Supermarkets in Iceland: Where to Shop Without Selling a Kidney
So, you’ve booked your flights, rented your campervan, and are all set for your epic Iceland road trip.
You’re ready to chase waterfalls, soak in hot springs, and drive through landscapes that look straight out of a Viking saga.
But wait: How are you going to (literally) survive – aka eat – without going bankrupt?
Eating out in Iceland can be, let’s say, financially traumatizing.
A simple burger can cost you the same as a three-course meal back home (well, guess that depends on where you’re from), and don’t even get us started on the price of beer.
That’s where supermarkets come to the rescue!
Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly adventure, have dietary restrictions, or just love the idea of cooking your own meals while overlooking a glacier (because let’s be honest, that does sound pretty epic), grocery stores in Iceland will become your new best friend.
But, hey: As you can imagine, not all supermarkets are created equal! Some are budget-friendly, some are open late, some are only found in Reykjavik, and others pop up in the most random, middle-of-nowhere locations.
If you're feeling a bit lost, keep reading: In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grocery shopping in Iceland.
From the cheapest supermarket chains to what you absolutely shouldn’t forget to buy, plus a few insider tips on how to make the most of your food budget while road-tripping.
So, let's start: Getting hungry?
An Overview of Iceland’s Grocery Store Chains
Bónus: The Budget Traveler’s Best Friend
If you're planning a road trip across Iceland and looking to keep your grocery expenses low, Bónus is the store you need to know.
Recognizable by its bright yellow sign and its infamous pink pig logo, Bónus has built a reputation as Iceland’s most budget-friendly supermarket chain.
With locations all over the country, particularly in Reykjavík and along the Ring Road, Bónus is the go-to place for affordable groceries.
Here you’ll find everything you need for your campervan adventure: fresh produce, dairy products like skyr, Icelandic lamb and fish, as well as a variety of frozen and packaged foods.
Bónus stores are no-frills – expect plain shelves, bulk discounts, and an emphasis on keeping prices low rather than on making the shopping experience “fun.”
Remember that there are no 24-hour locations, so be mindful of the store hours (most close by 18:00 or 19:00).
If you’re traveling outside major towns, stock up ahead of time, as Bónus doesn’t have stores in very remote areas.
Krónan: The Slightly More Upmarket Alternative
For those who still want affordable prices but with a better shopping experience, Krónan is the next best thing.
This supermarket chain is known for its bright, modern stores and a wider selection of products compared to Bónus.
Krónan is a great choice if you're looking for healthier or specialty food items. It has more organic produce, better vegetarian and vegan options, and a decent range of international foods.
While the prices are slightly higher than Bónus, many locals argue that the quality of fresh produce is better at Krónan.
Another advantage? Krónan stores stay open longer, with many locations operating until 20:00 or 21:00. This definitely makes it a more flexible option if you don’t feel like rushing your shopping trips.
Nettó: Convenience and Variety, but at a Cost
If you need groceries at odd hours, Nettó is your best bet. Unlike Bónus and Krónan, some Nettó locations are open 24/7, making it an absolute lifesaver if you find yourself in need of last-minute essentials.
Nettó carries a bit of everything – groceries, household goods, toiletries, and even outdoor gear. However, prices here are noticeably higher than at Bónus or Krónan, making it more of a backup option than a first choice for budget-conscious travelers.
One of the key advantages of Nettó is that it’s more common in smaller towns than Bónus, making it a solid option if you’re venturing outside Reykjavík and need to restock.
Hagkaup: Iceland’s Version of a Superstore
If you like shopping at big international chains like Target or Walmart, Hagkaup is the closest Icelandic equivalent.
Unlike the other supermarket chains, Hagkaup sells more than just groceries – you’ll find clothing, electronics, home goods, and even high-end food products under one roof.
Hagkaup locations tend to be spacious and well-stocked, making them a great stop if you want a broader selection of imported and specialty items.
However, keep in mind that prices here can be significantly higher than at Bónus or Krónan, as Hagkaup caters to a more premium market.
Some Hagkaup stores are open 24/7, which can be convenient if you’re on a late-night grocery run.
If you’re looking for high-quality cuts of meat, gourmet cheeses, or international delicacies that aren’t widely available in Iceland, Hagkaup is worth checking out.
10-11: The "Overpriced but Always Open" Option
10-11 is Iceland’s chain of convenience stores, and while it’s great for emergencies, you’ll definitely pay a premium here.
Located mostly in city centers and along tourist routes, 10-11 is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – but the convenience comes at a steep cost.
