How to Plan a Trip to Iceland: Everything I Wish I Knew Before Going

Planning a trip to Iceland can feel overwhelming at first. There’s so much to see, do, and figure out, especially if it’s your first time visiting!

After spending five days road tripping through Iceland in July 2024, I have put together everything I learned to help make your planning process smoother.

In this guide, I am sharing exactly how to plan a trip to Iceland based on what I learned from my own experience, including when to go, how to get around, what to budget, where to stay, and what to pack.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Plan a Trip to Iceland

Step 1: Decide When to Go to Iceland

One of the first things you will need to decide is what time of year you are wanting to visit Iceland.

Iceland’s seasons can completely change what your trip looks like, from the weather and road conditions to how many hours of daylight you will get.

Each season comes with its own pros and cons, so it ultimately depends on what kind of experience you’re wanting.

Below is a breakdown to help you decide what month to visit Iceland!

If it is your first trip to Iceland, I recommend visiting in the summer for the best weather, easiest driving conditions, and longer daylight hours.

Summer (June–August)

I visited Iceland in July, and honestly, I think summer is the best time to go, especially if it is your first trip!

The weather is mild (50s–60s°F), most roads are open (including the highland F-roads), and you get insanely long daylight hours.

In June, the sun barely sets, giving you over 20 hours of daylight to explore.

Summer is the perfect season for road trips, hiking, and sightseeing.

However, it is also peak tourist season. Therefore, flights, car rentals, and accommodation prices are higher, and the popular sights can get very crowded (especially places like the Golden Circle and south coast).

Best For: Road trips, hiking, waterfalls, and puffin sightings (May to mid-August)

Pros:

• Warmest weather of the year (50s–60s°F)
• Long daylight hours
• Most tours and hikes are available
• All roads are accessible

Cons:

• Higher prices
• Crowded at popular sites
• No Northern Lights (too much daylight)

Winter (November–March)

If your priority is seeing the Northern Lights, winter is the best time to visit due to the long nights and very little daylight. 

But there are challenges that come with visiting Iceland in winter:

• Daylight is limited to just a few hours (4-5 hours in December and January)
• Weather can be unpredictable with snowstorms and icy roads making driving challenging
• Many roads (especially in the Highlands) are closed in the winter

While it is great for a winter wonderland experience, it is not an ideal time to visit for road trips.

Best For: Northern lights, ice cave tours (typically mid-November to mid-March), hot springs, and snowmobiling

Pros:

• Best time to see the Northern Lights
• Fewer crowds 
• Winter-only activities (ice caves and snowmobiling)
• Lower prices

Cons:

• Short daylight hours (as little as 4 hours in December)
• Road closures and weather delays are common
• Some regions (like the Highlands and F-roads) are inaccessible

Shoulder Seasons (May & September & October)

If you want to avoid the peak summer crowds but still enjoy decent weather and good road conditions, the shoulder seasons are a great option.

May feels like early summer! The roads are mostly open, there are longer daylight hours, and it is when puffins start arriving.

September and October bring cooler temperatures and potential for seeing the Northern Lights.

Best For: Fewer crowds, better prices, good daylight hours, puffins (May), and Northern Lights (September & October)

Pros:

• Fewer tourists than summer
• Lower costs
• Decent daylight hours

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable still
• Some regions and roads could still be inaccessible

Quick Summary on the Best Time to Visit Iceland

• Summer (June–August): Ideal for road trips, hiking, and sightseeing. Long daylight hours but higher prices and more crowds.
• Winter (November–March): Best for Northern Lights, ice caves, and snowmobiling. Limited daylight and challenging driving conditions.
• Shoulder season (May, September–October): Fewer crowds, better prices, and a mix of good weather.

Step 2: Choose How Long to Stay in Iceland

How long you should spend in Iceland really depends on your travel style, what you want to see, and your budget.

If it is your first visit, I recommend at least 5 days to see the highlights without feeling too rushed.

We spent six nights and explored Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast down to Vik and Diamond Beach. Our days were packed and we did a lot of driving (which I don’t regret but I know it isn’t everyone’s travel style!).

Here is a quick breakdown to help you decide how many days to visit Iceland.

3–4 Days in Iceland

If you’re short on time, I recommend staying in Reykjavik and taking day trips to nearby sights or splitting your time with a night or two in Vik and the rest in Reykjavik.

