Iceland is a land of dramatic contrasts – from rugged lava fields and glacial fjords to cozy towns bustling with friendly locals. But whether you’re marveling at waterfalls or exploring volcanic landscapes, one thing is consistently true: eating in Iceland can be surprisingly expensive. As passionate travelers who’ve roamed this magical island for years, we know that every krona counts when planning your adventure. In today’s post, we’re diving into the age-old debate: should you cook your own meals or dine out when traveling Iceland on a budget? Read on for our personal insights, practical tips, and some insider secrets that might just change the way you travel.
Iceland’s Food Scene: A Land of Fine Flavors and Big Prices
Before we delve into practical strategies, let’s start with a little background. Iceland’s culinary scene is as unique as its landscape. Traditional dishes like Icelandic lamb soup, fresh seafood, and even the infamous Icelandic hot dogs have found their way into the hearts (and stomachs) of many visitors. But the novelty and quality come with a price tag.
Restaurants and cafés in Iceland – especially in tourist hotspots like Reykjavík or along the Ring Road – often charge premium prices. A simple lunch might cost anywhere from 2,500 to 4,000 ISK, while dinner at a mid-range restaurant could easily exceed your daily budget if you’re not careful. Not only are dining options expensive, but portions in some eateries may not fully satisfy the hunger that builds up after an active day exploring the great outdoors.
While there’s no doubt that indulging in a restaurant meal can be a treat, there’s a growing trend among savvy travelers: cooking your own meals. And if you plan to do other activities like camping or embracing van life, this option can also provide logistical freedom and a richer connection with the landscape.
The Perks of Cooking Your Own Meals
Save Money While Savoring Every Bite
We can’t stress this enough – cooking your own meals is one of the best ways to stretch your travel budget in Iceland. Groceries at local supermarkets such as Bonus, Kronan, or Nettó tend to cost significantly less than restaurant prices. By purchasing fresh local ingredients, you can whip up hearty breakfasts, warming lunches, and even gourmet dinners at a fraction of the cost of dining out.
Imagine this: you roll out of bed in your Cozy Camper – complete with a well-equipped kitchenette – and start your day by making a robust oatmeal breakfast with locally sourced berries. Not only does this save you the cost of a café breakfast, but it also sets the perfect tone for a day of exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.
Flexibility and Control Over Your Diet
Cooking your meals doesn’t just save money; it also offers you complete control over what you eat. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences, experimenting with local flavors, or simply enjoying the creative process of meal prep, preparing food on your own schedule can be a joy in itself.
Consider packing along some spices or condiments that remind you of home. Our Cozy Campers come standard with essential cooking equipment – a gas stove with one gas bottle, a sink with running water, a refrigerator (21 L), cookware, and kitchenware – so you have everything you need to cook up a storm, regardless of where you park. Being able to customize your meals means you can avoid the hefty restaurant prices while still indulging in delicious – and sometimes even healthier – options.
Cook with a View
There’s something undeniably magical about cooking while surrounded by Iceland’s natural beauty. Whether you’re parked near a steaming geothermal pool, overlooking a vast expanse of mossy highlands, or nestled beside a serene fjord, each meal becomes part of your adventure. The panoramic view and fresh air often make even simple dishes taste extraordinary, turning everyday cooking into an unforgettable experience.
The Realities of Dining Out in Iceland
Dining Out: An Unforgettable Experience (But At a Price)
While preparing your own meals has many advantages, eating out isn’t without its charms. The restaurant scene in Iceland is infused with creativity and local flair. Dishes here make use of extraordinary ingredients – from locally caught fish and sustainably raised lamb to artisanal cheeses and wild berries. Sampling these offerings can be a culinary adventure that lets you experience the heart of Icelandic culture in every bite.
However, there’s a catch. Dining out in Iceland comes with a premium price. A casual meal might seem like a great way to end a day of sightseeing, but those costs can add up quickly, especially if you plan to eat out for every meal.
