All Things Iceland

I’m taking you on a journey back in time to uncover the story behind how Iceland got its name. This tale involves three adventurous Norsemen who each left their mark on this rugged island, but only one name endured through history. THE FIRST TWO VIKINGS THAT TRIED TO NAME THE LANDMASS To hear the whole story about the first two Vikings that named this country, I have included that in The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland. [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live] I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, a comprehensive 8-module video guide that walks you through everything you need to know before visiting. I even have a whole module dedicated to Icelandic History in a Nutshell, where I talk about how Iceland was formed, settlement, the transition from paganism to Christianity, and tons more. Not only that, but when you get the guide, you’ll have lifetime access, bonus itineraries to make planning easier, and access to my free and private Facebook group, where I share specially curated Iceland travel posts and do a live Q&A each month! If you want to feel completely confident and stress-free about your trip, you can check out The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland Hrafna Floki raven [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3-1024x576.jpg] THE VIKING THAT NAMED ICELAND In 868 AD, a Viking named Flóki Vilgerðarson set sail from Norway with the full intention of settling in Iceland. He wasn’t just any Viking—he was known as Hrafna-Flóki or “Raven Flóki.” He got this nickname because he brought three ravens with him to help navigate the open seas. Once he reached the Faroe Islands, Flóki released his ravens one by one. The first flew back toward the Faroes, the second circled and returned to the boat, and the third flew northwest and never came back. Flóki, believing this meant land was nearby, followed the third raven—and sure enough, he reached Iceland. Flóki and his companions settled in Vatnsfjörður in the Westfjords. The summer was warm and full of fish, so they focused all their efforts on fishing instead of preparing for the harsh winter ahead. When the cold finally set in, disaster struck. Without enough hay, all their livestock perished. By spring, they had no choice but to leave. Before departing, Flóki climbed a mountain and looked out over the fjords. He saw thick ice covering the waters and, in his frustration, named the land Ísland—Iceland. Unlike the previous names, this one stuck, and the island has been called Iceland ever since. A VIKING’S REGRET & A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY What’s fascinating is that when Flóki returned to Norway, he had nothing good to say about Iceland. He believed it was a harsh, uninhabitable land. However, one of his crew members, Thorólf, disagreed. He spread rumors that Iceland was so abundant that butter dripped from every blade of grass! This contrasting view sparked curiosity, and soon, more settlers followed, leading to the beginning of permanent Norse settlement in Iceland. RANDOM FACT OF THE EPISODE Beyond the Viking Names: Ultima Thule & Nordic Identity Before Iceland had an official name, ancient Roman and Greek texts referred to mysterious lands in the far north as Ultima Thule, meaning “the farthest place beyond the known world.” In the Middle Ages, some maps labeled Iceland as Thule and Greenland as Ultima Thule. Interestingly, by the 19th century, people started associating Thule with Norway instead. While Iceland’s name may have been given by a frustrated Viking, the settlers who followed developed a strong sense of identity as Íslendingar—people of Iceland. Despite their ties to the greater Nordic world, they wanted to maintain their distinct culture, which still thrives today. ICELANDIC WORD OF THE EPISODE Áfram Ísland – Let’s go Iceland! SHARE THIS WITH A FRIEND Facebook Email Threads LET’S BE SOCIAL Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsIceland/videos] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allthingsiceland/] Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingsiceland?lang=en] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/allthingsiceland/] Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

I’m diving into an important yet often overlooked aspect of driving in Iceland—the unique rules of two-lane roundabouts. Even if you are from Europe, there is a good chance that Iceland does two-lane roundabouts a little different than what you expect. HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR RENTAL CAR IN ICELAND Before we get into that, I want to give a shout-out to our amazing sponsors, Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers. If you’re planning a trip and need a reliable rental car from a company with great customer service, use my code Iceland10 to save 10% with Go Car Rental Iceland. And if you’re looking for the ultimate camper van experience, Go Campers has you covered! Use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your camper rental. WHY ARE ICELAND’S TWO-LANE ROUNDABOUTS UNIQUE? Roundabouts exist in many countries, but Iceland’s two-lane roundabouts come with specific rules that often catch foreign drivers off guard. If you’ve ever rented a car in Iceland or plan to, knowing