Backpacking via Iceland is a dream for a lot of, and it’s straightforward to see why. From chasing the Northern Lights to witnessing a effervescent sizzling spring in motion, experiencing the midnight solar, or just soaking within the nation’s wild, untamed magnificence, there’s one thing really magical about this nation. As a solo feminine traveller, Iceland presents a mixture of journey, solitude, and security, making it a perfect vacation spot in case you love nature.
There’s rather a lot to see, and since it’s an costly nation, many individuals need to backpack via it as a less expensive various. However, there’s rather a lot to think about, particularly in respecting its brutal nature and getting ready for solo journey in such a distant and unpredictable atmosphere.
Security First
The excellent news is that Iceland is among the most secure and most extremely educated nations on the earth. Crime is sort of non-existent, and locals are extremely welcoming and useful. Solo feminine travellers usually discover Iceland to be some of the comfy locations to discover alone. That stated, the actual challenges come from geography and climate.
Iceland’s climate is infamous for altering immediately, so checking forecasts frequently isn’t simply advisable. It’s important. The Icelandic Meteorological Workplace (Vedur.is) and SafeTravel.is are nice assets for real-time updates on climate and street situations.
It’s additionally vital to familiarise your self with the terrain. In the event you’re planning on doing any critical mountain climbing, observe with lengthy walks and carrying your backpack beforehand. Sure landscapes—like black sand seashores—could look inviting however may be harmful attributable to sneaker waves and highly effective undercurrents. Equally, boggy areas can swallow you up in case you’re not cautious. By no means try to stroll on glaciers or climb icebergs with out a skilled information—that is the place your cash is greatest spent.
As a solo traveller, at all times let somebody know your plans, whether or not it’s a good friend again dwelling or a guesthouse host. You may as well lease a private locator beacon (PLB) or register your journey plans with SafeTravel.is for added safety.
Pack Sensible
A backpacking journey in Iceland is all about balancing preparedness with maintaining your pack mild. Necessities embrace:
- Layers, layers, layers! Go for Merino wool base layers and waterproof outer layers quite than one thick jacket. This retains you heat, dry, and versatile.
- Waterproof all the things. A water-resistant backpack cowl and dry baggage for valuables will prevent in case you get caught in sudden rain or river crossings.
- A superb pair of mountain climbing boots. Iceland’s terrain is rocky, uneven, and infrequently moist, so sturdy, waterproof boots are non-negotiable.
- A satellite tv for pc cellphone or private GPS system. Iceland has huge areas with no cellphone sign, and this is usually a lifesaver.
- A headlamp with additional batteries. Important for mountain climbing in low mild, particularly outdoors of summer season when daytime are shorter.
- A medical package. With blister plasters, ache aid, and fundamental first assist—as a result of pharmacies are scarce outdoors main cities.
- Reusables. A refillable water bottle and reusable utensils lower your expenses and cut back waste. Iceland’s faucet water is a number of the purest on the earth, so there’s no want to purchase bottled water.
Hire a Campervan for Freedom
You would possibly assume that renting something in Iceland would blow your funds, however renting a campervan in Iceland over a automotive can really be a sensible funding. Not solely does it prevent from costly resort stays, however it additionally offers you flexibility to discover at your personal tempo. Plus, you’ll be able to deliver extra baggage and even fill up on meals at budget-friendly supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan.
In the event you’re planning to enterprise onto Iceland’s F-roads (mountain roads main into the highlands), you’ll want a 4×4 campervan—common autos aren’t allowed on these rugged tracks. Be sure you test which roads are secure earlier than setting off, as situations can change each day.
Keep Related
Whereas Iceland is a small nation, its landscapes are huge, and sure areas have little to no signage. As a solo feminine traveller, you’ll need as a lot freedom as attainable whereas additionally staying secure.
- Obtain offline maps. Google Maps works properly, however Maps.me and Gaia GPS are wonderful for mountain climbing routes.
- Carry a bodily map and compass. Digital gadgets are nice, however they’re no good in the event that they run out of battery.
- Carry an influence financial institution. You’ll be taking a great deal of pictures, and GPS apps drain battery rapidly.
If you wish to keep additional related, you should buy a native SIM card (Siminn or Vodafone) with knowledge to make use of on the go.
River Crossings – Don’t Underestimate Them
Many mountain climbing trails in Iceland contain crossing rivers, and that is one thing that usually will get ignored. Even shallow rivers can have sturdy currents that make crossing harmful.
- Assess the water depth with a stick earlier than stepping in.
- Mornings are greatest as water ranges are normally decrease after a chilly evening.
- Cross on the widest, shallowest level quite than the narrowest part, the place the present is probably going stronger.
- Unclip your backpack straps earlier than crossing—this manner, in case you fall, you will get free rapidly.
