Top Tips for Enjoying a Northern Lights Tour in Iceland with Young Explorers

Have you ever dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights? This natural phenomenon ignites the night sky with vibrant colours and amazing people worldwide. With its long, dark winter nights, Iceland is a prime location for families to see this spectacle.

Planning a Family Trip to see the Northern Lights? Here’s Why We Can Help!

While the allure of the Northern Lights is undeniable, planning to see them with children can add an extra layer of consideration.

This guide is designed for families seeking an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure in Iceland. We understand that you might have questions beyond camera settings and self-drive excursions.

What to Expect on Your Northern Lights Tour: Beyond the Basics

We’ve been there and done it with two kids in tow.! Our initial research revealed an abundance of resources focused on photography or independent trips.

This guide, however, dives deeper, addressing the practical concerns and “little things” that often go overlooked when planning a Northern Lights tour with kids. Our girls were 9 and 12 when we went on this adventure.

Who did we choose to do a Northern Lights Tour with?

Our unforgettable Northern Lights experience was made possible by a guided tour with Gray Line Iceland. Choosing a guided tour, especially for families with children, offers several advantages:

• Local Expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance your experience by leading you to prime viewing locations you would never find on a self-drive experience. Their local insights increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
• Comfortable & Convenient Transportation: Eliminate the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads in potentially challenging winter conditions, especially at night. Modern buses provide a comfortable and safe environment for the entire family, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the journey.

Northern Lights Tour Essentials: Packing for Success

Preparation is key, especially for families with children. Here, we share valuable insights gleaned from our own two Northern Lights tour adventures in Reykjavik, highlighting the essentials you’ll want to pack for a successful night:

• First Night Learnings: Our initial “Northern Lights Mystery Exploration Tour” revealed some packing gaps. While a water bottle, apple snacks, and travel blankets kept the kids comfortable for a late-night excursion, there were additional considerations.
• Second Night Savvy: The second night showcased the importance of packing essentials for entertainment and potential purchases.

Essential Tips for Unforgettable Northern Lights Tours (With Kids!)

Below are our very best tips for Northern Lights Tours that will make your night one not to forget.

Packing Smart for the Journey:

• Pack Snacks & Drinks: While lengthy toilet stops might be infrequent, bring enough water and snacks to keep everyone, especially children, comfortable throughout the tour. Our first-hand experience revealed limited opportunities to purchase refreshments on the go. Opt for healthy, energy-boosting snacks like granola bars or trail mix.
• Consider a Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially in colder temperatures. A reusable water bottle is an eco-friendly option and eliminates the need for single-use plastics.

Planning for Comfort Breaks:

• Use Restrooms Before Departure: Guided Northern Lights tours often prioritize maximizing Aurora Borealis viewing time, with limited rest stops. Take advantage of restroom facilities at the departure terminal to avoid potential discomfort later.

Be Prepared for Unexpected Stops:

• Carry Cash (Optional): While some tours might not require cash, having a small amount can be handy. You might encounter unexpected stops at kiosks selling hot drinks or snacks, which can provide a welcome respite on chilly nights. Opt for a small crossbody bag or secure pouch for easy access.

Additional Tips for Families:

• Bring Portable Entertainment: While the Aurora Borealis is the main attraction, extended waits can occur. Pack small games, books, or downloaded movies to entertain children during downtime.

Ensuring Comfort for Young Travelers:

Keeping children cozy and comfortable is crucial for a successful Northern Lights tour experience. Here’s what we learned:

• Bring Cozy Blankets: Pack a comfortable blanket for each child, large enough for them to snuggle up in. Consider lightweight travel blankets that provide warmth without adding bulk.
• Prepare for Unexpected Weather: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for colder temperatures, even if the forecast seems mild. Pack an extra layer or a hat for children, just in case.
• Embrace the Bus Environment: Modern tour buses are often well-heated, providing a comfortable environment for children to rest. Encourage them to use their coats as pillows if needed.

Additional Tips:

• Communicate with Your Tour Guide: Inform your guide if your child has any specific needs or requires assistance getting comfortable on the bus.

