Vanlife Iceland: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Iceland by Camper Van

Vanlife in Iceland isn't just a quirky hashtag. It's the ultimate 'skip the hotel, wake up next to a volcano' kind of trip. You get a front-row seat to waterfalls, glaciers, and sheep traffic jams without setting foot on a tour bus. 

Forget about schedules and overpriced guesthouses. You're in charge now. If the idea of cooking pasta in a lava field or brushing your teeth with glacier views sounds appealing, buckle up. 

This guide covers the real stuff. Where to camp, what to pack, how to not blow your budget. Just straight-up vanlife in Iceland, the way it should be.

Why Vanlife in Iceland is the Perfect Way to Travel

Hotels in Iceland are expensive. Buses run on fixed routes. And tours? Great if you like sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers at every stop. A camper van trip in Iceland flips that on its head. You get mobility, privacy, and a serious cut in travel costs.

It's not lawless roaming. You'll need to stick to registered campsites, but those are everywhere and come with the basics: showers, power, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. You're not roughing it. You're just skipping the inflated price tag of a hotel room that smells like wet socks.

Weather shifts fast here. A camper rental in Iceland lets you pivot without canceling plans or eating non-refundable bookings. You can chase the sun or dodge a storm, all from the comfort of your mobile base. It's practical. It's smart. And once you try it, you probably won't go back to dragging suitcases across icy parking lots.

How to Plan Your Vanlife Trip in Iceland

An Iceland van trip isn't something you want to wing. Planning ahead saves you money, stress, and rookie mistakes. Book your camper at least 3 months in advance, especially for summer. Popular models get snapped up fast. 

Check what insurance is included and what's not. Iceland's roads can surprise you, especially in spring and autumn when snow and gravel are both on the menu. A 4x4 camper might be overkill in summer, but essential in shoulder seasons.

When to Go: Best Seasons for Vanlife

The season you choose shapes your entire campervan trip to Iceland. Some months offer full access and sunny vibes. Others bring icy roads, surreal landscapes, and fewer tourists. Here's what you're in for, season by season.

Summer (June to August)

The go-to season if you want it all. Open roads, long days, and zero snow drama.

• Best for: Midnight Sun, puffins, whale tours, hiking, Highland roads
• Daylight: Wild. You're looking at 15 to 24 hours, with full daylight at 2 a.m.
• Weather: Around 8–15°C (46–59°F), usually mild but not exactly beach weather
• Why go: Every road is open, even the F-roads. Campsites are running at full tilt. You'll spot puffins, whales, and tourists in every direction.
• What to expect: Crowds. Higher prices. And if you don't book ahead, you might be sleeping in a parking lot.

Autumn (September to October)

Everything slows down, the crowds thin out, and the skies get interesting.

• Best for: Northern Lights, hikes without elbow traffic, and fall colors
• Daylight: Drops to 9–14 hours, still decent for road-tripping
• Weather: 0–10°C (32–50°F), and don't be surprised by sudden downpours
• Why go: It's cheaper, quieter, and the Northern Lights start making appearances. Perfect if you're not a fan of chaos.
• What to expect: Highland roads start closing. Days get shorter fast. You'll need a plan B if the weather messes with your route.

Winter (November to March)

Looks like a dream, drives like a challenge.

• Best for: Ice caves, snowy views, and those chasing the Aurora
• Daylight: Just 4 to 7 hours, so you'll be timing things carefully
• Weather: Between -2 and 4°C (28–39°F), and it's as icy as it sounds
• Why go: The landscape is unreal. Fewer tourists, better prices, and prime Northern Lights hunting.
• What to expect: Road closures, limited campsites, and driving that's not for the faint-hearted. You'll need insulation, winter gear, and some guts.

PS: This winter campervan itinerary is a must-read!

Spring (April to May)

Spring is kind of underrated, kind of awesome.

• Best for: Loud waterfalls, blooming lupines, puffins arriving for the season
• Daylight: A nice jump. 10 to 20 Hours as summer creeps in
• Weather: 0–11°C (32–52°F), with a mix of snowmelt and fresh air
• Why go: Fewer people, lower prices, and nature waking up all around you
• What to expect: Some highland roads will still be off-limits. Layers are your best friend, and patience helps, too.