What you can do:

• Explore Reykjavik
• Visit the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
• Day trip to the Golden Circle (Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, & Geysir)
• Explore the South Coast: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, & Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

✅ Great for first-timers with limited time
⚠️ Be prepared for long driving days

👉 Related Post: If you’re planning on visiting Vik, check out my blog post where we go over the best sights to see on the Reykjavik to Vik drive.

5–7 Days in Iceland

This is the sweet spot for a South Coast road trip!

You will have enough time to rent a car and explore at your own pace without feeling super rushed.

What you can do:

• Everything in the 3–4 day itinerary
• Drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
• Visit Vik, see Svartifoss, and Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
• Optional: glacier hike or ice cave tour (in winter) – I loved our Glacier hike with Local Guide of Vatnajokull!

✅ Best balance of sightseeing and pace
⚠️ Still not enough time for the full Ring Road

8–10 Days in Iceland

With 8–10 days, you can take your South Coast road trip a step further and start exploring more of the island.

Options include:

• Everything in the 5-7 day itinerary
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula (“Iceland in Miniature”)
• Westman Islands (seasonal ferries)
• Partial Ring Road loop

✅ Great for combining iconic stops with lesser-visited areas

10+ Days in Iceland

This is what you want if you’re aiming to drive the full Ring Road (Route 1), which takes you around the entire island.

Personally, I think the more days you can do the better to really maximize your time without feeling like you have to rush.

The best part of road trips is being able to take your time and make unexpected stops!

What you can do:

• Everything from the South Coast
• Akureyri and Lake Mývatn (North)
• East Fjords (Egilsstaðir, Seyðisfjörður)
• Whale watching in Húsavík
• Diamond Circle and remote waterfalls like Dettifoss

✅ Best for adventurous travelers ready to cover ground
⚠️ Frequent accommodation changes and lots of driving

Step 3: Set a Budget for Your Iceland Trip

Let’s be honest, Iceland is expensive!

But it is not impossible to visit on a budget especially if you come prepared and know where you can save money.

How Much Does it Cost for an Iceland Trip?

We visited Iceland in the summer (the most expensive time to visit) and here is how much we spent for our 5-day (6 night) trip.

I went on this trip with my husband and his friend so we were able to split the rental car and accommodation costs three ways which was a great way to save some money.

Our Iceland Trip Costs (Per Person)

• Flights: $908 (round-trip from Indianapolis on United Airlines)
• Rental Car: $403 per person ($806 total with insurance for 5 days)
• Gas: $102.50 per person ($205 total)
• Accommodations: $805 per person ($1,610 for 6 nights)
• Food: $368 per person ($735 for two)
• Activities: $219
  • Sky Lagoon: $76
  • Glacier Hike: $143

Average Iceland Travel Costs (Per Person)

Here is what you can generally expect to spend per person:

• Flights: $500–$1,000 from the U.S.
• Rental Car: $100–$200/day (smaller cars are cheaper) (this estimate assumes you purchase the full car rental insurance)
• Gas: ~$9 per gallon
• Accommodations: $150–$300/night
• Meals: $15–$30 per meal if eating out

👉 Related Post: Check out my trip to Iceland cost breakdown for how much I spent for my 5-day (6-night) trip in July.

Budget Tips for Iceland

• Book accommodations with free breakfast or a kitchen so you can make meals
• Pack snacks from home like protein bars, instant oatmeal, trail mix, etc.
• Buy groceries at local stores like Bónus or Krónan (Bónus is usually the cheapest)
• Split meals at restaurants or stick to hot dogs and gas station sandwiches when on the road
• Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up with tap water (better for the environment, cheaper, and the tap water is safe to drink)

With a little planning, you can still have an amazing time in Iceland without blowing your entire travel budget. 

Just be strategic about where you splurge and where you save!

Step 4: Rent a Car or Book a Tour

One of the first decisions you will need to make when planning your Iceland trip is how you will get around. 

Outside of Reykjavik, public transportation is very limited.

So, if you want to explore outside of Reykjavik (which you definitely should!), you will need a rental car or a guided tour.

Option 1: Renting a Car in Iceland

If you are visiting in the summer and sticking to popular routes like the South Coast, Golden Circle, and the Ring Road, renting a 2WD car is all you need. 

