Motorhome travel
Motorhome travel
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Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice,” with its volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls, offers landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth. Exploring this unique country by campervan is one of the most logical and efficient ways to experience its natural wonders. Traveling in a motorhome lets you stay close to nature, adapt to the ever-changing weather, and make your trip through one of the world’s most expensive countries more affordable.
Country overview
Capital: Reykjavik. Driving: Traffic moves on the right-hand side.
Language: The official language is Icelandic. However, almost all Icelanders — especially young people and service industry workers — speak English fluently, so communication is usually easy.
Currency and money: The national currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK, kr). Iceland is a nearly cashless country. Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere — even for parking or buying a hot dog. You might not need cash at all. ATMs are easy to find in cities. Currency exchange is possible but usually less favorable than card payments. Note: Cards issued by Russian banks do not work in Iceland.
Time: Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT/UTC+0) year-round. There is no daylight saving time.
Visas: Iceland is part of the Schengen Zone. Citizens of countries outside the EU/Schengen area need a valid Schengen visa to enter. Be sure to check up-to-date visa requirements on the official website of the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (UTL) or contact the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country.
Language: The official language is Icelandic. However, almost all Icelanders — especially young people and service industry workers — speak English fluently, so communication is usually easy.
Currency and money: The national currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK, kr). Iceland is a nearly cashless country. Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere — even for parking or buying a hot dog. You might not need cash at all. ATMs are easy to find in cities. Currency exchange is possible but usually less favorable than card payments. Note: Cards issued by Russian banks do not work in Iceland.
Time: Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT/UTC+0) year-round. There is no daylight saving time.
Visas: Iceland is part of the Schengen Zone. Citizens of countries outside the EU/Schengen area need a valid Schengen visa to enter. Be sure to check up-to-date visa requirements on the official website of the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (UTL) or contact the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country.
Why is Iceland perfect for campervan travel?
Traveling by campervan in Iceland makes perfect sense due to the country’s unique nature and economy. First of all, it offers full immersion in the landscape. You can wake up with a view of a glacier lagoon, cook dinner next to a waterfall, or go on a nighttime “hunt” for the northern lights — all without being tied to a hotel. A campervan becomes your mobile observation point.
Second, it’s economically practical. Hotel and restaurant prices in Iceland are very high. A campervan combines transport, accommodation, and kitchen in one. Being able to cook meals from supermarket-bought food can significantly reduce your travel costs.
Third, it gives you flexibility in unpredictable weather. Icelandic weather can change several times a day. With a campervan, you can easily adjust your plans: if it rains in the south, head north where the sun is shining. You’re in control of your journey, not the circumstances.
Finally, the country’s infrastructure supports this type of travel. There’s a well-developed network of campgrounds located near key attractions. Their convenient locations and access to service stations make your trip more comfortable.
Second, it’s economically practical. Hotel and restaurant prices in Iceland are very high. A campervan combines transport, accommodation, and kitchen in one. Being able to cook meals from supermarket-bought food can significantly reduce your travel costs.
Third, it gives you flexibility in unpredictable weather. Icelandic weather can change several times a day. With a campervan, you can easily adjust your plans: if it rains in the south, head north where the sun is shining. You’re in control of your journey, not the circumstances.
Finally, the country’s infrastructure supports this type of travel. There’s a well-developed network of campgrounds located near key attractions. Their convenient locations and access to service stations make your trip more comfortable.
Popular regions and campervan routes in Iceland
Road trips in Iceland are mostly built around the famous Ring Road, but there are also many other exciting routes to explore.
