So, picture this: You’re buzzing with excitement, scrolling through breathtaking photos of glaciers, waterfalls, and otherworldly landscapes, all in preparation for your very first trip to Iceland. Trust me, I’ve been there! As an American who just visited this incredible land of fire and ice, I can tell you it lives up to the hype and then some. It’s truly a place that makes every visit feel like the first time, with its magical activities and constantly changing scenery.
But here’s the thing, even with all that magic, human error is absolutely inevitable, from forgetting a meeting to fumbling a significant project. And when it comes to travel, a few missteps can seriously put a damper on your dream vacation. We’re often conditioned to hide our mistakes, fearing judgment, but what if we treated them as necessary steps toward growth instead of avoiding them?
That’s exactly why I’m here to spill the tea on some of the most common blunders I, and many other first-timers, have made. This isn’t about shaming anyone; it’s about sharing insights so you can have the safest, most fulfilling, and maybe even a slightly less expensive trip than mine. So, let’s dive into the first half of these “oops” moments, transforming potential headaches into helpful lessons!
1. **Drinking/Spending Money on Liquor**
Okay, let’s get real about one of the fastest ways to empty your wallet in Iceland: buying alcohol. Seriously, this is one of the biggest mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re at a restaurant, a cozy bar, or even a liquor store, alcohol in Iceland is incredibly, painfully expensive. Why? Well, it’s largely due to how heavily it’s taxed, which is something you quickly learn when you see the prices.
But don’t despair! There’s a savvy workaround for getting your hands on some tax-free sips that won’t totally break the bank. Your best bet is to stock up at the duty-free shop right at Keflavik International Airport when you land. Each traveler gets an allowance of six units of alcohol from duty-free, so definitely use that handy duty-free allowance calculator to figure out exactly how much of each type of alcohol you can grab.
If you absolutely must purchase alcohol later during your visit, be warned: the only places you can buy it are government-run liquor stores called Vínbúðin. These stores have pretty strict hours, usually closing at 6 PM most days and, wait for it, they’re completely closed on Sundays. So, if you’re planning a weekend unwind, plan accordingly! Oh, and one more thing: forget about picking up beer at the supermarket. They’re banned from selling anything over 2.25% alcohol, so that “Pilsner” you see is virtually non-alcoholic. Head to Vínbúðin instead, or better yet, hit up happy hours! Downloading the Reykjavik Appy Hour app is a total game-changer for scouting out those cheaper happy hour deals in the city.
2. **Spending Too Much Time In Reykjavik**
Reykjavik, no doubt, is utterly charming. It’s got museums, art galleries, fantastic restaurants, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and a vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs. You could easily keep yourself entertained within the city limits for days, and honestly, it’s a great place to start your Icelandic adventure. But here’s the mistake: letting Reykjavik consume too much of your precious travel time.
While the city offers a delightful urban experience, Iceland’s real, undeniable draw is its mind-blowing natural beauty, which is just a hop, skip, and a jump beyond the city lights. If you’re flying all the way to the land of fire and ice and not venturing out to experience its expansive fields of lava rock, mighty glaciers, and thundering waterfalls, you’re truly missing the heart and soul of the country. It’s like going to Disney World and only visiting the gift shop!
The absolute best thing you can do for yourself is to rent a car and just get out there. Within a mere 15 minutes or so, you can escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in fields of moss, witness steam rising mysteriously from the ground, marvel at cascading waterfalls, explore unusual black sand beaches, and so much more. One moment, you might be gazing at a Mars-like landscape, and the next, you’ll be watching enormous chunks of icebergs washing up to shore. And as a little bonus tip: if you’re chasing the Northern Lights in winter, they’re far more visible the further you venture from city light pollution. If that doesn’t inspire you to hit the road and broaden your horizons, I don’t know what will!
3. **Trying To Do Too Much In One Trip**
This might sound contradictory after just telling you to get out of Reykjavik, but hear me out: this is a vacation, not a race! Trying to cram absolutely everything into one trip is a classic mistake you’ll want to avoid in Iceland. It’s easy to get excited and overwhelmed by the sheer number of incredible sights, especially when planning that epic Ring Road journey.
