Iceland
Iceland is known for being an expensive destination, and the Westfjords are no exception. Effective budgeting helps you manage expenses without sacrificing enjoyment. The Icelandic Króna (ISK) is the currency. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted everywhere, including small shops, taxis, and guesthouses. You rarely need cash, especially in towns like Ísafjörður. ATMs are available, but withdrawing cash is often unnecessary.
Many travelers complete their entire trip without using a single króna in physical cash. This reliance on cards streamlines transactions.
These are approximate costs and can vary based on season, booking time, and specific choices.
Accommodations (per night): Hostel dorm bed: 8,000 - 15,000 ISK; Guesthouse/B&B double room: 18,000 - 30,000 ISK; Hotel room: 25,000 - 45,000 ISK+. Meals: Coffee: 500-700 ISK; Pastry: 600-1,000 ISK; Soup/Sandwich lunch: 1,800 - 2,500 ISK; Main course at mid-range restaurant: 4,000 - 6,000 ISK; Pint of local beer: 1,200 - 1,500 ISK. Transportation: Domestic flight (Reykjavík to Ísafjörður): 15,000 - 30,000 ISK (one-way); Rental Car (daily, compact): 8,000 - 15,000 ISK (summer, excludes fuel/insurance); Fuel (per liter): ~300 ISK; Taxi (short ride in town): 1,500 - 3,000 ISK. Attractions: Westfjords Heritage Museum: ~2,500 ISK; Guided Kayak Tour: 18,000 - 25,000 ISK (half-day); Boat Tour to Vigur Island: 10,000 - 15,000 ISK.
Claim compensation!
Passengers may claim up to €600 for delayed or canceled flights. Check AirHelp for details.
Rules apply for eligibility, often for delays over 3 hours due to airline fault.
Protect your journey
Explore travel insurance options from World Nomads, a popular choice for adventurous travelers.
For digital nomads and remote teams, SafetyWing offers specialized insurance.
Medical & travel coverage
For foreigners visiting the United States, Insubuy offers medical and travel-related coverage.
Review policy details for specific coverage limitations and terms.
Iceland has a very low crime rate, and Ísafjörður is considered extremely safe. Violent crime is rare. The main risks here relate to natural elements, like weather and road conditions, rather than crime. No specific neighborhoods in Ísafjörður are known for higher crime rates or safety concerns. You can generally feel safe walking alone at any time of day or night. Always check the latest information from the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before travel. Regulations can change.
No specific vaccinations are required for entry to Iceland from most countries. It is recommended to ensure your routine vaccinations, like MMR, DTP, and Polio, are up-to-date. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your travel history and health status. They can advise on any additional precautions.
Prevalent in cold weather. Dress warmly in layers, wash hands regularly.
Risks in winter or cold, wet conditions. Dress in layers, stay dry, seek shelter. Recognize symptoms.
UV radiation can be strong. Use Sunscreen and wear Sunglasses.
Easy to forget in cold climates. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill.
Slips on ice in winter. Wear good grip footwear. When hiking, stick to marked trails, inform others of your plans, and mind changing weather.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised for all visitors. It should cover medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss, and personal liability. Given the remoteness of the Westfjords and the potential for adverse weather disrupting plans, robust coverage is notably important.
Consider policies that cover adventure activities if you plan outdoor pursuits like hiking or kayaking. Some standard policies exclude certain "risky" activities.
The remote nature of the Westfjords and the potential for sudden adverse weather disrupting plans make robust insurance coverage especially important.
The Westfjords often experience wetter and windier conditions than other parts of Iceland due to their exposed coastal position. Humidity typically stays high year-round. This calls for proper layering.
Being prepared for your trip beyond just bookings and itineraries will significantly contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable experience. This includes knowing what documents to carry, how to stay connected, and how to maintain your health and safety in a new environment.
Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your travels. You will need both physical and digital copies for backup.
Always check official government websites for the most current and accurate entry requirements before your trip. Requirements can change without notice.
Bring vaccination records and health documentation. While not typically required for entry, a record of important vaccinations is advisable. If you have significant medical conditions or allergies, include a doctor's note summarizing these. This information greatly helps medical professionals in an emergency.
Up-to-date routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio).
No specific vaccinations are required for entry to Iceland from most countries, but always confirm.
Keep both printed and digital copies of your flight tickets, accommodation bookings, rental car reservations, and tour bookings. Store these electronically on your phone or in the cloud, and print a physical set as a backup. Make them accessible offline.
Compile a list of emergency contacts, including family or friends not traveling with you.
Do not rely solely on digital copies; a dead battery means no access.
Student, senior, or press IDs can sometimes qualify for discounts. A valid student ID (like an ISIC card), senior citizen cards, or press credentials can sometimes offer discounts at museums or attractions. Check in advance if your IDs qualify. It can save a good amount on entry fees.
Carry recognized international student IDs like ISIC.
Do not expect discounts at all venues; verify first.
| Category | Consideration | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Iceland uses 230V, 50Hz. Plug types F (Schuko) and C. | Bring a Universal travel adapter compatible with European plugs. |
| Mobile | Most modern smartphones work. Local SIMs available at airports/stores. | Consider an Airalo eSIM or local SIM cards from Síminn, Nova, Vodafone. |
| Charging | Cold weather drains batteries fast. Limited outlets in remote areas. | Pack multiple Portable chargers and extra batteries for camera/phone. Keep batteries warm. |
Your personal health and wellness matter. A well-stocked kit ensures you handle minor issues on the go. While tap water is safe, always be prepared for remote adventures.
Beyond standard items like Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, include a comprehensive First aid kit.
Blister treatment (e.g., Moleskin) is essential for hiking. Elastic bandages for sprains.
Anti-inflammatory cream, Sunscreen and Lip balm with SPF (even in winter).
Always carry prescription medications in original labeled containers. Bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note.
Pack enough for your entire trip, plus a few extra days, in your carry-on bag. For over-the-counter needs, a small supply of pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), antihistamines, and Anti-diarrhea medication can be very useful.
Insect repellent (Insect repellent) for summer, especially near stagnant water. Sun protection is necessary even in cold weather due to UV radiation. Altitude sickness is not a concern for Ísafjörður. Motion sickness remedies might be useful for boat trips or winding mountain roads in the Westfjords.
While most common personal hygiene items are available in Ísafjörður, specialty brands or specific products might be harder to find or more expensive. Bring what you cannot do without.
Essential for staying hydrated and cutting costs.
Many shops charge for bags; bringing your own is economical.
Good for self-catering or picnics, reducing waste.
While crime levels are low, standard precautions add peace of mind. Personal security measures are about preparedness, not fear.
Small comfort items can significantly enhance long journeys and ensure a better night's rest, especially during the midnight sun season.
A Neck pillow for long flights or bus journeys.
An Eye mask for sleeping during summer's midnight sun.
For light sleepers, or noisy environments.
