What snacks can I bring to Iceland?
You can take packaged snacks and dried food to Iceland, but you're not allowed to export any meat, fish, dairy or fruit and vegetables.
Food. Travellers may import duty-free up to 10 kg of food, including candy, not exceeding the value of ISK 25,000. Travellers are not allowed to import meat and dairy products from outside the European Economic Area to Iceland. See the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority's website for further information.
Pack your own food to bring.
For instance, Iceland does not allow any meat to come in, dry or otherwise. So, no beef jerky/meat sticks – something we usually travel with. We always bring things like trail mix, dried fruit, coffee, tea, crackers, dry pasta, granola/protein bars and chocolate.
Iceland allows travelers to bring as much currency as they would like, but they must declare if they are carrying more than 10,000 euros, or the equivalent to that amount in another currency, in cash, travelers' checks, or another form.
The Most Famous Icelandic Snack: Pylsa (Pulsa)
Pylsa, sometimes called pulsa, is most like an American hot dog and it's one of the top things to eat in Iceland. They're made from lamb, beef and pork and can be topped with a variety of yummy ingredients, such as onions, mustard, ketchup or even a remoulade sauce.
Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.
You must declare all food products. Failure to declare food products can result in up to $10,000 in fines and penalties. The following are generally admissible: Condiments: ketchup (catsup), mustard, mayonnaise, Marmite and Vegemite and prepared sauces that do not contain meat products.
Water bottle
Before the tourism industry boomed, locals would never buy bottled water, “because clean water is free in Iceland and can be found in lakes, waterfalls, and rivers”. When traveling in Iceland, bring a bottle and fill it up from taps and, clean rivers and waterfalls.
Yes, you can wear jeans in Iceland. The summer and shoulder seasons are especially good times to travel in your most comfortable pair. If you plan to go on an adventurous excursion, we recommend wearing the appropriate, activewear clothing.
- Iceland is expensive. And it makes sense. ...
- Tips of Eating in Iceland on a Budget. Shop at Grocery Stores. ...
- Bring Food From Home. ...
- Pack Lunches. ...
- Don't Buy Drinks. ...
- Choose Your Accommodations Wisely. ...
- Create a Meal Plan. ...
- Our 12-Day Icelandic Meal Plan.
Should I carry my passport with me in Iceland?
You don't have to carry your passport with you, but it is sensible to keep some form of ID on you.
Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item. If in doubt, declare it.

All travelers entering the United States are REQUIRED to DECLARE meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, animals, as well as plant and animal products (including soup or soup products) they may be carrying. The declaration must cover all items carried in checked baggage, carry-on luggage, or in a vehicle.
The most typical food in Iceland involves fish, lamb, or Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt). These have been the main elements in the Icelandic diet for over a thousand years. Icelandic meals are commonly meat-based due to the lack of farmable lands in the past.
A typical Icelandic breakfast can include thick oatmeal (hafragrautur), Skyr with jam, bread with butter, and cod liver oil.
Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.
You can carry food both in hand luggage and checked baggage. Keep in mind that food products should be contained in commercially branded packaging with the original seals unbroken. Some airlines may refuse the carriage of fresh products with short shelf-life, especially on a long-haul flight.
Food items and powders in your hand luggage can block images on x-ray machines. Your bags may need to be checked again by security (by hand). You can put these items in your hold luggage to reduce delays.
Failure to declare food products at US air, sea and land border entry points can lead to fines and penalties of up to $10,000, according to the CBP. Here's what you need to know before bringing food products into the US.
There is no limit to the amount of food you can bring on board, as long as it can fit in your carry-on luggage! You can also pack your food any way you'd like — in a lunch bag, in resealable plastic bags, in Tupperware, etc.
Does candy need to be declared at customs?
CBP also requires the candy to be in its finished form. According to CBP, failure to declare candy and other food products when bringing them into the U.S. can result in fines of up to $10,000.
The quick answer to 'do I need cash in Iceland' is a resounding 'no. ' You'll be fine using your credit card or debit card while you travel throughout the country.