That is exactly what we did, and it worked great for our road trip.

We used Lava Car Rental and had a great experience. They were professional, and the car was in great shape.

Most major roads, including the Ring Road, are paved and easy to drive in the warmer months. 

But winter and highland travel (F-roads) are a different story. You will want a 4WD car for those.

Here are the most recommended rental car companies in Iceland:

• Lava Car Rental – who we used and I 100% recommend!
• Blue Car Rental
• Lotus Car Rental

Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland

• Gravel insurance is a must – even on paved roads, flying gravel can cause windshield or paint damage. We paid for the full car rental insurance which I recommend doing!
• Bookmark road.is and vedur.is to check road conditions and weather forecasts daily – especially if you’re visiting in the winter and planning on driving.
• Gas stations are often self-serve – many pumps require a card with a PIN.

Iceland’s Ring Road and major roads are well-maintained in summer, but if you’re visiting in winter or heading into the highlands, keep reading!

👉 Related Post: Learn more in my blog post where I share tips for renting a car in Iceland and what I learned from my experience.

2WD vs 4WD: What You Actually Need

• 2WD is fine in summer for the Golden Circle, South Coast, and most of the Ring Road.
• 4WD is required in winter (November–March) or if you’re planning to drive Iceland’s interior highlands (F-roads).
  • You legally can’t drive on F-roads without a 4WD.

Option 2: Taking Guided Tours

If you don’t want to drive, you can base yourself in Reykjavik and take day tours.

This is a great option if you’re nervous about driving or visiting in winter.

Popular day tours include:

• Golden Circle
• South Coast waterfalls and glaciers
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Northern Lights (in winter)

Should You Rent a Campervan in Iceland?

Another popular option is renting a campervan, especially for Ring Road trips.

Happy Campers is a popular camper van rental company in Iceland.

Pros:

• Saves money on hotels and meals (cook and sleep in one spot)
• More flexibility with where you stay each night
• Many campsites have kitchen and bathroom facilities

Cons:

• Fewer comforts (shared bathrooms at the campsite)
• Unpredictable weather can make van life a bit rough
• Pricier than renting a regular car (but most likely still cheaper than hotels + car)

If you are okay with a bit of adventure and want the freedom to explore, a campervan can be a fun way to see Iceland.

Whether you go with a car or a campervan, just be sure to book early. Rental prices go up fast, especially in summer.

Driving in Iceland: What You Should Know

Driving in Iceland is pretty easy, but there are a few key things that might catch you off guard if it’s your first time.

You drive on the right side of the road in Iceland, so we were already familiar with that coming from the United States.

We drove along the south coast and felt totally comfortable, but I’m glad I knew some of this stuff ahead of time. 

Here are a few things you will want to know:

• One-Lane Bridges
  • Super common on the South Coast.
  • Rule: Whoever reaches the bridge first goes first. Slow down and yield as needed.
• F-Roads
  • Open only in summer and require a 4WD.
  • These rough, unpaved roads lead into the highlands.
  • Most rental car insurance doesn’t cover F-road damage especially river crossings.
  • We never came across F-Roads during our trip since we just stayed on the Ring Road.

More Driving Tips:

• Use headlights at all times – even during the day. It is the law in Iceland.
• Fuel up when you can. Gas stations can be far apart in remote areas, so don’t wait until your gas tank is nearly empty.
• Most gas pumps are self-serve and require a PIN credit card. So make sure you have a credit card with a PIN. You can also buy a prepaid gas card inside of most gas stations.
• You’ll often pre-authorize a large amount (like $150–$250 USD) at the gas pump. The unused balance gets refunded after a day or two.
• Try a gas station hot dog! They are cheap, surprisingly tasty, and topped with crispy onions and sweet mustard.
• Check road.is for road conditions and vedur.is for weather updates before each drive. Crucial if you’re driving in the winter.

Step 5: Plan Your Iceland Itinerary

Once you have decided how long you’re staying and whether you will rent a car or take tours, you can start planning your itinerary.

Start by asking yourself:

• Do you want to drive the full Ring Road or just explore a region like the South Coast?
• Are there specific sights or experiences you don’t want to miss?
• Do you prefer a slow-paced trip or one that’s packed with stops?

We had 5 full days (6 nights) and focused on the South Coast and Golden Circle, which gave us a great mix of waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and hot springs. It was the perfect balance for a first trip!

