Since I Saw Vienna: The Best Ways to Save Money on an Iceland Trip

As a relatively new traveler, I've learned that tracking expenses is crucial to making the most out of my adventures. One of the best ways to save money when traveling to Iceland is by buying groceries instead of eating at restaurants. A meal in a restaurant can easily cost $25-30 per entree, while a hot dog from a gas station or restaurant menu typically costs around $6 USD.

When planning your trip to Iceland, it's essential to consider the time of year you visit. Winter can be much cheaper and less crowded, but keep in mind that it can also be extremely cold, dark, and prone to winter storms and road closures. On the other hand, summer is considered the best time to travel to Iceland, with everything open, excellent weather, numerous tours available, and better road conditions.

However, summer travel - which typically falls between mid-May and August - comes at a higher cost due to its popularity. The time of year can significantly impact your expenses, especially if you're not used to the high prices in Iceland.

As a local will tell you, the high salaries earned by many Icelandic workers (thanks in part to their strong labor unions) and the fact that taxes pay for healthcare, education, infrastructure, and an excellent quality of life make it easier for them to adapt to the country's high cost of living. In contrast, most fresh produce is grown outside Iceland and shipped in, adding to the overall expense.

Iceland, being an isolated island, has to import a vast majority of its supplies, making it one of the more expensive countries I've visited - along with Sweden and Australia. However, Norway and Switzerland are slightly pricier than Iceland.

To keep costs down, consider visiting free sites like Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. If you're planning to travel with a group or family, splitting car rental and ground transportation costs can also help reduce expenses.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs for my recent trip to Iceland:

* Car Rental and Ground Transportation: $2615.30 (for two people) or $1307.65 (per person)

* Total Cost of Iceland Trip: $4303.11 per person or $8606.21 for two

By being mindful of your expenses and planning ahead, you can have a fantastic time in Iceland without breaking the bank.

Since i saw vienna