Please note that in restaurants in Iceland you do not pay for fresh water, unless you order bottled water. Bread is also provided free of charge.
The water in Iceland is in fact one of the cleanest and most delicious drinking water in the world. Icelandic tap water is not treated with chlorine or any other chemicals. It's simply not necessary! In Iceland, there is no need to buy bottled water, it's just the same water as runs from the tap, for free!
What is this? From roadside restaurants to gas stations and souvenir shops, the majority of the country utilizes cash currency in Iceland. That being said, we still recommend bringing a debit card when traveling in Iceland just in case you do need to take out some Icelandic money!
- Light layers. Iceland's climate is milder than you'd expect, considering its location in the Arctic circle. ...
- Non–waterproof coats and jackets. Do not wear jackets and coats that will not protect you from the rain. ...
- Thin socks. ...
- Slippery shoes. ...
- Fancy clothing. ...
- Jeans.
If you opt for the Comfort Package, then you'll want to bring a pair of flip flops or slippers with you to keep your feet from getting cold while you walk in and out of the pool. This especially applies if you'll be visiting during the frigid winter months when the ground is sure to be slick and icy.
Do you need cash in Iceland? No, you don't need any cash in Iceland. And yes, you can pay everywhere by debit or credit card. Note that some places (such as unmanned petrol stations) only accept credit cards with a 4-digit pin.
Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Iceland, but it is always appreciated. The standard rate of tax on Icelandic products is 24%, with some products and services, including books, food and accommodation, taxed at a reduced rate of 11%.
Currency: The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK). Many places (restaurants, bars, tourist attractions) will take US dollars, Canadian dollars, Euros, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish currencies.
How long does it take to get through customs in Iceland?
We recommend you allow at least 30 minutes to get through the duty-free area and customs at Keflavík Airport. If your flight is scheduled to arrive at 07:45, please select 08:15 or later as transfer time.
TSA Precheck is now available with Icelandair. Please contact our Service Center to be able to add your KTN or TSA number to your booking. For more information visit the Transportation Security Administration's website here: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck.
Bring your ID
So, before heading to the airport, make sure you have a valid ID such as a driver's license if you're flying domestically. If you've lost it, you can also use your passport. You can still fly if you forget your ID – but prepared for extra screening and carve out ample time.
Food. You can carry cakes, fruit, vegetables, sandwiches and all solid foods in your hand baggage. However, foods in sauces or with a high liquid content (such as sauces, pastes, soups and stews) cannot come through security. The size of container must not exceed 100ml, regardless of the amount contained inside.
Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Note that even though potato chips are typically allowed, you must declare all foods that you bring into the United States — whether they are allowable or not — to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
If you're flying, jarred liquids or soft textures, including peanut butter, must meet the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rule of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, otherwise you'll have to check your bag or part with your souvenir.
It is especially important to declare “yes” to “I am bringing fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, FOOD, insects” on your customs form, even if the only food item you are carrying is something as simple as chewing gum.
If you declare you have food, you have met your legal requirement, and then an agent can decide if the food you have is permissible or if it needs to be confiscated.
Icelanders usually eat dinner around 8pm or later.
What is a food delicacy of Iceland?
Kæstur hákarl (“treated shark”) is the one infamous Icelandic dish most tourists are made to try at least once. Hákarl, in short, is Greenland shark – or other sleeper shark – which has been prepared by a fermentation process (buried underground for 6-12 weeks, actually) and then hung to dry for four to five months.
The 'Big Night in Deal' has everything you need for a cosy night in - including two Goodfellas pizza's, McCoy's potato shapes, chicken dippers or veggie fingers and a pack of Mars or Snickers ice creams. And it will only cost £5 for the whole thing.
Brennivín or Black Death like some like to call it is definitely at the top of the chart for the most famous Iceland drink.
The average meal can be anywhere between $20-$40 per person and a coffee can set you back $6, which definitely adds up over the course of a trip and can make the thought of traveling to Iceland on a budget a little daunting.
