Located in the North Atlantic, Iceland is a Nordic island country that is home to over 360,000 people. Widely known as ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’, the country is home to some of Europe’s biggest glaciers. If you’re about to become one of the 2 million tourists that visit Iceland each year, it’s important that you’re well prepared for an unforgettable experience. If you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few useful tips on how to best prepare for your Iceland adventure.
Check Weather Conditions
Before you head to Iceland, your first port of call should be to check weather conditions. If your main aim is to see the Northern Lights, it’s advised to visit the country in the winter months. The warmest time of the year to visit Iceland is during the summer months of July and August; however, bear in mind that temperatures tend to be mild, so you will still need to take layers and a jacket.
Check Road Conditions
The Ring Road stretches over 828 miles and runs around the circumference of Iceland. To get the most out of your Icelandic adventure, you can drive around the entire island in only 16 hours. However, with so many amazing landmarks and sights to see along the way, most tourists prefer to take their time. If you’re visiting Iceland in the winter, the Ring Road can be very dangerous due to the snow, extreme winds, and ice, so make sure that you check road conditions before heading out.
Set a Budget
No matter how long you’re in Iceland for, it’s important that you set a budget before you head out the door. The country is known for being incredibly expensive, so you may struggle if you’re planning to travel on a tight budget. There are numerous factors to take into account, such as whether you plan to rent a car, where you will stay, and whether you will be dining out or cooking your own meals. The last thing you want is to run out of money halfway through your trip, so creating a realistic budget from the beginning is key.
Plan Your Itinerary
With so many exciting things to see and do in Iceland, trying to cram everything into your trip can be a challenge. Before you land in Iceland, make sure to map out an itinerary of the things that capture your interest most. Whether it’s a visit to the Blue Lagoon, Thingvellir National Park, or the Reykjavik Art Museum, checking opening times, entry fees, and the best time to visit will help ensure you get the most out of your trip.
What to Pack
As previously mentioned, Iceland experiences cold to mild temperatures, so it’s important that you pack accordingly for your trip. Make use of this packing list as it will provide you with all the information you need on what to put in your luggage to make sure you are warm and comfortable for the duration of your adventure.
No matter what time of year you head to Iceland, or the types of attractions and sights that interest you the most, you are bound to have an unforgettable time.
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