Eating in Iceland on a Budget

When planning my trip to Iceland, one of my biggest worries was the cost of food. Everyone warns you how expensive everything is, and they're not wrong! Food prices, especially in Reykjavik, can certainly make a dent in your travel budget. But don't despair – after a fantastic trip, I wanted to share even more insights on how my husband and I managed to eat well and still save a pretty penny. Beyond the amazing spots mentioned in the article, like grabbing a unique crème brûlée donut from DEIG workshop or the incredible value at Icelandic Street Food with its all-you-can-eat soup, here are some extra tips I learned: 1. Master the Grocery Store (Especially Bónus or Krónan): This was our absolute savior for cheap food in Iceland. While the article mentions picking up cereal, I want to emphasize how much you can save by doing a big grocery haul. We loved the Coop Müsli Choco, but also stocked up on bread, cheese, cold cuts, and fruit for picnic lunches. These stores are surprisingly well-stocked, and making your own sandwiches or simple pasta dishes (like the Korr carbonara we found!) can drastically cut costs compared to eating out every meal. Look for Bónus (the pink pig store) or Krónan for the best prices. 2. Pack Smart Snacks & Reusable Water Bottle: Before leaving home, I packed some protein bars and small snacks. This was great for long drives between towns when eating options were scarce or overpriced. Iceland's tap water is some of the purest in the world and completely safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle and refill it constantly. It’s free and saves you tons of money on bottled water. 3. Embrace the Kitchen: If your accommodation, be it an Airbnb or a guesthouse, has a kitchen, use it! This is where those grocery store finds really pay off. We cooked several dinners, which was not only budget-friendly but also a fun way to wind down after a day of exploring. Even just making your own coffee or tea can add up to significant savings. 4. Gas Station Gems (Beyond the Basics): While the article touched on gas station pizza and sandwiches, don't underestimate their hot food sections. Sometimes you can find surprisingly decent hot meals like burgers, fries, or even local specialties that are cheaper than a sit-down restaurant. They're especially useful when you're out in more remote areas. 5. Hot Dogs – A True Icelandic Institution: We loved Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavik, and trust me, get it "with everything" – the mixture of raw and crispy onions with those delicious sauces (even if you hate mustard like I do, you'll love these!) is a must-try. But don't limit yourself to just the famous stand. Hot dogs are available everywhere and are consistently one of the cheapest, most satisfying lunch options across the country. 6. The Friðheimar Bar Trick: As mentioned, Friðheimar's tomato soup experience is fantastic, but a reservation can be tough. My tip for those on a spontaneous trip or a tighter budget: head straight for the bar! You can often get seated quicker for just the soup, avoiding the full restaurant experience while still enjoying that delicious, Iceland-grown tomato soup. It’s a genius way to enjoy a unique meal without the long wait or full price tag. Eating on a budget in Iceland requires a bit of planning and a willingness to explore different options, but it’s absolutely doable. You can enjoy incredible food experiences without needing to remortgage your house!