Iceland Visitor Tips and Travel Information

What to Pack and Wear, Icelandic Currency Help, and Driving Tips

Sep 28, 2009

Iceland is a fascinating destination. With these insider tips on clothing, driving, hotels, and currency, travelers can be prepared for what to expect on a vacation.

Frequently asked questions about travel in Iceland include what to pack, clothing to wear, spending money, hotels and lodging, and driving conditions.

What to Pack for a trip to Iceland

Iceland is a cold and wet country, with large amount of precipitation year round and temperature highs of only 16 degrees Celsius on average at the peak of summer. No matter the time of year, it is advisable to pack a winter hat, gloves, and a scarf. Despite the 22 to 24 hours of daylight Iceland experiences in the summer months, the temperature drops at night and can be quite chilly.

Often windy, Iceland also sees a great deal of precipitation whether in the form of rain or snow. Winter travel to Iceland requires cold temperature rated clothing- boots, ski pants, and parkas- in addition to hats, gloves, and scarves. During the late spring to early fall, it is also advisable to travel with a pair of waterproof pants that can be pulled on easily, over clothing in case of rain. This allows visitors to stay dry while still exploring the country.

Waterproof hiking shoes or boots are also a must as outside the major city centres, visitors will often encounter rough terrain, unpaved walkways, and uneven paths. An umbrella is also a good idea, as is a waterproof jacket with a hood. Layering clothing is advisable as the temperature can greatly differ between locations and weather can change in a short amount of time, especially on glacial hikes or beach walks, as most tours operate rain or shine. Be sure to pack lightweight, waterproof and cotton layers that can be easily added or removed while touring this great country.

Iceland's Blue Lagoon

Another must on any visitor’s packing list is a bathing suit. Icelanders love their hot springs, mineral baths, and thermal pools which are open year round both indoors and outdoors. A great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing, on departure or arrival, Iceland’s thermal hot springs must be experienced by every visitor. The famous Blue Lagoon is conveniently located just outside of Iceland’s main international gateway of Keflavik Airport.

Wearing hiking or outdoor gear in downtown Reykjavik is neither out of place nor frowned upon, as locals and tourist alike dress for the weather.

Using Cash, Debit, and Credit Cards in Iceland

Iceland is a land where plastic is king, as credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. Debit and credit cards are accepted at major stores and restaurants, but also in unexpected places like hot dog stands and other take-away vendors.

Cash is accepted everywhere. The Icelandic currency is called the Kronur although here are talks to adapt the Euro in the coming years. Due to the current economic climate, the exchange rate is highly favorable for most visitors from abroad making what was once a highly expensive destination now incredibly affordable.

Depending on the time of year, Iceland can experience up to 24 hours of daylight. It is highly advisable for visitors to pack an eye mask for sleeping. While many hotels provide room darkening curtains, not all rooms will come equipped with these black-out blinds. For travelers spending the weekend in Reykjavik, it is also highly recommended to bring ear plugs, particularly for light sleepers. The Saturday night pub crawl, or runtur, is world famous and sees many revelers out in the streets and drinking until early Sunday morning.

Many tour companies cater to self-drive holidays. Rental cars are available in a variety of classes and operate in both manual and automatic. Almost all rental vehicles are equipped with GPS units. Weather can change in an instant in Iceland and it is for these reasons that drivers must remain only on marked pathways and roads, even if driving a 4 x 4 or off-road vehicle. Fierce winter storms can cover side roads stranding vehicles, and during the spring months, floods caused by glacial melt-off can also occur, sometimes flooding river crossing making them impassable. Be sure to heed weather advisories and advice given by rental company personnel.

With these insider tips, travel to Iceland can be a fun and rewarding experience.

The copyright of the article Iceland Visitor Tips and Travel Information in Iceland Travel is owned by Rachel West. Permission to republish Iceland Visitor Tips and Travel Information in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.