What is this? Icelanders love to pair their breakfast with strong coffee or a glass of their world-renowned clean tap water. They might not be as unique as traditional Icelandic food but don't let them fool you.
It is forbidden to bring any amount of marijuana to the country. If you are trying to smuggle marijuana into the country, you will face fines and even jail time. There are different places where you will find the police inspecting everyone that is going into this destination.
- Dried fruit.
- Muesli bars.
- Pre-made sandwiches (avoid tomato or anything with juice unless you want soggy bread)
- Celery, carrot sticks and other edible raw veggies.
- Nuts.
- Pre-made salad.
- Pre-made pasta dish.
- Bite-sized snacks.
While Iceland imports most of its food, its local fishing industry provides food for both locals and exports. Only 2.5% of the nation's population faces hunger. Fortunately, this number has not changed since 2000. In addition, natural disasters are the main cause of food insecurity in the country.
CBD in Iceland
In Iceland, Cannabidiol (CBD) products are allowed as long as they do not contain THC.
Although they can detect food items, airport scanners cannot tell if they are edible. Whether the airport security staff considers the edibles to be suspicious varies. The edibles' packaging and odor could be giveaways. The edibles will appear in the scanner with the same orange color as every other organic material.
Can drug dogs smell edibles?
Dan Hayter, founder of K9 Global Training Academy and a former chief of the military drug dog trainer, agrees that edibles aren't impossible to trace. "A dog can be taught to recognize marijuana mixed into flour without too much difficulty," he says.
Yes, you can wear jeans in Iceland. The summer and shoulder seasons are especially good times to travel in your most comfortable pair. If you plan to go on an adventurous excursion, we recommend wearing the appropriate, activewear clothing.
Leggings are ideal for Iceland, being both easy to layer and good for moving around in when you're doing some of the adventure activities. And unlike jeans, they dry easily.
You can carry food both in hand luggage and checked baggage. Keep in mind that food products should be contained in commercially branded packaging with the original seals unbroken. Some airlines may refuse the carriage of fresh products with short shelf-life, especially on a long-haul flight.
You can carry cakes, fruit, vegetables, sandwiches and all solid foods in your hand baggage. However, foods in sauces or with a high liquid content (such as sauces, pastes, soups and stews) cannot come through security.
The most typical food in Iceland involves fish, lamb, or Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt). These have been the main elements in the Icelandic diet for over a thousand years. Icelandic meals are commonly meat-based due to the lack of farmable lands in the past.
With over 38,000 locations in over 100 countries, it is no wonder why it has become a staple. But did you know that Iceland does not have any Mcdonald's? They are one of the few countries that do not. Let's find out why and also learn about how McDonald gained a top spot in the fast food world.
On our European flights, we offer a 2-course meal service (main course plus dessert), as well as snacks. On our North American flights, we offer a 3-course meal service (main course plus appetizer and dessert), as well as snacks. Children aged 2-11 get a free kids meal with fruit juice on our international routes.
