Keflavik Airport Guide: Arrivals, Car Rental, Transport & Travel Tips
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the gateway to Iceland for nearly all international visitors. Although the terminal appears simple and straightforward, there are patterns, bottlenecks, and small decisions that can make the first hour of your trip effortless or unnecessarily stressful. This guide covers everything that really matters when you land in Iceland, with insider knowledge that most airport guides never mention, from passport control strategies to car rental pickup, transport options, and essential first-hour decisions.
Whether you're picking up a rental car from Keflavík Airport, taking transport to Reykjavik, or planning a quick stop at the Blue Lagoon, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate KEF Airport efficiently.
Visit the official Keflavik Airport website for flight information and services.
What Travelers Need to Know About Keflavik International Airport
Keflavik International Airport sits on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Reykjavik, and operates as a single-terminal airport with a streamlined layout. Everything is walkable and straightforward. There are no complicated transfer systems, no satellite terminals, and no long-distance shuttles between facilities. This simplicity makes it easier to navigate, even when you're tired after an overnight flight.
KEF Airport serves as Iceland's main international hub, handling over 7 million passengers annually. The most important things to prepare for are passport control waves, weather exposure, and choosing the right transport option or car rental service to begin your journey.
If you plan to park at KEF Airport, you will need the AutoPay app, which is used for parking payments.
Airport Code & Location: Keflavik Airport uses the code KEF and is located southwest of Reykjavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Keflavik Airport Arrivals: Layout, Passport Control and Baggage
Terminal overview and passenger flow
After disembarking, you follow clear signage to passport control. The arrivals level includes passport control, baggage claim, customs, and exits into the public arrivals hall. Because everything is located in one continuous flow, there is minimal risk of confusion. The main challenge can be crowding at peak times when several flights arrive close together.
Beating the arrival queues and timing the passport control waves
Keflavik Airport operates in arrival waves, especially early morning and late afternoon. When several transatlantic flights land at once, passport lines can become long. A smart strategy is to use the time right after landing to refill your water bottle, visit the restroom, and prepare your documents rather than rushing directly into the longest part of the queue.
Baggage claim patterns and dealing with delays
Baggage delivery is generally efficient, but delays are most common during peak waves. Screens above each belt show flight numbers, and bags usually start appearing only once the belt is assigned. If your luggage is delayed, the service desk is located at the far end of the hall. Take photos of your baggage tag and boarding pass to speed up any report you may need to file.
Transport From Keflavik Airport: Your Options Explained
Car rental at Keflavik Airport and shuttle pickup
For travelers who want freedom to explore Iceland, renting a car at Keflavik Airport is the most flexible option. Iceland Car Rental operates a shuttle service that takes you directly from the terminal to the rental station. Instructions and pickup locations are detailed in our shuttle bus from Keflavík Airport guide, which explains where to wait and how the transfer works.
Our car rental service at KEF Airport offers competitive rates, comprehensive insurance options, and a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to 4x4s suitable for Iceland's diverse terrain. Book your Keflavík Airport car rental in advance to secure the best rates and vehicle availability, especially during peak summer and winter seasons.
Driving from Keflavik to Reykjavik: road conditions and timing
The 40 to 50 minute drive from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavík follows Route 41, a well-maintained paved road. In winter, strong winds and icy patches are common, so take your time. Before driving, it's always wise to check live conditions from the Icelandic Road Authority at road.is. If your plan is to begin a longer adventure right away, you can plan your first route using our Guide to Planning a Road Trip in Iceland or explore scenic options in The Best Road Trips in Iceland.
How to visit the Blue Lagoon from the airport
Because the Blue Lagoon is only about 20 minutes from the airport, many travelers visit immediately after landing or just before departure. For step-by-step routing, timing, and transport options, see How to Get from Keflavik Airport to Iceland's Blue Lagoon.
Keflavik Airport Facilities: Food, Services, SIM Cards and WiFi
Restaurants, snacks, and coffee: what's worth it
Food at Keflavik is a mix of cafes, grab-and-go counters, and casual dining. Prices are higher than in the city, so many visitors choose to eat lightly here and have a proper meal later. If you want a better selection near the airport, check out the best restaurants in Keflavik.
