The Biggest Mistakes We Made in Iceland (and How Our First 48 Hours Taught Us Everything)

The first time, we landed, we weren't full of energy- we were full of adrenaline. Between the thrill of finally being in Iceland and the complete lack of sleep, we were running purely on excitement. Spoiler Alert: that only works for so long.

The second time, we slowed down, planned smarter, and discovered that Iceland isn't meant to be rushed-it's truly meant to be felt.

What We Did Wrong the First Time

Our first flight with Icelandair left around 7PM and landed in Keflavik around 6:30 AM local time- which sounds fine until you remember that it's basically midnight back home. The flight is only about six hours from Chicago, and while we really love Icelandair, there's just no way to lean back or fully relax in economy (well, on any plane for that matter).

(*This photo sums up trying to sleep on the flight -HAHA)

And honestly, even if you could sleep, you probably wouldn't. The northern lights often dance right outside the window, and it's impossible close your eyes when you're flying past green and purple streaks lighting up the sky.

Running on zero rest but high adrenaline, we thought it'd be a great idea to book a helicopter tour over a Volcano the same morning we landed. Then, instead of resting, we drove six hours along the Ring Road to our first destination.

BIG MISTAKE. Between jet lag, wind, and non stop adventure, we were so tired we had to stop every fifteen minutes just to get out of the car and shake our legs to stay awake.

We learned the hard way that when you land in Iceland, you shouldn't plan to conquer the country on day one- you should recover.

So learn from us. Here's what we did different the next time around to make those first 48 hours not just manageable, but memorable. And if you still can't sleep on the plane, that's okay- because with the right start, you''ll still feel rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready to truly enjoy your trip.

What We Did Right the Next Trip

The second time we came to Iceland and landed, we promised ourselves we'd start slow- and it made all the difference.

We picked up our rental car right outside the airport (super convenient) and then headed straight toward Reykjavik for breakfast at our favorite bakery for the Best Cinnamon Rolls. If you have never been, its a small local bakery known for its incredible cinnamon rolls- they are so good they make you forget you haven't really slept in the last 24 hours. It's one of those spots that really starts your vacation.

TIP: If you're planning to grab groceries afterwards for your trip, just keep in mind that most stores and even restaurants do not open until later in the morning- it is NOT like America so plan accordingly with purchasing some things at the airport or packing what you may need until they open. Also be sure to bring reusable bags as they cost in Iceland if you need them at stores.

After breakfast, we made our way to a lagoon- because nothing resets your body after a long travel day quite like Icelandic geothermal water. There are two lagoons near the airport. The Blue Lagoon where you will Swim in the bluest of springs or Sky Lagoon (our favorite) Breathtaking Hot Spring

Both are perfect first-day options where you can soak, relax, and just breathe in fresh air before adventure mode kicks in.

Pro Tip: Before you even leave the airport, make a quick stop at the Duty-Free Store. Everything there is tax-free, which means its the cheapest place you''ll find for snacks, drinks, or souvenirs. Prices outside the airport are noticeably higher, so if you want to stock up for your road trip, that's the place to do it.

We spent the entire day doing nothing more than resting, eating, and slowly adjusting- and we couldn't believe how much better the rest of the trip felt because of it

Other Lessons We Learned (and a Few to Watch Out For)

We've made our fair share of small mistakes, but we've also seen plenty of travelers fall into the same ones- so here are a few to help you avoided them.

Bring Your Own Towels

Our first trip, we didn't pack any towels- and we regretted it fast. Iceland is filled with hidden hot springs, and while you can rent towels at the bigger lagoons, it's just easier (and cheaper) to bring your own quick-drying travel towel. You'll thank yourself for the first time you stumble upon a natural hot spring off the beaten path.

Pack Water Shoes

Some of Iceland's natural hot springs have mossy or rocky bottoms, the last thing you want is to slip (we watched many fall). Pack shoes you can wear in the water- something with grip like these that still dries quickly. They take up almost no space and you'll use them more than you'd expect.

Learn How Gas Stations Work

This one's easy to overlook until you're running on empty. Gas Stations in Iceland are often self-services only, and many require a chip-and-pPIN card- not just a tap or swipe. In rural areas, you might go a long way before finding another station, so top off your tank often. We share more details about how fueling works (and other road trip tips_ inside our guide so you can be fully prepared when you come.

Stock Up on Snacks Early

Most grocery stores and cafes do not open until late morning. We learned to grab a few snacks from the Duty-Free shop at the airport or pack some bars in our carry-on. Iceland's slow mornings are part of its charm, but it helps to be prepared to you can enjoy them instead of searching for food.

Don't Overpack

We brought way too many clothes on our first trip. The reality? We wore the same comfortable layers almost everyday (except for dinners). Iceland's weather changes quickly, so you''' get more use out of versatile layers then multiple "outfits". Traveling lighter makes the whole trip smoother (I'm preaching this to myself, haha).

The Biggest Lesson

Iceland will always be there. You don't have to do it all on your first trip- and honestly, you probably won't want to. Each visit feels different, and every season brings something new. We've gone three times now, and every trip still gives us that same "wow" moment that first made us fall in love with this country.

To Wrap It Up

Our first 48 hour in Iceland were chaotic, hilarious, and unforgettable the kind of memories that remind us why we love adventure so much. Iceland has taught us that even when things don't go perfectly, it's all apart of the story.

If you are planning your own trip, our Iceland Interactive Guide has everything we've learned (and all the places we actually recommend once you've caught up on sleep). It's organized by region, from waterfalls and hot springs to local restaurants, campsites, and unique stays- so you can plan less and explore more.

And since we've personally experienced so many of these adventures, we've also partnered with a few amazing Iceland-based companies to share exclusive discounts when you purchase our guide.

So, when you are ready to plan your own unforgettable trip, you'll save a little just by using our recommendations- because adventure should be worth every penny (but not cost every penny).

-Brittany, The Venture Seekers