Tips for traveling Iceland

How to get around in Iceland?

Opting for a car or campervan is undoubtedly the most flexible way to explore Iceland. It provides the freedom to travel at your own pace and the roads are generally in good condition with low traffic. The Ring Road (also known as Route 1) runs around the perimeter of the country. During the summer, a 2WD car is perfectly adequate for navigating Iceland's main roads. However, it's important to note that unless you have a 4WD vehicle, it's prohibited to access the Highland or any roads that are prefixed with an F.

Weather

Iceland experiences all four seasons, but due to its constantly changing weather, it may not always feel that way. In fact, the weather can be quite unpredictable and prone to sudden changes and surprises. It's not uncommon to hear the joke "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes!" while in Iceland. For the best predictions: Vedur

Language

While the official language of Iceland is Icelandic, it's worth noting that many Icelanders are fluent in English. In fact, English is widely spoken throughout Iceland, and it's relatively easy to get around using English. So even if you don't speak Icelandic, you should have no trouble communicating with locals and navigating your way around the country.

Network

If you're traveling to Iceland from a European country, your mobile phone should work without any issues and you won't need to switch out SIM cards. However, if you're traveling from a region outside of Europe, you may need to purchase a prepaid SIM card in Iceland to access mobile coverage. The three major mobile carriers in Iceland (Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone) offer prepaid SIM cards for purchase, making it easy for travelers to stay connected while in Iceland.

Currency

The official currency of Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). It's worth noting that some larger hotels and stores may accept other currencies such as Euros or US dollars. However, it's always best to have some ISK on hand, as it is the most widely accepted form of payment throughout the country.

Electricity

It's important to note that the electrical voltage in Iceland is 220 volts, which is different from the standard voltage used in countries like the US and Canada. As a result, travelers from these countries should pack a voltage converter or adapter to ensure that their electronic devices can be properly charged and used in Iceland. Another option for travelers who need internet access while in Iceland is to rent a portable WiFi hotspot from a campervan or car rental company.