Traveling Iceland’s Ring Road is genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking you through incredibly diverse landscapes, from ancient glaciers to bubbling hot springs. It winds around the entire perimeter of the country, showcasing jaw-dropping waterfalls and dramatic volcanic terrains. However, it is absolutely crucial that you allocate enough time to properly complete this route. You simply won’t enjoy your trip if you’re constantly rushing from one breathtaking spot to the next, just snapping a quick photo, and immediately moving on.
Don’t make the mistake of trying to squeeze a two-week itinerary into just four days. For the truly best Ring Road experience, you should ideally set aside 10 to 14 days for the trip. This generous timeframe allows you the luxury of strolling along those unique beaches, taking a moment to truly feel the refreshing spray from a majestic waterfall gently falling on your face, and generally savoring the beauty. If you don’t have that much time, don’t fret! Just figure out which section of the route is most important for you to see and adjust your itinerary accordingly. Remember: quality over quantity. You’ll enjoy your trip so much more if you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty you *are* able to see.
4. **Only Traveling In Iceland In The Summer**
It’s easy to see why summer in Iceland is so incredibly popular. You’ve got endless daylight, much milder temperatures, beautiful arctic lupines blooming, and a plethora of opportunities for hiking and adventuring. It’s the time when many people naturally think of visiting. However, one of the biggest mistakes to avoid in Iceland is limiting your visit exclusively to the summer months and thereby missing out on an entirely different, equally wonderful set of experiences available throughout the rest of the year.
Consider visiting Iceland in December, for example. This time of year offers the potential for catching a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights, a truly magical spectacle that often requires darker skies away from city light pollution. You can also partake in the country’s unique Christmas and New Year’s Eve traditions, which are a charming insight into local culture. And while the natural hot pots are a delight all year long, there’s arguably no better time to enjoy their warm, therapeutic waters than when snow blankets the surrounding landscape, creating a stunning contrast.
Or perhaps you might find October more appealing. This period still allows you to catch the tail end of the whale watching season, see the iconic Imagine Peace Tower (built in memory of John Lennon) beautifully lit on Viðey Island, or even party with the locals in your best costume for Halloween. Not to mention, the fall colors painting the already stunning Icelandic landscape are an absolute sight to behold, offering a different kind of natural beauty than the vibrant green of summer. While summer is popular for good reason, the “offseason” comes with fewer tourists and distinct opportunities for unique adventures that are truly special in their own right.
5. **Only Visiting Tourist Hot Spots And Nowhere Else**
If you’ve started planning your trip to Iceland, you’ve almost certainly heard about the Golden Circle. It’s Iceland’s most popular tourist route, famously including the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, the active Strokkur geyser, and the historically significant Thingvellir National Park. And yes, these spots are undeniably spectacular and serve as a fantastic introduction to Iceland’s diverse natural landscape. However, making the mistake of limiting your entire trip solely to these well-trodden tourist hot spots means you’d be missing out on an immense amount of breathtaking beauty the country has to offer by not venturing beyond the most famous locations.
Iceland is practically bursting with hidden gems if you only know where to seek them out. Imagine rock scrambling and pulling yourself along with the help of chains to reach the majestic Nauthúsagil Waterfall, or finding serenity relaxing in the warm, natural waters of Hrunalaug Hot Spring. The possibilities for unique adventures away from the usual crowds are truly endless, offering a more intimate and often more profound connection with the landscape.
Venture east, for instance, and you’ll discover the dramatic, jagged Vestrahorn mountain, beautifully framed by a black sand beach – a photographer’s dream. Also in the east are the impressive Stuðlagil Canyon with its striking basalt column walls and incredibly blue water, the tranquil Djúpavogskörin Hot Spring perfect for bathing amidst nature, and the charming, picture-perfect rainbow street and distinctive blue church in Seyðisfjörður. Or consider the remote beauty of the Westfjords, an area where fewer tourists venture, offering peaceful fjords, the unusual red sands of Rauðasandur Beach, abundant puffins at the Látrabjarg Cliffs, and the famous cascading Dynjandi waterfall. And if you’re up for a short ferry ride to Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands), you’ll find the Stafkirkjan (Heimaey stave church), more puffins in summer, fantastic hiking, volcanic craters, and even a rope swing – perfect for escaping the main tourist hubs and discovering unique corners of this incredible island.
