spots, a remote parking management feature where you can extend or reduce your parking time, direct payments so you can pay for your parking through the app and GPS integration to lead you to empty slot.
Waze
Yes, you read that right – Waze is also a popular app in Iceland. Using Waze in the country can also help those who chose to rent a car, with real-time traffic updates, route planning, and turn-by-turn directions.
Google Maps
Here is another worldwide app fixture, Google Maps. It has comprehensive mapping and routing that will prove to be useful when exploring Iceland. Google Maps is great travel buddy when you want to find and navigate to a specific location like restaurants or even tourist attractions.
Stays and Accommodations
Securing the accommodation that will best suit you, as soon as you can, is essential. Iceland has accommodations to meet every type of traveler: luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Types of Accommodations
- Hotels – If you’re looking for a place where you can just rest and not worry about pretty much everything else, then hotels are your best bet. Hotels have complete amenities such as room service, on-site dining, and concierge services.
- Guesthouses – While they don’t offer a full suite of amenities, guesthouses give you a cozier and authentic experience. These are mostly run by locals and have a homely atmosphere. The best thing about guesthouses is that they have a more personalized feel and are lower in price.
- Hostels – This choice is for more budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind staying in shared spaces. Hostels have dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, so it’s a good option for solo travelers or those who want a social experience.
- Camping – Camping is not for everyone, but it’s a whole another adventure on its own. Iceland has designated campgrounds across the country, and allows campers to immerse themselves in nature.
Booking Advice
- Booking platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Expedia are great starting points to browse and compare options. Ratings and user reviews will help you make informed decisions when choosing where to stay.
- Always book in advance. Accommodations, and even experiences, can fill up quickly especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance will afford you the luxury of choice and better rates.
- Consider your location when booking your stays. Ensure your home base will be in close proximity with the places you want to visit or choose a centrally located accommodation for easier access.
Trying Icelandic Cuisine
Ever wonder what a Viking’s diet is? Now is your chance to know! Iceland’s cuisine fuses fresh, local ingredients with traditional cooking methods rooted in their heritage. Don’t hesitate to try out their local cuisine as a way to immerse yourself better in their culture. If you’re feeling lazy and want to cosy up with a great meal, then look no further than Reykjavik’s delivery scene.
Must-Try Dishes
- Hákarl – A description of this dish might be intimidating, but it will be a crime to miss out on Iceland’s most notorious dish. Hákarl is fermented Greenland or basking prepared through the process of decay, then cured through fermentation and hung to dry in open air. It’s described as having a strong smell, with a cheese-like texture.
- Skyr – A staple in every pantry in the country, skyr is a thick, creamy dairy product. It closely resembles yogurt with a similar texture, but is actually a type of cheese. Like Greek yogurt, it has a slightly sour taste. Icelanders enjoy Skyr with fresh berries or honey.
- Icelandic Lamb – Lambs native to the country are raised in special environments: they graze freely consuming wild herbs, grasses, and berries. This diet adds a natural flavor to their meat. The taste of Icelandic lamb is described as tender, juicy, mildly gamey but with a hint of herbs and sweetness.
Culture and Social Etiquette
Understanding the cultural and social etiquette of a country you’re visiting is guaranteed to make you trip more impactful. This allows you to connect deeper with the local community.
Icelanders are warm and friendly, but it’s important to keep in mind customs and norms that visitors should be aware of.
Common Phrases
Many Icelanders speak English, but learning a few basic phrases can go a long way. Here are some that you should have in your phrase book:
- “Halló” (Hello)
- “Góðan daginn” (Good day)
- “Takk” (Thank you)
- “Já” (Yes)
- “Nei” (No)
- “Hvar er…?” (Where is…?)
Respecting Nature and Social Norms
Icelanders have a deep connection and respect for nature. It is expected that every traveler, as an outsider, should share the same respect while in the country.
Always follow the “leave no trace” principle. You can adhere to this by not disturbing natural landscapes of wildlife. Stick to set paths and be careful in interacting with nature to avoid damage.
Be polite, punctual, and relaxed yet respectful. Icelanders value their personal space and privacy. You may feel at ease instantly as their people are generally informal, but be considerate and courteous in all settings. For example, it’s polite to remove your shoes when entering homes.
Travel Costs and Budgeting
Experienced vacationeers can confirm that Iceland is considered a high-cost destination. Accommodation, food, transportation, and activity expenses are higher than in other European countries. On average, travelers can expect to spend:
| Category | Expected Spend |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | $100-$300 per night for mid-range hotels, $50-$100 per night for hostels and guesthouses. |
| Food | $20-$40 per person for mid-range restaurants. |
| Transportation | $50-$100 per day for rentals (excluding fuel), about $3.50 for a single bus ticket |
| Activities | $50-$200 per person per day, with some free options |
When doing anything in Iceland, remember to adhere to the culture and societal norms. Take in the Icelandic tipping culture into consideration.