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The Ring Road (Route 1)This is the main highway that circles the entire island (about 1,332 km), giving you access to most of Iceland’s iconic sights. Along the south coast, you'll find the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. In the east, the road winds through scenic and sparsely populated fjords. The north features the geothermal area around Lake Mývatn, the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, and Iceland’s “northern capital,” Akureyri. In the west, the road returns to Reykjavík. You should plan at least 10–14 days to complete the full loop. In summer, the road is mostly paved and accessible for all types of campervans. -
The Golden CircleA short and extremely popular route near Reykjavík that can be done in 1–2 days. It includes three major attractions: Þingvellir National Park (a site of tectonic rift and Iceland’s first parliament), the “golden waterfall” Gullfoss, and the geothermal valley of Haukadalur with the geysers Geysir and Strokkur (which erupts every 5–10 minutes). -
The South CoastOften treated as a separate short trip (3–5 days), this section of the Ring Road is packed with highlights — from waterfalls and black sand beaches to the glaciers of Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, and the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon with its nearby Diamond Beach. -
Snæfellsnes PeninsulaLocated in western Iceland, this area is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it showcases nearly all of the country’s landscapes in one place. Highlights include Kirkjufell mountain, the Snæfellsjökull glacier, black churches, and dramatic coastal cliffs. A great option for a 2–3 day trip. -
The Highlands and F-RoadsAn adventure for experienced travelers, available only in summer (typically late June to early September) and only accessible by 4x4 campervans. F-Roads (from the Icelandic Fjall, meaning mountain) are rough gravel roads with unbridged river crossings. They lead to Iceland’s wild interior — places like the colorful mountains of Landmannalaugar, and the volcanoes Askja and Laki. Before entering the Highlands, it’s essential to check road conditions daily at road.is and to honestly assess your driving skills and river-crossing experience.
Best time to travel by campervan in Iceland
The season you choose for your campervan trip in Iceland will greatly affect road accessibility, weather conditions, and overall travel experience.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is the most popular season. The main benefits are long daylight hours — and in the Arctic Circle, the midnight sun. The weather is generally mild (+10 to +15°C, sometimes up to +20°C), though rain and wind are still common. Most roads, including highland routes, are open, giving you maximum freedom. Campsites and tourist services are fully operational. Downsides: this is peak tourist season with the highest prices for campervan rentals and campsites. It’s recommended to book well in advance.
Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October)
These are great times for travelers who want to avoid summer crowds and still catch some stunning natural phenomena.
- Spring brings powerful waterfalls due to melting snow. There are fewer tourists and lower prices compared to summer. However, the weather is changeable, with possible frost and snow. Some mountain roads and campsites in remote areas may still be closed.
- Autumn turns the landscape golden and red, and from early September there’s a good chance of seeing the northern lights. The weather becomes colder, with longer nights, more rain and wind. Highland roads begin to close.
Winter (November–March)
Winter campervan travel in Iceland is a unique experience, with the northern lights as the main attraction. Days are short (4–5 hours of daylight). Temperatures hover around 0°C near the coast and drop lower inland. Conditions can be harsh, with snow, ice, and strong winds. Roads may be icy or closed. Highland roads are fully closed. Many campsites shut down. For winter travel, you’ll need a specially equipped campervan (with heating and winter tires) and solid winter driving skills.
Regional climate variations
The south coast is generally warmer and wetter. The north is colder and drier. Eastern fjords can be cloudy for days. Weather in the Highlands is unpredictable and can change quickly, even in summer.
Campervan rental in Iceland: what you need to know
Renting a campervan is one of the most popular ways to explore Iceland — but the local market has its own specifics.
Where to rent?
The vast majority of rental companies are based in the Reykjavík area and near Keflavík International Airport (KEF). Picking up or returning a vehicle in other parts of the country is usually not possible and often comes with high extra fees.
Rental requirements
Requirements may vary slightly by company, but the main points are:
- Age and experience: The minimum age is usually 20–23 years for standard campers, and 23–25 years for larger or 4x4 models. A minimum of 1–2 years of driving experience is typically required.
- Driver’s license: A regular driver’s license (category B) is sufficient if issued in Latin script. If your license is in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
- Deposit: A refundable security deposit is usually required when paying by credit card. The amount ranges from €1,500 to €3,000, depending on the vehicle class and insurance package.
- Mileage: Most rentals include unlimited mileage — ideal for exploring the whole island.