Important Note: While these tips were valuable for our family experience, specific weather conditions and bus amenities might vary depending on the tour operator. Always check with your tour provider for the latest information.

Dressing for the Icelandic Winter:

• Layering is Key: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, including thermals, warm socks, waterproof boots, hats, and mittens. This allows for easy temperature regulation throughout the tour.
• Invest in Quality Gear: Consider using hand warmers for additional warmth, especially for extremities. Packing a small, lightweight backpack allows for easy storage of extra layers when not needed.

Essential Photography Tips (Optional):

• Tripod for Stable Shots: Capturing the Aurora Borealis often requires long exposure, making a tripod essential for sharp photos. Consider a lightweight, portable tripod for easy transport.
• Basic Camera Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with your camera’s manual settings before the tour. Knowing how to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO will allow you to capture stunning images of the Northern Lights.

Additional Considerations:

• Tour Operator Guidance: Many tour operators provide valuable information on recommended clothing and camera settings in their pre-tour materials. For specific recommendations, refer to these resources.
• Respecting Fellow Travelers: Be mindful of other photographers’ viewpoints when setting up your tripod to avoid obstructing their shots.

Important Note: While these tips were valuable for our family experience, specific weather conditions and amenities might vary depending on the tour operator. Always check with your tour provider for the latest information.

Maintaining Visibility During Nighttime Excursions:

• Ditch the Headlamps (Optional): While headlamps can be helpful for navigating dark environments, they can disrupt long-exposure photography attempts for fellow Northern Lights enthusiasts. Consider alternative lighting solutions like flashlights with red filters or glow sticks for children.
• Prioritize Safety: Ensuring everyone’s visibility in low-light conditions is crucial. Dress in brightly coloured clothing or reflective gear, especially for children. Opt for jackets with reflective strips or incorporate glow sticks into their clothing for easy identification.

Keeping Kids Entertained During Downtime:

• Pack Portable Entertainment: Nighttime tours can involve periods of waiting or downtime. To keep children entertained, pack fully charged tablets, pre-downloaded movies, or travel games.
• Respecting Fellow Photographers: Be mindful of using electronic devices with bright screens that might interfere with other photographers capturing the Northern Lights. Consider using headphones or setting screen brightness to a low level.

Additional Considerations:

• Tour Operator Guidance: Some tour operators might have specific policies regarding headlamps or electronic device usage. For any guidelines, refer to the pre-tour information.
• Responsible Battery Management: Download movies or games beforehand to avoid draining electronic devices during the tour. Consider packing a portable power bank for extended use.

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Are you planning a trip to Iceland? If so, why not take a look at our Iceland with Kids article?

Sharing Your Northern Lights Experience:

• Capture and Share Your Memories: The Northern Lights are a breathtaking spectacle. To commemorate your experience, capture stunning photos and videos. Many tour operators encourage participants to share their pictures online.
• Respecting Fellow Travelers’ Privacy: Do not include others in your photos or videos without their consent.

Importance of Following Guide Instructions:

• Expert Guidance is Key: Your Northern Lights tour guide is invaluable. They possess extensive knowledge of the region and the Aurora Borealis. Heed their instructions regarding safety precautions, viewing locations, and photography techniques.
• Safety First: Icy terrain and unpredictable weather conditions necessitate following your guide’s instructions for safe navigation, especially when exiting the bus at viewing stops.

Preparing for the Unexpected:

• Embrace the Icelandic Weather: Iceland’s weather can be capricious, with rapid changes in conditions. Dress in layers and be prepared to adapt quickly.
• Be Patient and Flexible: Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed. Your guide will use their expertise to maximize your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon. Maintain a positive attitude and enjoy the experience, even if the Aurora Borealis remains elusive.