Do read our guide about driving in Spring in Iceland with a campervan before you go.

Season	Best For	Avg. Temp (°C / °F)	Daylight Hours	Key Considerations
Summer	Road trips, wildlife, Midnight Sun	8–15 °C / 46–59 °F	15–24	Peak season, book in advance
Autumn	Northern Lights, fewer tourists	0–10 °C / 32–50 °F	9–14	Unpredictable weather, colorful landscapes
Winter	Aurora, ice caves, snow landscapes	-2–4 °C / 28–39 °F	4–7	Challenging driving, magical views
Spring	Waterfalls, solitude, puffins	0–11 °C / 32–52 °F	10–20	Cheaper, some roads still closed

Choosing the Right Camper Van for Your Iceland Adventure

Some campervans are cozy and cheap. Others feel like rolling hotel rooms. Picking the right one depends on your route, the season, your group size, and how much you value things like bed space or heating. Here's a quick breakdown of three reliable options from our fleet at different price points to help narrow it down.

Budget Pick: Dacia Dokker 2019

For travelers who want a no-frills Iceland van trip without torching their savings.

Pros:

• Super affordable. Great for short trips or travelers who'll spend more time outside than inside.
• Compact size makes parking and driving in small towns easy.
• Ideal for summer travel when heating isn't essential.

Cons:

• No heater. That's a dealbreaker if you're visiting any time outside of high summer.
• Manual transmission only. Not ideal for automatic-only drivers.
• No extras. You get the basics: bed, wheels, freedom. That's it.

Best for: Couples or solo travelers on a summer road trip who want to keep things cheap and simple.

Mid-Range Pick: Fiat Scudo 2023

A smart balance between comfort and cost. New model, decent space, and built for real travel.

Pros:

• Automatic transmission. Big win if you're not into stick shift.
• Heating included. You'll be warm and toasty even in shoulder seasons.
• Sleeps and seats three. Great if you need just a little extra room.
• Still compact enough to handle Iceland's narrow roads.

Cons:

• No 4x4, so you'll need to stick to paved roads and open F-roads.
• Space is limited if you try squeezing in three adults full-time.
• A newer model, so availability might be tight if you don't book early.

Best for: Two to three people looking for comfort, ease of use, and a van that's ready for cooler temps.

Premium Pick: Ford Transit 2019–2021

Big, comfy, and packed with everything you need for a longer haul or a larger crew.

Pros:

• Seats and sleeps five. Bring friends, family, or stretch out with room to spare.
• Heating system makes winter or early spring doable.
• Automatic transmission, which makes driving way less stressful.
• Great for families or small groups who don't want to argue over sleeping space.

Cons:

• Larger size means less stealth and a bit more hassle when parking in smaller towns or campsites.
• Fuel costs will be higher, especially with more people and gear onboard.
• Not ideal if you're doing a solo trip and trying to save money.

Best for: Families or groups who want a van that feels more like a mobile cabin than a car.

What Comes Standard With Your Rental?

Fair question. Every camper rental includes unlimited mileage, third-party insurance, CDW, and winter tires if you're coming between November and April. No surprises, no fine print.

Depending on the van, you might also score extras like sleeping bags, a fold-out table, chairs, or kitchen gear. Basically, the stuff that turns a metal box into a cozy little home.

Not sure what's included with your specific van? Reach out. We usually reply in a jiffy.

Don't Wait Till They're All Gone.

The best vans get scooped up early, especially in summer. If you're serious about this trip, book your campervan in Iceland now and lock in the freedom to explore on your terms.

What to Pack for Vanlife in Iceland

Packing for vanlife in Iceland is part strategy, part survival, and part common sense. You're not moving into a mansion on wheels, so space is limited. But forget one key item, and you'll feel it fast. Whether it's gear to keep you warm, cook your meals, or stay powered up in the middle of nowhere, here's what you actually need to bring.

Clothing and Layering Tips

Iceland's weather is unpredictable. One hour, it's sunshine; the next, it's horizontal rain. The secret? Layers.