Types of campervans
- Compact campervans (2WD): The most common and budget-friendly option. These are converted vans (like VW Caddy or Renault Kangoo) with a bed in the back and a basic kitchen setup. They typically don’t include a toilet or shower. Suitable for traveling on paved roads (including the Ring Road) in summer.
- Medium and large motorhomes: Fully equipped homes on wheels with a toilet, shower, kitchen, and more space. More comfortable but also more expensive to rent and less fuel-efficient.
- 4x4 campervans: Required for driving in the Highlands and on F-roads. These can be converted SUVs (e.g., Dacia Duster with a rooftop tent) or larger 4x4-based camper trucks.
Insurance
Insurance is a very important aspect of campervan rental in Iceland due to the country’s unique risks.
Basic insurance (CDW): Usually included in the rental price, but it comes with a very high deductible (the amount you’re liable for in case of damage).
Additional insurance: It’s almost always worth purchasing extended coverage packages to reduce your deductible.
The most important add-ons for Iceland include:
What’s not covered:
Damage to tires or the undercarriage (including river crossings), and wind damage (like doors being blown open) is often excluded — even in full insurance packages. Always read your rental agreement carefully.
Basic insurance (CDW): Usually included in the rental price, but it comes with a very high deductible (the amount you’re liable for in case of damage).
Additional insurance: It’s almost always worth purchasing extended coverage packages to reduce your deductible.
The most important add-ons for Iceland include:
- Gravel protection (GP): Covers damage to the windshield, headlights, and bodywork caused by small stones. Gravel sections exist even on the Ring Road, making this coverage highly recommended.
- Sand and ash protection (SAAP): Covers paint and glass damage from sand or ash storms, which sometimes occur along the south coast. Repairs can be extremely expensive without this coverage.
What’s not covered:
Damage to tires or the undercarriage (including river crossings), and wind damage (like doors being blown open) is often excluded — even in full insurance packages. Always read your rental agreement carefully.
When to book?
For summer trips, it’s best to book your campervan as early as possible — ideally 6–9 months in advance — since demand is very high and availability is limited. Booking early also gives you access to better prices.
Average rental cost in Iceland
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
€160
€160
€190
€160
€230
€250
€330
€330
€160
€250
€200
€180
Roads and driving in Iceland
Driving in Iceland requires constant focus and readiness for rapidly changing conditions.
Types of roads
- Ring Road (Route 1): The main highway that circles the island. Most of it is paved, except for a small gravel section in the east. In winter, the road is regularly cleared of snow, but sections may be temporarily closed due to storms.
- Other paved roads: Connect main towns and settlements.
- Gravel roads: Very common, especially off the Ring Road, in the Westfjords, and parts of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Drive slowly to avoid skidding or gravel damage.
- F-roads (mountain roads): Accessible only in summer and only for 4x4 vehicles. These rough gravel tracks often involve river crossings and are not maintained. Driving on F-roads with a regular 2WD vehicle is illegal and dangerous.
Key traffic rules
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on paved rural roads, and 80 km/h on gravel roads (but slower speeds of 50–70 km/h are recommended).
- Headlights: Low-beam headlights must be on at all times, year-round.
- Seat belts: Required for all passengers.
- Phones: Handheld use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
- Alcohol: Legal limit is 0.2‰ — effectively a “zero tolerance” policy.
- One-lane bridges (Einbreið brú): Common, even on the Ring Road. Priority goes to whoever reaches the bridge first. Slow down and be prepared to yield.
- Blind hills (Blindhæð): Some hills have severely limited visibility. Slow down and stay in your lane.
- Animals on roads: Sheep roam freely throughout the country and often wander onto roads. Be prepared to stop.
Off-road driving
Driving off marked roads and tracks is strictly forbidden by law in Iceland. It causes serious damage to the fragile nature (like moss and soil) and is punishable by heavy fines — or even imprisonment.
Road conditions
Before setting off — especially in the shoulder seasons or winter, or if you plan to leave the Ring Road — always check current road conditions on road.is (includes road status updates and live webcams).
