Tipping and paying in Keflavík Airport: card terminals, rounding up, and when cash is useful
March 5, 2026 · Travel Tips
Paying at Keflavík Airport Made Simple
Arriving at Keflavík International Airport is an exciting gateway to Iceland’s Westfjords and West Iceland. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, knowing how to pay—and when to carry cash—will make your journey smoother.
Card Terminals You Can Trust
- Major credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere: Visa, Mastercard, Amex.
- Contactless payment works seamlessly at cafés, duty-free shops, and snack bars.
- Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) speed up your coffee stop or snack purchase.
Rounding Up for Good
Some vendors will ask if you’d like to “round up” your purchase. This small gesture often supports local charities or community projects. Feel free to say yes—it’s a simple way to give back on the very first step of your adventure.
When Cash Is Still Useful
Although card payments dominate, carrying a little Icelandic króna (ISK) can come in handy for:
- Small roadside stands or farmers’ markets
- Taxi rides—especially late at night
- Parking machines in remote areas
- Vending machines in rural bus stops
We recommend exchanging around 5,000–10,000 ISK at the airport’s kiosks if you plan to explore off the beaten path right away.
Preparing for Your West Iceland & Westfjords Adventure
What to Do
- Chase waterfalls in Borgarfjörður
- Relax in natural hot springs
- Discover puffins on remote cliffs in the Westfjords
- Explore lava fields and Viking history on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
When to Go
June through August offers nearly 24-hour daylight and mild temperatures. Shoulder seasons (May, September) bring fewer crowds and gorgeous fall colors.
What to Pack
- Waterproof layers and sturdy hiking boots
- Warm mid-layers for cool evenings
- Universal power adapter
- Reusable water bottle (Iceland’s tap water is pristine!)
How Long to Stay
A 5–7 day itinerary lets you savor both West Iceland and the dramatic Westfjords without rushing. Start near Borgarnes, head north into the fjords, then loop back toward Reykjavík or onward to Akureyri.
Your Home Base with Ourhotels.is
After a day of exploring, unwind in comfort at one of our friendly properties. Maybe you’ll love the riverside charm at Hvítá Inn, just outside Borgarnes, or the historic atmosphere of The Stykkishólmur Inn on Snæfellsnes. Each Inn is handpicked by Ourhotels.is to deliver Icelandic warmth and unforgettable memories.
Ready to book your ideal stay? Visit Ourhotels.is and secure your room today—your West Iceland adventure awaits!