What do we mean? Well, let’s just say that a bottle of soda or a bag of chips at 10-11 can cost twice as much as at Bónus or Krónan.
Our adivce: Think of 10-11 as a last resort, rather than a place to do serious grocery shopping.
However, if you really need snacks, basic ingredients, or a late-night meal, it’s good to know you at least have the option.
Prís: The Newest Competitor in Iceland’s Supermarket Scene
The newest addition to Iceland’s grocery scene, Prís opened its first location in August 2024 in Kópavogur, a town just south of Reykjavík.
Marketed as a direct competitor to Bónus, Prís aims to offer low prices with a focus on Icelandic products.
Since it’s still new, Prís doesn’t have many locations yet, but if you happen to be near one, it’s definitely worth checking out. The store claims to be slightly cheaper than Bónus and aims to provide a simple but efficient shopping experience.
While it remains to be seen if Prís will expand nationwide (and our wallets sure hope so!), this is a promising option for budget-conscious travelers who want high-quality, locally sourced goods at a fair price.
Tips to Grocery Shop in Iceland Without Breaking The Bank (That Much)
If you’ve done even the tiniest bit of research on Iceland, you already know that grocery shopping here is not going to be like back home.
Prices can be shocking, selection varies wildly, and if you don’t plan ahead, you might end up paying double or triple for a basic meal. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to shop smart and save money while stocking up for your road trip.
The first rule of budget grocery shopping in Iceland is simple: stick to Bónus and Krónan whenever possible. These two supermarket chains consistently offer the lowest prices on food and essentials (& on Icelandic treats!), making them the go-to options for both locals and budget-conscious travelers.
So, whether you need fresh produce, dairy, bread, or snacks for the road, these stores will give you the best value for your money – for Icelandic standards, at least.
While Krónan tends to have a slightly wider selection of products, particularly when it comes to organic and specialty items, Bónus remains the absolute cheapest – so if you see one, make it your top priority to stop and stock up.
Another way to keep your food budget in check is by focusing on local products rather than imported goods.
Icelandic dairy, particularly skyr, is not only delicious but also relatively affordable. Lamb, fish, and hot dogs tend to be reasonably priced as well, as they’re produced locally and don’t carry the hefty import taxes that foreign products do.
On the other hand, fruits and vegetables can be shockingly expensive, as most of them are shipped from abroad.
If you're looking for fresh produce, stick to seasonal Icelandic-grown options or buy frozen veggies (if you can store them!), which are often cheaper and just as nutritious.
Understanding Icelandic Supermarket Practices: What No One Tells You Before You Shop
Grocery shopping in Iceland isn’t just about grabbing what you need and heading to the checkout. Oh no, my friend.
If you walk into an Icelandic supermarket unprepared, you might find yourself paying for things you didn’t expect, wandering the aisles in search of something as basic as beer (spoiler: you won’t find it), or getting strange looks when you ask for a plastic bag.
So, before you waltz into Bónus thinking it’s just like Lidl or Aldi, here’s what you really need to know about supermarket shopping in Iceland
Bring Your Own Bags (Unless You Want to Pay for Plastic)
Iceland is big on sustainability, which means plastic bags aren’t free.
Every supermarket in the country charges for them, and while it’s not a huge expense, it’s one of those annoying little costs that adds up over time, especially if you’re shopping for a week’s worth of road trip supplies.
So, do yourself (and the environment) a favor and bring reusable bags.
If you forgot yours, don’t panic – most supermarkets sell reusable tote bags at the checkout, so you can grab one and use it for the rest of your trip.
Bonus tip (pun intended): if you’re shopping at Bónus, their signature yellow pig-branded tote bags make for a quirky (and practical) Icelandic souvenir.
Alcohol? Not in Supermarkets: Welcome to Vínbúðin, the State-Run Liquor Store
Thinking of grabbing a six-pack of beer or a bottle of wine with your groceries? Think again.
Iceland has some of the strictest alcohol regulations in Europe, and supermarkets do not sell real alcohol. The “beer” you see on supermarket shelves is basically a sad, low-alcohol version that barely qualifies as a drink.
If you actually want something stronger, you’ll have to make a trip to Vínbúðin, the state-run liquor store.
Vínbúðin has limited opening hours (because why make things easy?), and most locations are closed on Sundays.
If you’re road-tripping, plan ahead, because outside of major towns, liquor stores are few and far between.
And don’t even think about waiting until late evening to pick up a bottle! Vínbúðin stores close scandalously early, often around 18:00.