👉 Related Post: Check out everything I did during my trip in my 4-day Iceland itinerary!

Booking Activities in Advance vs. On Arrival

One of the best parts about Iceland is how much you can explore on your own. 

That said, some activities do sell out, especially in summer (June-August).

Book These Activities in Advance

• Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon: Both are popular and often sell out days or weeks ahead.
  • Sky Lagoon is closer to Reykjavik and feels a bit more relaxed.
  • Blue Lagoon is great to visit on arrival or departure day since it’s near the airport.
• Glacier Hikes & Ice Cave Tours: These guided experiences have limited capacity, so book early. I LOVED our Glacier Hike with Local Guide of Vanajokull. We did the Glacier Discovery tour.
• Whale Watching Tours: Especially from Reykjavik or Husavik in the summer.
• Golden Circle Tour: Ideal if you’re based in Reykjavik and not renting a car.
• Northern Lights Tours (Winter): These often come with a free retry if you don’t see them the first night.

💡Use a site like Get Your Guide or Viator to compare tours and manage bookings in one place.

No Booking Needed

• Waterfalls & Scenic Spots: Places like Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Thingvellir are always open. No entry tickets, just pay a small parking fee (usually by phone or kiosk).
• Natural Hot Springs: Many are free and open to the public, like Reykjadalur Hot Spring River or Seljavallalaug.
• Spontaneous Stops: Iceland is full of unmarked waterfalls and viewpoints. Leave some room in your itinerary for spontaneity!

How to Build Your Iceland Itinerary

Start with your must-see sights and number of days, then group sights by area or driving distance. 

I used Google My Maps to pin everything I wanted to see and so I could organize each day based on the sights that were close to one another.

It really helped me stay organized while planning our itinerary so that we were never backtracking.

Below is my Google Maps where I pinned all the sights we visited during our trip!

Here is what I learned during my trip to Iceland:

Keep it Flexible

• Weather changes fast, and tours can be canceled last-minute – especially in the winter.
• Avoid overpacking your schedule! You will enjoy the trip more if you’re not rushing from place to place.

Driving Takes Time

• Even short distances can take longer than expected due to gravel roads, one-lane bridges, or unexpected weather.
• Aim for less than 4 hours of driving per day so you have time to explore and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Prioritize What Books Up

• If something’s high on your list (like glacier hikes or the Blue Lagoon), book it early – especially in summer.
• Even in shoulder season, some tours only run on certain days, so it’s good to plan ahead.

My Recommendations of Things to Do in Iceland

Here are some of the highlights from our trip that I 100% recommend:

• Skógafoss & Kvernufoss: Two iconic waterfalls. Skógafoss is massive and misty. Kvernufoss is nearby and less crowded – it was my favorite of the two! While you’re in this area, don’t miss out on trying the delicious fish & chips from Mia’s Country Van.
• Seljalandsfoss & Gljufrabui: Seljalandsfoss is the popular waterfall that you can walk behind! Gljufrabui is a short walk away and hidden in a narrow canyon.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: A beautiful black sand beach with dramatic basalt columns and strong ocean waves. Stay far away from the water – sneaker waves are dangerous.
• Vatnajokull Glacier Hike: One of the best things we did. You’ll need a guide, but hiking on the glacier was worth the time and money. We did the Glacier Discovery Hike with Local Guide of Vatnajokull!
• Sky Lagoon: Relaxing lagoon just outside downtown Reykjavik. It’s a little pricey but a great way to relax at the end of your trip!
• Svartifoss: A stunning waterfall with a basalt column backdrop, making it super unique! It is a moderate hike to the waterfall – about 1.5 miles one-way.
• Dyrhólaey Arch: A viewpoint near Vik with coastal views and puffins in the summer. It’s a quick stop with great photo spots and beautiful at sunset. One of my favorite stops of our trip!

👉 Related Post: Find more things to add to your itinerary with my Iceland Bucket List where I go over 40+ amazing experiences!

Step 6: Book Your Accommodations 

Where to Stay in Iceland

Where you stay in Iceland depends a lot on your route.

If you’re doing a road trip (like we did), it makes sense to stay near the sights you’re visiting to avoid backtracking. 

We stayed in a mix of hotels and Airbnbs.

Here are some recommended towns to stay in on your Iceland itinerary.