6. **Thinking You Don’t Have Enough Time**
It’s easy to look at Iceland’s vast landscapes and incredible array of outdoor adventures and feel like you need weeks, maybe even months, to see it all. And while it’s true that every time you visit, you’ll find something new to discover and explore, one of the biggest mistakes to avoid in Iceland is letting the idea that “you don’t have enough time” prevent you from going or from enjoying your trip. The truth is, you can have an absolutely fantastic and memorable trip even with a limited amount of time.
For a quick, yet incredibly rewarding introduction to Iceland, focusing on the Golden Circle is a perfect choice. This popular route efficiently showcases some of Iceland’s diverse natural wonders, including the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Thingvellir National Park. Plus, there are charming optional stops along the way like the Kerið crater, the enchanting Brúarfoss Waterfall, and the Secret Lagoon. This route is exceptionally tourist-friendly, easy to navigate, and provides a wide spectrum of Iceland’s unique natural landscape without requiring a massive time commitment.
Next on your condensed itinerary could be tackling Iceland’s south coast, which is a treasure trove of spectacular waterfalls. Here, you’ll find the thundering Skógafoss waterfall, the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall (where you can walk behind the curtain of water!), the more hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall, the serene Kvernufoss waterfall, and even the fascinating Sólheimasandur plane wreck. All these can be incredibly rewarding experiences. Believe it or not, many of these stops, including the south coast highlights and Golden Circle, can be wonderfully experienced through day trips from Reykjavik, with just three days offering a truly spectacular overview of the country’s dramatic beauty. Of course, an extended stay allows for the full Ring Road adventure, but even a short trip to Iceland can yield a journey worth writing home about.
So, we’ve navigated the initial hurdles, from managing those surprisingly steep liquor prices to broadening our horizons beyond Reykjavik’s charming city limits. We’ve even talked about embracing Iceland year-round and letting go of that pesky fear of not having enough time. Now, let’s dive into the next chapter of our journey, uncovering six more pivotal mistakes that, once avoided, will truly unlock the magic of your Icelandic adventure. Get ready to transform potential travel woes into unforgettable, seamless experiences!
7. **Buying Bottled Water**
Okay, let’s talk about one of the easiest ways to save money, be eco-friendly, and honestly, treat yourself to some of the best water on the planet: ditch the bottled water! This is one of the biggest, most common mistakes to avoid in Iceland, and once you know the secret, you’ll wonder why anyone ever falls for it. Seriously, bring your own reusable water bottle, because Iceland’s tap water is so pure, so pristine, and so incredibly delicious, it will blow your mind. And the best part? It’s absolutely free.
Here’s a little insider tip: the bottled water you see for sale in Iceland? It’s the exact same water that’s flowing from the taps! By choosing tap water, you’re not just being kind to your wallet; you’re also being a superstar for the environment, significantly reducing plastic waste. This isn’t just any tap water; it’s derived directly from Iceland’s natural springs, which means it’s naturally free of chlorine, calcium, and nitrate. It’s also rigorously monitored to ensure that what you’re pouring into your bottle is nothing short of top-notch quality. Given the island’s abundance of freshwater sources, it’s only logical that its drinking water would be, well, virtually perfect!
Now, for a crucial detail to ensure you get the absolute best, purest drinking water every single time: always turn your tap to its coldest setting. This is key because the hot water in Iceland is geothermally heated and, let’s be honest, it smells distinctly like sulfur. If you let even a tiny bit of that hot water mix with the cold, that sulfuric scent will linger, tainting your refreshing drink. So, stick to the chilly side and enjoy the unparalleled taste of Iceland’s natural springs, directly from your tap, without spending a single króna on unnecessary plastic bottles. You’ll thank yourself later!
8. **Booking A Blue Lagoon Ticket Last Minute**
If you’ve even whispered “Iceland trip” into the universe, chances are the Blue Lagoon has popped up on your radar. And for good reason! With its surreal milky blue, mineral-rich geothermal seawater, it truly is an idyllic spot for some serious relaxation and recharging. Over the years, this geothermal wonderland has expanded its offerings, now boasting multiple hotels, luxurious spa packages, and even a convenient swim-up bar, and with all these fantastic amenities, its popularity has absolutely soared.
