That hip chick you liked in high school. Your mom’s best friend. Your favorite barista — they’re all going (or have already been) to Iceland. Reykjavik has been a top destination for the past 4 Travel Hacker Guides. See a trend here? Whether you’re planning to go or trying to convince yourself to go (just go), here are a few travel tips that’ll make the experience ice-smooth.
Before you go: Prioritize.
What is more important to you: seeing the Northern Lights or experiencing 24-ish hours of daylight? Both are awesome to behold, but don’t happen at the same time of year. Decide what your perfect Iceland experience consists of and be sure you’re traveling at the optimal time.
Always have a plan B.
Okay, so you are psyched to see the Northern Lights… but even if you’re going there going during peak Aurora Borealis season, there’s no guarantee that you’ll definitely see them. Such is the scourge of a cloudy sky in Iceland. Just be sure you’ve got something else planned — like a volcano tour or a Brennivin tasting — so you don’t let a missed opportunity ruin your trip.
Budget for food.
There’s no getting around it: food and drink in Iceland is expensive. Be strategic about where you eat out — check the menu online if you can. Also, bring plenty of snacks from home with you, so you’re not blowing $15 every time you stop for a bag of nuts or granola bar.
Make a reservation.
Speaking of eating out, be aware that the most popular places usually require a reservation. So do your research ahead of time and request your tables. (Plus, you can add all your reservations to KAYAK Trips so you know when and where you’re eating that night.)
Hit the Blue Lagoon before/after the airport.
The Blue Lagoon’s location is in good proximity to Reykjavik airport. Perfect to head to right after you land or right before you depart. Plus, many bus companies offer airport connections via the Blue Lagoon. And what better way to recover from (or prepare for) your transatlantic flight?
Get on board with your travel companions.
It’s not that you can’t do it all but depending on who you’re traveling with, make sure you both have the same vision for your trip. Some people love the adventure of renting a car and striking out on their own. It offers flexibility, a chance to linger and the ability to sleep in just a little longer after a long night out in Reykjavik. Others value not having the stress of a car or having to rely on your own research to figure out where the heck you’re going. Know which you prefer and choose your fellow traveler(s) accordingly. It’ll make the trip run that much more smoothly.
If you’ve been to Iceland, what’s your travel hack? Tell us @KAYAK with #KAYAKTravelHacker.
