How to plan meals on the road

Why Planning Meals on the Road Matters

Exploring the stunning landscapes of West Iceland and the Westfjords is a dream come true. But without a little meal planning, you might spend more time hunting for food than soaking in the views. With a few simple steps, you can keep energy levels high, budgets in check, and days running smoothly—so you can focus on waterfalls, hot springs, and coastal hikes.

When to Go and How Long to Stay

The shoulder seasons (late May to early June and August to September) offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and open roads. Plan for at least 5–7 days to fully experience:

• Borgarfjörður’s lava fields and waterfalls
• The breathtaking drive to Ísafjörður in the Westfjords
• Coastal villages like Stykkishólmur

A week lets you sample local farms markets, cook fresh ingredients at your hotel kitchen, and still have time for scenic drives.

What to Pack for Easy Meals

• Insulated cooler bag: keeps produce and dairy fresh between stops
• Collapsible containers: perfect for storing leftovers or picnic-style dinners
• Portable gas stove or camping grill: many Ourhotels.is properties welcome small cooking appliances
• Reusable utensils, cups, and a sharp knife
• Non-perishable snacks: nuts, trail mix, dried fruit, granola bars

Where to Stay with Kitchen Access

Having a kitchenette on hand is a game-changer. Ourhotels.is offers comfortable stays with self-catering options so you can stock up locally and cook your own meals:

• Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður: cozy studios with basic kitchenettes and a view of the river
• Truck Inn at Hvítá: ideal for road-trippers who love preparing hearty breakfasts before hitting the ring road
• The Stykkishólmur Inn: perfect base for seafood feasts from the nearby harbor and simple morning omelettes

Daily Meal-Planning Tips

1. Start with a Hearty Breakfast

A filling breakfast sets you up for hours of exploration. Oatmeal topped with local berries, scrambled eggs with chives from an Icelandic farm, or overnight oats prepared the night before are excellent choices.

2. Pack a Picnic-Friendly Lunch

Plan lunch around scenic pit stops. Prepare sandwiches, fresh salads, or wraps the evening before. Include easy-to-carry items like:

• Sliced cured meats and cheese from a farmers market
• Crusty bread or tortillas
• Pre-washed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced bell peppers

3. Simple, Satisfying Dinners

After a day of hiking or sightseeing, keep dinner effortless:

• One-pot pasta with vegetables and canned fish
• Stir-fry using frozen veggies and quick-cook rice
• Foil-packet salmon with lemon and herbs—easy on the camping grill

Shopping & Storage

Stop at local grocery stores (Bónus, Krónan) or farm stands for fresh ingredients. Refrigeration is available in most Ourhotels.is rooms—just label leftovers and rotate them quickly to avoid waste.

Final Thoughts and Booking

Meal planning on the road in Iceland doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right gear, a bit of prep, and a comfortable base like Hvítá Inn or Truck Inn at Hvítá, you’ll spend less time searching for food and more time immersed in Iceland’s natural wonders.

Ready to make your journey delicious and stress-free? Book your stay via Ourhotels.is and get ready for unforgettable meals and memories in West Iceland and the Westfjords.