10 Iceland Travel Tips: What You Should Know Before You Go

If you are heading to Iceland for a trip, it’s important that you are well prepared for the exciting journey ahead. Having an idea of what to expect can help you know what to pack, what to check out, as well as how to stay safe throughout your travels. Here is what you should know before you go to Iceland.

When to Visit

No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, you are sure to have a fantastic time. Whether you’re in search of the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, you can be certain to find a timeframe that’s perfect for you. However, it’s best to avoid visiting Iceland between November and March as they are in between seasons and tend to experience frequent showers.

Bring a Credit Card

Many locals and tourists choose to use credit cards throughout Iceland. You will be surprised to learn that even public bathroom stalls accept them too! While it doesn’t hurt to carry a bit of cash with you, try not to convert too much into Icelandic Kroner. It’s advised to carry roughly 5,000 ISK around to get you out of any unusual situations. Also, make sure to get a credit card that doesn’t come with foreign transaction fees.

Drive the Ring Road

If you’re wanting to explore the entire country on your travels, be sure to drive the ring road. Going on the ring road (otherwise known as Route 1) can allow you to explore all the breath-taking sights and scenery that the country has to offer. Known as one of the best road trips in the world, you can be sure to get up close and personal with some of the best spots in the country. If you need to rent a car, check out Reykjavik Cars as they offer the best hire prices for Iceland car rental. They also offer road maps, child seats and even a CD tour guide around Iceland which could be great if you want to explore what the country has to offer by yourself but don’t fancy getting lost!

Avoid Eating Out

While it may seem like a good idea at first, eating out each night can really pull at your wallet. Iceland is known as one of the most expensive countries to visit in the world, with a coffee and a bagel likely to set you back over $18-20! If you’re on a budget, why not visit a grocery store instead? There you can find plenty of tasty food and drink for a fraction of the price.

Engage with the Locals

Icelanders are known to be friendly and welcoming to tourists, so don’t be afraid to soak up the atmosphere and engage with the locals. However, this may be a little tricky when you factor in that there are 2 million tourists who flock to the country each year and only 300,000 locals! If you get lost or need some expert advice, you can be certain that an Icelander will help you out.

Stay Safe

Iceland has an extremely low crime rate, making it no surprise to learn that it’s one of the safest countries to visit in the world. However, it’s always important to be alert and aware of your surroundings. If you are visiting Iceland in high season, the weather can be unpredictable and at times, life-threatening, so always make sure to tell people where you’re going and keep your mobile charged.

Go Cabin Hopping

There are tons of cottages and family-run guesthouses which are located across Iceland. If you are using the Ring Road to see all of what the country has to offer, make sure to check some of them out. When you compare them with hotels, they tend to be the more affordable option as a place to stay.

Perfect for Skiers

If you like to ski, you will be happy to know that Iceland has a variety of ski resorts (one of which is located near Reykjavik). To get the most out of your experience, it’s advised to visit Iceland in its high season between January and April.

Pack Accordingly

No matter when you decide to visit Iceland, it’s always best to pack accordingly. It’s always best to pack some of the essential winter basics such as a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Even if you’re visiting in warmer temperatures, you should always be prepared for colder weather.

Flights

The earlier you book your flights to Iceland, the better. While the time of year will play a major part in the overall cost, it can’t hurt to get your flights sorted as early as possible. Make sure to check out comparison websites such as Trivago where you can find the cheapest deal available.

No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, there are tons of exciting attractions to check out. Make sure to book your flights and accommodation in advance as you may be able to save some money on your trip.

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