• Base layers: Merino wool or synthetic. Cotton is useless when wet.
• Insulation: Fleece or down jackets. One is not enough if you're traveling in shoulder seasons.
• Shell layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket. If it's breathable, even better.
• Pants: Quick-dry or lined hiking pants. Jeans are just dead weight.
• Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots. Bring camp shoes, too, because soggy socks suck.
• Extras: Beanie, gloves, neck gaiter, and thermal socks. You'll thank yourself later.

Kitchen and Cooking Essentials

If your van comes with a basic kitchen setup, great. If not, you'll want to prep like you're camping with wheels.

• Portable stove or gas burner (if not included)
• Lighter or waterproof matches
• Lightweight pots and pans
• Cutting board and knife
• Reusable plates, bowls, and utensils
• French press or pour-over gear 
• Dish soap, sponge, and quick-dry towel
• Cooler, depending on your van model

Must-Have Vanlife Accessories

These are the items most first-timers forget until it's too late.

• Headlamp or small lantern: For cooking, bathroom trips, or digging through bags at 11 p.m.
• USB car charger or power bank: Keep your phone and camera alive.
• Travel adapter: Iceland uses type F plugs (Euro two-pin), 230V.
• Quick-dry towel and microfiber cloths
• Trash bags and wet wipes: Not glamorous, but essential.
• Reusable water bottle and a few extra jugs for remote stretches
• Earplugs and sleep mask: Summer nights don't get dark. At all.
• Mini broom or brush: Sand and gravel sneak in and don't leave.

Crafting the Perfect Vanlife Itinerary

Planning the perfect itinerary for a camper van trip in Iceland is part art, part logistics, and part 'let's go for it if the weather goes sideways.' You don't need to micromanage every stop, but you do need a rough game plan. With a camper van, the best approach is a flexible structure: know where you're headed but leave space to take detours when something incredible shows up (and it will).

Top Destinations and Scenic Stops

Iceland's full of "did that just happen?" moments. Whether you're cruising the full Ring Road or just sticking to one region, here are a few spots that actually live up to the hype:

• The Golden Circle is a fast track to big sights. Think exploding geysers, rift valleys, and roaring waterfalls, all within a day of Reykjavík. It's popular for a reason, especially if you're on a tight schedule.
• The South Coast brings out the big guns. You've got waterfalls you can walk behind, black sand beaches that look like another planet, and the Vatnajökull glacier just casually sitting there.
• The East Fjords are quiet, rugged, and totally uncrowded. Perfect if you like mountain roads and tiny fishing villages with real charm.
• North Iceland has a bit of everything, minus the crowds. Mývatn is steaming and strange, Húsavík is one of the best places in Europe to spot whales, and Akureyri might be the only place where city life doesn't ruin the vibe.
• The Westfjords take effort, but the payoff is wild. Fewer tourists, dramatic cliffs, and puffin colonies that don't charge entry.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula is basically the miniature version of Iceland. You've got lava fields, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a glacier that obviously inspired Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne. Snæfellsjökull just sits there looking dramatic while tourists try to pronounce it. If you're short on time but still want the "I saw everything" experience, this is your shortcut.

Sample 7- to 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Here's a no-fuss route that mixes the classics with a few wildcards. Tweak it based on weather, time, and how often you want to stop for hot springs.

Day 1:

Land in Keflavík, get your campervan from our office at the airport. Stock up on supplies in Reykjavík and hit the road. Overnight near Thingvellir National Park.

Day 2–3:

Golden Circle sights, then head south toward Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Camp near Vík or on the black sand coast.

Day 4–5:

Explore Skaftafell, walk a glacier, then cruise toward Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Sleep near Höfn.

Day 6–7:

East Fjords detour if you're up for it. Otherwise, cut north toward Mývatn. Lava fields, hot springs, and volcanic vibes.

Day 8:

Detour to Húsavík for whale watching or chill in Akureyri.

Day 9–10:

Head west through Skagafjörður or back south through the interior if conditions allow. Return via Snæfellsnes or go straight to Reykjavík.

Short on time? Just do the South Coast and skip the full circle. It's packed with highlights and has less driving. Or, if you just want to stick to our Ring Road, then this 10-Day Ring Road itinerary has got everything covered.

