Iceland Grocery Stores: A Budget Guide for Travelers

Exploring Iceland by campervan or RV is one of the best ways to experience the country's natural wonders, from waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches, and remote landscapes. Dining out, while on such an adventure, can be convenient, but can also quickly increase your travel costs. However, shopping at local grocery stores makes it easy to enjoy delicious meals while staying within your budget. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer Ring Road adventure, knowing where to shop and what to buy can make a noticeable difference to your travel expenses.

Understanding Food Prices in Iceland

Iceland has a reputation for being an expensive destination, and groceries generally cost more than many travelers are used to. This is largely due to the country's remote location and the need to import many products. However, grocery shopping is still far more affordable than eating at restaurants for every meal.

If you're traveling in a campervan, rooftop tent vehicle, or motorhome, preparing your own breakfasts, lunches, and dinners can significantly reduce your daily expenses while giving you the flexibility to eat wherever your journey takes you.

Icelandic Supermarkets: Where to Shop in Iceland

Several supermarket chains operate across Iceland, each offering different price ranges, opening hours, and product selections. Planning your grocery stops before heading into more remote regions will help you save both time and money.

Bónus

Bónus is widely considered the cheapest supermarket chain in Iceland. Recognizable by its famous pink piggy bank logo, it offers excellent prices on fresh produce, dairy products, bread, frozen foods, snacks, and everyday essentials. Most budget-conscious travelers make Bónus their first stop after arriving in Iceland.

Many Bónus stores are located around Reykjavík and larger towns, and you'll also find branches along popular routes such as the South Coast and in Akureyri.

Krónan

Krónan is another excellent choice for travelers looking for affordable groceries. Prices are usually only slightly higher than Bónus, while the stores often provide a wider selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, vegetarian products, and organic items.

Many visitors appreciate Krónan for combining reasonable prices with a comfortable shopping experience.

Nettó

Nettó offers a good balance between convenience and affordability. Its stores are often found in smaller towns where other supermarkets may not be available, making it a practical option during a road trip around Iceland.

Besides groceries, many Nettó stores also sell camping supplies, toiletries, basic clothing, and travel accessories.

Hagkaup

Hagkaup carries one of the largest selections of groceries in Iceland, including international brands, specialty products, and household goods. While prices tend to be higher than Bónus or Krónan, many locations have longer opening hours, making Hagkaup a convenient option if you arrive late in the evening.

Budget Traps to Avoid in Iceland

Not every food shop offers good value. Convenience stores such as 10-11, Krambuðin and Spar are designed for quick purchases and typically charge much higher prices than supermarkets. Gas station shops are also considerably more expensive, so they should only be used when necessary.

One easy way to save money in Iceland is to avoid buying bottled water. Iceland's tap water is among the cleanest and freshest in the world, and it's completely safe to drink. Simply bring a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout your trip. Make sure to run the cold water for a while before filling your bottle to clear out any hot water that may be in the pipes.

Grocery Shopping Tips for RV & Camper Travelers

Traveling with your own kitchen gives you incredible flexibility, but a little planning makes every grocery stop even more worthwhile.

Stock Up Before Heading Out

Before leaving Reykjavík or another major town, purchase enough food for several days. Supermarkets become less frequent as you travel through more remote regions, and opening hours can also be shorter outside larger cities.

Keeping your fridge and pantry stocked allows you to enjoy scenic picnic stops without worrying about finding the next grocery store.

Choose Easy-to-Cook Meals

Simple meals save both time and fuel. Pasta, rice dishes, soups, wraps, sandwiches, oatmeal, eggs, and ready-made sauces are excellent choices for life on the road. Fresh vegetables, cheese, and local dairy products also make quick, satisfying meals.

If you'd like more meal inspiration, read our guide to cooking during a camper trip.

Don’t Forget Camping Gas

If you're traveling with a rooftop tent vehicle or using your own camping stove, remember to bring enough gas for your trip. Running out of fuel in remote areas can make preparing meals difficult.

RV Iceland offers an optional Kitchen Box that includes everything you need to start cooking immediately. The basic Kitchen Box contains a gas stove, gas canister, plates, glasses, bowls, knives, forks, spoons, a dishwashing sponge, dishcloth, hot water thermos, and a chopping board, making meal preparation simple from day one.

Don’t Miss Out on Campsites “Free Shelves”

Many Icelandic campsites have community "free shelves" where travelers leave unopened food, cooking oil, spices, coffee, pasta, gas canisters, and other useful supplies before flying home.

Checking these shelves can help reduce food waste while saving you money during your camping trip in Iceland.

How Much to Budget for Groceries in Iceland

Your grocery budget depends on your eating habits, but these estimates provide a realistic starting point for travelers cooking most of their meals.

7-day road trip (2 people):

• Budget shopping: €180–250
• Comfortable shopping with snacks and treats: €250–350

10-day road trip (2 people):

• Budget shopping: €260–360
• Comfortable shopping with additional fresh foods and convenience items: €360–500

Start planning your journey with our 10-day road trip itinerary guide.

Preparing nearly all meals yourself can easily save hundreds of euros compared to eating at restaurants every day.

Top Budget-Friendly Local Foods

Trying Icelandic specialties doesn't have to be expensive. Many local products are affordable and perfect for camper travel.

Some great options include:

• Skyr – Iceland's famous high-protein dairy product that's perfect for breakfast or snacks.
• Rúgbrauð (rye bread) – Dense, slightly sweet bread that pairs well with cheese or smoked fish.
• Flatkökur (flatbread) – Traditional flatbread that's ideal for quick lunches.
• Icelandic butter and cheese – High-quality dairy products that offer excellent value.
• Oatmeal – An inexpensive breakfast that's easy to prepare while camping.
• Lamb sausages – A local favorite that's simple to cook on a camping stove.
• Fresh fish – Often available at reasonable prices compared to restaurant seafood dishes.

Final Words: Navigate Iceland’s Grocery Stores

Shopping smart is one of the easiest ways to keep your Iceland adventure affordable. By choosing budget-friendly supermarkets, planning your grocery stops ahead of time, and preparing your own meals, you'll have more freedom to explore everything Iceland has to offer without overspending.

Whether you're traveling in a campervan, rooftop tent vehicle, or RV rental, a well-stocked kitchen allows you to enjoy unforgettable meals surrounded by Iceland's spectacular scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions about grocery shopping in Iceland? We’ve answered some of the most common questions about grocery stores in Iceland below.