these rules will save you a lot of confusion—and possibly a fender bender! The key thing to know about Iceland’s two-lane roundabouts is that the inner lane (the one closest to the center) has the right of way. This is different from many other countries where the outer lane might have priority. Here’s how it works: * When entering a two-lane roundabout, you should choose your lane before entering. * If you plan to take the first exit, you should be in the outer lane (right lane). * If you plan to go straight or take any further exits, you should be in the inner lane (left lane). * Once inside the roundabout, changing lanes is not allowed. This means if you entered in the inner lane, you must continue in that lane until you exit. * If you’re in the outer lane and another driver is in the inner lane, you must yield to the inner lane driver if they need to exit. This is where most accidents happen because foreign drivers don’t expect this rule. * When exiting, use your turn signal to indicate your intention, just like you would in any other roundabout. TWO-LANE ROUNDABOUT EXAMPLE IN ICELAND The first image shows two cars entering a two-lane roundabout in Iceland. The orange car is in the inside lane (left) and the pink car is in the outer land (right). [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2.jpg] Below shows the the exits that the pink car (outer lane) can take. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3.jpg] And here are the exits that the orange car (inner lane) can take. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4.jpg] This example is showing if the orange car is entering the two-lane roundabout in the inner lane on the bottom and the pink car is coming from the right in t he outerlane. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5.jpg] As a reminder, the pink car can either go to the first or second exit. In this example, it will be going to the second exit. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/6.jpg] Since the pink car and the orange car are in close proximity to each other, the pink car is the one that gives the right of way, since the orange car is in the inner lane. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/7.jpg] The pink car (outer lane) must stop and let the orange car (inner lane) exit before continuing on to its second exit. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/8.jpg] WHY THESE RULES MATTER? Iceland’s road system is designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly, and roundabouts play a big role in that. However, every year, rental car companies report minor accidents in roundabouts because of misunderstandings about these rules. The last thing you want is to start your Iceland adventure with an accident or a costly insurance claim! THE SAVVY TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO ICELAND Whether it’s your first time visiting Iceland or you have been several times before, this guide will help you explore Iceland like a local. From the best things to see in every region of the country to hidden gems, I have you covered. Click Here [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live] The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live] I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, a comprehensive 8-module video guide that walks you through everything you need to know before visiting. I even have a whole module dedicated to getting around Iceland, covering types of transportation, car rentals, road rules, and so much more. Not only that, but when you get the guide, you’ll have lifetime access, bonus itineraries to make planning easier, and access to my free and private Facebook group, where I share specially curated Iceland travel posts and do a live Q&A each month! RANDOM FACT OF THE EPISODE You might notice that as you venture outside of the downtown Reykjavík area, that you will see less traffic lights, occasionally roundabouts, and long stretches of road. One of the many things I enjoy about the Icelandic countryside is that traffic lights are not necessary. Roundabouts are used, when necessary, at intersections to slow vehicles down and allow for cars to head in different directions. ICELANDIC WORD OF THE EPISODE Hringtorg – roundabout SHARE THIS WITH A FRIEND Facebook Email Threads LET’S BE SOCIAL Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsIceland/videos] Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingsiceland?lang=en] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allthingsiceland/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/allthingsiceland/] Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Iceland but felt overwhelmed with all the planning, or you’re just not sure how to make the most of your time here, then you’re in luck because I have the perfect solution. The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live]is officially live! And in today’s episode, I’m going to break down exactly how this brand-new video guide can help you experience Iceland like a local, save time and money, and remove the guesswork from your trip. Plus, if you act fast, there are exclusive bonuses available until March 1st—One of those bonuses in particular can potentially save you hundreds of dollars. So let’s get into it!” THE PLANNING STRUGGLE & WHY THIS GUIDE EXISTS I