Iceland: What NOT to Do

Iceland is a beautiful country, with friendly wonderful people. Though, like any place, there are things that locals hate. There are also things that as a tourist, you should avoid. So here ya go.

1) FOUR WHEEL DRIVE. Get it. Pay for it.

Roads will change from paved to gravel in a second. The roads were never horrendous... but four wheel drive gives you some peace of mind.

2) Don't expect to pay for gas with a credit card.

Gas stations—at least the ones we came across—will only accept debit cards. Luckily, I had one with me. It's always a good idea to travel with various modes of payment, and a debit card is definitely a must in Iceland. Also, lots of the gas stations are unmanned. So don't expect a little convenience store or anything... there will probably only be pumps sticking out of concrete.

3) Don't expect a lot of gas stations.

There won't be a lot. When you see one, I would stop even if you still have half a tank.

4) Don't expect a lot of grocery stores.

The biggest grocery store chain is named Bonus. Its mascot is a pig! So if you see the pig cartoon, pull over! There's no need to buy bottled water... there's plenty of places to refill your bottle... but stock up on lunch items and snacks. I'm not going to get much into "budgeting" for Iceland in this post, but if you stock up at grocery stores, you can save a heck ton of money.

5) Keep your eyes on the road.

People pull over in Iceland (mainly tourists looking at those amazing waterfalls) all the time. The roads are mostly one lane in each direction. There are often "blind heads" where you can't see oncoming cars. The roads get slippery and icy. Driving in Iceland shouldn't freak you out, it is very doable. But be vigilant.

6) Camping ISN'T allowed just anywhere.

Before I traveled to Iceland, I read (from several sources) that camping was basically allowed just about anywhere. In reality, you can only camp on property if you have permission from the landowner, and many spots now (such as at popular hot springs) are closed to camping. Don't expect to be able to plop down anywhere. It's rude and annoying for locals. DO go to designated camp sites! It's a great way to save money when traveling in this fairyland country!

7) Dude. Pick. Up. Your. Trash.

My favorite hot spring literally had a condom strewn to the side of it. Be classy. If you have a picnic, pack it out. If you have a romantic evening... don't leave remnants behind. If hot springs are continually trashed and destroyed, they will be shut down. They are on private property, and oftentimes FREE to visit. So please be respectful and courteous.

8) Donate to the hot springs.

Again, most of the time, hot springs are on private property and "free." I put "free" in quotations because there is almost always an opportunity to donate into a small box. These donations help the owners keep the hot springs open to the public. Throw in some of your change if you got some.

9) Watch the winds.

People have literally been blown off cliffs. Doors of cars get beat up. Large gusts may strike randomly. I didn't have any bad experiences, but it's something you have to think about. There are relatively little barriers around waterfalls and famous tourist destinations, but don't go stand on the edge. It's a disaster waiting to happen.

10) Don't expect to "book while you go."

Iceland is only growing in popularity. That means if you're staying in hotels, they will almost always be full. Finding affordable places to stay is hard enough beforehand, let alone anywhere to stay last minute. So unlike many countries where you can just "wing it," if you're staying in hotels or rental properties in Iceland... book in advance as soon as possible.

11) You know those cool rock stacks... yeah don't mess with them.

Those rock stacks—called Cairns—(which you may see also on Game of Thrones) are ancient. They helped mark the way for the original settlers of Iceland: the Vikings. Many tourists will see the fun conglomerations of rocks and build their own... DON'T DO IT. Also DON'T KNOCK ANY ANCIENT ONES DOWN. Don't mess with the Cairns folks. Don't do it. Please.

12) Stay on trails.

I'm going to get all "leave no trace" on you. Iceland's landscape changes randomly all the time. Suddenly you're in a lava field covered in moss... then a lunar-like landscape. When you're exploring this beautiful country, stay on the trails. Some of the lava fields are historic and the moss is delicate. The tourist infrastructure of Iceland lacks in its ability to ward off stupid people from destroying natural areas. Most people in this world don't want to see fences and metal poles in the future, so stay on trails please. I am guilty of following "social trails" that veer off the main tracks. In the end, they just make the landscape uglier. I, out of all people, always have the urge to explore. In delicate areas though, be aware. Be nice to Iceland, what has she done to you?

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Peace ya hippie.