
Known as a captivating destination for any kind of traveler, Iceland plays host to more than two million visitors per year. If you want to view some of the biggest glaciers in Europe or see the planet’s most active volcanoes, booking a trip to Iceland is a must. Before you embark on your Icelandic adventure, here are five tips to help you prepare.
When to Visit
The time of year you plan to head to Iceland will play a major part in the types of attractions and sights you see, as well as how you experience the country. The summer months are the most popular time to visit Iceland, so if you would prefer to steer clear of bustling crowds and busy attractions, it’s best to visit the country in the winter. If a winter trip is on the cards, make sure that you’re prepared for icy driving conditions and snowy landscapes.
Create an Itinerary
To get the most out of your Icelandic adventure, it’s important that you create an itinerary before arriving in the country. Whether your goal is to see the Northern Lights or to check out the hidden gems of Iceland, being aware of what attractions are available will make sure you leave no stone unturned. If you’re heading to Iceland with your partner or as a family, it’s best to sit down and discuss what sort of things interest you the most, so everyone is happy.
What to Pack
No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, don’t expect scorching temperatures! Many tourists who visit the country come equipped with waterproof hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sweaters, and layers of long and short-sleeved shirts. Comfort is key, so when the temperatures drop, it’s important that you’ve packed accordingly. There are lots of packing tips that you can take on-board to ensure you have all the essentials with you.
Where to Stay
There are a wide variety of accommodation options to pick in Iceland. From farm stays, B&Bs, and vacation rentals, you will need to look into prices to ensure you get the best deal possible. If money is no issue, you may want to consider shelling out for a full-service hotel. The earlier you book your accommodation, the more chance you have of saving money, so it’s best to sort your accommodation out from the beginning. Other options include renting a campervan from somewhere like Rent.is which will allow you to see more of the island as you road trip across it.
Staying Safe
Regarded as one of the safest countries in the world to live and travel in, Iceland has extremely low crime rates, as well as excellent medical care. The main dangers that you will face as a traveler tend to be related to the forever changing weather. There are natural hazards that you need to be on the look out for, such as steep cliffs and slippery rocks. Make sure that you check travel conditions before you head out the door to ensure your Icelandic adventure runs smoothly.
How to Get Around
Here’s a bonus tip and this bit bears repeating: Iceland is a road trip of a lifetime. Arranging your own transportation, combined with camping, is a cost-effective and insightful way of traveling around the country. If you hold a valid driver’s license, you can drive a rented campervan in Iceland. All you have to do is contact an Iceland-based campervan rental company to make the reservation. Booking ahead may also entitle you to seasonal promos or other discounts.
Before you embark on your Icelandic trip, there are tons of useful tips and tricks that you can take advantage of so your first trip to the country is one that you’ll never forget.