Iceland on a Budget: How to Make the Most of Your Icelandair Stopover

4 minute read

By Ryan Pauls

Iceland is a stunning country with dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique experiences. However, it can often be expensive for travelers. Luckily, Icelandair offers a unique stopover program that lets you explore Iceland without adding extra cost to your flight. Here’s how to make the most of your Icelandair stopover while sticking to a budget.

What is the Icelandair Stopover Program?

Icelandair’s stopover program allows travelers to break up their long-haul flight by stopping in Iceland for up to seven days, free of charge. Instead of just passing through, you can take the opportunity to explore the country’s remarkable sights. Whether you’re en route to another destination or planning a short getaway, the stopover program offers a chance to experience Iceland without significant added travel costs.

With this program, there are no extra fees or hidden charges for the stopover. You simply extend your journey by a few days, choosing the length of your stay. This allows travelers to explore Iceland’s main attractions, from waterfalls and hot springs to volcanic landscapes, all while saving on connecting flights.

Choosing Budget-Friendly Accommodations

While Iceland has some luxurious options, there are also plenty of budget-friendly accommodations that can make your stopover more affordable. Reykjavik, the capital, offers a variety of guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels that provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Many of these budget accommodations offer easy access to public transportation, making it simple to explore the city and nearby attractions.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience, consider renting an Airbnb or staying in a local cabin outside the city. This can offer a more personal and often cheaper way to experience Iceland’s rural beauty. The savings on accommodations can give you more flexibility to spend on other activities.

No-Fee and Low-Cost Activities

Iceland is famous for its natural beauty, and much of it is free to experience. Take advantage of Iceland’s many free outdoor attractions, such as the stunning waterfalls like Gullfoss, the Golden Circle route, and the dramatic coastline at Reynisfjara. These scenic spots provide some of the most beautiful views in the country, and visiting them will cost you nothing but time and transportation.

For those who want to experience the unique Icelandic geothermal pools without the price of commercial hot springs, try visiting the free public swimming pools available throughout the country. Many smaller towns have outdoor pools heated by natural geothermal energy, and they offer a chance to soak and relax in a true Icelandic experience.

Additionally, hiking is an excellent way to explore Iceland for free. Trails in places like Thingvellir National Park and the Reykjadalur Valley are well-marked and accessible to all levels of hikers. Bring sturdy shoes and a camera to capture the landscapes that are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the world.

Taking Advantage of Icelandair’s Deals

To maximize your budget while using the Icelandair stopover, keep an eye out for special offers and discounts. Icelandair often runs promotions that include discounts on tours, accommodations, and even car rentals. By booking a package deal or taking advantage of their offers, you can save significantly on attractions and experiences during your stopover.

Icelandair also offers a variety of day tours to popular destinations such as the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and various hiking tours. These tours are often offered at a discount for stopover passengers, providing a convenient way to explore Iceland’s main highlights without breaking your budget. For longer stays, you can also find discounted multi-day tour options.

Eating on a Budget in Iceland

One of the most challenging aspects of traveling in Iceland is the cost of food. However, there are ways to keep your meals affordable without sacrificing quality. Many grocery stores in Reykjavik offer reasonably priced Icelandic staples, such as bread, cheese, yogurt, and fresh vegetables. Stocking up on snacks and simple meals from the grocery store is a great way to save money.

For a more local experience, check out Iceland’s food trucks or casual eateries. Many of these places serve traditional Icelandic dishes at lower prices than sit-down restaurants. Iceland’s hot dog stands, in particular, are famous for their delicious and inexpensive hot dogs, made with locally sourced ingredients.

If you do plan to dine out, avoid eating in tourist-heavy areas like near Reykjavik’s main square. Venture to local neighborhoods where you can enjoy a more authentic meal for a fraction of the cost.

Maximize Your Icelandic Stopover Experience

Icelandair’s stopover program is an excellent way to experience the wonders of Iceland without significantly increasing your travel costs. By selecting budget accommodations, exploring free activities, and utilizing special discounts, you can enjoy the best of Iceland on a budget.

With its incredible natural beauty and unique experiences, Iceland is well worth exploring, even on a tight budget.

Contributor

Ryan has been writing and editing professionally for a dozen or so years. From his time covering music news at his university newspaper to his current role in online publishing, Ryan has made a career out of his love for language. When he isn’t typing away, he can be found spending time with family, reading books, or immersed in good music.