50 Tips and Hacks for Travelers from India Visiting Iceland (Before You Travel)

Planning a trip to Iceland from India? Here are 50 essential tips and hacks to make your adventure smooth sailing:

Visas and Permits (1-3):

1. Check Visa Requirements:  Confirm visa requirements for Indian citizens well in advance. You might need a Schengen visa if Iceland is part of a larger European trip.
2. Register with MEA:  Enroll in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) travel registration for Indians going abroad.
3. National Park Permits:  Research if specific national parks require permits, especially for activities like glacier hiking.

Planning and Booking (4-10):

4. Consider Travel Time:  Flights from India can be long. Plan layovers strategically to break up the journey.
5. Peak Season vs. Shoulder Season:  Iceland is stunning year-round, but summer (June-August) is peak season with higher prices and crowds. Consider shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for a balance.
6. Accommodation Options:  Book hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnbs well in advance, especially during peak season. Hostels are a budget-friendly option in Reykjavik.
7. Rental Cars:  If planning to self-drive, book a rental car in advance, especially during peak season. Consider car size based on your group and planned activities (e.g., 4WD for F-roads).
8. Flights:  Track flight prices and book during sales or off-peak seasons. Explore airlines offering connections via Europe.
9. Travel Insurance:  Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
10. Download Helpful Apps:  Download useful apps like offline maps (Google Maps), weather forecasts (Vedur Island), and translation tools (Google Translate).

Currency, Costs, and Budgeting (11-15):

11. Currency Exchange:  Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). Consider exchanging some currency in India or using ATMs upon arrival.
12. Credit Cards and Debit Cards:  Many places accept credit cards (VISA, Mastercard) with chip and pin. Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid card blockages.
13. Iceland is Expensive:  Be prepared for higher costs compared to India. Factor in food, accommodation, transportation, and activity prices while budgeting.
14. Save on Food:  Eating out can be expensive. Consider grocery shopping for basic supplies and preparing meals in your accommodation when possible.
15. Tax Refunds:  Tourists can claim a tax refund on most purchases upon departure. Keep receipts for eligible items.

Packing for Iceland's Weather (16-25):

16. Layer Up:  Iceland's weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Pack layers of clothes that you can easily add or remove.
17. Waterproof Outer Shell:  A good quality waterproof jacket and pants are essential for rain and wind protection.
18. Thermal Wear:  Pack thermals for warmth, especially during colder months. Merino wool is a great option.
19. Warm Hat, Gloves, and Scarf:  Bring a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep yourself cozy, especially during winter.
20. Quick-drying Clothing:  Pack quick-drying clothes for activities like hiking, as sweat can make you feel cold.
21. Hiking Boots:  Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for exploring Iceland's natural wonders.
22. Sunglasses:  Even in winter, pack sunglasses for bright sunny days and snow glare.
23. Sunscreen:  Sunscreen is important year-round, especially during the summer months when the sun's rays are stronger due to reflection from glaciers and snow.
24. Swimsuit:  If planning to visit geothermal pools or lagoons, pack a swimsuit and a quick-drying towel.
25. Comfortable Walking Shoes:  Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring towns and cities.

Essential Travel Documents and Items (26-31):

26. Passport:  Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Iceland.
27. Travel Visa:  If required, obtain your Schengen visa well in advance.
28. Travel Insurance Documents:  Keep your travel insurance documents handy in case of emergencies.
29. International Driving Permit (IDP):  If planning to rent a car, get an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Indian driver's license.
30. Converter Plug:  Pack a universal converter plug to adapt your Indian electronics to Icelandic power outlets.
31. Personal Medication:  Carry any prescription medication you require, along with a doctor's note if needed.

Staying Connected in Iceland (32-33):

32. Mobile Data:  Check with your Indian mobile service provider for international roaming plans in Iceland. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper data and calls.
33. Free Wi-Fi:  Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and hotels in Iceland.

Health and Safety in Iceland (34-37):

34. Vaccinations:  Research and get recommended vaccinations before your trip.
35. Basic First-aid Kit:  Pack a small first-aid kit with essential supplies like pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.
36. Be Aware of Natural Hazards:  Iceland experiences occasional volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and unpredictable weather. Stay informed about local weather warnings and follow safety instructions.
37. Respect the Environment:  Iceland's natural beauty is fragile. Practice responsible tourism principles like staying on designated trails, leaving no trace, and respecting wildlife.

Driving in Iceland (38-43):

38. Road Rules:  Familiarize yourself with Icelandic traffic laws. Drive on the right side of the road and be mindful of the speed limits.
39. Road Conditions:  Be prepared for various road conditions, including gravel roads, single-lane bridges, and potential for snow and ice.
40. Fill Up Regularly:  Gas stations can be far apart outside of Reykjavik. Fill up your tank whenever possible, especially when venturing into remote areas.
41. Pay Attention to Road Signs:  Heed road signs, especially warnings about weather conditions and road closures.
42. Respect the Speed Limits:  Speeding fines are hefty in Iceland. Stick to the posted speed limits for safety and to avoid penalties.
43. 4WD Vehicle Consideration:  Consider a 4WD vehicle if planning to explore the Icelandic Highlands or F-roads (restricted access roads).

Icelandic Culture and Etiquette (44-46):

44. Learn a Few Basic Icelandic Phrases:  Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases like "hello" ("Halló"), "thank you" ("Takk"), and "please" ("Vinsamlegast") goes a long way with locals.
45. Tipping Etiquette:  Tipping is not customary in Iceland. A small gratuity might be appreciated for exceptional service, but it's not expected.
46. Be Cash-Conscious:  While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some Icelandic króna is helpful for smaller purchases, public restrooms, and remote areas.

Unique Icelandic Experiences (47-49):

47. Sample Local Cuisine:  Try Icelandic delicacies like lamb soup (kjörsúpa), fermented shark (hákarl), and kleinur (twisted donuts).
48. Northern Lights:  If visiting during winter (September-April), chase the breathtaking Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Research weather forecasts and aurora activity.
49. Geothermal Pools and Hot Springs:  Immerse yourself in Iceland's geothermal wonders by visiting natural hot springs or man-made geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon.

General Travel Tips (50):

50. Download Offline Maps:  While data roaming might be expensive, download offline maps of Iceland using Google Maps or other navigation apps to help you get around.

Bonus Tip: Consider purchasing the Reykjavik City Card for discounted entry to many attractions, free public transportation, and thermal pool access (depending on the card type).

With these final tips in mind, you're all set to embark on an unforgettable Icelandic adventure! Have a fantastic trip!