Backpacking through Iceland is a dream for many, and it’s easy to see why. From chasing the Northern Lights to witnessing a bubbling hot spring in action, experiencing the midnight sun, or simply soaking in the country’s wild, untamed beauty, there’s something truly magical about this country. As a solo female traveller, Iceland offers a mix of adventure, solitude, and safety, making it an ideal destination if you love nature.
There’s a lot to see, and because it’s an expensive country, many people want to backpack through it as a cheaper alternative. But, there’s a lot to consider, especially in respecting its brutal nature and preparing for solo travel in such a remote and unpredictable environment.
Safety First
The good news is that Iceland is one of the safest and most highly educated countries in the world. Crime is almost non-existent, and locals are incredibly welcoming and helpful. Solo female travellers often find Iceland to be one of the most comfortable places to explore alone. That said, the real challenges come from geography and weather.
Iceland’s weather is notorious for changing in an instant, so checking forecasts regularly isn’t just recommended. It’s essential. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (Vedur.is) and SafeTravel.is are great resources for real-time updates on weather and road conditions.
It’s also important to familiarise yourself with the terrain. If you’re planning to do any serious hiking, practice with long walks and carrying your backpack beforehand. Certain landscapes—like black sand beaches—may look inviting but can be dangerous due to sneaker waves and powerful undercurrents. Similarly, boggy areas can swallow you up if you’re not careful. Never attempt to walk on glaciers or climb icebergs without a professional guide—this is where your money is best spent.
As a solo traveller, always let someone know your plans, whether it’s a friend back home or a guesthouse host. You can also rent a personal locator beacon (PLB) or register your travel plans with SafeTravel.is for added security.
Pack Smart
A backpacking trip in Iceland is all about balancing preparedness with keeping your pack light. Essentials include:
- Layers, layers, layers! Go for Merino wool base layers and waterproof outer layers rather than one thick jacket. This keeps you warm, dry, and flexible.
- Waterproof everything. A waterproof backpack cover and dry bags for valuables will save you if you get caught in sudden rain or river crossings.
- A good pair of hiking boots. Iceland’s terrain is rocky, uneven, and often wet, so sturdy, waterproof boots are non-negotiable.
- A satellite phone or personal GPS device. Iceland has vast areas with no phone signal, and this can be a lifesaver.
- A headlamp with extra batteries. Essential for hiking in low light, especially outside of summer when daylight hours are shorter.
- A medical kit. With blister plasters, pain relief, and basic first aid—because pharmacies are scarce outside major towns.
- Reusables. A refillable water bottle and reusable utensils save money and reduce waste. Iceland’s tap water is some of the purest in the world, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
Rent a Campervan for Freedom
You might think that renting anything in Iceland would blow your budget, but renting a campervan in Iceland over a car can actually be a smart investment. Not only does it save you from expensive hotel stays, but it also gives you flexibility to explore at your own pace. Plus, you can bring more luggage and even stock up on food at budget-friendly supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan.
If you’re planning to venture onto Iceland’s F-roads (mountain roads leading into the highlands), you’ll need a 4×4 campervan—regular vehicles aren’t allowed on these rugged tracks. Be sure to check which roads are safe before setting off, as conditions can change daily.
Stay Connected
While Iceland is a small country, its landscapes are vast, and certain areas have little to no signage. As a solo female traveller, you’ll want as much freedom as possible while also staying safe.
- Download offline maps. Google Maps works well, but Maps.me and Gaia GPS are excellent for hiking routes.
- Carry a physical map and compass. Digital devices are great, but they’re no good if they run out of battery.
- Bring a power bank. You’ll be taking loads of photos, and GPS apps drain battery quickly.
If you want to stay extra connected, you can purchase a local SIM card (Siminn or Vodafone) with data to use on the go.
River Crossings – Don’t Underestimate Them
Many hiking trails in Iceland involve crossing rivers, and this is something that often gets overlooked. Even shallow rivers can have strong currents that make crossing dangerous.
- Assess the water depth with a stick before stepping in.
- Mornings are best as water levels are usually lower after a cold night.
- Cross at the widest, shallowest point rather than the narrowest section, where the current is likely stronger.