References
- https://thepointsguy.com/guide/things-to-do-before-tsa/
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/food
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/may-i-pack-food-my-carry-or-checked-bag
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/snacks
- https://icelandtrippers.com/what-to-wear-in-iceland-iceland-packing-list/
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/bringing-alcohol-into-the-us-guide
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/ice
- https://www.themanual.com/food-and-drink/flying-with-beer/
- https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-3619?language=en_US
- https://www.icelandprotravel.com/travel-information-iceland/restaurants-in-iceland.html
- https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/travel/flight/what-you-should-never-pack-in-checked-luggage.htm
- https://mintjuleptours.com/2017/12/01/tsa-alcohol-rules-carryon-checked-baggage/
- https://www.paracanna.com/blog/can-you-bring-edibles-on-a-plane/
- https://www.reykjavikrentacar.is/visit-iceland/travel-etiquette-in-iceland
- https://www.hostel.is/en/inspiration/is-it-safe-to-drink-the-water-in-iceland
- https://acoupledaystravel.com/eating-in-iceland/
- https://www.nordicvisitor.com/blog/what-to-pack-for-your-trip-to-iceland/
- https://icelandtrippers.com/currency-money-in-iceland/
- https://allthingsiceland.com/expensive-mistakes-iceland/
- https://nomadsunveiled.com/icelandic-breakfast-in-iceland/
- https://www.flightcentre.com.au/window-seat/essential-carry-food-guide
- https://marinatravel.is/essential-things-to-know-before-coming-to-iceland/
- https://www.covid.is/sub-categories/travel-to-and-within-iceland
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-3-1-1-liquids-rule
- https://www.wikihow.com/Pack-Alcohol-in-Your-Luggage
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/can-you-pack-your-meds-pill-case-and-more-questions-answered
- https://fullsuitcase.com/how-expensive-is-iceland/
- https://seeker.io/article/is-iceland-expensive/
- https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/air-travel-hand-baggage-and-hold-luggage-rules
- https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/drug-dogs-and-marijuana-can-dogs-detect-edibles
- https://www.scandinaviastandard.com/everything-to-know-about-cbd-in-scandinavia/
- https://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/individuals/info-travelling-duty-free/from-within-eu/duty-paid.aspx
- https://www.reddit.com/r/VisitingIceland/comments/w03nfy/icelandair_carryon_size_is_small_and_strict_my/
- https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/10/us/us-border-entry-food-rules-cec/index.html
- https://www.hg.org/legal-articles/u-s-customs-failing-to-disclose-items-upon-entry-48386
- https://www.usavisaupdate.com/articles/us-customs-regulations
- https://icelandwithaview.com/5-important-things-to-know-before-traveling-to-iceland/
- https://www.travelchannel.com/interests/food-and-drink/photos/10-foods-you-can-and-cant-bring-into-the-u-s
- https://www.tsa.gov/blog/2019/06/21/tsa-travel-tip-traveling-alcohol
- https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iceland/local-laws-and-customs
- https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-abroad-with-medicine
- https://iceland.nordicvisitor.com/travel-guide/information/paying-by-cards-travellers-cheques/
- https://www.icelandtravel.is/blog/icelandic-food-drinks/
- https://www.way.com/blog/what-does-weed-look-like-on-an-airport-scanner/
- https://adventures.is/blog/things-you-should-have-in-your-bag-traveling-iceland/
- https://grapevine.is/mag/articles/2017/05/03/missing-in-iceland-aspirin-in-grocery-stores-or-corner-shops/
- https://highlinewellness.com/blogs/news/flying-with-cbd-what-is-currently-allowed
- https://www.frommers.com/destinations/iceland/planning-a-trip/entry-requirements--customs
- https://www.tripsguard.com/destination/iceland
- https://www.gocarrental.is/blog/icelandic-culture/why-does-iceland-not-have-mcdonalds/
- https://www.way.com/blog/flying-with-edibles/
- https://guidetoiceland.is/history-culture/food-in-iceland
- https://icelandadventuretours.is/tours/premium-airport-transfer-keflavik-reykjavik/
- https://iceland.nordicvisitor.com/travel-guide/information/what-to-pack/
- https://www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport/before-flying/security-control-and-rules/q---a
- https://www.icelandair.com/support/airports/keflavik-kef/
- https://borgenproject.org/hunger-in-iceland/