often hear from my followers on social media and from the hundreds of people that I have personally helped plan a trip to Iceland via my private consultations, that  planning a trip to Iceland can be overwhelming. There’s so much information out there, and it’s hard to know what’s actually useful. Should you rent a car or book tours? What’s the best time to visit? How do you budget for food, fuel, and attractions? And then there’s the weather—unpredictable, wild, and capable of changing in an instant. I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live] because I’ve seen firsthand how travelers struggle with these exact questions. I have been living in and traveling around Iceland for 8.5 years, and I’ve taken my experience and knowledge and distilled it into this guide so  you can skip the overwhelm and enjoy creating a trip of a lifetime. Over the years, I’ve shared tons of tips on this podcast, on my website, and through my social media, but there is still so much that I haven’t shared. Plus, I wanted to take my ability to help travelers to the next level and create a single, comprehensive resource that answers all these questions—and more.” [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/3-1-1024x576.jpg] WHAT’S INSIDE THE SAVVY TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO ICELAND? It’s an easy-to-follow, self-paced video course broken down into eight in-depth modules that cover everything you need to know to plan your Iceland adventure. Let me walk you through them: 1. Icelandic History in a Nutshell – A quick yet fascinating overview of Iceland’s history, from Viking settlement to modern times. 2. The Spectacular Regions of Iceland – A breakdown of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and what makes each region special. 3. When to Visit Iceland – A guide to Iceland’s seasons, weather patterns, and how to choose the best time for your trip. 4. Getting Organized – Everything you need to know about planning your itinerary, booking accommodations, and securing activities. 5. Budgeting, Managing Expectations & Icelandic Phrases – Tips on how to budget wisely, avoid surprises, and learn useful Icelandic phrases for your trip. 6. Safety & Emergency Services – Essential information on staying safe while traveling in Iceland, including emergency contacts and weather precautions. 7. Getting Around Iceland – A deep dive into transportation options, from renting a car to taking buses and domestic flights. 8. Top Tips for Eating & Shopping in Iceland – How to navigate Iceland’s food scene and shop smart while traveling. Each module is packed with practical tips, real-world insights, and things I’ve learned from living in Iceland and interacting with thousands of travelers over the years. Included with those 8 modules is a private Facebook Group with likeminded travelers where I will post curated content and doing monthly group Q&A’s. There are also very detailed sample itineraries for 5-days, 7-days and 10-days, so you don’t have to start from scratch when it comes to making a travel plan. You can add or subtract from these itineraries in any way that suits you. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/4-1-1024x576.jpg] EXCLUSIVE BONUSES – AVAILABLE UNTIL MARCH 1ST! “Now, here’s the part you don’t want to miss. Because The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland has just launched, I’m offering some amazing bonuses for those who sign up before March 1st! These bonuses include: *  A 15% Discount For a Car Rental with Go Car Rental Iceland: Save big on the renting a car in Iceland with this huge discount, which is not available anywhere else. *  A Free Icelandic Language Class from Óskar Speaking Viking: Get access to free a live class that will an introduce you to the Icelandic language. You’ll learn some great phrases that you can use during your trip from Óskar, an awesome Icelandic teacher. *  My Iceland Trip Planning Cheat Sheet: An instant download delivered to your in-box of my cheat sheet about how to plan a trip to Iceland. While the guide goes way more in-depth, this cheat sheet will provide key points to know for starting to plan your trip. This is not available anywhere else. *  20% Off My Iceland Map: I have created a map with hundreds of my recommendations around the country that you can use while exploring Iceland. These bonuses will disappear after March 1st, so if you’re planning a trip in 2024 or beyond, now is the perfect time to grab the guide!” [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5-1-1024x576.jpg] WHY THE SAVVY TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO ICELAND IS DIFFERENT? You might be wondering—why should you choose The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland over just Googling information? Here’s the thing: Iceland is a unique destination, and standard travel advice doesn’t always apply here. This guide isn’t just generic information—it’s real, actionable advice from someone who has helped countless travelers navigate Iceland with confidence. No more wasting hours piecing together conflicting advice from blogs and YouTube videos. Everything you need is in one place! HOW TO GET THE GUIDE? Alright, so how do you get access? It’s super easy. Just go to The Savvy Traveler’s Guide [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live] (link