Smart Strategies for Spotting Your Group During Northern Lights Tours:

Ensuring you can easily locate your group during nighttime Northern Lights excursions is crucial. As with everything, there will be more than just one bus out looking for the Northern Lights. There actually might be quite a few buses and people at each stop. Here are some creative ideas to consider:

• Glow Sticks and Reflective Gear: Glow sticks offer a fun and affordable solution for nighttime visibility. They come in various colours and can be attached to clothing or backpacks. Reflective gear, like vests or armbands, is another excellent option, especially for children.
• Headlamps (Optional): Headlamps provide hands-free illumination, making them helpful for navigating uneven terrain. However, be mindful of using them near others taking pictures, as the bright light can disrupt long-exposure photography. Opt for red filters if available to minimize light interference.
• Flashlights with Red Filters: Regular flashlights with red filters are a good compromise. They provide light for navigation without disrupting photography as much as white light.
• Brightly Colored Clothing: During the tour, both adults and children should wear brightly coloured jackets or hats, which can enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

Additional Considerations:

• Tour Operator Guidance: Some tour operators might have specific flashlights or glow stick guidelines. For any restrictions, refer to the pre-tour information.
• Responsible Use of Light Sources: Avoid using any light source excessively, as it can affect others’ night vision.

Important Note: While these ideas were helpful, it’s important to prioritize following your tour guide’s instructions regarding safety and light usage during the Northern Lights viewing.

Northern Lights Tour Considerations:

• Weather Variability: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for anything, from clear skies to snowstorms. Pack accordingly and maintain a flexible attitude.
• Respecting Fellow Travelers: Northern Lights viewing locations can get crowded. Practice good etiquette by maintaining a reasonable distance from others and avoiding blocking their views.

Additional Notes:

• Self-Driving vs. Guided Tours: While self-driving tours offer flexibility, guided tours can be safer and more convenient, especially for families with children. Expert guides can navigate unfamiliar terrain and maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.
• Managing Expectations: Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed. The best approach is to enjoy the experience, the Icelandic scenery, and the company of your loved ones.

If anything we hope these tips can make your night chasing the Northern Lights with your kids in tow a little easier and more enjoyable for the whole family.

Know before you go! Our top Reykjavík travel tips

Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital city, is a must-visit for any traveller seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and urban energy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to Reykjavík:

Finding Your Ideal Accommodation

Reykjavík offers diverse accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Trip Advisor has a great range of choices to suit every budget. While we were in Reykjavik, we chose to stay at Downtown Reykjavik Apartments.

Transportation:

• Reaching Reykjavík: Most travellers arrive in Iceland via Keflavík International Airport, approximately 50 kilometres from Reykjavík. Numerous airlines offer flights to Keflavík. You can book airport transfers directly or upon arrival. For a more adventurous approach, consider arriving by ferry on the Smyril Line’s car ferry, M/S Norröna, which sails weekly between Iceland, Denmark, and the Faroe Islands.
• Getting Around Reykjavík: The city’s efficient yellow buses, known as “strætó” (short for “strætisvagn” or streetcar), provide a convenient and affordable way to navigate Reykjavík. For a more comprehensive exploration of the city and surrounding areas, consider the hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses.
• The Reykjavík City Card: For significant savings on sightseeing and transportation, consider purchasing the Reykjavík City Card. This card provides free admission to many popular attractions, free public bus transportation, and discounts at restaurants and shops. The card is available in durations of 24, 48, and 72 hours. Card

Staying Connected:

While Reykjavík offers Wi-Fi access in many public spaces, purchasing a local SIM card ensures reliable mobile data and calling throughout your trip. Several Icelandic mobile network operators offer prepaid SIM card packages for visitors.

Additional Tips:

• Research weather conditions: Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. Pack versatile clothing suitable for layering, including rain gear and warm clothes for potentially chilly evenings.
• Embrace the local currency: The Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency. While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some cash is always recommended for smaller purchases or hidden gem shops that might not have card readers.
• Explore beyond Reykjavík: Iceland’s breathtaking natural beauty extends far beyond the capital city. Consider renting a car for day trips or multi-day excursions to explore the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or other captivating regions.

Following these tips and using this guide as a resource, you can plan an unforgettable and enriching trip to Reykjavík, Iceland.

Travelling to Iceland requires a lot of planning. Not only is it one of the most expensive countries to visit, but it is also amazing. Once you are in Iceland, you feel like you must do it all while there. Below are the best things to prepare before leaving for your Reykjavik vacation.

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