Best Flights starting from $439
from$439economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Thu, Oct 22
One-way
Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$440economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Fri, Oct 23
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Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$440economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Sun, Oct 25
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Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$440economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Wed, Oct 28
One-way
Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$443economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Sat, Oct 24
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Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$443economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Mon, Oct 26
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Reykjavik (KEF)
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from$443economy
Washington, D.C. (IAD)
Tue, Oct 27
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Reykjavik (KEF)
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✈️ Flight Guide: Washington, D.C. (IAD) → Reykjavik (KEF)
Complete travel information for your October journey
October is an excellent month to depart from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for Keflavík International Airport (KEF) thanks to shoulder-season fares and increasing Northern Lights opportunities. Expect milder crowds at IAD than summer; still arrive three hours early for international departures. Book transfers from Washington, DC (including Arlington, Baltimore, and Richmond), and confirm seasonal direct flights from carriers like Icelandair or PLAY. Pack layers for Icelandic weather, reserve airport-to-Reykjavík transfers (Flybus or private shuttle), and check aurora forecasts before arrival. Search and book IAD to KEF flights early to lock in the best October fares.
Departing from Washington, D.C. (IAD) FAQs
For international flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in October, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. October is shoulder season but international security, customs pre-screening, and early-morning or evening peaks can create lines; allow extra time if you need checked baggage or plan to use airline counters and security screening.
Direct, seasonal service between Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is commonly offered by Icelandic carriers during shoulder months, including October. Availability varies year to year — check Icelandair, PLAY, or airline schedule aggregators for current nonstop options and book early to secure lower fares.
Typical nonstop flight time from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is about 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on winds and taxi times. Connecting itineraries via East Coast or European hubs will add layover time; always check total travel time on your booking.
From downtown Washington, DC to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) in October, options include the Washington Flyer Silver Line Express bus from the Metro Silver Line (Wiehle-Reston East), rideshare services, taxis, and private airport shuttles. If traveling from nearby Baltimore, Arlington or Richmond, consider regional buses or pre-booked car services for reliable connections.
Pack layers, a waterproof outer shell, warm mid-layers, and insulated gloves for an October trip from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF). October in Iceland can bring chilly, windy conditions with rain; include sturdy shoes and a travel adapter. Bring camera gear and a small daypack for sightseeing around Reykjavík and the Golden Circle.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) offers hourly, daily and economy parking, as well as valet and cell phone lot options. Lounges serving international travelers include United Club and select pay-per-use lounges; check airline access policies. For early October departures, kiosks and cafés are typically open but confirm hours for individual restaurants and shops before travel.
Arriving at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in October means entering Iceland during prime aurora season and comfortable shoulder-season tourism. Transfers to Reykjavík take about 45–60 minutes and are best booked in advance; Flybus and private shuttles run frequent services timed to flight arrivals. Note October weather can be variable — pack a windproof jacket and flexible plans. If you plan to visit nearby Blue Lagoon, book spa slots before arrival. Take advantage of lower October accommodation rates in Reykjavík, Akureyri, and the Westfjords, but reserve rental cars and tours early for the best availability.
Arriving at Reykjavik (KEF) FAQs
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), you will clear passport control (if required) and collect checked baggage in the arrivals hall. October is a shoulder season so lines are usually moderate; follow signage for customs and baggage and allow 30–60 minutes from touchdown to exit depending on aircraft size and queues. Make sure passports are valid for the intended stay and check any customs allowances for alcohol or tobacco.
From Keflavík International Airport (KEF) to Reykjavík in October, the most popular options are Flybus/Airport Express coaches, private transfers, taxis, and rental cars. Transfer time is typically 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and weather. Book airport transfers in advance during holiday weekends and festival dates to guarantee seats.
Yes — October marks the start of strong Northern Lights season in Iceland, and clear nights shortly after arrival at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) present good viewing opportunities. Weather and solar activity determine visibility; book an aurora tour from Reykjavík or check the Icelandic Meteorological Office aurora forecast for real-time probability.
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) offers baggage services and limited storage in the arrivals area, though long-term storage is more commonly available in downtown Reykjavík. If you plan to tour the Golden Circle or the Blue Lagoon before hotel check-in, confirm available luggage options in advance or book a transfer that includes luggage handling.
October weather in Iceland can be changeable — rain, wind, and occasional storms may affect flight arrivals at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). Airlines and the airport monitor conditions closely; expect possible ground delays or de-icing procedures. If weather disruptions are forecast, stay updated with airline notifications and the Icelandic Meteorological Office.