Fuel
- Types: Gasoline in Icelandic is called Bensín (usually 95 octane). Diesel is Dísel or Díselolía. Most campervans and motorhomes run on diesel.
- Prices: Fuel in Iceland is very expensive. As of April 2025, prices are around 320–340 ISK per liter (approximately €2.15–2.30/l).
- Fuel stations (Bensínstöð): Readily available along the Ring Road and in towns, but in remote areas (like the Eastfjords, Westfjords, or Highlands) stations may be far apart — always fill up in advance. Major chains include N1, Olís, Orkan, and Skeljungur. Most stations are self-service, especially outside the Reykjavík area. A bank card with a PIN is required to pay at the pump. In some cases, you may need prepaid fuel cards, which can be purchased at staffed stations.
Parking and overnight stays in a campervan
Iceland has strict rules for campervan overnight stays. Knowing them will help you avoid heavy fines and protect the environment.
Overnight stays outside campsites (“wild camping”)
Since 2015, Icelandic law prohibits overnight stays in campervans, motorhomes, or similar vehicles outside officially designated campsites or private land with the owner’s permission. This rule was introduced due to the massive growth in tourism and its impact on fragile nature.
Exceptions are rare and mostly apply to remote areas far from roads or public land with no nearby campsites — but in practice, you should always assume that overnight stays are only allowed in official campsites. Trying to sleep in a parking lot, near a viewpoint, on a roadside, or just off the main road will most likely result in a visit from police or rangers — and a hefty fine.
Exceptions are rare and mostly apply to remote areas far from roads or public land with no nearby campsites — but in practice, you should always assume that overnight stays are only allowed in official campsites. Trying to sleep in a parking lot, near a viewpoint, on a roadside, or just off the main road will most likely result in a visit from police or rangers — and a hefty fine.
Official campsites (Tjaldsvæði)
This is the only legal and practical way to camp overnight in a campervan in Iceland. There is a large network of campsites, especially along the Ring Road and near popular attractions.
- Comfort level: Varies widely. Some campsites offer full facilities such as electricity, hot showers, kitchens, laundromats, and Wi-Fi. Others, especially in remote areas, may be very basic — just a field, a toilet, and cold water.
- Prices: Usually calculated per person, and sometimes also per vehicle or pitch. On average, expect to pay 1,500–2,500 ISK (€10–17) per person per night. Electricity, if available, is often extra (around 1,000 ISK / €7). Showers are often coin-operated (300–500 ISK for 5 minutes).
- Booking: Most Icelandic campsites do not accept advance bookings and work on a first-come, first-served basis. A few exceptions exist, such as campsites in national parks like Skaftafell or Þingvellir, where booking is possible or recommended. In summer, it’s best to arrive not too late to secure a spot.
- Camping card (Campingcard): A prepaid card allowing access to participating campsites. Costs around 179 euros (subject to change) and includes the camping fee for 2 adults and up to 4 children at ~35 campsites across the country. Does not cover extras like electricity or showers. Valid for the summer season. Available online or at selected tourist centers and gas stations.
- Seasonality: Most campsites are open in summer only (typically May–September). A few campsites near Reykjavík and along the Ring Road remain open year-round, but facilities may be limited in winter.
Parking in cities and at attractions
Daytime parking for campervans in Reykjavík and other cities is usually paid and can be challenging due to limited space. Most natural attractions have designated parking areas, and in recent years, many of them have also introduced paid parking — either via machines or online apps.
Campervan maintenance on the road
Regular campervan maintenance in Iceland is simple if you know where to find service points.
Refilling fresh water (Ferskvatn / Potable Water)
You can refill your drinking water supply at:
- Campsites: This is a standard service available at all campgrounds.
- Many gas stations: Larger stations often have potable water taps, usually free of charge.
Emptying grey and black water (Losun / Emptying)
Grey water (from sinks/showers) and black water (from the toilet) must be emptied at designated service stations.
