Iceland on a Budget $

Brittany Proctor
Nov 16, 2017
4 min read

Over the past few years, Iceland has become quite the popular tourist attraction for travelers, hikers, and explorers around the world. And, for good reason.

Having been to the land of waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers twice in a one year span, I hear a lot of the following pretty often when I return home:

"Isn't Iceland expensive? How do you keep going back?"

"Must be nice! I'm trying to be like you."

"You're paying all of that money just to be cold?"

Oh, if only they knew!

First of all, yes, Iceland is a rather expensive country. But, I assure you, it can be done in an economical and affordable way. Secondly, don't try; just go! If I can, anyone can. Lastly, and likely the biggest misconception of them all, Iceland is far too majestic to only have cold weather to offer. There's so much to see and do! Don't underestimate it.

How Do I Get There?

I live for a flight deal! In fact, if you see me in a new destination, you can almost guarantee that I bought that airfare at a ridiculously low rate. I make my travel choices based on where the flight deals are...always. The same has been true for Iceland. When searching for Iceland flights, always check these places first:

-WOW Air: (Icelandic budget airline that has a few direct routes from the states to Reykjavik) Some may refer to them as the Icelandic 'Spirit Airlines,' but I've flown with them twice and had no complaints. Expect limited leg room and a la carte snacks. You get what you pay for, but it's all worth it when you land.

-Icelandair: They often have sales/specials on their airfare from the states. Usually, you can fly to another country with a stopover (less than 7 days) in Iceland, and get two countries for the price of one! When using Icelandair, I was able to see Denmark and Iceland in one 8-day trip.

-Google Flights: Have a flexible schedule? Pull up the Google flights calendar, and pick the cheapest time of year to go.

In many cases, you can get a round-trip ticket to Reykjavik for the same price as going to Miami for the weekend.

Where Do I Stay?

I've experienced both the city and country accommodations in Iceland, and I'd have to recommend the country cabin over the city flat (apartment). The fresh air, the mountainous views, the easy access to tourist attractions such as the Golden Circle, and the privacy all make for one of the most relaxing and peaceful vacation experiences I've ever had. Also, you're going to save quite a bit of money renting the country cabin than the centrally located townhouse or apartment in the city. To each its own, but for me, it's a money saver and enhances your immersion in Icelandic culture.

How Do I Get Around?

Rent a car! This actually isn't a suggestion. Think of it more as a mandatory expense. There is no other way to properly see Iceland than to charge up the GPS, hop in the car, and go! Coach buses are awful. They're full of people, you can barely see out of the windows, and you can't stop when you want.

Try to reserve a mid-range SUV or bigger. The economy cars are cheaper, but prohibited from driving through the highlands in the middle of the country. I'd suggest a Duster or a Defender. They'll get you to all the top attractions and usually run about $30-$35 per day. You will need a little gas money, but that's what travel buddies are for. Share the cost!

Iceland is home of the randomly placed road shoulder so you can pull the car to the side of the highway and snap as many pics as your heart desires. Whoever designed the roads in South Iceland had tourists and our cameras in mind.

Where Do I Eat?

Simply put, you grocery shop. Don't misunderstand me. There are DELICIOUS restaurants in and around Reykjavik that are worth you stopping in for a bite. But, this post is about saving money. So, you and your buddies pool your money together, make a list, and head to the nearest shopping mart. You will save a massive amount of money cooking in the cabin than eating out every day for all three meals. Expect that the groceries will also be a bit pricey, but still a better deal. That doesn't mean you can't splurge one night and treat yourself to a fancy dinner at a nice restaurant.

What Should I See?

This blog post isn't long enough for me to explain the beauty in every natural wonder Iceland has to offer. So, here is a list of sights and activities to get you started. Then, you be the judge!

The Golden Circle

Pingvellir National Park

Efsti Dalur II

Blue Lagoon

Secret Lagoon

Seljalandfoss

Skogafoss

Geysir

Gullfoss

Reykjavik Bar Crawl

Reykjavik Food Walk

Fontana Spa

Laugarvatn (stay near this town)

Solheimajokull Glacier

Myrdalsjokull Glacier

Whale Watching

Hallgrimskirkja Church

Vestmannaeyjar Island (by ferry or plane)

Kerid Crater Lake

Northern Lights Hunting

Borg Pool

Selfoss town

White River Golf Course

Vik - Plane Wreck

Slakki Petting Zoo

Mount Hekla

Most importantly, don't rush in Iceland. Take it all in, and savor each breathtaking moment. It can be done, and you can be the one to do it sooner than you think!