Here’s where many first-timers stumble: trying to snag a ticket to this incredibly popular lagoon at the very last minute. Trust me, this is one of the biggest mistakes to avoid in Iceland if you have your heart set on a soak. These days, securing your coveted spot often means booking your time slot weeks, or even months, in advance—especially if you’re planning a visit during the bustling summer months. While the Blue Lagoon thoughtfully limits the number of visitors per hour to ensure a more enjoyable, uncrowded experience, this does make spontaneous visits a bit of a tricky endeavor.
While you can always try your luck by checking the Blue Lagoon’s website for last-minute cancellations (hey, you never know!), if you truly want to guarantee that you’ll get the chance to luxuriate in its healing waters during your trip, meticulous planning ahead is your absolute best bet. Plus, its super convenient location near the Keflavik International Airport makes it the perfect stop either right after you land to shake off that flight fatigue, or just before you head home for one last, blissful memory of Iceland. Don’t miss out on this iconic experience because of a little planning oversight!
9. **Packing An Incomplete Wardrobe**
Prepare for a wardrobe adventure, because Iceland’s weather is famously, delightfully, and often deceptively unpredictable! Locals even have a fantastic word for it: Gluggaveður, which literally translates to “window weather.” It describes those moments when it looks absolutely gorgeous and inviting outside your window, but step out, and you’re hit with an uncomfortably cold reality. This is why making the mistake of packing an incomplete wardrobe is definitely on our list of what not to do in Iceland. Our golden rule? Expect cold, rainy, and windy conditions, and then be delightfully surprised if the weather decides to play nice.
Consider this: Iceland receives roughly 213 days of rainfall a year, and often, that rain isn’t just falling; it’s coming at you horizontally, propelled by those famously strong Icelandic winds. Given that so much of Iceland’s irresistible appeal lies in its breathtaking natural beauty, you can confidently expect to spend a significant chunk of your trip outdoors, immersed in its dramatic landscapes. This isn’t a trip where you can just wing your clothing choices; having the perfect jacket for Iceland is absolutely essential, but it’s just the beginning of your packing strategy.
So, if you’re wondering what to bring, think layers and readiness for anything. From waterproof hiking boots that can tackle any trail and a heavy-duty parka to shield you from the fiercest gusts, to a lighter jacket for milder moments and, yes, even a bathing suit for those incredible hot pots—you’ll want to pack it all. If you can dream up a weather condition, chances are you’ll experience it at some point during your visit. This is precisely the scenario where the old adage, “better safe than sorry,” doesn’t just apply, it practically screams the truth. Be prepared, and you’ll be comfortable and ready for any of Iceland’s stunning meteorological surprises!
10. **Skipping The Pre-Pool Shower At Public Swimming Pools and Lagoons**
Now, this might sound a little counterintuitive given the country’s name, but trust me, there’s truly nothing better than unwinding in Iceland’s soothing hot tubs and natural hot pots, no matter the time of year! Every single town in Iceland boasts a public pool, typically featuring a main swimming pool alongside a delightful series of hot tubs with varying temperatures. And let’s not forget those spectacular lagoons, from the incredibly popular Blue Lagoon to the more secluded Secret Lagoon, all beckoning with their warm, mineral-rich waters.
However, there’s a cultural ritual you simply must embrace before you can dive into these blissful waters: you’ll be required to shower and wash up thoroughly, and yes, entirely naked, before entering the pools or lagoons. While this might feel a tad awkward or even a little shocking for many foreigners used to more private changing rooms, it’s an absolutely ingrained part of Icelandic culture. Trying to sneak into the pool without showering first is a definite no-no on our list of things not to do in Iceland, and you’ll find yourself politely, but firmly, stopped and turned around by the attentive pool staff.
The good news is, while you might initially feel a blush creeping up, Icelanders genuinely couldn’t care less that you’re naked. To them, it’s as normal and routine as waking up in the morning – a testament to their practicality and cleanliness. It’s simply how they maintain the purity of their precious geothermal waters. For those who are dead set on avoiding the communal shower experience, you’ll be happy to know that many locker rooms do offer enclosed shower stalls for a bit more privacy. So, embrace the local custom, take that shower, and then fully enjoy your wonderfully relaxing dip!
