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VAT refund strategy for shopping in Landmannalaugar: receipts, minimums, and departure-day timing

March 5, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: Ole Kloth :

Preparing for Your Landmannalaugar Adventure

Landmannalaugar’s colorful rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs await. Even though shopping options are limited in the highlands, you can pick up Icelandic wool, handcrafted jewelry or local snacks in nearby towns like Hella or Borgarnes. Plan to arrive a day early and rest at Truck Inn at Hvítá, part of the Ourhotels.is collection, for a cozy base before your trek.

What to Pack

  • Layered waterproof clothing and warm mid-layers
  • Hiking boots with good ankle support
  • Reusable water bottle and snacks
  • Camera or smartphone for those epic rhyolite shots
  • A small tote or backpack for carrying souvenirs

VAT Refund Basics for Your Souvenirs

Iceland’s VAT (Value Added Tax) is generally 24%. Non-EU visitors can claim a refund on most goods, from Lopapeysa sweaters to local art. Follow these steps to make the most of it:

1. Meet the Minimum Purchase

  • Spend at least 6,000 ISK (around €40) in one store on the same day.
  • Ask the retailer for a VAT refund form (“Tax Free Form”) when you pay.

2. Keep Your Receipts and Forms

  • Show both the receipts and completed refund forms when you leave Iceland.
  • Attach receipts firmly—no missing pages.

3. Plan Your Departure-Day Timing

  • At Keflavík Airport, head to the tax-free office well before check-in. Aim for at least 90 minutes prior to departure.
  • Have your stamped form processed by the refund desk or machine.
  • If you’re flying from Reykjavík domestic airport after Landmannalaugar, make sure you arrive extra early or handle refunds in Reykjavík before hopping onto your domestic flight.

Maximize Your Stay

We recommend 2–3 days in Landmannalaugar to explore Laugahraun lava fields, soak in the hot springs and hike the Laugavegur trail head. On your way back, swing by Borgarnes to pick up last-minute crafts, then head to Hvítá Inn—another Ourhotels.is gem—to rest and submit any final refund paperwork before onward travel.

Book Your Highlands Getaway

Ready for a hassle-free trip to Landmannalaugar? Visit Ourhotels.is today to reserve your stay at Truck Inn at Hvítá or Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður. We’ll help you make the most of Iceland’s wild beauty—and your VAT refund!