Travel Tips for Iceland: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Iceland is one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, filled with volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and unforgettable cultural experiences. But traveling here requires preparation—the weather is unpredictable, the distances are vast, and costs can be high. This guide offers essential travel tips to help you make the most of your Icelandic adventure, covering when to visit, what to pack, how to get around, and how to stay safe.

When to Visit Iceland

Timing your trip is one of the most important decisions when planning travel to Iceland. Each season offers unique experiences:

• Summer (June–August): Long days with nearly 24 hours of daylight in the north. Best for road trips, hiking, and access to the highlands. Expect higher prices and more tourists.
• Autumn (September–October): Fewer crowds, beautiful foliage, and the start of Northern Lights season. Weather becomes more changeable, so pack for variety.
• Winter (November–March): Short days, icy roads, and stormy weather, but perfect for Northern Lights, ice caves, and cozy cultural experiences. Christmas in Reykjavík is magical.
• Spring (April–May): Melting snow brings roaring waterfalls and wildlife returns, including puffins. Roads start to reopen, but weather remains mixed.

No matter when you go, flexibility is key. Weather can shift quickly, and plans may need adjusting. For detailed logistics, consult our Transportation Guide for Iceland.

What to Pack

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. To stay comfortable, think layers and waterproof gear:

• Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece or wool mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell. A warm hat, gloves, and scarf are essential, even in summer.
• Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with good grip for trails and wet conditions. In winter, bring crampons or buy slip-on ice cleats for icy sidewalks.
• Gear: A durable backpack, reusable water bottle (tap water is excellent), and sunglasses for snow glare.
• Electronics: Power bank, camera with extra memory cards, tripod for Northern Lights photography, and universal adapter for Type F outlets.

Packing smart ensures you’re ready for waterfalls, lava fields, and sudden storms without sacrificing comfort.

Getting Around

Iceland is best explored by combining independence with local knowledge. Options include:

• Car Rental: Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore, especially for the Ring Road. In summer, standard cars are fine, but highland routes (F-roads) require a 4x4.
• Tours: Day tours from Reykjavík cover Golden Circle, south coast, and glacier experiences. Multi-day tours are good if you prefer not to drive.
• Buses: Long-distance buses connect towns, but schedules are limited. Good for budget travelers or specific routes.
• Domestic Flights: Fast connections to Akureyri, the Westfjords, and the islands.

Driving in Iceland requires caution—weather, gravel roads, and river crossings can be challenging. Always check SafeTravel.is before setting out. For more, see our Transportation Guide for Iceland.

Budget & Costs

Iceland is one of Europe’s most expensive destinations. However, smart planning can stretch your budget:

• Accommodation: Book early, especially in summer. Consider guesthouses, hostels, or Airbnb to save money.
• Food: Eating out is costly. Shop at supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan and cook meals when possible. Street food and food halls offer affordable options.
• Activities: Many natural wonders—waterfalls, beaches, hiking trails—are free. Save splurges for glacier hikes, ice caves, or geothermal spas.
• Transportation: Gasoline is pricey; carpooling or sharing rentals can cut costs. Budget airlines and early bookings help with domestic flights.

Plan for higher expenses than in most destinations, but remember—nature provides the best attractions for free.

Food & Drink Tips

Eating in Iceland is part of the adventure. Here’s how to enjoy it wisely:

• Tap Water: Safe, fresh, and delicious. No need to buy bottled water.
• Traditional Dishes: Try lamb, Arctic char, and skyr (a thick yogurt-like dairy product). Adventurous eaters may sample fermented shark, though it’s more of a cultural experience.
• Dining Out: Expect high prices, but portions are generous. Tipping is not customary, as service charges are included.
• Alcohol: Sold only in state-run liquor stores (Vínbúðin). Bars and clubs can be pricey, so many locals “pre-drink” at home before going out.

For a deeper look into food culture, see our Food & Drink in Iceland guide.

Safety Tips

Iceland is one of the world’s safest countries, but its natural environment demands respect:

• Weather: Sudden storms, fog, and icy conditions are common. Always check forecasts before trips.
• Beaches: Black-sand beaches like Reynisfjara are stunning but dangerous. Sneaker waves can pull people into the sea—never turn your back on the ocean.
• Road Safety: Gravel roads, one-lane bridges, and blind hills require careful driving. Reduce speed and use caution.
• Hiking: Trails may cross rivers or ice. Go prepared with waterproof gear and navigation tools.

For more detailed safety information, visit our Is Iceland Safe for Tourists? guide.

Cultural Etiquette

Icelanders are friendly and informal, but respect for rules and nature is important:

• Swimming Pools: Shower thoroughly before entering—this is taken seriously.
• Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
• Nature: Stay on marked paths to protect fragile moss and ecosystems.
• Community: Be mindful of noise and litter. Iceland prides itself on cleanliness and respect for neighbors.

Adapting to local etiquette helps you blend in and enjoy authentic experiences.

Technology & Connectivity

Staying connected in Iceland is easy. Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels, cafés, and gas stations. For better coverage on the road, consider a local SIM card (Síminn or Nova) or eSIM options. Mobile data works well across the Ring Road but can be patchy in the highlands or remote fjords.

Navigation apps like Google Maps and offline maps are invaluable for driving. Many parking areas require payment via mobile apps, so keeping a working phone connection is essential.

Practical Travel Info

• Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Language: Icelandic is official, but English is widely spoken.
• Electricity: 230V, Type F plugs (same as much of Europe).
• Healthcare: High-quality but expensive for non-residents. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Travelers should also note that tipping is not customary, crime rates are extremely low, and most public facilities are modern and clean.

Conclusion

Traveling in Iceland is both exciting and challenging. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready for unpredictable weather, high costs, and unique cultural norms—all while enjoying the world’s most dramatic landscapes. From packing smart and budgeting wisely to driving safely and respecting traditions, these tips will help make your journey smoother and more rewarding.

Plan your next steps with our guides: Transportation Guide for Iceland, Is Iceland Safe for Tourists?, and Food & Drink in Iceland.