Are you planning to visit Iceland for the first time? Here are some helpful tips for first timers in Iceland to make your trip as smooth and as enjoyable as possible.
Credit instead of cash
Icelandic people very rarely use cash. All of the locals use their credit and debit Some places only accept cards so be prepared! If you don’t have a credit card and a memorized pin number, it can be very difficult for you to get gas or to buy anything.
Icy Waters of Jokulsarlon
Bring a refillable water bottle
Iceland has some of the purest water in the world. Everybody drinks the water from the tap and so should you. Instead of wasting your money on water, just bring a water bottle and refill it while you are traveling. It’s good for your budget and good for the environment.
Inside a cave
Don’t tip
In Iceland we do not tip our waiters and waitresses. Don’t think you are being rude if you do not leave a tip. Some cafes and restaurants will have a tip jar, but don’t feel required to tip. Tips are appreciated but not required.
Reykjavik at night
Go exploring at night
If you are travelling in the summertime it is bright out all of the time. This means that you have more hours in the day where you can go out exploring Iceland. Most of the tourists go during the day, so you might be able to see your favorite waterfalls and geysers all alone.
Glacier hikes
Get out of the capital
Iceland has so much to see and experience. The best way to explore Iceland is by getting out of the capital and either driving the ring road or doing scheduled tours. If you want to see some waterfalls, caves, and geysers, or to go on a glacier hike or a boat tour in a glacial river, you need to get out of Reykjavik.
Green highlands
Don’t try to schedule too much into one day
Even though it only takes a few hours to drive from the capital to the north of the country, there is so much to experience along the way. Make sure you have a lot of time when you are travelling so that you can make time for unscheduled stops. Iceland has so many beautiful sights and it would be a shame to miss them because of scheduling issues.
One of Iceland's many waterfalls
Be prepared for the weather
There is a saying in Icelandic: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing”. Icelandic weather is very unpredictable and it can be rather extreme. Therefore, it is best to be prepared for everything. Bring a winter coat, even if you are traveling in the summer months. Anything can happen!
Hills and Mountains
Be careful
Iceland is an extremely safe and peaceful country. However, the Icelandic nature is not always as safe and peaceful. When traveling outside of the capital make sure to use common sense. Don’t get to close to geysers or other dangers. Follow all signs, they are there for a reason.
