Tipping and paying in Highlands: card terminals, rounding up, and when cash is useful

Paying in the Icelandic Highlands

The Icelandic Highlands feel like another world – wide lava fields, steaming geothermal spots and dramatic canyons. Whether you’re camping near Landmannalaugar or driving the F-roads towards Askja, understanding how payments work here makes your trip smoother.

Card Terminals: Almost Everywhere

Iceland is a cashless society in many parts. In Highland huts, gas stations and cafés along Ring Road you’ll usually find card terminals. Contactless payments with Visa or Mastercard are accepted almost anywhere you go, even at remote mountain huts.

Rounding Up for Convenience

In restaurants or service stations, you may be asked if you’d like to round up your bill. This small amount goes toward staff gratuities or community funds. It’s a nice way to say “takk” without worrying about exact change.

When to Carry Cash

Despite the widespread use of cards, it’s wise to carry a little cash when venturing deep into the Highlands:

• Small rural shops and sheep farms may be card-free.
• Unmanned toll booths or parking machines sometimes only accept coins.
• Emergencies in truly remote areas.

A few thousand ISK in small bills and coins fits easily in a ziplock and can save the day.

Planning Your Highland Trip

Timing, gear and itinerary are key to enjoying Iceland’s interior safely.

When to Go

• Late June to early September – roads (F-roads) are mostly open.
• Summer offers milder weather, almost 24 hours of daylight.
• Shoulder seasons (early June or late September) can be quieter, but check road conditions.

What to Pack

• Layered waterproof clothing – windproof jacket and pants.
• Sturdy hiking boots, warm socks and a hat.
• Portable charger and cables for your card terminal or phone.
• Small amount of cash in ISK for tolls or unmanned stations.
• Reusable water bottle (tap water is superb everywhere).

How Long to Stay

For a proper Highlands adventure, plan at least 3–5 days. This gives you time for:

• Multi-day hikes (like Laugavegur or Sprengisandur).
• Exploring geothermal springs, lava fields and hidden canyons.
• Relaxing at remote mountain huts or campsites.

Where to Stay Before or After

After a day of gravel roads and hot springs, you’ll want a comfortable base. Book a room at Truck Inn, at the banks of the legendary Hvítá river. It’s perfectly placed for exploring Borgarfjörður’s waterfalls and glacier views.

Head to Ourhotels.is to reserve your room at Truck Inn or any of the other unique Icelandic properties. If you’re traveling farther west, consider a night at The Stykkishólmur Inn or Ísafjörður Inn – each offers warm hospitality and easy access to Westfjords highlights.

Ready for Your Adventure?

With cards accepted almost everywhere, a little cash for the road and a cozy stay at Truck Inn via Ourhotels.is, your Highland trip will be seamless and unforgettable. Safe travels, and enjoy the wild heart of Iceland!