If unsure, don’t cross—wait it out or discover one other means round.
Price range Ideas for Backpacking Iceland
Iceland has a popularity for being costly, however with a little bit of planning and creativity, you’ll be able to preserve prices down with out sacrificing the expertise. Right here’s methods to stretch your funds whereas nonetheless benefiting from your journey:
1. Save on Lodging
- Campsites are your greatest good friend. In the event you’re not renting a campervan, carrying a light-weight tent and staying at designated campsites (which regularly have showers and kitchen services) is a budget-friendly choice. Wild tenting is simply allowed in very restricted areas, so keep on with campsites like Reykjavík Campsite or Skaftafell Nationwide Park Campground.
- Strive hostel dorms. Iceland’s hostels are clear, secure, and nice for assembly different travellers. Have a look at choices like KEX Hostel in Reykjavík or Akureyri Backpackers within the north. Many hostels provide female-only dorms for added consolation.
- Contemplate house-sitting. Web sites like TrustedHousesitters generally have listings in Iceland—in case you get fortunate, you might keep someplace without spending a dime whereas taking care of a neighborhood’s dwelling or pets.
- Use Couchsurfing. Icelanders are recognized for his or her hospitality, and Couchsurfing is usually a unbelievable solution to meet locals and save on lodging.
2. Keep away from Eating places
Consuming out in Iceland is eye-wateringly costly, so self-catering is essential.
- Top off at funds supermarkets. Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó are the most cost effective grocery shops.
- Pack some meals from dwelling. In case your airline permits it, bringing dry items like porridge oats, protein bars, and pasta might help minimize prices.
- Make use of hostel kitchens. Cooking your personal meals saves a fortune—many hostels have communal kitchens, and a few campsites do too.
- Strive fuel station sizzling canines. If you wish to eat out on a budget, Icelandic sizzling canines (pylsur) are surprisingly scrumptious and some of the reasonably priced meals you’ll discover.
- Carry a reusable espresso cup and water bottle. Iceland’s faucet water is a number of the cleanest on the earth, and plenty of cafés provide reductions in case you deliver your personal cup.
3. Get Round for Much less
Transport may be one of many largest bills, so plan properly.
- Hitchhiking is widespread and secure. Iceland is among the few locations the place hitchhiking continues to be broadly accepted and secure for solo feminine travellers. Locals and fellow travellers usually cease to supply rides, particularly on the Ring Highway.
- Use public transport for longer journeys. The Straeto bus system connects Reykjavík with many cities, and whereas it’s not tremendous low-cost, it’s extra reasonably priced than renting a automotive solo.
- Be part of carpooling teams. Fb teams like “Iceland Journey and Carpool” are nice for locating different travellers to share rental prices. Web sites like Samferða (Iceland’s model of BlaBlaCar) additionally join drivers with passengers.
- Skip the Golden Circle tour—DIY it. Many individuals e book costly Golden Circle excursions, however you’ll be able to see Thingvellir Nationwide Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss by renting a automotive for a single day or utilizing public buses.
4. Free & Low cost Actions
Iceland’s greatest experiences are free—nature is the primary attraction!
- Skip the Blue Lagoon and go to a free sizzling spring as a substitute. The Blue Lagoon is pricey, however locations like Reykjadalur Sizzling River (a brief hike from Hveragerði) or Seljavallalaug Pool provide free or less expensive alternate options.
- Make the most of free mountain climbing trails. The Laugavegur Path, Glymur Waterfall, and Mt. Esja are all spectacular and value nothing.
- See the Northern Lights without spending a dime. As a substitute of reserving an costly tour, test the aurora forecast and head out of city your self—Grotta Lighthouse in Reykjavík is a superb spot.
- Go to museums on free days. Some museums, just like the Nationwide Museum of Iceland, provide free admission on sure days.
5. Journey in Shoulder Season
Selecting the best time of 12 months for backpacking in Iceland is a private determination. Would you like the midnight solar of summer season, the Northern Lights in winter, or the gorgeous autumn colors of September? Every season presents one thing totally different however visiting outdoors peak summer season (June–August) can save a ton of cash.
- Spring (April–Could) and autumn (September–October) nonetheless have respectable climate however decrease costs on lodging and automotive leases.
- Winter (November–March) is the most cost effective time to go to, however be ready for harsh climate, restricted daylight, and street closures. Nonetheless, that is additionally the very best time for the Northern Lights!
Ultimate Ideas
No matter you resolve, Iceland is a spot the place preparation is essential, however the rewards are unimaginable. As a solo feminine traveller, you’ll discover it a spot the place you’ll be able to join with nature, take a look at your limits, and expertise nature at its best, all on a backpacker funds.