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From the Heart

Hello! Welcome to my unique blog where I share with you some ebbs and flows. This project has added such value to my life, and I love having the opportunity to share my experiences and insights with my readers. As I grow and expand so will the content. This will be a space to include all that fills my soul. From mindful travel, to what fuels me, and helpful things for life.

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Writer's pictureSamantha Streator

5 Things You Must Know When Traveling to Iceland

Updated: Mar 2

I spent hours researching Iceland to make sure I'd have a trip full of adventure. I didn't want any bad surprises.


Traveling solo to the land of fire and ice had been on my bucket list since I first knew the term. I was dead set on seeing the northern lights, learning Viking history, and seeing things I'd had been daydreaming about for two decades.


I chose to stay in a conversion van. I figured being immersed would give me the greatest chance of dancing with that colorful night sky. I had only four days, a tattoo appointment, ice cave tour, and more. Somehow I did it all - and then some!




In all my research I found some key information was missing! I've created this post to hopefully save you some time, and help you witness more of the beauty Iceland holds. Some tips and tricks I learned along the way...


Get the Camper


It's not news to anyone that Iceland is expensive. Hotels, although beautiful and many luxurious, they are very isolated from all the sights and destinations. To save time and money, rent a camper van or vehicle and plan to pitch a tent. This way, you aren't waiting on a large tour group and can hand pick where you want to explore, not just the headliners! If you are interested in taking a laid back planned out for you approach, this tour is a great way to see the Snaefellsness Peninsula, or check out this day trip including Hot Springs and the Golden Circle


Iceland is the most friendly place I have been to for travelers who prefer to sleep roadside. However, please don't do that here. It's a actually illegal! But there are campsites all throughout the country with a 7-15$ rate per night. They have cooking facilities, bathrooms, showers, and we're very peaceful and perfectly located. Some are closed seasonly so do check this map for a detailed list of all of them in the country. && remember, leave no trace!


Know the Signs

Not that 777... but road signs! Since you've taken my advice and will be driving through this beautiful country, you need to know how to be safe on the road. I was shocked at how little stop signs I saw! I kept looking for signage about a pull off area, or picnic area, somewhere to park while I stare in awe sat my surroundings.


After a few guess and checks - since this piece was SCRUBBED from the internet it seemed - I found it! The point of interest sign. This means a scenic spot and to please pull over! Most of these spots had small walking paths, picnic tables for a quick meal or coffee, and of course, a photo opp. If I had known this earlier I'd have seen even more on my journey! Lay-by, walking starting point, and point of interest were all holding the keys to my journey.


Accept the Wet


I was determined to not be cold and wet on my trip, since I was traveling in October. I thought I packed enough layers, enough waterproofed gear, but there is no escaping the water. Even if you're dry, the gear is wet and you will keep needing it depending on the timing of your visit. Once you accept this, and relish in the glory of being covered in Icelandic water (it's like water, but better - it's in Iceland) the misery is back where you came from and you're ready for more. However, staying dry does help! I had some great gear to help me do so, like this slip-on cover to keep your backpack dry, raincoat, and rain pants! I've never had a better and versatile cold weather jacket.


Get up Even Earlier


The early bird sure does get that worm, and unless you want to be standing in line while crowds still go in front of you, so will you!!

When visiting some of the main waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss be sure to be one of the first ones there. The tour buses leave Reykjavik and only hit these mainstream spots. So if they're on your list, get there first, or allow yourself extra time at these spots to make sure to account for the crowds. These places I found were the most crowded in Iceland, and nearly every other traveller seemed to forget we were all there to appreciate the same thing.


Besides, waking up early means more time for activities, and another reason for a hot cup of espresso!


Step Out of Your Comfort Zone


This is going to look different for everyone. Maybe it's kayaking in the glacier lagoon, going on a volcanic lava tour or lava show, taking a glacier hike, or venturing into a cave of ice. The adventures are endless in Iceland, please check out this list for the most inclusive list I have come across. Most of them include your transfers! The most rewarding part of my trip was climbing back down a mountainous sheet of glacial ice. We had just come out of a newly formed cave, one that probably no longer exists as I write this, but the sensations of being surrounded and under thousands of pounds of ice is indescribable. I was terrified as we climbed higher, only to go inside. Hearing the crunching of the ice beneath my crampons, worried with one step I may slip and fall into the ravine. But I kept on, because I just had to see how powerful the glacier truly was. How the ice was in control here.

I almost didn't take this tour. But I'm glad it did. It brought me to new levels of trust with humanity, myself, and the manufacturer of those crampons. The most rewarding things come from when we challenge ourselves, and stepping out from your comfort zone while in Iceland simply MUST be done!



What crazy adventure do you have planned?




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