So, you’ve booked your flight tickets to Iceland, but how to you prepare for your trip? Here’s 7 things you should know to prepare yourself for your Icelandic adventure.
Plan the right itinerary
There are so many things to do in Iceland, it can be tricky to know where to start. The first thing is being realistic about what you can squeeze into the time you have. Those who are time-rich could opt to hire a 4×4 car and drive around the island at their own pace. Others on a flying visit may be better to base themselves in the capital and take days trips out to key sights like the Blue Lagoon. Doing your homework on the places you really want to see can make all the difference to your trip.
Buy the right gear
What to pack very much depends on what time of year you are visiting. However, the country’s weather is surprisingly changeable, so your best bet is packing for all eventualities. Key pieces of gear you’ll need include a fleece jacket, rainproof jacket, gloves, swimwear and a study pair of walking boots. In winter, thermals are a good idea, as are ice grips for your shoes.
Get your camera settings in order
Iceland’s awesome scenery and natural wonders make for one of the most photogenic places on Earth. That said, the quickly changing weather and strong sunlight can also make it one of the most challenging. To maximize the opportunities for photography, your best is getting your camera pre-sets in order, so you can quickly change when required.
Deciding on your budget
Iceland is by no means the cheapest country to visit. Its remote location means much needs to be imported from Europe. Fear not if you are on a budget. With a little research on places to eat and experiences, it’s still possible to do Iceland without giving your credit card a bruising. If you opt for large group tours, they tend to be cheaper and there are several budget-friendly restaurants where you can get a hearty meal in the capital without the high price tag.
Check your visa requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. European citizens don’t need a visa to travel in Iceland. Those outside Europe may need to apply for a Schengen Visa which takes several days to apply for with the local embassy or consulate.
Book up early
While you might find last minute deals, in general travel elements generally get either more expensive or get booked up. If you have your heart set on a hotel or an experience, your best bet is booking up as early as possible. You may even be able to find early bird discounts if you dig around a little.
Go cashless
Iceland is one of the most card-friendly countries in Europe. Thankfully, that means you won’t be looking around all the time for ATMs on the road. That said, it’s not a bad idea to keep some Icelandic króna cash on you just in case of emergencies. Before you travel, let your card issuer know where you’re going to stop them blocking your card when you arrive.
Use one of the portable modems
You don’t give your phone data a hammering if you pick up one of the 4G portable Trawire modem units which start at just 10 bucks a day. You’ll have full, unlimited coverage in almost every part of the island. Plus, you can link up 10 devices to the same unit.