Iceland: the land of fire and ice, puffins and northern lights. This country is a true gem in the middle of the Atlantic, and I have been lucky enough to visit several times. Iceland never ceases to amaze me. In this blog post, I'll share some general tips to help you make the most of your Icelandic adventure.
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1. Explore (and stay) beyond Reykjavik
Reykjavík is a great starting point, and I do recommend spending a couple of days exploring the city. However, there is so much more to see and do in Iceland. While day trips are certainly doable from Reykjavík, I highly recommend renting a car and staying overnight in other parts of the country to get the most out of your Icelandic adventure. For example, if you want to visit Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon), it's 4.5 hours one way from Reykjavík, so you'll end up driving 9 hours that day! But if you stay near there, you can spend your time enjoying the place vs. getting cranky and hangry in the car. Plus, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Pro tip: Rent a camper van and explore at your own pace. I recommend CampEasy. We rented the Easy Big camper and it was easy to drive, had plenty of storage and after a long day of adventuring it was great to lie down on a comfy bed with a cozy duvet. It got us everywhere we wanted to go on our tour of the Westfjords. CampEasy has a variety of campers to fit your budget and travel style.
Note: If you want to go on any F-roads be sure to rent a 4x4 vehicle.
2. Gear, Gear, Gear
Iceland's weather is unpredictable. Packing the right clothing and equipment can make your trip much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Clothing: No matter what season you visit, layers are key, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Essential clothing items to pack include a waterproof jacket and pants, a warm fleece or down jacket, warm socks, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Even in summer, Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack warm clothing items regardless of when you visit. You can adjust the warmth of your gear based on the season you visit. Also, don't forget to pack a good pair of waterproof hiking boots, as the terrain in Iceland can be uneven and wet.
Equipment: In addition to clothing, there are a few pieces of equipment that can be very helpful in Iceland. A high-quality camera is a must, as Iceland's landscapes are truly breathtaking. A tripod can also be useful for taking steady shots of the Northern Lights. If you plan to hike, bring a good daypack to carry extra layers, snacks, and water. Bring a reusable water bottle, as water in Iceland from pretty much anywhere is safe to drink, including streams. And if you are visiting in winter, you'll want to consider getting a pair of crampons for hikes, but they have come in handy for icy city streets as well.
ProTip: I'll be creating another blog post specifically focused on what clothing and gear to bring for each season, so stay tuned for that!
3. Get proper rental car insurance coverage
As I mentioned, renting a car is the best way to explore Iceland, but it's important to make sure you are protecting yourself and your wallet. Iceland's roads are generally well-maintained and a pleasure to drive on, but that doesn't mean they're immune to the whims of Icelandic weather. One minute it can be sunny and calm, the next you're experiencing 100 km/hour wind gusts that could literally rip the door off your car. And let's not forget the sand and ash storms that can wreak havoc on your rental car's paint job. To avoid any unexpected surprises, it's essential to get the proper insurance coverage. Most rental car companies in Iceland offer comprehensive insurance that includes gravel protection and sand and ash protection. Be sure to read the fine print and ask questions if anything is unclear. Trust me, it's better to know before you go than to be surprised with a hefty bill upon your return.
It's also important to note that typical credit card coverage for rental cars often don't apply in Iceland, especially for American credit card holders. So, don't assume your credit card's rental car insurance policy will cover you in Iceland. Before you hit the road, double-check with your credit card company to see what coverage they offer for rental cars in Iceland. In most cases, purchasing additional insurance from the rental car company is the safest and most reliable option. After all, you don't want to be stuck with a bill for thousands of dollars in damages, like some unlucky travelers who didn't get the extra coverage. So, play it safe and protect yourself and your rental car in Iceland.
4. Try other hot springs in addition to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is undeniably an iconic attraction and a must-visit spot during your trip to Iceland. Due to its popularity, numerous geothermal spas have sprouted all over the country with their own unique characteristics that are worth exploring. You can check out other geothermal pools and spas, such as the Secret Lagoon in Fludir, GeoSea in Husavik or Vok Baths in the east, each offering its own charm and experience. For a truly unique soak, try the Beer Spa in Árskógssandur, where you can soak in beer-infused hot tubs while sipping on cold beer. And let's not forget about the many free public pools dotted throughout the country, perfect for a budget-friendly soak.
Pro tip: When visiting hot springs out in the countryside, be sure to bring swimwear, footwear, a change of clothes and a towel. It's also important to note that you should not go into water that hasn't been marked as safe and suitable for bathing. Always check the temperature and follow any guidelines posted at the site to avoid any accidents or injuries.
5. Be a responsible guest
To fully enjoy Iceland's natural wonders, it's essential to be a responsible visitor. This means adhering to Leave No Trace principles, being respectful of wildlife and local customs, staying on designated paths while hiking, and only stopping for photos in designated pull-offs. It may seem insignificant, but even stepping on the moss or driving off the road can cause damage that lasts for years. So, please exercise patience and seek out appropriate locations to pull over or hike back to where you'd like to take a picture. By being mindful and considerate, we can help preserve Iceland's natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Iceland is a truly unique and stunning destination that should be on everyone's bucket list. From the natural wonders to city life, there's something for everyone in this country. But it's important to be prepared and responsible while exploring Iceland. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear, get extra insurance coverage for your rental car, and be respectful of the environment and local culture.
And don't forget to stay tuned for my next blog post, where I'll be sharing suggested itineraries to make the most of your holiday! Thanks for reading, and happy travels!
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