When to Consider Treating Yourself
There are times when enjoying a meal out is well worth the splurge. For instance, after a long day of hiking on a challenging trail or while visiting a bustling downtown area where you might not have access to a kitchenette, dining out might be the easiest – and most satisfying – option. Special culinary treats like Icelandic seafood platters or a visit to the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Iceland’s beloved hot dog stand) offer unique tastes that you won’t be able to recreate on your own.
By mixing dining experiences with home-cooked meals, you get the best of both worlds: the satisfaction of a self-prepared meal and the indulgence of a gourmet experience on those extra special evenings.
Cooking vs. Eating Out: The Cost Comparison
Crunching the Numbers
Let’s break down the finances for a clearer picture. Although prices vary depending on the region and season, here’s a simplified comparison:
- Groceries for Self-Catering:
- Breakfast: A bag of oats, some milk, and fresh fruit might set you back around 1,000–1,500 ISK per person.
- Lunch: A simple sandwich with local cheese and salad, or even a warm soup, might cost around 1,500–2,000 ISK.
- Dinner: With local ingredients, you could prepare a nourishing meal like Icelandic lamb stew or fish soup for roughly 2,000–3,000 ISK per person.
Over a week, cooking in your camper could bring your food expenses to around 20,000–30,000 ISK per person.
- Dining Out:
- Breakfast: A café breakfast might average 2,000–3,000 ISK.
- Lunch: A meal at a casual restaurant will likely cost between 3,000–4,500 ISK.
- Dinner: Dining out for dinner might set you back 5,000–10,000 ISK per person.
A week’s worth of eating out could easily exceed 50,000–70,000 ISK per person.
From this snapshot, it’s clear that cooking your own meals can potentially save you a significant amount of money – money you could reinvest in more adventures or experiences during your stay in Iceland.
Hidden Costs of Dining Out
When eating out, there are additional costs to factor in:
- Service Charges and Taxes: These can make your already expensive meal even pricier.
- Limited Portions and Repeat Visits: While one meal may be delightful, the cumulative cost can quickly become unsustainable.
- Inconsistent Quality: Sometimes, the quality and portion size vary, which means you might feel the pinch if you’re not completely satisfied with the value for money.
On the other hand, when you cook your own food, you have control over portion sizes, ingredients, and the overall nutritional value of your meals.
Practical Tips for Cooking in Iceland
Stock Up at Local Supermarkets
Our advice? Start your journey by visiting one of Iceland’s well-known budget-friendly grocery stores like Bonus or Kronan. Here’s a handy checklist:
- Basics: Bread, eggs, milk, and cheese.
- Proteins: Local seafood or lamb – often available at reasonable prices.
- Fruits & Veggies: Potatoes, carrots, apples, and berries.
- Snacks: Nuts, yogurt, and granola bars for on-the-go energy.
Buying your groceries at these stores can significantly reduce your overall travel costs while allowing you to try cooking local recipes.
Utilize Your Camper’s Kitchen
When you choose van life or camping in Iceland, having a well-equipped kitchen in your camper is a game-changer. Cozy Campers offers a range of vehicles – everything from our Premium Campers like the Highlander series to our Standard and Budget Campers such as Cozy 1, Cozy 2, and Cozy 3.
Each of our campers comes outfitted with essentials:
- Gas Stove with 1 Gas Bottle: Ideal for whipping up breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the go.
- Refrigerator/Cooler: Keep your ingredients fresh, even if you’re parked in remote locations.
- Sink with Running Water: Convenient for cleaning up after a satisfying meal.
- Cookware & Kitchenware: Everything from pots and pans to knives and cutting boards, so you’re always ready to cook.
These features ensure that you’re never far from a home-cooked meal, no matter where you’re exploring.
Plan Your Meals in Advance
Before you hit the road, it helps to sketch out a rough menu for your trip. Not only does this reduce the likelihood of impulse buys, but it also streamlines your shopping list. Here are some meal ideas:
- Breakfast: Overnight oats with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs with toast, or even a warm bowl of porridge.
- Lunch: Pre-made sandwiches, wraps loaded with local veggies, or a simple soup.
