Keflavik Airport Guide | Arrivals, Transport, Car Rental & Insider Tips
Keflavík International Airport is the gateway to Iceland for nearly all international visitors. Although the terminal looks simple, there are patterns, bottlenecks, and small decisions that can make the first hour of your trip effortless or unnecessarily stressful. This guide focuses on what really matters when you land in Iceland, with practical insight many airport guides overlook, especially if you plan to rent a car and start exploring right away.
Updated for 2026.
Visit the official Keflavík Airport website here.
What Travelers Need to Know About Keflavík International Airport
Keflavík Airport sits on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 50 kilometers from Reykjavík. It operates as a single-terminal airport with a compact, walkable layout. There are no satellite terminals or internal transport systems, which makes navigation straightforward even after an overnight flight.
The most important things to prepare for are passport control timing, weather exposure when exiting the terminal, and choosing the right transport option to begin your journey.
If you plan to park at KEF Airport, you will need the AutoPay app, which is used for parking payments.
Keflavík Airport Arrivals: Layout, Passport Control and Baggage
Terminal overview and passenger flow
After disembarking, follow clear signage to passport control. The arrivals level includes passport control, baggage claim, customs, and exits into the public arrivals hall. Everything follows a single continuous flow, which minimizes confusion.
Beating arrival queues and timing passport control
Keflavík operates in arrival waves, particularly early in the morning and late afternoon when multiple transatlantic flights land close together. During these periods, passport control lines can become long. A useful strategy is to use the minutes after landing to visit restrooms, refill your water bottle, and prepare documents instead of rushing immediately into the queue.
Baggage claim patterns and handling delays
Baggage delivery is generally efficient, but delays are more common during peak arrival waves. Screens above each belt display flight numbers, and luggage usually begins arriving shortly after the belt is assigned. If your baggage is delayed, the service desk is located at the far end of the hall. Photograph your baggage tag and boarding pass to speed up any reporting process.
Transport From Keflavík Airport: Your Options Explained
Airport car rental and walking to the rental office
For travelers who want flexibility, renting a car at Keflavík Airport is the most practical option. Car rental offices are located within walking distance of the terminal. After exiting the arrivals hall, walk across to the Departure Hall, exit the terminal, and cross the parking area marked P1 to reach the rental offices at Blikavöllur 3.
The walk takes approximately 4 to 5 minutes and is easy to follow, even with luggage. Clear pedestrian paths connect the terminal to the parking area, making pickup straightforward without the need for additional transport.
Driving from Keflavík to Reykjavík: road conditions and timing
The drive to Reykjavík takes around 40 to 50 minutes via Route 41, a well-maintained paved road. In winter, strong winds and icy patches are common, so drive cautiously. Always check live road conditions from the Icelandic Road Authority at road.is before departing.
If you plan to continue directly into a longer trip, you may find it helpful to consult Your Guide to Planning a Road Trip in Iceland or explore suggested routes in The Best Road Trips in Iceland.
Visiting the Blue Lagoon from the airport
The Blue Lagoon is about 20 minutes from the airport, making it a popular first or last stop. Many travelers visit immediately after landing or before departure. For routing, timing, and planning advice, see How to Get from Keflavík Airport to Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
Keflavík Airport Facilities: Food, Services, SIM Cards and WiFi
Restaurants, snacks and coffee
Food options at Keflavík include cafés, grab-and-go counters, and casual dining. Prices are higher than in town, so many travelers eat lightly here and plan a full meal later. For better value near the airport, see The Top 10 Best Restaurants in Keflavík.
SIM cards, eSIMs and mobile data
SIM cards are available in the arrivals hall from Icelandic carriers such as Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone. These shops can be busy after large flight arrivals. To avoid queues, many travelers choose to activate an eSIM before arrival.
ATMs, currency and payments
Iceland is almost entirely cashless. Cards are accepted everywhere at Keflavík, including vending machines and fuel stations. ATMs are available, but most travelers never need cash. If your card fails on the first transaction, try a small purchase to ensure authorization.
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 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 Should Expect
Route 41 connects Keflavík and Reykjavík. While straightforward, speed changes and weather exposure can surprise first-time drivers. Do not feel pressured by faster local traffic. Stay in the right lane, drive steadily, and expect strong crosswinds in exposed sections.
Weather at Keflavík Airport: Wind, Visibility and Safety
Weather around Keflavík changes rapidly. Strong gusts, sudden rain, and low visibility are common. Check the Icelandic Met Office at en.vedur.is before driving. Wind chill can make conditions feel colder than expected, so keep warm layers accessible.
Fuel, Groceries and Smart First Stops
Several fuel stations and supermarkets are located shortly after leaving the airport. Making one efficient stop for fuel and supplies saves time later. For fueling guidance, see Your Guide to Fuel Stations in Iceland.
Short Trips Near Keflavík for Layovers
The Reykjanes Peninsula features geothermal landscapes, sea cliffs, lava fields, and coastal views. With a few spare hours and a rental car, you can explore nearby highlights or combine a Blue Lagoon visit with a scenic coastal drive.
Returning Your Rental Car and Preparing to Depart
How early to arrive at the airport
Airlines typically recommend arriving two and a half hours before European flights and about three hours before North American departures. Morning traffic can be heavier, so plan extra time for the drive, refueling, unloading luggage, and inspection.
Final Travel Tips for a Smooth Start in Iceland
Keflavík Airport may be small, but preparation makes a major difference. Secure car doors in the wind, check weather and road conditions, and choose a vehicle suited to your route. With clear planning, your transition from terminal to road can be one of the easiest parts of your Iceland journey.