Iceland has more to offer than can be seen and done in a single visit since different things appeal to different people. Although Iceland is a popular travel destination, organizing a trip when you’ve never been there requires some planning. Going to Iceland is still a mystery, unlike going to Paris or Rome, where everyone knows the major sights.
Many people consider visiting Iceland to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even with so many options, choosing what to do in Iceland and making the most of your time may be challenging.
Are you considering a trip to Iceland but need help determining where to begin? These tips are for you to get the best out of your Iceland trip.
- Pack for Iceland’s Changing Conditions
What season is the best month to visit Iceland? The summer months of July and August are ideal for a visit. If you don’t mind the harsh cold, you may also go there in the winter to witness the ice caves and possibly even the Northern Lights.
However, each season offers a unique experience, so you can travel to Iceland whenever you like. But it’s crucial to prepare for Iceland’s shifting weather.
If you travel to the highlands, you can find yourself in a completely different weather system from the one you were in only a few hours ago. Icelandic weather may be erratic, even in the summer. Even on the sunniest days, icy blasts, torrential rain, and snowstorms might occur. Therefore, the best packing advice for a trip to Iceland is to prepare for various situations.
- For the cold. The weather will fluctuate throughout the day, so bring layers, such as a waterproof fleece and a thick jacket, for when it becomes chilly.
- For the rain. If you’re hiking in Iceland, there’s a good probability that you’ll experience some rain at least once throughout the day. A good pair of waterproof hiking boots, a raincoat, and waterproof coverings for your camera and rucksack is essential.
- For the swimming. In any weather, swimming in the natural thermal pools is a fantastic sport. Since it’s still atmospheric after the rain, don’t forget to bring a towel and your swimming gear.
- For the outdoors. For many areas of Iceland, sturdy walking shoes with a firm grip are needed since the distinctive volcanic terrain can be challenging to negotiate in flimsy footwear. Bring cutlery and a bottle to fill with tap water if you want to perform some self-catering to save money.
- Pack Good Footwear
Whether you visit Iceland in the summer or the winter, you must have appropriate footwear. You will be secure with a reliable pair of waterproof hiking shoes, so make sure to pack one. Always be prepared because the areas around famous sights, particularly waterfalls, are sometimes soggy and muddy.
Bring crampons to stretch over your shoes if you’re going in the winter to prevent sliding on any ice. As most paths in Reykjavk are well-gritted and snow is removed especially well in the downtown area, they are not required for wandering around the city.
- Check the Prices Out Before Booking Your Tickets!
Before purchasing your flight tickets, compare rates! Do not assume that Iceland’s pricing will be comparable to those in your home country or any other country you have visited.
- Budget Wisely
Don’t be fooled by low-cost flights; Iceland is an expensive destination. A week-long trip can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000+, barring using a camper van or vacation rentals, depending on the number of people, where you stay, and how many things you decide to undertake.
- Book in Advance
Most people reserve lodging for a week, then plan accordingly. That is not permitted in Iceland.
Although there isn’t a single best strategy to prepare for Iceland, booking in advance will spare you a headache and a place to sleep at night.
Hotels will be fully booked due to the constant influx of travelers, especially in the summer. If you just reserved tours when you got to Iceland and subsequently decided you wanted to rent a car, all available rentals may be out of cars. Make your plans at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially if you want to reserve a vehicle for a lengthy period.
- Bring a Reusable Waterbottle and Drink the Tap Water
Bringing your reusable water bottle is one of the greatest pieces of travel advice for Iceland that we can provide you. Why? Because you can get the purest, tastiest water directly from the tap, No need to buy bottled water.
The water from the tap and the bottles you buy at the shop are identical. So why spend money on pricey water when there is a simple, more sustainable, and FREE solution?
- Consider What Kind of Rental Car You Need
Iceland has excellent public transportation alternatives even if you want to get to some distant highland places. But one of the more economic expenditures in Iceland is renting a car. Although it isn’t considerably more expensive than public transportation, it greatly expands your possibilities for exploring more of the nation.
The choice of rental car type is the first one you must make while organizing your vacation to Iceland. A 2WD car should be enough if you stay close to Ring Road and the Golden Circle. However, an SUV is required if you wish to visit the highlands.
- Learn a Few Icelandic Words
English is commonly spoken in this area, so tourists won’t have trouble getting their point across. Learn a few essential words like “Hello,” “Thank you,” “Yes,” and “No” in the native tongue, though.
Final Thought
Every tourist is profoundly affected by Iceland, a remarkable place. Consider the best tours and vacation packages in Iceland after completing your homework to ensure you get the most out of your trip.
Even for the most experienced tourists, this nation has a lot to offer. Every season brings about changes in Iceland, so every visit is unique. No matter how or when you decide to travel to Iceland, you won’t be disappointed; that much is certain.