- Locations: These are found at almost all campsites and some larger gas stations, especially along the Ring Road. They are marked with a special icon (a campervan with a drainage pipe symbol).
- Process: Use dedicated hoses. Typically, black water (from the toilet cassette) is emptied first, followed by grey water. Stations usually have non-potable water taps for rinsing.
Gas bottles (Gaskútar)
Gas is used in campervans for cooking and sometimes heating.
- System: Iceland uses its own standard for gas bottles. Most commonly used are small portable bottles (usually blue or gray), which are either exchanged (empty for full) or bought new.
- Where to buy/exchange: Available at many gas stations (e.g., N1, Olís) and in hardware or home improvement stores (like BYKO).
- Compatibility: European gas bottles are often incompatible with Icelandic systems. Rental campers are usually equipped with local bottles. Before heading into remote areas, make sure you have a spare, as not all stations will offer replacements.
Food, groceries, and shopping
Cooking your own meals in a campervan is key to keeping your Iceland trip budget-friendly.
Icelandic cuisine is based on local ingredients — mainly fish and lamb.
What to try:
- Fish: Exceptionally fresh cod (þorskur), salmon (lax), and Arctic char (bleikja).
- Lamb (Lambakjöt): Icelandic sheep are pasture-raised and free-roaming. Try the traditional lamb soup (kjötsúpa) or smoked lamb (hangikjöt).
- Skyr: A traditional Icelandic dairy product similar to thick yogurt — very popular and widely available.
- Bread: Rye bread (rúgbrauð), sometimes baked in the hot ground near geothermal areas.
- Hot dogs (Pylsur): A national favorite and the most affordable fast food. The famous stand Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavík is a must-try.
Food prices in Iceland are high, but shopping at supermarkets is still much cheaper than eating out.
- Budget chains: Bónus (with the pink piggy bank logo) and Krónan are the cheapest supermarkets and the top choice for most locals.
- Other chains: Nettó (some locations open 24/7), Hagkaup (large hypermarkets with wide selection but higher prices), Víðir.
- Selection: Good variety of essentials, dairy products, bread, fruits, and vegetables (mostly imported).
- Opening hours: Typically from 10:00/11:00 to 18:00/19:00. Stores in Reykjavík often stay open longer. Sunday hours may be reduced.
- Alcohol: Alcohol (except light beer) is sold exclusively in state-run Vínbúðin stores, which have limited hours and are closed on Sundays. Prices are very high due to heavy taxes.
Fresh fish is available in specialized fish shops (fiskbúð) found in most towns. Fresh meat can be purchased in the meat sections of supermarkets.
Estimated travel budget
Budget planning is an important part of traveling in Iceland — one of the most expensive countries in the world. Renting a campervan helps reduce costs, but expenses are still high.
- Campervan rental: This is the largest expense. Prices vary by camper type, season, and company. In summer, a compact camper (Class B) costs around €150–250 per day. A large camper (Class C) or 4x4 model can cost €300–500 per day or more. In shoulder season, prices can be 30–50% lower.
- Fuel: Iceland has expensive fuel. As of 2025, diesel costs about 320–340 ISK/l (~€2.15–2.30/l). With an average fuel consumption of 8–10 l/100 km, every 1,000 km will cost approximately €170–230.
- Campsites: A night at a campsite costs around 1,500–2,500 ISK (€10–17) per person. For two people, that’s €20–34 per night. Electricity (~€7) and showers are often charged separately.
- Food: Cooking your own meals using groceries from budget supermarkets (Bónus, Krónan) is the most economical option. Expect to spend around €30–40 per person per day. A meal at a café costs around €20–30, dinner at a restaurant starts at €50–70.
- Attractions and activities: Many natural attractions (like waterfalls and geysers) are free to visit, though parking often costs €5–10. National parks are free to enter. Paid activities include spa visits (Blue Lagoon: €60–70, other spas are cheaper), glacier tours, and whale watching (€80–100).
