Travel Insurance for the Laugavegur Trail

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is one of the most breathtaking treks in the world. Stretching approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, this multi-day hike takes you through colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and lush valleys, all while braving Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather.

While planning your adventure, one important consideration is whether you need travel insurance.

The short answer? Yes, it’s highly recommended. Iceland’s wilderness is stunning but also remote and unforgiving.

Unexpected situations—such as injury, illness, weather delays, or even volcanic activity—can quickly derail your trip. Having the right travel insurance can give you peace of mind and financial protection.

In this guide, we’ll break down why travel insurance is important for the Laugavegur Trail, what to look for in a policy, and some of the best providers to consider.

In this Guide

• Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for the Laugavegur Trail
• What to Look for in a Travel Insurance Policy
• Best Travel Insurance Providers for the Laugavegur Trail
• Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance
• Final Thoughts

Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for the Laugavegur Trail

1. Iceland’s Weather is Extremely Unpredictable

Even in summer (June to September), the Laugavegur Trail can experience sudden snowstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. Weather conditions can delay transportation, close sections of the trail, or make hiking dangerous.

A good insurance policy can cover trip interruptions, cancellations, or even emergency evacuations if conditions take a turn for the worse.

2. Medical Emergencies Can Be Costly

If you get injured or sick on the trail, medical help is not easily accessible. Evacuations will require the Icelandic Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) team. While Iceland has excellent medical care, treatment and emergency transport can be expensive, especially if you need a helicopter evacuation. Travel insurance can cover these costs, ensuring you get the help you need without a hefty bill.

3. Hiking Risks and Accidents

The Laugavegur Trail is not technically difficult, but it does include steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and unstable terrain. A simple slip can result in a sprained ankle, broken bone, or worse. If you’re hiking solo or in a small group, an accident could leave you stranded far from help. Travel insurance that includes emergency rescue and evacuation can be a lifesaver in such situations.

4. Lost or Delayed Baggage

If you’re flying to Iceland, there’s always a risk that your gear might not arrive with you. Many travelers bring expensive equipment—hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bags, and backpacks—so losing your luggage can be a major problem. Some insurance plans cover lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, helping you replace essential items if needed.

While you may not have your gear with you, the ability to buy or rent gear in Iceland and have that expense covered by your travel insurance policy can be the difference between getting to hike or not!

5. Trip Cancellations and Delays

Planning a trip to Iceland isn’t cheap. Between flights, accommodations, hut reservations, and transportation, you’ve likely invested a significant amount of money. If an unexpected event—such as illness, injury, or a family emergency—forces you to cancel your trip, travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses. It can also cover delays caused by airline disruptions, natural disasters, or unforeseen circumstances.

What to Look for in a Travel Insurance Policy

Not all travel insurance policies are the same. When choosing a plan for the Laugavegur Trail, make sure it includes the following:

✅ Emergency Medical & Evacuation Coverage – Look for a policy that covers at least $100,000 in medical expenses and emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue. Given the remote nature of the trail, helicopter rescue could be necessary, and costs can quickly add up.

✅ Trip Cancellation & Interruption – Ensure you’re covered if you need to cancel due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events. This is especially important if you’ve booked accommodations in huts along the trail, which often have strict cancellation policies.

✅ Adventure Sports Coverage – Some insurance companies exclude hiking from standard policies. Check that your policy explicitly covers multi-day hikes like the Laugavegur Trail and does not have altitude restrictions (the trail reaches about 1,100 meters or 3,600 feet).

✅ Baggage & Equipment Protection – If you’re bringing expensive hiking gear, check if your policy covers lost, stolen, or damaged items. This is particularly useful if your checked luggage goes missing en route to Iceland.

✅ Weather & Natural Disaster Coverage – Given Iceland’s volatile conditions, choose a policy that covers trip disruptions due to extreme weather, volcanic activity, or natural disasters. A good policy will cover additional accommodation and meal expenses if you’re delayed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

• Compare Multiple Policies: Use comparison websites like Squaremouth, InsureMyTrip, or World Nomads to find a policy that fits your needs.
• Read the Fine Print: Ensure your policy doesn’t have exclusions that would impact your trip, such as altitude limits or restrictions on certain activities.
• Consider Annual Coverage: If you travel frequently, an annual policy may be more cost-effective than purchasing single-trip insurance.
• Check for COVID-19 Coverage: Some policies offer protection for COVID-19-related cancellations, medical expenses, or quarantine costs.
• Understand the Claims Process: Know how to file a claim and what documentation you’ll need to support it.

3. SafetyWing

Designed for long-term travelers and digital nomads, SafetyWing provides affordable coverage, including medical emergencies and evacuations. However, they may not cover certain adventure sports, so check the fine print.

4. GeoBlue

GeoBlue specializes in travel medical insurance and offers excellent coverage for U.S. travelers. Their policies are ideal for those concerned primarily with health and evacuation coverage rather than trip cancellations.

Final Thoughts

While travel insurance might feel like an extra expense, it’s a crucial investment for anyone hiking the Laugavegur Trail. Iceland’s rugged landscape and unpredictable weather make having a solid policy essential for peace of mind. A small upfront cost can save you thousands of dollars in medical bills, trip cancellations, or lost equipment.

Before purchasing a plan, carefully read the policy details and ensure it covers all aspects of your trip. With the right insurance, you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Laugavegur Trail, knowing you’re protected if anything goes wrong.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about planning your own trip, and be sure to check out the rest of our Laugavegur resources below:

• Guide to Camping on the Laugavegur Trail
• Laugavegur Trail Logistics: Don’t overlook the little details! 
• Laugavegur Trail Photo Gallery: Get inspired!
• Laugavegur Trip Report- Know what to expect on the trail!
• How Much it Cost Us to Hike the Laugavegur Trail – Make it work for your budget!
• Laugavegur Trail Packing List – Be sure you’ve got everything you’ll need!
• How to Train for the Laugavegur Trail: Get in shape for your trek!
• How to Navigate on the Lagavegur Trail