Reykjavik (1–2 nights)

Great for your first or last night in Iceland!

It’s close-ish to the airport (about 45 minute drive), has a charming city center which you can easily explore in a day or two, and a variety of delicious restaurants and cafes.

If you’re planning to visit the Sky Lagoon, it’s convenient to stay here either at the beginning or end of your trip.

Places to Stay in Reykjavik:

• Airbnb – We stayed in this Airbnb for our first night of the trip, and it was great! Good location, clean, and comfortable.
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel – A great choice for families or large groups since some rooms come with a living area and kitchenette.
• Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels – A bit outside of the downtown area, but still an easy drive in. It’s usually more affordable than staying right in the center.
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels – This hotel is in a prime downtown location and has a really nice design.

Check out this interactive map below for more accommodations in Reykjavik!

Vik (1-2 nights)

A small but popular town on the South Coast, perfect if you’re visiting Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Dyrhólaey, Skógafoss, or Seljalandsfoss. 

There aren’t many hotels, so book early.

I loved staying in Vik! It was my favorite area we stayed in Iceland.

While you’re in Vik, make sure to not miss visiting Skool Beans Cafe (a coffee shop in a school bus) and Restaurant Suður-Vík  (our favorite restaurant in Vik).

Places to Stay in Vik:

• Airbnb – We stayed in an Airbnb in Vik and absolutely loved it! It was within walking distance of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and had great views.
• Hotel Vik i Myrdal – Convenient location with beautiful scenery. A great choice if you want to stay right in town.
• Hotel Katla by Keahotels – Just a short drive from Vik, this hotel is a good option if you’re looking to be slightly outside the main area but still close to everything.

Check out this interactive map below for more accommodations in Vik!

Höfn (1 night)

Höfn is an ideal place to stay if you’re exploring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach on your Ring Road trip.

Places to Stay in Höfn:

• Hali Country Hotel – Free breakfast and only a 10-minute drive from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.

Mývatn (1–2 nights)

A nice area in North Iceland known for the relaxing Mývatn Nature Baths (a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon).

Places to Stay in Mývatn:

• Fosshotel Myvatn – Free breakfast and great views!
• Vogafjos Guesthouse – Free breakfast and close proximity to restaurants

Akureyri (1 night)

Iceland’s second largest city, but still very laid-back. 

Akureyri is worth including if you’re driving the full Ring Road. 

It has good restaurants, a harbor, and a nice walking area downtown.

Places to Stay in Akureyri:

• Hotel Kea by Keahotels – Great location in the heart of the city
• Akureyri – Berjaya Iceland Hotels – Walking distance to downtown

Check out this interactive map below for more accommodations in Akureyri!

💡 Tip: If you’re short on time and only visiting the South Coast, you can skip Mývatn and Akureyri. They are part of the longer Ring Road route.

Accommodation Tips for Iceland

• Book early, especially for summer (June–August): Hotels book up quickly, especially in smaller towns like Vík or Höfn. Aim to book at least 2–3 months ahead if you’re traveling during peak season (summer). I like to be closer to the 3-6 months range to be safe.
• Check for free breakfast: Many hotels include free breakfast, which is a huge perk since food can be expensive and options area limited in rural areas.
• Look at location carefully: Staying close to your planned stops will save you hours of driving. Prioritize proximity when you’re in remote areas.
• Consider one-nighters vs. longer stays: For a quick-paced itinerary, one-night stays work well. But if you prefer a slower pace, choose at least 2-night stays in main areas (like Vik and Reykjavik) to avoid daily unpacking and long drives.

Step 7: What To Do Before You Go

Planning ahead will save you time, stress, and unexpected costs once you land in Iceland.

Here are a few important things to check off your list before your trip.

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from Iceland. Double check this early in case you need to renew your passport since processing times can take weeks or months.
• Visa-Free for U.S. Citizens: If you’re from the U.S., you can stay in Iceland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, no visa required.
• ETIAS (Coming 2025): Starting in 2025, U.S. travelers will need to apply for ETIAS, an online travel authorization. It’s not a visa, but more of a pre-screening. It should be easy to apply, but be sure to check the official ETIAS site for updates before your trip.