Daily budget estimate (excluding campervan rental)
- Low-budget option: Basic campsites, cooking your own meals, and minimal paid activities — €70–100 per day for two people.
- Mid-range option: Campsites with amenities, occasional café meals, and one or two paid activities — €150–200 per day or more.
Connectivity and internet
Staying connected in Iceland is fairly easy, though coverage outside towns can be unreliable.
Mobile networks
Main operators are Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone. Síminn has the widest coverage, especially in rural and remote areas. 4G reception is generally good along the Ring Road and in towns. However, in the mountains, deep fjords, and parts of the Highlands, mobile signal may be weak or unavailable.
Tourist SIM cards
Buying a local prepaid SIM card (Frelsi) is the most convenient option. You can purchase them at operator stores, gas stations, and some supermarkets. No passport is usually required for activation. Data packages with several gigabytes cost around €20–30.
Roaming
If your SIM card is from an EU/EEA country, you can use your phone at domestic rates ("Roam Like At Home"). For users from outside Europe, roaming is often expensive.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafés, gas stations, and tourist centers. Some rental companies offer portable Wi-Fi routers with the campervan, which can be useful for consistent internet access. However, campsite Wi-Fi is not always available — and when it is, it's often slow or paid.
Safety, culture, laws, and useful tips
Here are some important things to keep in mind when traveling in Iceland.
Safety and nature
The main dangers in Iceland are not people — but nature and weather.
- Weather: It can change in minutes. Always carry windproof and waterproof clothing, even on sunny days. Strong wind can be dangerous, especially when opening camper doors.
- Geothermal areas: Do not leave marked paths. The ground can be unstable or extremely hot.
- Beaches: Watch out for “sneaker waves” on the south coast (like at Reynisfjara beach), which can suddenly pull you into the ocean. Never turn your back to the sea.
- Glaciers: Never walk on a glacier without special equipment and a qualified guide.
Police (Lögreglan)
Police presence on the roads is limited, but checks do happen. Fines for violations (speeding, drunk driving) are very high.
Laws
- Off-road driving: Strictly prohibited. Fines are severe.
- Drones: Drone use is restricted in many places, especially in national parks and near popular attractions. Always follow local rules.
- Alcohol: Strong alcohol can only be purchased at state-run Vínbúðin stores.
Culture and etiquette
Icelanders are polite, reserved, and value honesty.
- Swimming pools: Always shower thoroughly with soap (without swimwear) before entering any pool or hot spring. This is a strict hygiene rule.
- Punctuality: Be on time.
- Tipping: Not expected in Iceland. A service charge is always included in the bill.
Language barrier and English proficiency
English is widely spoken in Iceland. Nearly everyone — from young people to older generations — speaks English well, so communication is rarely an issue. Learning a couple of Icelandic words like “Takk” (Thank you) is a nice gesture.
Tap water
Tap water in Iceland is some of the purest glacial water in the world. It is completely safe and very tasty — feel free to drink it and refill your bottles.
Emergency numbers
- General emergency number (police, ambulance, fire): 112
- For non-emergency mountain safety situations, you can use the 112 Iceland app to send your location to rescue services.
Electricity
Iceland uses 230V / 50Hz power. Outlets are type F (Schuko), the same as in most of Europe. For connecting your campervan at campsites, the standard blue CEE 17 plug is used.
Useful resources
For planning your campervan trip in Iceland and staying up to date:
- Road conditions: road.is – the key website for checking road openings/closures, especially F-roads.
- Weather forecast: vedur.is – official meteorological service with forecasts and storm/wind alerts.
- Travel safety: safetravel.is – official safety site with alerts, travel advice, and trip registration.
- Campsites: nat.is/camping-sites, tjald.is, campingcard.is – campsite directories and information about the Campingcard.
- Official tourism portal: visiticeland.com – general info about Iceland and its attractions.
Conclusion
Traveling around Iceland in a campervan is a journey that requires preparation and respect for nature. It’s an experience you’ll remember for its dramatic landscapes, sense of freedom, and spirit of adventure at the edge of the world.
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