SIM cards, eSIMs, and mobile data options
Several kiosks in the arrivals hall sell prepaid SIM cards. If your phone supports eSIM, you can also purchase and activate data plans digitally before landing. WiFi throughout the terminal is free and generally reliable.
ATMs, currency, and payment options
ATMs are located throughout the terminal. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Iceland, so carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary. Many visitors find it easiest to use cards for all transactions, including small purchases.
Sleeping or Resting at Keflavík During Layovers
Keflavík is not designed as a sleep-focused airport, but travelers with long layovers often rest in quieter gate areas. Seating comfort varies, so explore before settling in. The Icelandair Saga Lounge offers the most comfortable option, with food, drinks, showers, and quieter seating for eligible passengers.
Essential Tips for Driving in Iceland After Leaving Keflavik
Do you need a 4x4 for your route?
If you plan to stay on paved roads and travel during the summer, a standard car is sufficient. For F-Roads, Highland routes, or winter travel, a 4x4 with high clearance is required. Learn more about choosing the right vehicle in our guide to 4x4 rentals in Iceland.
Understanding rental insurance
When hiring a car in Iceland, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is typically included, but additional coverage for gravel, ash and windshield damage can be essential. Wind damage is common, so consider this when selecting your coverage level.
Avoiding damage from wind and gravel
Always hold car doors firmly when opening in strong winds. Park facing the wind when possible. On gravel roads, drive slowly and avoid sudden movements. When passing other vehicles on gravel, reduce speed significantly to minimize flying rocks.
Essential Tips for Driving in Iceland After Leaving Keflavík
Do you need a 4x4 for your route?
The right vehicle depends on season and destination. Standard cars work well for Reykjavík and major paved routes, while four-wheel drive offers better stability in winter and on gravel roads. To decide, see Do I Need a 4x4 Rental in Iceland?.
Understanding rental insurance
Rental insurance varies, and Iceland’s conditions can cause unexpected damage if you are unprepared. Gravel damage, wind damage, and highland restrictions are especially important to understand. Ask questions and review coverage before leaving the lot.
Avoiding wind and gravel damage
The Reykjanes Peninsula experiences strong winds that can pull doors open unexpectedly. Always hold your door firmly. On gravel roads, drive slowly and keep distance from other vehicles to reduce stone impact.
Route 41: What First-Time Visitors Need to Know
Route 41 is the main road connecting Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik. It is well-maintained year-round but can be affected by strong crosswinds, especially near the coast. The landscape along this route is stark and volcanic, with minimal vegetation. Signs are clear, and the road is straightforward, making it a good introduction to driving in Iceland.
Weather at Keflavik Airport and the Reykjanes Peninsula
The weather around Keflavik changes rapidly. Strong gusts, low visibility and sudden rain or snow are normal on the peninsula. Check the latest conditions with the Icelandic Met Office at en.vedur.is before driving. Cold air and wind chill can make the outdoors feel much colder than the temperature suggests, so dress appropriately and keep gloves or a hat easily accessible in your carry-on.
Fuel, Groceries and Smart First Stops After Landing
As you leave the airport, several service stations and supermarkets appear along the way to Reykjavik. Stopping once to gather fuel, snacks, or basic groceries is more efficient than making multiple short stops later. For guidance on fueling across the country, see Your Guide to Fuel Stations in Iceland.
Short Trips Near Keflavik: Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes Peninsula is full of geothermal landscapes, sea cliffs, lighthouses and volcanic features. If you have a layover of a few hours and access to a rental car, you can see a surprising amount with minimal driving.
Returning Your Rental Car at Keflavik Airport
How early to arrive at the airport
Airlines recommend arriving around 2.5 hours before European flights and 3 hours before North American departures, especially during busy summer months.
Returning the vehicle and final checks
If you rented from Iceland Car Rental, return the car to the same location where you picked it up. Make sure to remove all personal belongings, check for any damage, and refuel if required. The shuttle will take you back to the terminal.
Final Travel Tips for a Smooth Start in Iceland
For a smooth transition from the terminal to the road, use the shuttle bus from Keflavik Airport guide, plan early stops with the Blue Lagoon transfer guide and map out your route with the Iceland road trip planning guide. With a little preparation, your first hour in Iceland becomes the easiest part of your adventure.