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Travel Tips

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

March 4, 2026 2 min read

Paying and Tipping at Keflavík Airport

Arriving or departing through Keflavík Airport is smooth and modern. Most shops, cafés and services accept cards, but having a small amount of cash can add extra peace of mind. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare before your flight.

Card Terminals and Contactless Payments

  • Visa, MasterCard and contactless payments are widely accepted at restaurants, duty-free shops and transport desks.
  • Look for terminals showing the contactless symbol – you can pay quickly with a tap of your card or phone wallet.
  • Currency conversion is handled automatically; no need to worry about separate exchange offices.

Rounding Up and Tipping

Icelandic service staff don’t expect big tips, but rounding up can brighten someone’s day. When settling a bill at a café or restaurant:

  • Select the “round up” option on the terminal to add a small amount.
  • Offer 5–10% if you’ve received exceptional service, especially on duty-free orders or airport lounges.
  • For taxi rides or shuttle transfers, you can hand over small coins or bills directly to the driver.

When Cash Comes in Handy

While cards rule the roost, a few Icelandic krónur (ISK) in your pocket can be useful for:

  • Snacks and coffee from small kiosks or vending machines that may only accept coins.
  • Public restrooms with token-operated access.
  • Local souvenirs at small craft stalls just outside customs.

Pack and Plan for West Iceland

If you’re exploring more of West Iceland after your airport stop, Ourhotels.is offers charming stays like Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes). Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • What to pack: layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, universal adapter, and a refillable water bottle.
  • When to visit: Summer brings midnight sun and waterfalls in full flow; autumn and winter unveil northern lights and snowy landscapes.
  • How long to stay: 2–3 nights at Hvítá Inn lets you explore hot springs, lava fields and river rafting on the Hvítá River.
  • What to do: Visit Deildartunguhver hot spring, hike to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and indulge in farm-to-table dining at the inn’s onsite restaurant.

Ready for a stress-free journey? Book your stay through Ourhotels.is and start your West Iceland adventure today!