Currency and Payment Methods
Iceland’s currency is the Króna (ISK). It’s convenient to exchange your money at the airport for ISK, but you might not be getting your money’s worth. We advise exchanging money at a bank or directly withdrawing from an ATM for a better rate. Double check if your card does not charge foreign transaction fees beforehand.
Carry some cash for smaller purchases in remote areas. Although, it’s important to note that the country is mostly a cashless society and digital payments are the norm.
Before leaving, ensure that your credit card is widely accepted in Iceland – Visa and Mastercard are commonly used. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues or blockage. Set up your digital wallets as well for a wider range of payment options.
Health and Staying Safe
Remember, your safety is of the utmost importance.
Be well informed on Iceland’s health and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth trip without incidents.
Safety Tips
Here are some practical tips for staying safe on your Icelandic adventure:
- Before packing your bags, consider getting a travel insurance. Choose onethat covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. Iceland has excellent healthcare facilities, but these can be expensive for travelers and services can be limited in remote areas too.
- Start your day in Iceland by checking the local weather forecast. The weather here is unpredictable, and getting caught in a storm is not ideal. Moreover, dress in layers and pack waterproof clothing, even in summer.
- Keep an eye on road conditions through road.is, which provides real-time updates. When renting a car, always drive cautiously and follow speed limits. In addition, familiarize yourself with Icelandic road signs and regulations.
- safetravel.is is another resource to bookmark for regular alerts on environmental conditions and safety advisories.
- If you’re traveling during winter, rent a 4×4 vehicle equipped for icy and snowy roads.
- Respect all travel warnings and do not venture into closed areas. Do not take unnecessary risks, especially in inclement weather.
- Download the 112 Iceland app, which will allow you to call for help and send your location if you find yourself in a sticky situation.
We cannot stress the importance of safety enough, so keep these guidelines and resources close to you for a smooth and worry-free travel.
Optimize Your Itinerary
We’re huge fans of spontaneous adventures, but creating a precise itinerary can make your experience go from good to great. Having an itinerary ready before leaving for your trip will give you a better expectation of your trip timeline and activities. You don’t have to follow an itinerary strictly – we encourage you to adjust as you go!
Tips and Sample Itinerary
Create a thoughtful plan by:
- Determining the length of your stay. How many days are you staying in Iceland? This will help you prioritize your non-negotiable attractions and experiences.
- Identifying your must-see attractions. There will be places that you absolutely cannot miss during your trip. Research and list them down.
- Considering seasonal changes. What do you want to see in Iceland? Answering this question will let you know the best time for you to visit. Choose accordingly.
- Factoring in distances. Ensure your itinerary accounts for travel time between attractions and activities.
- Balancing your schedule. Allow some down time in your schedule to avoid travel burnout.
Below is a sample itinerary guide for summer and winter.
| Day | Summer Itinerary | Winter Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival and exploration in Reykjavik | Arrival and exploration in Reykjavik |
| 2 | Golden Circle tour with a visit to Þingvellir National Park | Golden Circle tour with a visit to Geysir geothermal area |
| 3 | A day trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Trip to South Coast, visiting attractions like the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. |
| 4 | Trip to South Coast, with a stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach | Explore Vatnajökull National Park’s glaciers |
| 5 | A visit to Vatnajökull National Park | Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach |
| 6 | Head to Reykjanes Peninsula and dip in the Blue Lagoon | More Reykjavik exploration, visit the National Museum of Iceland |
| 7 | Ferry to the Westman Islands | Snowmobiling on Langjokull glacier |
Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to swap days, skip destinations, or add new ones depending on what you want to see and explore.
Conclusion
Your trip to Iceland is sure to be an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and amazing moments. We hope our guide helps you understand everything you need to know about Iceland and will be a constant companion guide during your stay. Pair our guide with preparation and exploration, and don’t forget to always stay safe.
Vertu sæll, and see you in Iceland!
Travelling to Iceland FAQ
Before heading to Iceland, it’s important to plan your trip well in advance by knowing when is the best time to visit, what you need to bring, must-sees, navigation, lodging, what food to expect, culture and etiquette, costs, safety and how to create the perfect itinerary.
Advance booking is a must due to Iceland’s popularity, limited accommodations, and high demand for tours and transportation. It ensures you get the best prices and choices for your trip.
Yes, Iceland is a mainly cashless society. Credit cards and digital payments accepted almost everywhere, even for the smallest transactions.
Due to frequently changing weather conditions, it’s essential to pack layers that include waterproof and windproof clothing. Sturdy boots and additional cold-weather gear are important, particularly in the winter months.
Always check the weather forecast and be aware of road conditions, especially in winter. Websites like safetravel.is and road.is provide valuable safety alerts and updates. Adjust your travel plans accordingly to ensure safety at all times.
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Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