Quick Travel Docs Checklist:

• ✅ Passport valid 3+ months beyond your return date
• ✅ Travel dates under 90 days
• ✅ Watch for ETIAS updates if traveling in 2025 or later

Phone Coverage & Internet

Staying connected in Iceland was easier than I expected, but there are a few things to know before you go, especially if you’re planning to drive through remote areas.

• eSIM: To avoid pricey roaming charges, use an eSIM. If your phone supports eSIMs, set it up before you land. Airalo offers affordable data plans for Iceland.
• Cell Service: Reception is good in Reykjavik and most towns along the Ring Road, but gets spotty in remote areas. Don’t count on having signal when hiking or exploring off the main roads.
• Offline Access Tips:
  • Download offline Google Maps of your route ahead of time
  • For hikes, use the All Trails app and download the route so it can be accessed offline.
  • Save hotel check-in instructions, tour confirmations, and tickets in a folder or screenshot them for offline access.

Tip: Bring a portable phone charger. Driving directions, trail navigation, and taking photos will drain your battery fast, especially on long driving days.

Must-Have Apps & Websites

These apps & websites helped us stay safe, get directions, and adjust plans on the go, especially when we lost cell service.

• Google Maps (Offline): Download your full route before you leave so you can still get driving directions if you lose cell service. You can also use Google My Maps to pin stops and build your itinerary. Learn how to download offline Google Maps here.
• Vedur.is: Iceland’s official weather website. It’s far more detailed and accurate than normal weather apps, especially for wind and rain.
• Road.is: Real-time updates on road closures and driving conditions. Crucial for winter trips and helpful year-round.
• My Aurora Forecast App: If you’re visiting in the fall or winter, this app helps track solar activity and cloud cover to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights. Just remember, clear and dark skies are key to seeing them!
• Download the 112 Iceland App: This free safety app is a must if you’re hiking or driving in remote areas. It lets you check in with emergency services, share your location, and works offline.

Step 8: What to Pack for Iceland

Iceland’s summer weather is unpredictable with sunshine, rain, and wind sometimes all in the same hour.

The biggest takeaway from our trip? Layering is essential, and waterproof gear is necessary.

Here’s what I packed for my July trip and recommend bringing:

• Waterproof Jacket: This was my most-worn item. Make sure it’s waterproof and windproof. I love this rain jacket since it packs down into a small bag, making it easy to fit in my suitcase!
• Waterproof Pants: Great for rainy hikes and visiting waterfalls like Skógafoss or Seljalandsfoss. These Baleaf ones are my favorite!
• Base Layers & Leggings: Comfortable for layering. I wore leggings under waterproof pants for extra warmth.
• Fleece or Lightweight Puffer: Even in summer, mornings and evenings are cold.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: You will be walking on wet, uneven trails. These are my favorite hiking boots. They aren’t too heavy and keep me blister-free!
• Swimsuits (bring two): Perfect for hot springs and pools like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.
• Quick-Dry Towel: Came in handy for drying off on the go after a rain storm, especially if you’re road-tripping or camping. I got this microfiber towel that is compact and folds down into a small bag.
• Universal Power Adapter: Iceland uses European plugs (Type C or F, 230V). A universal adapter worked perfectly for charging everything.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world, no need to buy bottled water.
• Sleep Mask: If you’re visiting in summer, the sun doesn’t really set. A sleep mask will help you sleep if your accommodations don’t have blackout curtains.
• Daypack: For hikes, a daypack was nice to carry our layers, snacks, and water.
• Portable Phone Charger: Between photos, maps, and checking weather or road conditions, your phone battery will drain quickly so be sure to pack a portable phone charger!
• Moisturizer & Lip Balm: The wind and dry air really dried out my skin and lips.

👉 You can check out my full Iceland Summer Packing List for a detailed breakdown of everything I brought and what I recommend.

Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Iceland Trip

A few mistakes can make your trip more stressful than it needs to be!

Here are some mistakes to avoid and things to keep in mind:

Overpacking Your Itinerary

Iceland is bigger than it looks on a map.

Roads can be slow, and you will stop often for photos or unexpected sights.

Tip: Build in extra time and leave room for spontaneous stops. Some of our favorite moments came from unplanned stops!

Booking Last-Minute in Summer

Summer is Iceland’s busiest season.

If you wait until the last minute to book accommodations, car rentals, or activities like glacier hikes or the Blue Lagoon, you may miss out.