- https://icelandmonitor.mbl.is/news/nature_and_travel/2016/11/07/us_customs_and_passport_control_at_iceland_s_kef_ai/
- https://plastlausseptember.is/do-icelanders-use-more-plastic-than-other-nations/
- https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/iceland-unusual-food/index.html
- https://www.icelandair.com/support/baggage/restrictions/
- https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/kbyg/customs-duty-info
- https://adventures.is/blog/hot-spring-geothermal-pool-etiquette/
- https://www.annaberend.com/motherly-law/2019/01/the-cheapskates-guide-to-iceland.html
- https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/tsa-food-rules-carry-on-checked-luggage/
- https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/food-drink/iceland-shoppers-rave-5-big-27006729
- https://www.intrepidtravel.com/us/iceland/tipping-in-iceland
- https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/3907731-can-you-bring-your-own-alcohol-and-drink-it-on-a-flight/
- https://www.cheapflights.com/news/dos-and-donts-alcohol-on-a-flight
- https://luxeadventuretraveler.com/wine-wednesday-tips-for-packing-wine-in-luggage/
- https://www.heyiceland.is/blog/nanar/5049/what-to-wear-on-a-trip-to-iceland
- https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-212?language=en_US
- https://bridgesandballoons.com/iceland-packing-list-for-women/
- https://www.thefrugalsouth.com/iceland-packing-list/
- https://www.ima.is/spurt_og_svarad/07-can-i-import-to-iceland-cbd-oil-for-personal-use-through-mail-or-in-my-luggage/
- https://www.lavacarrental.is/information-iceland/how-to-pay-and-tip-in-iceland
- https://insideoursuitcase.com/best-snacks-to-take-to-iceland/
- https://www.esky.com/travel-guide/airline-tickets/baggage/taking-food-in-your-hand-luggage
- https://www.gatwickairport.com/at-the-airport/flying-out/security-advice/
- https://bustravel.is/blog/iceland-and-the-shower-etiquette
- https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-190?language=en_US
- https://www.onetravel.com/going-places/current-tsa-rules-for-carry-ons/
- https://www.frommers.com/destinations/iceland/planning-a-trip/getting-there
- https://10xtravel.com/a-customs-declaration-guide-for-food/
- https://www.allgetaways.com/packing-airport-security/tsa-rules-carrying-whiskey-luggage.html
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/currency-converter/usd-isk/
- https://www.stilltasty.com/articles/can-you-take-potato-chips-on-a-plane
- https://usacustomsclearance.com/process/importing-candy-into-the-us/
- https://www.icelandair.com/en-ca/support/baggage/allowance/
- https://www.icelandcarrental.is/explore-iceland/what-not-to-wear-in-iceland
- https://www.icelandair.com/support/on-board/saga-kitchen/
- https://www.icetra.is/aviation/passengers/hand-baggage/liquid/
- https://www.lavacarrental.is/information-iceland/9-must-try-icelandic-food
- https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/iceland-trip-cost/
- https://www.skatturinn.is/english/individuals/customs-matters/travelling-to-iceland/duty-free-imports/
- https://globecityguide.com/airports/keflavik-international-airport/
- https://wakeupreykjavik.com/how-to-dress-for-a-night-out-in-reykjavik
- https://www.thediscoveriesof.com/iceland-packing-list/
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/alcoholic-beverages
- https://golookexplore.com/weed-in-iceland/
- https://www.cbp.gov/travel/clearing-cbp/bringing-agricultural-products-united-states
- https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/travelsecure/carry-on-baggage/travelling-with-powders-liquids-aerosols-and-gels
- https://www.tripsavvy.com/customs-regulations-and-rules-for-iceland-travelers-1626343
- https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/what-expect-when-you-return
- https://hydrocellusa.com/blogs/press/can-you-take-stainless-steel-water-bottle-airplane
- https://www.intrepidtravel.com/eu/iceland/tipping-in-iceland
- https://www.livelikeitstheweekend.com/blue-lagoon-tips-icelands-top-attraction/
- https://www.frommers.com/destinations/iceland/in-depth/food--drink
- https://www.healthdata.org/sites/default/files/covid_briefs/83_briefing_Iceland.pdf
- https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/travelling-to-iceland-dont-forget-to-pack-these-clothing-essentials/
- https://www.icelandair.com/support/pre-flight/immigration-and-entry-rules/
- https://www.carsiceland.com/post/iceland-food
- https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule
- https://wandereroftheworld.co.uk/food-to-pack-for-iceland/