Backpacking by way of Iceland is a dream for a lot of, and it’s simple to see why. From chasing the Northern Lights to witnessing a effervescent scorching spring in motion, experiencing the midnight solar, or just soaking within the nation’s wild, untamed magnificence, there’s one thing actually 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 the event you love nature.
There’s loads to see, and since it’s an costly nation, many individuals need to backpack by way of it as a less expensive different. However, there’s loads 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 international locations on this planet. Crime is sort of non-existent, and locals are extremely welcoming and useful. Solo feminine travellers usually discover Iceland to be one of the vital comfy locations to discover alone. That stated, the actual challenges come from geography and climate.
Iceland’s climate is infamous for altering straight away, so checking forecasts frequently isn’t simply really helpful. It’s important. The Icelandic Meteorological Workplace (Vedur.is) and SafeTravel.is are nice sources for real-time updates on climate and highway situations.
It’s additionally essential to familiarise your self with the terrain. For those who’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 as a result of sneaker waves and highly effective undercurrents. Equally, boggy areas can swallow you up in the event 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 finest spent.
As a solo traveller, at all times let somebody know your plans, whether or not it’s a buddy again house or a guesthouse host. You can too hire a private locator beacon (PLB) or register your journey plans with SafeTravel.is for added safety.
Pack Good
A backpacking journey in Iceland is all about balancing preparedness with maintaining your pack mild. Necessities embody:
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 the event 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 telephone or private GPS machine. Iceland has huge areas with no telephone sign, and this generally is a lifesaver.
A headlamp with additional batteries. Important for mountain climbing in low mild, particularly exterior of summer season when daytime are shorter.
A medical equipment. With blister plasters, ache aid, and fundamental first support—as a result of pharmacies are scarce exterior main cities.
Reusables. A refillable water bottle and reusable utensils get monetary savings and scale back waste. Iceland’s faucet water is among the purest on this planet, so there’s no want to purchase bottled water.
Hire a Campervan for Freedom
You may suppose that renting something in Iceland would blow your funds, however renting a campervan in Iceland over a automotive can truly be a sensible funding. Not solely does it prevent from costly lodge stays, nevertheless it additionally offers you flexibility to discover at your personal tempo. Plus, you may deliver extra baggage and even refill on meals at budget-friendly supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan.
For those who’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 protected earlier than setting off, as situations can change each day.
Keep Linked
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 potential whereas additionally staying protected.
Obtain offline maps. Google Maps works properly, however Maps.me and Gaia GPS are glorious for mountain climbing routes.
Carry a bodily map and compass. Digital units 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 photographs, and GPS apps drain battery shortly.
If you wish to keep additional linked, you should buy an area 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 always 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 finest 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 fashion, in the event you fall, you may get free shortly.
If unsure, don’t cross—wait it out or discover one other manner round.
Finances Ideas for Backpacking Iceland
Iceland has a status for being costly, however with a little bit of planning and creativity, you may hold prices down with out sacrificing the expertise. Right here’s easy methods to stretch your funds whereas nonetheless profiting from your journey:
1. Save on Lodging
Campsites are your finest buddy. For those who’re not renting a campervan, carrying a light-weight tent and staying at designated campsites (which frequently have showers and kitchen services) is a budget-friendly possibility. Wild tenting is simply allowed in very restricted areas, so persist with campsites like Reykjavík Campsite or Skaftafell Nationwide Park Campground.
Attempt hostel dorms. Iceland’s hostels are clear, protected, and nice for assembly different travellers. Take 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 the event you get fortunate, you may keep someplace totally free whereas taking care of an area’s house or pets.
Use Couchsurfing. Icelanders are identified for his or her hospitality, and Couchsurfing generally is a improbable 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.
Refill at funds supermarkets. Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó are the most cost effective grocery shops.
Pack some meals from house. 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.
Attempt fuel station scorching canines. If you wish to eat out on a budget, Icelandic scorching canines (pylsur) are surprisingly scrumptious and one of the vital reasonably priced meals you’ll discover.
Carry a reusable espresso cup and water bottle. Iceland’s faucet water is among the cleanest on this planet, and lots of cafés provide reductions in the event you deliver your personal cup.
3. Get Round for Much less
Transport may be one of many greatest bills, so plan properly.
Hitchhiking is widespread and protected. Iceland is among the few locations the place hitchhiking remains to be broadly accepted and protected for solo feminine travellers. Locals and fellow travellers usually cease to supply rides, particularly on the Ring Street.
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 guide costly Golden Circle excursions, however you may 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 finest experiences are free—nature is the primary attraction!
Skip the Blue Lagoon and go to a free scorching spring as an alternative. The Blue Lagoon is dear, 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 totally free. As an alternative of reserving an costly tour, test the aurora forecast and head out of city your self—Grotta Lighthouse in Reykjavík is a good 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
Choosing the proper time of yr 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 completely different however visiting exterior peak summer season (June–August) can save a ton of cash.
Spring (April–Could) and autumn (September–October) nonetheless have first rate 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 highway closures. Nonetheless, that is additionally the most effective time for the Northern Lights!
Remaining Ideas
No matter you determine, 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 may join with nature, take a look at your limits, and expertise nature at its best, all on a backpacker funds.