FAQ Iceland
So you’re planning an adventure-filled trip to Iceland?
There is so much to think about when visiting any new country, from making sure you’ve got the right gear to what the weather will be like!
To help you focus on the excitement instead of the admin, our Iceland travel specialists have offered their own personal advice for making your trip hassle-free and answered some of the most frequently asked questions from our travellers below.
Whilst we have done our best to cover as much as possible below, please feel free to get in touch if you find you’re still left looking for answers and we’ll be happy to help!
Before departure
In order to travel to the Schengen area, your passport must be:
- Issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
- Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
If you are a British Passport holder you do not need a visa to visit Iceland but there are some specifics you need to be aware of which we have outlined below. If you hold another passport please check with your Icelandic embassy for the entry requirements. Read our visa page for the full details.
Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.
What you’ll need for a trip to Iceland will vary somewhat depending on the time of year you are travelling. Layers are key in Iceland so you can vary your outfits depending on the weather and don’t forget to bring a swimsuit for the hot springs!
We would advise bringing a warm and waterproof layer and walking boots or shoes with a good grip at any time of year. In the winter thermal layers, gloves and a wooly hat are essential.
It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Fit for Travel website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.
Departure
We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:
- Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
- Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
- Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
- Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
- Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
- Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
- Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!
Arrival
The official language of Iceland is Icelandic, but almost everyone speaks English fluently.
Here are some key phrases that may be helpful when traveling to Iceland:
- Hello: Halló
- Thank you: Takk
- Yes: Já
- No: Nei
- Excuse me: Afsakið
- Please: Vinsamlegast
- Where is…?: Hvar er…?
- How much does this cost?: Hvað kostar þetta?
- Can you help me?: Getur þú hjálpað mér?
- I don’t speak Icelandic: Ég tala ekki íslensku
- Do you speak English?: Talar þú ensku?
- Goodbye: Bless
As you would expect from an island nation, fish and seafood is everywhere on their menus, commonly in the forms of warming stews. Lamb also features a lot and is the main meat option you will encounter during your travels, but vegetarian food is not too difficult to come across either. Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt) and ice cream are very popular desserts.
The Icelandics have a strong sense of community and have a love of literature, art and food. Respect for the natural environment is also high on their priorities so reducing your waste and not littering is very important, as it should be everywhere.
Safety
Iceland is a very safe country to visit. Like anywhere we would advise keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.
Tips and practical information
The currency used in Iceland is the ‘króna’. You will find that the cost in Iceland is higher than at home, this is partly due to the fact that most items have to be imported. Food and petrol are much higher than in the UK.
At most ATMs in Iceland you can withdraw money with your UK bank card without any problems. Keep in mind that you might incur a charge every time you withdraw cash. The use of credit cards is very common in Iceland. You can usually pay by card at petrol stations, shops, hotels and restaurants. Even small purchases such as a cup of coffee can be paid for by card so you don’t need to carry lots of cash with you.
Tipping is not customary in Iceland. Restaurants usually include service on the bill so an extra tip is not expected.