Tip: Book at least 2–3 months in advance for summer travel. Preferably even earlier!

Skipping Car Rental Insurance

If you’re renting a car, don’t skip the car rental insurance.

Iceland has a lot of unpaved roads (even on the Ring Road), and damage from loose gravel isn’t always covered by basic insurance.

Tip: If your credit card covers rental car insurance, double-check the fine print to see if gravel damage is included. When I am traveling outside the U.S., I always buy the total car rental insurance instead of relying on my credit card rental car insurance for peace of mind.

Not Packing Waterproof Gear

It might be sunny when you leave your hotel, but don’t let that fool you.

Sudden rain or wind is common in Iceland, even in July.

Must-Haves: A waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, and waterproof hiking boots. You will need them at places like Skógafoss or during a windy hike.

Ignoring Road Conditions

Roads can close suddenly due to weather, landslides, or river flooding.

Always check road.is before heading out, especially in remote areas or if you’re planning to drive F-roads in the highlands.

Tip: Only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on F-roads, and some routes can be dangerous even in summer.

Not Bringing a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Make sure that the credit card you will be using in Iceland does not have foreign transaction fees!

I use the Chase Sapphire Preferred and highly recommend it. It is a great travel credit card!

Credit cards were accepted everywhere at gas stations, parking meters, restaurants, and cafes.

We never once had to pay in cash.

Not Filling Up on Gas Frequently

When in doubt, fill up your gas tank when you’re in a town.

In rural areas, especially along the south coast or heading east, you can go long stretches without seeing a gas station.

Tip: I noticed the diesel pumps were black, while the regular unleaded gas pumps were green, which is the opposite of the U.S. So, be sure to double check the fuel type before filling up.

Bathrooms Are Not Always Available

When you see a bathroom, use it.

Gas stations usually have clean facilities, and some grocery stores like Bonus do too.

But long stretches, especially in the east or highlands, often lack restrooms.

Skip the Bottled Water

Iceland’s tap water is glacier-fed, clean, and delicious.

Bring a reusable water bottle and fill up anywhere. Not only does this save you money but also helps the environment.

Final Pre-Trip Checklist

Before you head off to Iceland, double check these essentials to avoid any last-minute stress:

• Flights and Rental Car Confirmed: Book your flights and rental car early, especially for summer. Prices go up fast.
• Accommodations Booked: Reserve hotels or Airbnbs in advance, especially near popular areas like Reykjavik or Vik. For summer trips, booking 2–3 months ahead is ideal. The earlier the better.
• Waterproof Gear Packed: I brought a waterproof jacket, pants, and boots and used them all. They were great for getting up close to waterfalls and rainy hikes.
• Google Maps Downloaded Offline: Cell signal drops in remote areas, so I saved offline maps for our full route. You can do this directly in the Google Maps app.
• Passport Valid: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned return date.
• Travel Insurance Purchased: I recommend buying travel insurance to cover trip delays, medical emergencies, and more. It’s a small cost for big peace of mind! When I travel internationally, I purchase travel insurance through Allianz Travel Insurance.
• Itinerary and Confirmations Saved: I saved all my hotel, activity, and car rental confirmations on my phone as screenshots in case we lost cell service.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland takes some research and planning, but it is so worth it!

I hope this guide on how to plan a trip to Iceland helps you feel more prepared and confident, from picking the right time to go to, budgeting, renting a car, and everything in between.

Iceland was one of the most unique and breathtaking places I have ever visited, and I am already itching to go back!

Check out my other Iceland blog posts to help you plan your bucket list trip to Iceland:

• Iceland Summer Packing List: What I Packed for My Trip in July
• Reykjavik to Vik Drive: The Best Sights You Need to Stop at Along the Way
• 2-Day Iceland Itinerary: Must-See Waterfalls, Glaciers, and More
• 9 Jaw-Dropping Hikes Near Vík, Iceland
• 13 Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland Near Reykjavik (Within 2.5 Hours)
• An Epic 4-Day Iceland Itinerary to See the Best Sights
• Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland: What You Need to Know
• The Ultimate Iceland Bucket List: 43 Adventures You Can’t Miss in Iceland
• 12 Unforgettable Things to Do in Vik, Iceland: A Complete Guide
• How Much Does a 5-Day Trip to Iceland Cost? [Detailed Budget Breakdown]