For many international visitors, the first scene of an Iceland trip is Keflavík International Airport.
Isavia describes Keflavík Airport as the largest gateway into Iceland. On my visit, the arrivals flow was relatively easy to understand, with useful facilities available before continuing the journey. I appreciated being able to move calmly from arrival formalities to the next stage of the trip after a long flight.
The snow-covered land and coastline visible from the plane made arriving in Iceland feel unmistakable even before reaching the terminal.
One useful stop before leaving the airport
Alcohol is not sold in Icelandic supermarkets in the same way it is in many other countries. In town, alcoholic drinks are generally purchased through the state-run Vínbúðin stores.
Keflavík Airport currently has an Ísland Duty Free store for arriving passengers near baggage claim. If you plan to drink during your trip, it is worth checking the arrivals duty-free shop before leaving the airport.
One Icelandic beer I kept in mind to try was Gull.
Card payments were easy
During my Iceland trip, paying by card was simple enough that I rarely had to think about cash.
Before traveling, however, it is still useful to make sure your card is enabled for overseas use and that you know its PIN. A little preparation at home can prevent an awkward moment at a payment terminal abroad.
I did not feel the need to keep buying bottled water
The water was one of the small practical things I appreciated in Iceland.
I was comfortable drinking tap water during the trip, so carrying a reusable bottle made more sense than repeatedly buying bottled water.
Think about souvenirs before the flight home
Keflavík Airport has a useful selection of Icelandic brands and gifts, but I would not leave every souvenir purchase until the final airport visit.
Some of the best travel keepsakes are the things you notice naturally along the way. If something feels right during the trip, it may be better to pick it up then rather than depend entirely on last-minute airport shopping.
Continue Exploring Fagradalsfjall: A Fascinating Volcano Hike Even Without Flowing LavaPRACTICAL INFO
- Airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
- Location: Keflavík area in southwest Iceland
- For Reykjavík: KEF is Iceland’s main international gateway and is outside central Reykjavík.
- Arrivals duty-free: Ísland Duty Free is available to arriving passengers near baggage claim.
- Alcohol: If you plan to buy alcohol, compare the arrivals duty-free option and check the current customs allowance.
- Payments: Cards were very convenient in my experience; check overseas use and your PIN before departure.
- Water: A reusable bottle is useful during an Iceland trip.
- Security: Current airport guidance limits cabin liquids to containers of up to 100 ml, fitting within a 1-litre transparent zip bag.
- Info checked: 2026-09-06. Airport facilities and regulations can change, so recheck the official site before travel.
