How to Travel in Iceland on a Budget

Iceland does not have a reputation for being a ´cheap´country to visit. And honestly, that is not our aspiration. We want to be a high-value destination. But in spite of that, there are plenty of things you can do if you want to travel to Iceland on a budget.

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Travel in Iceland on a Budget – Getting Around

Many of Iceland´s main attractions are outside of Reykjavik. You can, of course, rent a modest car. Don’t forget that as a Stuck in Iceland subscriber, you will receive discount codes for car rental and camper van rental.

A Toyota Yaris, for example, is fine for driving on the main roads in the summer. If you are traveling to Iceland in the wintertime, make sure that the car that you rent is prepared for wintry conditions. You must also be ready to tackle low visibility, snow, icy roads, gale force winds or heavy rain. Perhaps the best way to save money when getting around in Iceland is to take the bus. Buses have WiFi and are a reliable way to get around.  As a bonus, you get a windshield tour along your way. In Reykjavik, use the bus. You can even download an app for your smartphone that lets you pay for bus tickets by credit card, see where buses are at any given time, and, of course, view the timetable.

Search for great deals on flights to Iceland

There are a lot of great deals on flights to Iceland. Use the search engine from CheapAir to find good prices on flights to Iceland.

Shop at low-price supermarkets

Look for Bónus or Krónan if you are going shopping for food or non alcoholic drinks. These are the cheapest supermarkets.

Ask for the fish of the day during lunchtime

Restaurants often have great deals on fish on their lunch menus. You are in Iceland. Taste the fish it is great!

Use Coupons

I have successfully used the Coupons app in get discounts or 2-for-1 deals at a variety of restaurants, tours, and shops all over Iceland.

Don´t buy water in plastic bottles

A lot of travelers buy water in plastic bottles. Please don´t do this. Icelandic tap water is among the best in the world. Bring your own refillable bottle and fill it at the next cold-water tap. Get delicious water for free and save money!

Watch out for faux beer at supermarkets

One of the saddest things I see is people walking out of supermarkets with cans of low alcohol beer. Alcoholic drinks are only sold at bars or the state-run monopoly. If low alcohol beer is your thing, great. But if not, it is no reason to waste money on watery swill.

Happy hour indeed

Get the Appy Hour app and take advantage of happy hours at Reykjavik bars.

Get your booze at the airport

You probably got it by now. Alcohol is expensive in Iceland. So one way to save is to buy booze at the Tax Free shop at Keflavik airport.