- Dinner: Stews, grilled fish or lamb, and salads that combine local greens with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
- Snacks: Nuts, fruit, and homemade granola bars for the long drives between destinations.
A little planning goes a long way toward making sure you have nutritious meals ready when hunger strikes, all while keeping your budget intact.
When to Embrace Dining Out
Occasional Indulgences
Even the most dedicated self-caterers need a break sometimes. There are moments in your travel itinerary when eating out is less about convenience and more about embracing a culinary experience unique to Iceland. For example:
- After a Long Day of Hiking: When you’ve spent hours trekking through the highlands or admiring scenic waterfalls, the idea of gourmet Icelandic food served hot can be incredibly enticing.
- Special Occasions: Celebrating a milestone or a special event during your trip might call for letting someone else do the cooking.
- Cultural Exploration: Try a local bistro that offers traditional Icelandic dishes, such as the famous lamb soup or fresh local fish – experiences that add a rich layer to your journey.
Balancing Both Worlds
Most travelers find that a balance between self-catering and enjoying a meal out works best. Consider a simple rule of thumb: cook breakfast and lunch in your camper to maximize cost savings, and then choose one dinner out per week to enjoy a night of indulgence. This hybrid approach allows you to experience the comfort and creativity of your own cooking, while also sampling the best of Iceland’s restaurant scene.
The Joy of Cooking on the Road
A Culinary Adventure in a Cozy Camper
One of the most rewarding parts of cooking while on the road in Iceland is the sense of freedom it brings. Our Cozy Campers aren’t just vehicles – they’re home bases that allow you to explore off-the-beaten-track wonders without worrying about finding a restaurant in the middle of nowhere.
Picture this: You’ve just parked your Cozy 3 in a serene campsite with panoramic views of a distant glacier. As the sun begins to set, you fire up the gas stove, and the aroma of freshly cooked Icelandic fish stew fills the air. The skillfully designed interior of your camper, with its comfortable bedding and well-organized kitchen tools, transforms an ordinary meal into an intimate experience with nature. This is the kind of moment that solidifies your travel memories.
Creating Your Own Traditions
Every travel journey is punctuated by little rituals that become part of your story. For many of us, the ritual of preparing and sharing a home-cooked meal in a camper under a vast, starlit sky becomes a treasured memory. It’s not just about saving money – it’s about forming a connection with your environment, your travel companions, and even with yourself.
Mix in the playful experimentation with local ingredients and you might find yourself inventing a version of fish stew or lamb skillet uniquely your own. These moments, as simple as they might seem, are just as enriching as the breathtaking landscapes outside.
Insider Budget-Friendly Tips While Traveling in Iceland
Shop Smart and Save More
- Frequent the Supermarkets: As mentioned, Bonus, Kronan, and Nettó are your go-to grocery havens. Look out for daily specials and bulk offers.
- Seasonal Produce: Focus on fruits and vegetables that are in season, as they tend to be more affordable.
- Local Markets: Occasionally, find local markets where you can purchase traditional products at lower prices – this is a great way to explore Icelandic culture and support local producers.
Enhance Your Camper Experience
By choosing a Cozy Camper, you never have to compromise on comfort while keeping your food expenses low. Our range of campers, whether it’s a Premium Camper like the Highlander series or one of our Standard Campers such as Cozy 1 or Cozy 2, is designed with your travel convenience in mind. With features like the onboard gas stove, integrated sink, and refrigerator, cooking on the go becomes both effortless and enjoyable.
Make Use of Cozy Campers Extras
When planning your trip, don’t forget about the extras that can elevate your travel experience while still being budget-friendly:
- Additional Gas Bottles: You can always rent extra gas bottles if you plan on cooking extensively.
- Camping Chairs and Tables: Enjoy an al fresco dining experience in the great outdoors.
- Portable Coffee/Tea Press: Start your morning right with a fresh cup of coffee or tea, served with a view.
- Towel Rentals: Save space in your camper by renting a towel instead of packing bulky ones.
