Pre-Trip Planning: Isafjordur

Essential Preparations Timeline

A structured timeline guides your Ísafjörður journey planning.

Your Planning Roadmap

Breaking down preparation into phases makes the process clear and manageable.

+ Months Ahead

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity. Research visa rules if needed and begin applications.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Keflavík (KEF). Start looking into domestic flights to Ísafjörður (IFJ) or car rentals.

Early Stays & Insurance

Book accommodation, especially for peak season. Purchase comprehensive travel Insurance (World Nomads).

Month Ahead

Transport & Tours

Book your domestic flights to IFJ or your rental car. Confirm all details.

Activity Reservations

Book any tours like sea kayaking or Hornstrandir boat transfers, specifically for summer.

Permits & Health

Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license needs one. Consult your doctor for health advice.

Week Ahead

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings for flights, accommodation, car, and tours.

Weather & Packing

Check the Ísafjörður weather forecast. Finalize your packing list; focus on layers and waterproof gear. Organize with Eagle Creek travel organization products.

Digital Prep & Bank

Download offline maps and apps like Veður. Inform your bank of travel plans. Consider NordVPN for secure browsing.

Bookings & Reservations

Certain bookings need early attention for a smooth journey, especially during peak seasons.

Advance Commitments

Flights (international to KEF and domestic to IFJ).
Accommodation for your entire stay.
Rental car (if driving the Westfjords).
Popular tours with limited capacity (e.g., Hornstrandir boat trip, sea kayaking).

Research Deep Dive

Thorough research provides confidence for navigating local conditions and customs.

Areas for Study

Review road conditions and typical weather for your season (road.is is ).
Familiarize yourself with basic Icelandic phrases.
Understand Icelandic driving rules, especially on off-road driving.
Learn about local customs and social norms to interact respectfully.

Home Readiness

Prepare your home before you leave for peace of mind during your travels.

Mail & Pets

Arrange for mail collection.
Organize pet care if needed.
Notify trusted neighbors.
Consider smart home devices for remote monitoring.

Security Measures

Secure all doors and windows.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.
Set timers for lights.
Turn off main water valve if leaving for long periods.

Financial Alerts

Inform bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Have local currency ready upon arrival if preferred.
Keep emergency funds separate.
Understand foreign transaction fees.

Smart Planning

This checklist helps systematically prepare for your Ísafjörður journey. Early steps prevent last-minute rushes.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Ísafjörður set a positive tone for your trip. A short checklist helps you settle in efficiently.

Initial Actions

1
Clear Immigration
If arriving internationally, clear immigration at Keflavík (KEF).
2
Local Transport
From Ísafjörður Airport (IFJ), pick up your rental car or take a taxi to town.
3
Safe Arrival Notification
Inform family or friends of your safe arrival at your destination.

Orientation Strategies

Tourist Information Visit
Visit the Tourist Information Center in Ísafjörður for maps and local advice.
Town Exploration
Take a walk around the town center to get your bearings. Note accommodation and restaurants.
Currency & Connectivity
Use credit/debit cards for transactions. Consider a local SIM or activate your eSIM.

Airport to Accommodation

From IFJ Airport

From Ísafjörður airport, take a taxi or pick up your rental car to reach Ísafjörður town.

The airport is just a short distance from the town center.

By Intercity Bus

If arriving by intercity bus, your accommodation likely is a short walk or taxi ride from the bus stop.

Bus travel is scenic but takes longer from Reykjavík.

Connecting Flights

If you arrived at KEF and take a domestic flight to IFJ, arrange transfer to Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV).

These internal flights simplify travel to the Westfjords.

Smooth Start

First steps upon arrival help you settle. Orient yourself by visiting the Tourist Information Center and exploring the town center. Local currency is not highly needed, as cards work almost everywhere.

Departure Preparations

Ensure a smooth departure from Ísafjörður and Iceland.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
Inquire about VAT refunds if applicable to your purchases.
Arrange for shipping items home well before your departure date.
VAT refund processing usually occurs at Keflavík International Airport.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel to Ísafjörður Airport (IFJ) for your domestic flight.
Weather can cause delays at IFJ, a small airport.
For international flights from KEF, factor in extensive travel time from Ísafjörður.
Aim for 2-3 hours early arrival at KEF for international departures.

Customs & Returns

VAT Refund Process

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds.
Purchases above a certain amount qualify.
Tax-free forms fill at point of purchase.
Process forms at KEF for international flights.

Final Checks

Confirm your return flights.
Confirm all transportation arrangements.
All personal belongings are packed.
Check your accommodation for forgotten items.

Seamless Departure

Careful pre-departure planning helps with a worry-free exit from Ísafjörður and Iceland.

Manage souvenirs, understand VAT refunds, and confirm all transport. These steps lead to a smooth departure.

Pre-Trip Planning