Travel health tips for Iceland

Traveling on an Iceland trip means being out in the elements a lot, whether you’re hiking past waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or just trying to stand upright in the wind. It’s an incredibly safe country overall, with low crime rates and a solid healthcare system. But what gets people isn’t crime — it’s the unpredictable weather, rugged terrain, and geothermal hazards. Emergency help can take a while to reach you in remote places, so a little planning makes a big difference.

Essential vaccines for traveling to Iceland

You don’t need any special vaccines to enter Iceland, and there’s not much risk from infectious diseases thanks to strong sanitation and healthcare. That said, it’s smart to make sure your regular vaccines are up to date before any international trip.

Recommended vaccines

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Cases are on the rise globally, so staying up to date is a good idea
• Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Get a booster if it’s been more than 10 years
• Influenza: Worth getting if you’re traveling in the colder months (October to April)

Optional vaccines to consider

• Hepatitis A and B: The risk is low in Iceland, but these are common travel vaccines
• Rabies: Only necessary if you’re spending extended time in remote wilderness areas

Pre-travel health checklist

It’s a good idea to get your health stuff sorted 4–6 weeks before your trip to Iceland. Start by booking an appointment with a travel health specialist to go over routine vaccinations and any extras you might need. Bring printed proof of your vaccinations just in case. 

If you take any prescription meds, make sure you have enough for your whole trip plus a buffer of at least five days. 
For anything that might raise questions at the airport—like controlled meds or medical equipment—bring a doctor’s note.

Packing for a healthy trip

You don’t need to pack a whole medicine cabinet, but bringing a few basics can make things a lot easier if something comes up. Make sure you’ve got:

• Prescription medications in their original labeled containers
• A small first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relief)
• Motion sickness meds—handy for boat trips or twisty mountain roads
• High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection
• Moisturizer to help with wind and cold
• Eye drops if you’re planning to visit geothermal areas (the sulfur can be irritating)
• Insect repellent for summer, especially around lakes
• A waterproof, windproof jacket (you’ll need it year-round)
• Thermal base layers and something warm to wear over them
• Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
• Warm extras like a hat, gloves, and thick socks
• A swimsuit for geothermal pools and hot springs

These are all things that come in handy once you're there—especially if you're planning to spend time outdoors, which you probably are.

How to avoid weather and geological hazards

The biggest health risks in Iceland don’t come from illness—they come from the environment. Weather can shift in minutes, and the landscape is full of active geothermal areas and rugged terrain. A little prep can go a long way in keeping you safe out there.

Weather-related risks in Iceland

You’ll hear it a lot: the weather in Iceland is unpredictable. It’s not just cold—it’s wind, sleet, sudden storms, and bone-chilling exposure that can catch people off guard. Even in summer, a clear morning can turn into a whiteout. Wind chill often makes it feel 20–30°F colder than it is, and road conditions can shift just as fast.

To stay safe:

• Check the forecast every day at vedur.is before heading out.
• Dress in layers: base layers that wick moisture, insulating layers, and a waterproof shell.
• Let someone know your travel plans—especially if you’re going to a remote area.
• If roads are closed or weather warnings are issued, don’t try to push through.
• Keep emergency supplies with you, including snacks, water, and a charged phone or radio.

Geothermal area safety

Geothermal zones look otherworldly, but they’re no joke. Pools can reach over 200°F, and some of the ground around them is so thin it can break underfoot. You also might run into gases like hydrogen sulfide, which can irritate your lungs.

To avoid issues:

• Stick to marked trails and boardwalks—no shortcuts.
• Don’t dip your hands or feet in the water, no matter how calm it looks.
• If you notice a rotten egg smell, you’re probably breathing in hydrogen sulfide. Move away if it starts to bother you.
• Keep a close eye on kids and pets—accidents can happen fast

Outdoor adventure risks

Glacier hikes, cliff views, cold-water swims—it’s all part of the draw. But Iceland’s outdoor adventures can quickly turn dangerous if you’re not properly prepared. Around 100 to 150 travelers need rescue each year, mostly due to bad weather or poor planning.
To avoid becoming a statistic, know your limits and book guided tours for risky activities like glacier trekking.

Be realistic about timing. Some hikes take longer than expected, especially in rough weather. Always check conditions before heading out, and pack with emergencies in mind.

Staying healthy in Iceland

It’s pretty easy to stay healthy in Iceland if you’re prepared for the elements. The hygiene standards are top-notch, but the environment can throw a few challenges your way if you’re not used to the climate or terrain.

