Iceland Pointers

Iceland is a beautiful country. It is also: super cold and wicked expensive. I wore all my clothes all the time and the Bonus supermarket was my best friend.  (Side bar: take your own bags to the supermarket- they charge you for plastic bags.)

Getting Around
Unless you've rented a car, you will likely need to catch a bus to Reykjavik. The ride takes 45 minutes and is a strange introduction to the country. To not be a sucker, buy tickets online in advance and splurge on the hotel drop-off option. There are 2 bus companies that do airport to Reykjavik transfers: Fly Bus and Gray Line. Both bus lines go to their own main terminal where you then are switched into mini buses that can maneuver through Reykjavik's mini streets. Good luck finding the appropriate bus to switch to- there is little explanation given. I just asked all the different workers until I got a somewhat satisfactory response and then climbed on.  If you didn't buy the hotel drop-off option, you're on your own finding your way to your lodging with your luggage. 

Frisky critters. Too bad you can't hitch your wagon to one of the many horses you see all around the country.

Public transportation is practically non-existent in Iceland, particularly 'city' to 'city.' People averse to organized tours, of which there are myriads and they aren't cheap, usually end up renting a car. If you're in a hostel you stand a pretty good chance of meeting someone with an empty seat who would be happy for the extra gas money. I also sweeten the pot by bringing snacks to share. You can also try your luck with Iceland's ride share website Sam Ferda. A quick form collects whether you're a driver seeking passengers or a passenger looking for a ride, where to/from, and the date. There's no better way to get to know a local than being trapped in a car with them, right?

There is also a campervan option that seems economical. If I had been on just a straight vacation to Iceland during a non-winter month, I'd totally rent a Kuku Camper. It folds your transportation, lodging, and kitchen into one expense! And with a fleet of unique, graffiti-covered vans named Chuck Norris Kuku, The Hoff aka No Hassle, Rick James, Ninja Turtle to name a few, you know you're in for a unique experience. 

Cars look both ways when Chuck Norris crosses the street. Image: KukuCampers.is