11. **Taking Risks While Driving**
Driving in Iceland, particularly during the winter months, can be quite the tricky endeavor. Roads are frequently icy, and in the more remote sections of the country, they can even be completely closed off. This is why checking the constantly updated road conditions before you even think about heading out is not just crucial, it’s absolutely non-negotiable. While Iceland has amazing search and rescue teams ready to assist, it’s a sad truth that most rescues involve tourists who are reckless and overconfident in their adventures.
We’ve seen it all: attempting river crossings in a car that’s ill-equipped for such a challenge, trying to push through a crossing in an area that’s far too deep, speeding recklessly on highland F-roads, or stubbornly trying to drive through the thick of a snowstorm. These are prime examples of major things not to do in Iceland, and unfortunately, such dangerous situations are all too common among visitors. Your vacation should be about incredible memories, not risky maneuvers that could put you or others in harm’s way.
For this reason, we highly, highly suggest renting a 4×4 vehicle if you plan on exploring any areas beyond the immediate vicinity of Reykjavik. If you’re visiting in the winter, rest assured your rental car will come equipped with specialized winter tires designed to help you navigate those icy roads with greater safety. Remember, Iceland’s weather is famously ever-changing; one minute it can be a blizzard, the next, clear skies. With a little bit of patience and frequent monitoring of the weather forecast, bad conditions will likely clear, leaving you plenty of time to venture out and explore this beautiful country safely and responsibly. Your adventure is waiting, but safety first, always!
12. **Damaging The Natural Landscape**
This is perhaps one of the most vital mistakes to avoid in Iceland, and it stems from a place of excitement and curiosity: damaging the natural landscape. We totally get it; you’re eager to explore every inch of this country’s breathtaking natural beauty, and when something utterly captivating catches your eye in the distance, venturing off the designated path can feel incredibly enticing. However, your exploration should, under no circumstances, come at the cost of harming the delicate natural world around you.
Did you know, for example, that you should absolutely, positively NEVER step on the moss in Iceland? This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a critical environmental plea. It takes thousands of years for this unique moss to grow and flourish, and a single careless step can destroy it in mere seconds! Many people, including myself on my first trip, were completely unaware of this, and I’m horrified to think that my actions inadvertently hurt this fragile ecosystem. This is knowledge that desperately needs to be more widespread! So please, unless there’s an already established clear path, refrain from stepping on the moss anywhere on the lava fields or elsewhere. We’ve even seen the damaging effects firsthand, like when Justin Bieber’s 2015 music video shoot at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon caused significant damage to the moss by frolicking off-path, or when he skateboarded across the Sólheimasandur plane wreck, actions which are strictly prohibited and rightly angered locals.
Beyond the moss, Iceland’s natural hot pots, cherished by both locals and tourists, are also frequently falling victim to human destruction. In numerous distressing cases, landowners, like those at Hrunalaug Hot Springs, have had to seriously consider closing down these beloved natural springs entirely. Why? Because tourists continue to overcrowd these pristine locations, leave behind litter, and generally leave them in a worse state than they found them. The bottom line is simple: Iceland’s landscape is not just beautiful; it is incredibly precious and extraordinarily fragile. If you want this awe-inspiring environment to be around for generations to come, to continue enchanting visitors from all corners of the globe, then please, treat it with the profound respect it so unequivocally deserves during your visit. Your actions, no matter how small, leave a lasting impact.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to sidestepping those common travel blunders that can sometimes sneak up on even the most enthusiastic explorers. We’re genuinely thrilled you’ve chosen to venture to this land of fire and ice, to immerse yourself in its remarkably diverse and utterly unique landscape. Remember, beyond these practical tips, a little common sense and a lot of respect for the local culture and environment go a long way. For instance, here’s a bonus mistake not explicitly on our list: please, avoid insulting the small, sturdy Icelandic horses by calling them ponies! They’re horses, and they’re magnificent.
By taking note of these insights, respecting the natural environment, and simply being open to new experiences, you’re well on your way to crafting the kind of unforgettable trip you’ve always dreamed of. Your Icelandic adventure awaits, full of wonder and discovery, and now you’re better equipped to make it truly spectacular. If you have any lingering questions or need more tips as you prepare for your incredible journey, don’t hesitate to share them in the comments section below. We’re here to help you make this the trip of a lifetime!”