These extras are designed to make your journey smoother and more comfortable, while ensuring you spend wisely throughout your trip.
Balancing Cooking and Dining Out for the Ultimate Experience
Mixing It Up for Variety
Ultimately, the choice isn’t binary. There are plenty of scenarios where cooking is the best option, and times when letting someone else do the cooking is a welcomed indulgence. Here are some ideas to strike the perfect balance:
- Café-Style Breakfasts: In the mornings, whip up a light meal in your camper. Enjoy fresh bread, jams, and locally sourced dairy—simple, satisfying, and economical.
- Picnic Lunches: Prepare a few sandwiches, pack some fruits, and enjoy a picnic by one of Iceland’s many scenic spots. This not only cuts costs but also enhances your outdoor experience.
- Splurge Dinners: Once in a while, treat yourself to a dinner at a local restaurant. Whether it’s trying a renowned seafood dish or sampling an Icelandic delicacy, these dinners become highlights of your journey.
- Snack Smart: Keep energy bars, nuts, and other compact snacks on hand. These are perfect for days when you’re exploring remote areas and can’t wait to find a proper meal.
A Sample Budget-Friendly Itinerary
Here’s an example itinerary that blends both cooking and dining out:
- Day 1:
- Breakfast: Prepare a warm bowl of porridge in your camper.
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch with locally bought bread, cheese, and fruit.
- Dinner: Dine out at a cozy Reykjavík café – treat yourself to a hearty fish soup.
- Day 2:
- Breakfast: Quick scrambled eggs and toast prepared in your camper’s kitchenette.
- Lunch: Drive to a scenic spot and enjoy pre-made wraps or sandwiches.
- Dinner: Return to your camper and cook up a traditional lamb stew, enriched with fresh herbs bought from a local market.
- Day 3:
- Breakfast: Simple oatmeal with fruit and a cup of freshly brewed coffee (using a rental coffee press from Cozy Campers).
- Lunch: A light salad and soup combination prepared quickly in the camper.
- Dinner: Enjoy an evening out trying one of Iceland’s special dishes, perhaps a local seafood platter.
This kind of mixed itinerary allows you to experience the best of both worlds – savoring home-cooked, cost-effective meals while also indulging in the local dining scene on occasion.
Final Thoughts: Your Budget, Your Adventure
In the end, choosing between cooking and eating out in Iceland comes down to your budget, schedule, and the kind of experience you want. Cooking your own meals, especially when you have a fully equipped camper like those offered by Cozy Campers, is one of the cleverest ways to explore Iceland without breaking the bank. Not only do you save money, but you also gain the flexibility to stop wherever you want, create your own culinary adventures, and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
We hope these insights help you strike a perfect balance during your Icelandic journey. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast in your Cozy 1 or treating yourself to a local delicacy in Reykjavík, every meal is an opportunity to connect with the culture and landscapes of Iceland.
Ready to Explore Iceland on a Budget?
If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s geysers, glaciers, and endless horizons, why not make your journey as comfortable and cost-efficient as possible? With Cozy Campers, you not only get a reliable, well-equipped vehicle that lets you cook your own meals wherever you park, you also unlock the freedom to plan your adventure just the way you want it. Our campers come with all the essential features – from a gas stove and compact refrigerator to kitchenware and extra battery packs – so you can savor the pleasures of home-cooked meals while on the road.
Cooking versus eating out isn’t about sacrificing flavor or enjoyment – it’s about making smart choices that enhance your travel experience. So, whether you’re a die-hard foodie who loves the art of self-catering or someone who enjoys the occasional restaurant treat, Iceland offers a wealth of opportunities for both.
Bon Appétit and Happy Travels!
We’d love to hear your thoughts and travel tips in the comments below. And if you’re ready to start planning your Icelandic adventure with the freedom to cook your own meals and explore at your own pace, check out Cozy Campers for the perfect travel companion.
Embrace the adventure, cook with passion, and dine with pleasure – your Iceland journey awaits, and every meal can be a story worth sharing.
Back to blog