- Unclip your backpack straps before crossing—this way, if you fall, you can get free quickly.
If in doubt, don’t cross—wait it out or find another way around.
Budget Tips for Backpacking Iceland
Iceland has a reputation for being expensive, but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can keep costs down without sacrificing the experience. Here’s how to stretch your budget while still making the most of your adventure:
1. Save on Accommodation
- Campsites are your best friend. If you’re not renting a campervan, carrying a lightweight tent and staying at designated campsites (which often have showers and kitchen facilities) is a budget-friendly option. Wild camping is only allowed in very limited areas, so stick to campsites like Reykjavík Campsite or Skaftafell National Park Campground.
- Try hostel dorms. Iceland’s hostels are clean, safe, and great for meeting other travellers. Look at options like KEX Hostel in Reykjavík or Akureyri Backpackers in the north. Many hostels offer female-only dorms for added comfort.
- Consider house-sitting. Websites like TrustedHousesitters sometimes have listings in Iceland—if you get lucky, you could stay somewhere for free while looking after a local’s home or pets.
- Use Couchsurfing. Icelanders are known for their hospitality, and Couchsurfing can be a fantastic way to meet locals and save on accommodation.
2. Avoid Restaurants
Eating out in Iceland is eye-wateringly expensive, so self-catering is key.
- Stock up at budget supermarkets. Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó are the cheapest grocery stores.
- Pack some food from home. If your airline allows it, bringing dry goods like porridge oats, protein bars, and pasta can help cut costs.
- Make use of hostel kitchens. Cooking your own meals saves a fortune—many hostels have communal kitchens, and some campsites do too.
- Try gas station hot dogs. If you want to eat out on the cheap, Icelandic hot dogs (pylsur) are surprisingly delicious and one of the most affordable meals you’ll find.
- Bring a reusable coffee cup and water bottle. Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world, and many cafés offer discounts if you bring your own cup.
3. Get Around for Less
Transport can be one of the biggest expenses, so plan wisely.
- Hitchhiking is common and safe. Iceland is one of the few places where hitchhiking is still widely accepted and safe for solo female travellers. Locals and fellow travellers often stop to offer rides, especially on the Ring Road.
- Use public transport for longer journeys. The Straeto bus system connects Reykjavík with many towns, and while it’s not super cheap, it’s more affordable than renting a car solo.
- Join carpooling groups. Facebook groups like “Iceland Travel and Carpool” are great for finding other travellers to share rental costs. Websites like Samferða (Iceland’s version of BlaBlaCar) also connect drivers with passengers.
- Skip the Golden Circle tour—DIY it. Many people book expensive Golden Circle tours, but you can see Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss by renting a car for a single day or using public buses.
4. Free & Cheap Activities
Iceland’s best experiences are free—nature is the main attraction!
- Skip the Blue Lagoon and go to a free hot spring instead. The Blue Lagoon is expensive, but places like Reykjadalur Hot River (a short hike from Hveragerði) or Seljavallalaug Pool offer free or much cheaper alternatives.
- Take advantage of free hiking trails. The Laugavegur Trail, Glymur Waterfall, and Mt. Esja are all spectacular and cost nothing.
- See the Northern Lights for free. Instead of booking an expensive tour, check the aurora forecast and head out of town yourself—Grotta Lighthouse in Reykjavík is a great spot.
- Visit museums on free days. Some museums, like the National Museum of Iceland, offer free admission on certain days.
5. Travel in Shoulder Season
Choosing the right time of year for backpacking in Iceland is a personal decision. Do you want the midnight sun of summer, the Northern Lights in winter, or the stunning autumn colours of September? Each season offers something different but visiting outside peak summer (June–August) can save a ton of money.
- Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) still have decent weather but lower prices on accommodation and car rentals.
- Winter (November–March) is the cheapest time to visit, but be prepared for harsh weather, limited daylight, and road closures. However, this is also the best time for the Northern Lights!
Final Thoughts
Whatever you decide, Iceland is a place where preparation is key, but the rewards are incredible. As a solo female traveller, you’ll find it a place where you can connect with nature, test your limits, and experience nature at its very best, all on a backpacker budget.
