Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BUYING FUEL
Most smaller petrol stations are unstaffed, and all pumps are automated - though there
is the time-consuming option of going inside the service station to ask staff to manually
switch on the pump, enabling you to fill up and pay for your fuel afterwards.
To fill up using the automated service, put your credit card into the machine's slot
(you'll need a card with a four-digit PIN) and follow the instructions. Enter your PIN, then
the maximum amount you wish to spend, then wait while the pump authorises your pur-
chase. Entering a maximum amount pre-approves your card for that capped amount, but
you are only charged for the cost of the fuel put into your vehicle (this can be any amount
you wish, up to the pre-approved capped amount). If you require a receipt, re-enter your
card into the slot.
The first time you fill up, visit a staffed station while it's open, in case you have any
problems.
Note that you need a PIN for your card - for petrol and for most other card purchases
in Iceland. Arrange one with your bank before you leave home. If you don't have a PIN,
buy prepaid cards from an N1 station that you can then use at the automated pumps.
Road Conditions & Hazards
Good main-road surfaces and light traffic make driving in Iceland relatively easy, but there
are some specific hazards. Watch the 'Drive Safely on Icelandic Roads' video on
www.drive.is
for more.
Livestock
Sheep graze in the countryside over the summer, and often wander onto roads.
Slow down when you see livestock on or near roadsides.
Unsurfaced roads
The transition from sealed to gravel roads is marked with the warning
sign 'Malbik Endar' - slow right down to avoid skidding when you hit the gravel. Most acci-
dents involving foreign drivers in Iceland are caused by the use of excessive speed on un-
surfaced roads. If your car does begin to skid, take your foot off the accelerator and gently
turn the car in the direction you want the front wheels to go. Do not brake.
Blind rises
In most cases roads have two lanes with steeply cambered sides and no hard
shoulder; be prepared for oncoming traffic in the centre of the road, and slow down and
stay to the right when approaching a blind rise, marked as 'Blindhæð' on road signs.
Single-lane bridges
Slow down and be prepared to give way when approaching single-
lane bridges (marked as 'Einbreið Brú'). Right of way is with the car closest to the bridge.
Sun glare
With the sun often sitting so low to the horizon, sunglasses are recommended.