in the description and in the Trip Planning help tab sin the main navigation to sign up. Once you sign up, you’ll get instant access to all the modules and bonuses. And remember—if you sign up before March 1st, you’ll also get access to those exclusive launch bonuses. I want you to feel excited about your trip to Iceland, not stressed out by all the logistics. This guide is your key to experiencing Iceland like a local, making the most of your time, and avoiding the common mistakes that so many travelers make. THE RANDOM FACT OF THE EPISODE: There are over 50 videos and more than 12 hours of content spread across the 8 in-depth modules of the Savvy Travelers Guide to Iceland [https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/live]. You will see me onscreen in the videos and using visuals to showcase stunning places around the country, what to pack, types of accommodations and so much more. THE ICELANDIC WORD OF THE EPISODE leiðarvísir – guide SHARE THIS WITH A FRIEND Facebook Email Threads LET’S BE SOCIAL Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsIceland/videos] Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingsiceland?lang=en] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allthingsiceland/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/allthingsiceland/] Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Whether you’ve visited Iceland before or you’re planning your dream trip, you’ve likely noticed that prices here are higher when compared to many other countries. From groceries and restaurants to accommodations and activities, Iceland’s cost of living and travel expenses can be a shock to the wallet. But why is that the case? I’ll break down the key reasons behind Iceland’s high prices, including geographic isolation, the dominance of a few large companies, high taxes and import duties, a small population, and the impact of tourism. Plus, I’ll be sharing details on my upcoming live webinar, “Iceland on a Budget: 30 Ways to Spend Less and Travel Smart [https://my.demio.com/ref/gctOGWITGDiUQUOw],” where I’ll give you actionable tips to help you maximize your experience in Iceland without breaking the bank. Let’s get into it! 1. GEOGRAPHIC ISOLATION Iceland’s remote location in the North Atlantic significantly impacts its economy. With no land connections to other countries, all goods must be transported by air or sea. This means higher shipping costs, which are passed on to consumers. Everyday essentials like food, clothing, and electronics come at a premium because of the logistics involved in getting them to the island. For example, grocery stores like Bónus and Krónan import a large percentage of their products, leading to higher-than-average food prices compared to mainland Europe or the U.S. A simple item like a gallon of milk can cost around 900 ISK ($6.99 USD). The cost of fuel is also steep and can be as high as 330 ISK ($2.33 USD) per liter or about $8.85 a gallon, partly due to import costs and high taxes. This geographic isolation extends to supply chains for restaurants and retail, where prices reflect these transportation challenges. 2. HIGH TAXES AND IMPORT DUTIES Iceland has some of the highest taxes in the world, and these contribute significantly to the high cost of goods and services. The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 24%, with a reduced rate of 11% on certain goods like food and books. However, even with the reduced VAT, prices remain high. Import duties on certain items, such as clothing and electronics, add even more costs. For example, a pair of Levi’s jeans that might cost $60 in the U.S. can easily be $120 in Iceland due to taxes and import fees. Cars are also heavily taxed, with import duties, VAT, and registration fees sometimes doubling the cost compared to other countries. This means that even everyday expenses like transportation, dining out, and shopping feel significantly more expensive. 3. MARKET DOMINANCE BY FEW COMPANIES Iceland’s small economy means that a handful of companies dominate key industries, limiting competition and keeping prices high. The food retail sector, for instance, is primarily controlled by Hagar, which owns Bónus, Hagkaup, and other supermarkets. This lack of competition can result in inflated grocery prices. Similarly, the telecommunications industry is led by Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone, all of which maintain relatively high service costs. The same goes for banking—Arion Bank, Íslandsbanki, and Landsbankinn dominate the financial sector, and their fees for everyday banking services can be steep compared to other countries. The lack of competition in these critical industries means that consumers have limited options, and businesses have little incentive to lower prices. Even in tourism, major players like Icelandair control air travel, which can keep flight prices elevated, especially during peak seasons. 