Food and water safety

You won’t have to worry about food or water in Iceland. Tap water is clean, cold, and straight from the source—no need for filters. The hot water might smell a bit like sulfur because of the geothermal heating, but that’s normal and totally safe for showering. As for food, restaurant hygiene is tightly regulated. Even strong-smelling traditional dishes like fermented shark (hákarl) are safe to try if you're feeling adventurous.

Climate adaptation

Don’t let the cool temperatures fool you—Iceland’s dry air and wind can dehydrate you quickly. A good lip balm and moisturizer go a long way. In summer, the midnight sun can mess with your sleep, so consider packing an eye mask or taking melatonin. In winter, the short daylight hours can affect your energy and mood, so building in time outdoors during daylight helps.

Geothermal pools

If you’re heading to a public hot spring or swimming pool, you’ll need to shower thoroughly without your swimsuit before getting in—it’s a big deal in Icelandic pool culture. Most pools sit between 98–104°F, so ease into the water slowly, and keep a bottle of water nearby to stay hydrated, especially if you’re soaking for a while.

Why travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance isn’t something to skip when visiting Iceland. Healthcare is excellent, but non-residents pay out of pocket—and the costs can stack up quickly. If you’re heading into the highlands or planning any outdoor activities, medical evacuations can be both logistically complicated and extremely expensive.

What to look for in a policy

Make sure your policy includes at least $100,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 for emergency evacuation. If you’re planning to hike, explore glaciers, or do any water-based excursions, you’ll need a plan that covers adventure activities.

Iceland’s weather can cancel plans fast, so trip interruption and cancellation coverage is also a smart move—especially if you're traveling between October and April.

If you’re driving, look for rental car coverage that accounts for Iceland-specific issues like gravel road damage or volcanic ash. These aren’t usually covered under standard insurance.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

If you’re from the EU or EEA, bring your EHIC—it gives you access to state healthcare at reduced costs. But it won’t cover things like medical evacuation or non-healthcare-related delays, so additional insurance is still a good idea.

Trusted providers

Here are a few travel insurance companies people commonly use for trips to Iceland:

• GeoBlue Voyager Choice – Offers up to $1 million in medical coverage, with options that include no deductible. Good for travelers focused on emergency care.
• World Nomads – Covers adventure activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and volcano tours. You can extend coverage mid-trip and they have 24/7 assistance.
• SafetyWing Nomad Insurance – Geared toward long-term travelers and digital nomads. Coverage includes emergency medical care and evacuations, and it’s available as a monthly subscription.

Hospital costs in Iceland

Healthcare here is high-quality, but it’s not cheap if you’re uninsured. Non-EU/EEA visitors are expected to pay upfront. Prices are generally more than you'd pay elsewhere in Europe, but not quite as steep as in the US. Here’s a rough idea of what things might cost (in USD):

• Emergency room visit: $150–300
• Doctor consultation: $70–140
• Ambulance ride: $400–700
• Hospital stay: $800–1,200 per day
• Medical evacuation within Iceland: $5,000–50,000
• International evacuation: $50,000+

Without insurance, even a minor injury can turn into a financial nightmare.

Emergency help: what to do if you get sick

Healthcare in Iceland is generally reliable and efficient, especially in Reykjavík and larger towns. That said, if you’re traveling through remote areas, help might take longer to arrive—so it’s good to know what to do ahead of time.

Emergency numbers

If something serious happens, call 112 right away—this connects you to police, fire, or ambulance services. For non-emergency health concerns, you can call 1770 to speak with a nurse. The line runs 24/7 and they can help figure out next steps. Always have your passport and travel insurance details on hand when visiting a clinic or hospital.

• 112 – General emergency line
• 1770 – Medical advice line staffed by nurses

Best hospitals and clinics

If you need to see a doctor, there are hospitals and clinics across the country, and you’ll usually find English-speaking staff.

• Reykjavík – Landspítali University Hospital is the main emergency hospital in the country. There’s also Domus Medica, a private clinic with English-speaking general practitioners.
• Akureyri – Akureyri Hospital is the go-to for northern Iceland.
• Selfoss – The South Iceland Health Institution handles urgent care and basic emergencies.
• Egilsstaðir – The East Iceland Health Institution is smaller, but handles most regional needs.
• Ísafjörður – The Westfjords Health Institution provides essential care for that region.

If it’s something minor—like a cold, stomach trouble, or allergies—head to a local apótek (pharmacy). These are common, even in smaller towns, and the pharmacists are well-trained. They can help you choose the right over-the-counter medication or point you toward a nearby clinic if needed.