Oh, and one last pro tip? If you like to drink, buy your alcohol at Keflavík Airport’s duty-free store as soon as you land. It’s way cheaper than Vínbúðin, and you won’t have to worry about tracking down a store before closing time.
Discounts on Near-Expiry Products AKA The Budget Shopper’s Best-Kept Secret
Iceland is expensive, but if you know where to look, you can score some serious grocery discounts.
Many supermarkets, especially Krónan and Nettó, have special sections for near-expiry items, where you’ll find everything from yogurt to meat to baked goods at a fraction of the original price.
The best time to hunt for these deals is in the late afternoon, when supermarkets start discounting products that need to be sold before the end of the day.
Look for brightly colored discount stickers, and if you’re flexible with your meal planning, you can save a ton of money.
For those traveling in a campervan, this is especially useful – if you’ve got a small fridge or cooler, stocking up on discounted items can keep your meals both cheap and delicious.
And let’s be honest, a half-price Icelandic lamb steak sounds way better than another night of instant noodles.
Yes, Iceland Has a Costco – But It’s Not for Everyone
If you’re the kind of person who lives for bulk shopping, you’ll be delighted to hear that Iceland has a Costco.
Located in Garðabær, just outside of Reykjavík, it’s a paradise for families, locals, and long-term travelers who need to stock up on everything from groceries to outdoor gear.
However, before you get too excited, keep in mind a few things:
- You need a Costco membership to shop here, just like in other countries.
- While buying in bulk can be great for locals, it’s not always practical for tourists, especially if you’re traveling in a campervan with limited storage space.
- The store layout and product selection are very Icelandic, meaning you’ll find a lot of local brands mixed in with familiar Costco staples.
That said, if you’re traveling with a group or planning an extended stay, Costco can definitely save you money on basics like bread, cheese, snacks, and even fuel (yes, they have a gas station, and yes, it’s usually cheaper than elsewhere in Iceland).
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Art of Grocery Shopping in Iceland
All in all, navigating Icelandic supermarkets isn’t hard – once you know the rules.
To recap, make sure you bring your own bags, plan your alcohol shopping carefully, take advantage of discounted near-expiry products, and, if you’re staying in the country for a while, consider a Costco run.
With a little planning, you’ll save money, eat well, and avoid any unnecessary grocery store surprises, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your Icelandic adventure.
Why KuKu Campers Is the Best Choice for Your Iceland Adventure
Let’s be real – if you’re reading this, you’re probably planning the ultimate Icelandic road trip, and that means one thing: you need a campervan that won’t let you down.
That’s where we, KuKu Campers, come in.
You see, we're not just another rental company: We’re the rebels of the road, the ones who believe that traveling Iceland should be fun, affordable, and completely unforgettable.
So, why should you choose KuKu Campers over all the others? Simple.
Unlimited Mileage (Because Iceland Wasn’t Made for Limits)
Worried about hidden fees when driving too far? Not here.
With KuKu Campers, you get unlimited mileage, meaning you can chase waterfalls, hunt for the Northern Lights, or decide last-minute to explore the Westfjords without checking your odometer every five minutes.
Roadside Assistance (Because Surprises Are Only Fun When They’re Planned)
Icelandic roads can be unpredictable (hello, F-roads), and while we trust your driving skills, sometimes things just happen. That’s why we’ve got your back with our KuKu team available every day from 8:00 to 20:00 to help with any issues that might come up.
And if you find yourself in a real emergency outside these hours, Iceland’s 24-hour national roadside assistance is always there to bail you out.
So whether it’s a flat tire or a sudden need to Google “how to unstick a campervan from lava sand,” you’re never truly alone.
A Campervan for Every Type of Traveler
Whether you're a budget backpacker, a luxury seeker, or a group of adventurous souls, we’ve got a van for you. From cozy two-person campers to fully equipped 4x4 beasts ready to take on the Highlands, there’s something for everyone.
No Boring Corporate Vibes – Just Fun, Adventure & a Bit of Madness
We’re not some dull, corporate rental company with scripted customer service.
We’re real people who love road-tripping Iceland just as much as you do. We’ll hook you up with insider tips, share the best secret hot springs, and make sure you’re fully prepared for the wild ride ahead.
The Best Way to Experience Iceland? In a KuKu Camper.
Forget overpriced hotels and rigid schedules. With a KuKu Camper, Iceland is yours to explore, on your own terms.
Wake up to glaciers, cook breakfast by a volcano (in a campsite!), and end your day soaking in a hidden hot spring. That’s the kind of freedom we’re all about.
So, are you ready to experience Iceland the KuKu way? Jump in, buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
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