30 BUDGET SAVING TIPS FOR ICELAND: TRAVEL SMART AND SPEND LESS If you are not sure how to get the most bang for your buck in Iceland, I have something that will help you out. I’m hosting a free live webinar and you won’t want to miss it! This webinar is packed with practical, money-saving strategies to help you explore Iceland without spending a fortune. Click Here to Register [https://my.demio.com/ref/gctOGWITGDiUQUOw] 4. SMALL POPULATION AND LIMITED MARKET With a population of about 370,000 people, Iceland has a tiny consumer base. This makes it difficult for businesses to achieve economies of scale, which would normally help lower prices. In many industries, goods are produced or imported in small quantities, leading to higher per-unit costs. This issue affects everything from groceries to household goods. Additionally, because the market is small, international companies may find it unprofitable to operate here, further limiting competition. For example, while fast food chains like McDonald’s thrive in most countries, the franchise left Iceland in 2009 due to the high costs of operation after the economic crash in 2008. Many products that are considered everyday essentials in larger countries are treated as premium items in Iceland due to the cost of importing and distributing them. 5. HIGH WAGES AND INFLATION Iceland has some of the highest wages in Europe, with average salaries well above those in many neighboring countries. While this supports a high standard of living, it also drives up labor costs for businesses. Higher wages mean that everything from restaurant meals to hotel stays comes with a premium price tag. In addition, inflation has been a persistent issue, causing prices to rise even further. Iceland’s labor market is also influenced by strong unions, which negotiate higher wages and benefits, further contributing to increased costs for goods and services. Over time, these factors compound to make Iceland an expensive place to live and visit. 6. TOURISM’S IMPACT ON HOUSING AND SERVICES The boom in Icelandic tourism over the past decade has led to an increase in prices for housing, accommodations, and services. The rise of Airbnb rentals has had a significant impact, as many property owners choose to rent to tourists rather than long-term tenants. This has driven up housing prices and made it difficult for locals to find affordable accommodations. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Reykjavik can be upwards of 250,000 ISK ($1,750 USD) per month. Beyond housing, the demand from tourists has also pushed up prices for restaurants, excursions, and even groceries, as businesses cater more to visitors than to locals. The cost of a simple meal at a casual restaurant can easily exceed 3,500 ISK ($25 USD), and a cup of coffee might be 800 ISK ($6 USD). While tourism has been a major economic driver, it has also contributed to inflation and the rising cost of living in Iceland. 7. LIMITED DOMESTIC PRODUCTION Iceland’s harsh climate and small land area limit agricultural and industrial production. As a result, the country relies heavily on imports for food and essential goods. This reliance increases costs, especially when global supply chain disruptions occur. Locally produced food, such as dairy and lamb, can be costly due to the high costs of farming in Iceland’s challenging environment. The need for imports means Icelandic consumers pay premium prices for even basic necessities. Iceland is undoubtedly an expensive place to live and visit, but understanding the reasons behind these high costs can help you plan better and make more informed decisions. If you want to learn how to experience Iceland without breaking the bank, don’t forget to sign up for my live webinar, Iceland on a Budget: 30 Ways to Spend Less and Travel Smart [https://my.demio.com/ref/gctOGWITGDiUQUOw]. RANDOM FACT OF THE EPISODE For some good news, Iceland’s Central Bank lowered its key interest rate by 50 basis points to 8.0%, in line with market expectations, following a drop in inflation to 4.6% in January. Underlying inflation reached its lowest level in three years, and policymakers indicated that further disinflation is expected in the coming months. Fingers crossed that decreases continue to happen. ICELANDIC WORD OF THE EPISODE Dýr – expensive SHARE THIS WITH A FRIEND Facebook Email Threads LET’S BE SOCIAL Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsIceland/videos] Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingsiceland?lang=en] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allthingsiceland/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/allthingsiceland/] Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’ve visited before, knowing the do’s and don’ts can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Iceland is a breathtaking country with unique cultural norms, unpredictable weather, and natural wonders that demand respect and preparation. I’ll walk you through essential travel tips—things you should absolutely do to get the most out of your visit, as well as common mistakes to avoid. From driving safely on Iceland’s rugged roads to experiencing the hot springs like a local, these insights will help you navigate your adventure like a pro. Let’s dive into the essential do’s and don’ts for traveling in Iceland! 