October often hosts the Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) and local cultural events which can increase hotel and transfer demand; this can affect arrival logistics at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). Book hotels and airport transfers early and check event dates to avoid sold-out transfers or higher prices during festival weekends.
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October Events & Festivals Near Keflavík (KEF) and Reykjavík
October brings cultural energy to Reykjavík and surrounding regions. The Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) often runs late September into early October, attracting international visitors and increasing demand for hotels and transfers from Keflavík International Airport (KEF). October also sees local harvest markets, craft fairs, and increased Northern Lights tour offerings. Smaller towns such as Akureyri and Ísafjörður may host autumn festivals and seasonal culinary events that draw visitors off the beaten path. If you plan to attend any festival, reserve flights, hotels, and transfers early to avoid sold-out situations.
Best Time to Fly IAD → KEF — Why October Is a Smart Choice
October is often one of the best times to fly from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) if you want lower fares than summer and growing opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Days still provide sightseeing time in Reykjavík and around the Golden Circle, while nights are long enough for aurora viewing. Crowds are smaller than in high summer, and many accommodations lower prices. For photographers and aurora chasers, late September through October offers a strong compromise between accessible weather and dark skies.
Tips
- Book early October for the best blend of price and aurora visibility.
- Expect daylight of roughly 10–12 hours at the start of October, decreasing through the month.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights from IAD to KEF in October
Direct flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) offer the fastest door-to-door time (about 5.5–6 hours) and are easiest for luggage transfers and jet lag. Connecting flights via East Coast gateways (Boston, New York) or European hubs (London, Copenhagen) can be cheaper and offer more frequency, but add layover time and potential for missed connections. In October, consider direct service if available and priced competitively; otherwise choose a single reliable connection with adequate layover to manage de-icing delays and baggage transfer.
Airline Comparison for IAD → KEF Routes (October)
On the IAD → KEF route in October you may find service from Icelandair, PLAY, and connecting itineraries via U.S. or European carriers. Icelandair typically bundles standard economy and checked baggage in many fares and offers a comfortable transatlantic product with a generous stopover program in Reykjavík. PLAY positions itself as a low-cost carrier with competitive base fares but charges extra for checked bags and seat selection. Legacy carriers (United, Delta) may offer one-stop options via East Coast gateways with robust loyalty benefits but longer total travel time. Evaluate total price including baggage, seat selection, and change fees when choosing the right carrier for your October trip.
October Seasonal Travel Tips — IAD to KEF
October travel from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) requires flexible planning. Pack waterproof and windproof layers, sturdy shoes, thermal mid-layers, and a reliable phone charger for aurora photos. Daylight decreases through the month so plan sightseeing earlier in the day and aurora tours at night. If renting a car, check weather and road conditions (Ring Road and highland routes can close), consider a 4x4 if you plan rural driving, and always carry a full tank. Purchase travel insurance that covers weather disruptions during shoulder-season travel.
Flight Times & Typical Schedules — IAD to KEF (October)
Nonstop flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) generally fly in about 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours. October schedules are often seasonal — expect 3–5 weekly nonstop frequencies on carriers that operate the route, with additional one-stop options via East Coast or European hubs. Remember the time zone difference: Washington Dulles operates on Eastern Daylight Time (UTC−4) in early October, while Iceland is on Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+0) year-round, making KEF four hours ahead of IAD. Typical departure windows from IAD fall in the late afternoon or evening (local) to arrive at KEF in the late-evening or early-morning local time.
Tips
- Check whether flights in October are nonstop or require a connection — seasonal carriers modify frequencies.
- Consider red-eye flights to maximize daytime exploration upon arrival in Reykjavík.
- Confirm times, especially around U.S. DST changes in November, which can affect perceived schedules.
How to Find Cheap IAD → KEF Flights in October
Finding cheap flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in October is realistic if you time your booking. Aim to search 6–12 weeks before departure for shoulder-season discounts; last-minute deals sometimes appear but are less reliable. Typical round-trip fares in October often range from $400–$800 USD depending on nonstop availability and baggage included. Use fare alerts, flexible date searches, and compare low-cost transatlantic carriers (PLAY) against legacy carriers (Icelandair, United) to find the best value. Consider midweek departures and red-eye options from IAD to reduce prices.
Tips
- Set fare alerts on Google Flights and Skyscanner for IAD → KEF October travel.
- Compare bundled fares (including baggage) so a low-cost carrier is truly cheaper after fees.
- Be flexible with a 2–3 day date range to unlock cheaper round-trip options.