Traveling the Ring Road: Shopping for Your Campervan Trip includes Costco!

We have no affiliations with Costco and do not get paid for any recommendations.

After landing in Iceland and spending a night in the Golden Circle, we realized we needed a new game plan.  Taking that one night to stay near Reykjavik is key to getting started out on the Ring Road the right way.  While we figured out things along the way, we're here to start you off right.  By the time you get to Dettifoss, you'll be a pro!  (Dettifoss is an upcoming post!)

Let's talk about Costco.  (We are not affiliates and make nothing for recommending them.)  It was the best find on day two.  Not only does Costco help cut the cost by being able to buy in bulk for a camping trip out on the Ring Road, you go in knowing Kirkland brands.  For two people who have Celiac, this was the biggest win.  We were able to find brands of food with English translation that were gluten free.  The day before, we had combed through the grocery store trying the find the gluten free translations.  Costco made life so much better.

Tip:  Purchase a bag of frozen peas from Costco.  While you will not eat them, peas hold cold in.  Due to not having typical coolers in Iceland, we were able to keep our cold food longer having the peas on top to keep the cold in.

There are other grocery stores around Iceland, and you will need to stop along the way for Ice and replenishing some of the food that requires cold.  There are three grocery stores we recommend:
Bonus, Kronan, and Netto.  Bonus and Kronan are considered the cheapest, Netto had the best selection of gluten free items.

Iceland, like many European countries, does separate specialty needs into other stores. You cannot get over the counter medicine in a supermarket.  If you find yourself in need of say, an antacid, head over to Lyfja.  We found one in the mall.  

You can find some beer in grocery stores, however, liquors and wine are sold at Vinbud.  

We did learn if you are in need of cigarettes in Iceland, you can purchase them in gas stations.  They are not displayed.  Iceland requires them to be locked away in unmarked drawers.

We loved cooking outside.  Our campervan came with all necessary cooking needs, including soap and sponges.  We highly recommend bringing a few dish size microfiber towels.  They are just handy to have for drying and cleaning up messes.  

Don't forget charging cords!  You will also want to purchase internet for the campervan.  While service worked fairly well all over the island, it definitely saved on overage costs by not having to use the international plan.  

Last but not least: purchase the Arm and Hammer baking soda balls.  This was our first trip we found them, and we will not travel without them.  Hiking in the cold, rain, and heat does a number on shoes.  Because of the close quarters, wet shoes and socks quickly can leave a scent.  Wet clothes as well.  These went into all of the shoes as well as various spots near the wet clothes.  Can't recommend them enough!  Find them HERE!  (We are Amazon affiliates and we do make a small compensation from qualifying purchases.)

Packed and ready, we started out onto the Ring Road.  Get ready to see our amazing adventure!

Click Below for More on Iceland!

Quick Start Guide to Iceland

Golden Circle, Iceland

Reykjanes Peninsula

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