5 DO’S & DON’TS WHEN VISITING ICELAND 1. DO GO TO LOCAL POOLS, LAGOONS AND UPSCALE SPAS. [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.jpg] Iceland’s bathing culture is such a big part of life here and it’s lovely to relax in a geothermally warmed hot tub. Most people think that when I say local pool that I mean some run of the mill uninteresting place but in Iceland, the local pools are lovely and budget friendly. * For instance, the biggest one in Laugardalslaug has several hot tubs, including a saltwater one, an Olympic sized lap pool, a wading pool, a gigantic slide for kids of all ages (meaning adults too), a steam room, sauna, a cold dipping pool and lovely changing area. All of that is accessible at the cost of 1.389 ISK or $9.81 for adults, $1.41 for young adults aged 16-17 and free for children up to the age of 15. Every local pool has its own charm and there is almost 2 dozen just in the Reykjavík capital area and many around the whole country. * Places like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and other well known places to take a dip will cost a lot more. For instance, the Blue Lagoon is 9.900 ISK or about $70 for the lowest admission price for one adult. These places are extremely unique and I have enjoyed many visits to all of the lagoons and new baths around the country, so I don’t discourage going, but just know that you have local options too that are great. DON’T GO INTO A POOL, LAGOON, OR HOT TUB IN ICELAND WITHOUT SHOWERING FIRST One of the most important etiquette rules in Iceland is showering thoroughly, without a swimsuit, before entering a pool, lagoon, or hot tub. Iceland’s geothermal pools and hot springs are an essential part of the culture, and maintaining their cleanliness is taken very seriously. Due to the country’s limited use of chlorine in pools, washing with soap beforehand helps keep the water hygienic for everyone. Most public swimming areas have strict signage explaining the showering protocol, and some even have attendants ensuring compliance. Skipping this step is considered disrespectful to locals, and you might be asked to leave. Icelanders grow up with this rule, so while it might feel unfamiliar to visitors, it is essential for keeping the pools enjoyable for all. 2. DO TRAVEL TO DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE COUNTRY WHEN YOU VISIT [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/4.jpg] Iceland is much more than Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. While the capital offers vibrant culture, history, and nightlife, venturing beyond reveals breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and local experiences that make a trip unforgettable. The South Coast is home to stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, black sand beaches, and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The Westfjords, a lesser-visited gem, offers dramatic fjords, bird cliffs, and remote hot springs. The North, particularly Akureyri and Mývatn, provides volcanic landscapes, geothermal baths, and excellent whale watching. The Eastfjords offer charming fishing villages and rugged mountains, while the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse natural beauty. Expanding your itinerary ensures you experience the true essence of Iceland. DON’T ONLY STAY IN REYKJAVIK While Reykjavik is a fantastic city with a lively atmosphere, it should not be the sole focus of your trip, especially if you’re staying for more than three days. Iceland’s main allure is its untouched nature, and the best way to experience it is by exploring different regions. Spending all your time in the capital means missing out on towering waterfalls, lava fields, glaciers, geothermal hot springs, and the charming coastal villages that define the Icelandic experience. Even a short trip outside the city, such as the Golden Circle or South Coast, will showcase Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. If you have a week or more, consider driving the Ring Road or visiting the Westfjords for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Diversifying your trip will leave you with richer memories and a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s raw beauty. 3. DO EXPERIENCE THE MAJESTIC NATURE IN ICELAND [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5.jpg] Iceland is a haven for nature lovers, with vast landscapes that are free to explore. You can hike to breathtaking waterfalls, walk along black sand beaches, or marvel at volcanic craters without spending a dime. However, some activities require professional guidance for safety and conservation reasons. Glacier hiking, ice cave tours, and highland trekking should always be done with an experienced guide. These adventures take you deep into Iceland’s rugged wilderness and offer insights into its unique geology and history. Horseback riding on Icelandic horses is another must-do experience, offering a connection to the country’s Viking heritage. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking an adrenaline-filled excursion, Iceland provides an incredible mix of free and guided experiences that make your visit truly special. DON’T COME TO ICELAND WITHOUT A BUDGET IN MIND Iceland is known for being an expensive destination, so proper budgeting is essential to avoid financial surprises. Accommodation costs range from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. Car rentals, while often necessary for exploring, can be pricey, especially with insurance and fuel costs. Dining out is also expensive, with even casual meals adding up. To save money, consider grocery shopping and cooking some meals, opting for budget accommodations, and prioritizing free outdoor activities. Guided tours and adventure excursions can be costly, so research and book in advance to find the best deals. Setting a realistic budget ensures you can enjoy Iceland’s beauty without unnecessary stress. 