The best time to travel around Iceland is during the summer. You can rent a car in Reykjavik with the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and see all the highlights!
Navigate Iceland’s wonders in a 4×4 camper van. Hike fault lines, explore ice caves, and witness the country’s highest waterfall. Keep in mind the unpredictable weather.
What to Pack
Taking the time to pack for your Iceland campervan adventure properly is essential. Unlike tent camping, you have more freedom when renting a camper van because you don’t need to lug around a lot of gear. A campervan trip to Iceland is also a great way to get a feel for the country’s landscape, culture, and people. Packing a few critical items will make your road trip more comfortable, fun, and stress-free.
One of the most important things to bring on your Iceland road trip is a good pair of hiking shoes or boots. Many hikes and excursions in Iceland involve walking around to see different waterfalls or hiking coastal trails. Having a pair of waterproof boots or shoes will help you avoid getting muddy, wet, and cold during your travels.
Other helpful items to pack include a daypack (if you’ll be hiking) and a headlamp or flashlight. This will be useful if you visit Iceland during the summer when it gets dark at midnight. The extra light will allow you to explore the area more at night and visit some popular landmarks that open later in the day.
You should also bring a waterproof jacket if you’re traveling in the winter. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for all kinds of conditions.
Where to Stay
The beauty of traveling by 4×4 camper van rental in Iceland is that you can explore the country’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. With no set itinerary, you can take time to see the famous sites and discover hidden gems.
The country’s ring road is a great place to start; plenty of campgrounds are along the route. Just be sure to read the rules carefully – wild camping isn’t allowed in Iceland, and it’s best to stay at official campsites rather than park on the roadside.
When choosing a company to rent from, ensure the price includes everything you need for your trip. Ask about the inclusions in the package, such as a portable stove and cooking equipment, and how much mileage you can drive daily. You’ll need a lot of space to fit all the gear you’ll need, so a company that offers unlimited mileage is best.
Another thing to consider is the weather. The island is prone to wild storms, and the conditions can change instantly. If you’re traveling during the shoulder seasons or winter, having a 4×4 camper van is essential so you can get around even if conditions turn bad. With strong winds and blizzards, it’s only safe to travel by car with the right vehicle.
Driving Tips
RVing is a great way to travel in Iceland, and it saves you a lot of money compared to the cost of staying in hotels. It is the perfect solution for travelers who want to explore this beautiful country on their terms and at their own pace. There are no set tour schedules, and you can take breaks.
When choosing a camper van to rent for your road trip, consider the size of your group. You will also need to decide whether you would like a vehicle with two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The decision will be influenced by the weather conditions you might encounter during your trip.
If you plan to visit the country during winter, choosing a 4-wheel drive camper van is best. You will need winter tires and some basic supplies if you get stuck. It is also a good idea to have a shovel and a torch.
The most important thing to remember when driving in Iceland is never to drive off-road, especially not during winter. It is also a good idea to be aware of the location of your campsites and always stay in marked campgrounds. Camping off-road can cause damage to the fragile moss on the ground and can cause the road to become impassable.
Insurance
Most rental cars in Iceland are 2-wheel drive, and while a car is a fine way to navigate the country’s well-maintained roads in summer, some scenic detours require a 4×4 vehicle.
When booking your van rental, ask about additional insurance and waivers. Most companies offer insurance add-ons, like damage waivers and gravel road coverage. These are highly recommended and cover any damages you might make to the vehicle.
You must also check the van’s deductibles for each day you are on the road. This is important because most deductibles in Iceland are very high. This is because of the gravel roads in the Icelandic Highlands and the extreme weather conditions. It’s not unusual for a rental car to get dents or scratches in these areas, and any marks made will take decades to heal.
Driving in rural Iceland is an experience you and your traveling companions will remember for a while. The moss, waterfalls, glaciers, and mountains will leave a lasting impression on you.