30 BUDGET SAVING TIPS FOR ICELAND: TRAVEL SMART AND SPEND LESS If you are not sure how to get the most bang for your buck in Iceland, I have something that will help you out. I’m hosting a free live webinar and you won’t want to miss it! This webinar is packed with practical, money-saving strategies to help you explore Iceland without spending a fortune. Click Here to Register [https://my.demio.com/ref/gctOGWITGDiUQUOw] 4. DO DRIVE YOURSELF AROUND ICELAND [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/3.jpg] Driving in Iceland offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. With well-maintained roads, stunning scenery, and minimal traffic outside major tourist spots, self-driving is an excellent way to explore the country at your own pace. Renting a car allows flexibility to stop at hidden gems and take detours when something catches your eye. However, driving in Iceland requires preparation. Winter driving can be challenging, especially from mid-December to early March, when roads can be icy, and storms are common. If traveling in winter, stick to the South Coast, West Iceland, and Reykjavik, where roads are more frequently maintained. During other seasons, the Ring Road and more remote areas become accessible, providing breathtaking landscapes that make the journey as rewarding as the destination. DON’T SPEED Speeding in Iceland is not only dangerous but also strictly enforced with frequent speed cameras and hefty fines. Many roads are narrow, winding, and often covered in loose gravel, making high speeds risky. Wildlife, such as sheep, frequently wander onto roads, adding another hazard. Driving conditions can change rapidly due to sudden weather shifts, so sticking to speed limits ensures safety for yourself and others. Additionally, respecting speed limits helps preserve Iceland’s delicate environment. Take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and drive responsibly to make the most of your Icelandic road trip. 5. DO CHECK THE WEATHER & ROAD CONDITIONS BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT [http://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6.jpg] Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and conditions can shift rapidly, especially in winter. Before setting out, always check the Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) for weather updates and road.is for road conditions. High winds, snowstorms, and heavy rain can create hazardous driving conditions, particularly in the highlands and remote areas. Even in summer, fog and sudden rain can impact visibility. Planning ahead and being aware of conditions ensures a safer and more enjoyable trip. Packing appropriate clothing and gear based on the forecast is equally important, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. DON’T IGNORE THE STORM WARNINGS & ROAD CLOSURES Ignoring weather warnings and road closures can be extremely dangerous in Iceland. The country experiences powerful storms, sudden snowfalls, and high winds that can make driving treacherous or even impossible. Road closures are put in place for safety, and attempting to bypass them can result in getting stuck or even requiring costly rescue operations. Many travelers underestimate Iceland’s extreme weather, but locals take it seriously for a reason. If a storm warning is issued, adjust your plans accordingly and wait until conditions improve. Safety should always come first when exploring Iceland’s wild landscapes. REMINDER: GET 30 BUDGET SAVING TIPS FOR ICELAND IN MY FREE LIVE WEBINAR My free live webinar [https://my.demio.com/ref/gctOGWITGDiUQUOw] is packed with practical, money-saving strategies to help you explore Iceland without spending a fortune. If you can’t make it live, don’t worry—you’ll still get access to the recording. But for those who do attend live, I have a very special bonus that will definitely come in handy for getting the most bang for your buck in Iceland. Don’t miss out! RANDOM FACT OF THE EPISODE Speaking of weather warnings. It’s only the beginning of February and we have already had two major storms. The last one earlier this week was a red warning for most of the country. There were wind gusts expected at up to 70 miles per hour. Authorities advised against people even traveling to work in the city, so you know that travel in the countryside was absolutely not happening. There is widespread damage to some homes and building  because of the storm. There were also some power outages in remote areas. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured because people heeded the warning and stayed in their homes. ICELANDIC WORD OF THE EPISODE Ekki – don’t Ekki gera það – don´t do that SHARE THIS WITH A FRIEND Facebook Email Threads LET’S BE SOCIAL Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/c/AllThingsIceland/videos] Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingsiceland?lang=en] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allthingsiceland/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/allthingsiceland/] Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.