Where to Camp in Iceland

Finding a place to sleep isn't hard. Iceland has over 200 official campsites, and a surprising number of them come with more than just a patch of grass. You'll find everything from basic no-frills spots to full-blown campgrounds with hot showers, kitchens, and even Wi-Fi (when the wind isn't knocking it out).

Types of Campsites and What to Expect

Not all campsites offer the same amenities, but here's what most of them have going on:

• Facilities: Toilets are standard. Showers? Usually, but expect to pay a small fee. Some places throw in kitchens, laundry rooms, BBQs, and power hookups. A few even have swimming pools or hiking trails nearby. Others are basically a field with a view and a bathroom. Both work.
• Scenery: Campsites usually sit next to waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, at the edge of canyons like Ásbyrgi, or tucked inside actual forests (yes, there are a few) like Hallormsstaðaskógur.
• Seasonality: Most campsites open from May to September. If you're traveling outside those months, stick with year-round options like Reykjavík Campsite or Camp Egilsstadir.
• Cost: Prices usually fall between 1,280 and 3,800 ISK per person per night. That's around $10 to $30. Kids often stay free or close to it. Extra fees may pop up for showers, laundry, or electricity. Bring coins.
• Booking: Most sites don't require reservations, but if you're camping in July or August, book ahead at popular spots. Late arrival? Some places run on the honor system, so just pay in the box and try not to look suspicious.

Finding Free or Budget-Friendly Campsites

Camping in Iceland doesn't have to drain your wallet. Sure, a lot of things are pricey here, but with the right info, you can still sleep comfortably without selling a kidney. There are a few spots that won't charge you at all, and plenty more that keep costs low without cutting corners.

Free Campsites That Don't Feel Like a Scam

• Gata Free Campsite (South Coast): Open all year. Toilets, basic indoor space, and showers for a small fee. No power, no frills, but you can buy fresh eggs from the farm. Bonus: they only allow folks 25 and older, so no party kids doing laps at 2 a.m.
• Hornstrandir (Westfjords): Remote, rugged, and totally free. Also practically off the map, so don't expect Wi-Fi or warm showers. 

Low-Cost Campsites That Are Actually Worth It

• Hellissandur (Snæfellsnes): Around 1,700 ISK ($15) per person. Camp on a lava field with glacier views. Basic setup, but the scenery does most of the work.
• Skaftafell & Svínafell (Vatnajökull): Between 2,300 and 2,500 ISK ($18 to $30) depending on the site. Big payoff with access to hikes, ice caves, and glacier views.
• Vík Campsite (South Coast): 2,000 ISK ($15) and you're minutes from black sand beaches and those weird basalt stacks everyone photographs.
• Camp Egilsstadir (East): 2,750 ISK ($22), open year-round with excellent showers, kitchens, and space to spread out.
• Atlavík & Hofdavík (East): Around 2,100 ISK ($16), both set in Iceland's largest forest near a lake. Yes, Iceland has forests. Sort of.

Handy Tip: Show up early in summer if you want a prime spot. The best views fill up fast. Also, always check if the site is open. Some close for the winter or open late in spring.

The Daily Routine of Vanlife in Iceland

Forget alarms and set schedules. Vanlife in Iceland runs on nature's clock. Mornings start with coffee brewed beside a glacier or a quick breakfast while rain taps the roof. 

You check the weather, adjust your route, and hit the road with no one to answer to but the wind. Most days are a mix of driving, exploring, cooking simple meals, and chasing daylight. Some end at busy campsites. 

Others are dead silent. You settle in, layer up, maybe share stories with other travelers, then tuck in for the night with a full belly.

Cooking, Sleeping, and Staying Warm

Cooking in a van isn't about gourmet meals. It's about working with what you've got and making it work. Space is tight, storage is limited, and if the wind picks up, you're suddenly a chef in a moving kitchen. 

The trick? Keep it simple. Think one-pot meals, easy clean-up, and ingredients that won't go bad by day three. Sleeping's all about setup. A good mattress helps, but how you layer matters more. Even in summer, the temperature can drop fast. 

Use all the blankets, sleep in wool socks, and keep your beanie close. Staying warm isn't optional in Iceland. It's survival.

Showering and Bathroom Logistics

This isn't the luxury part of vanlife. Most campervans in Iceland don't come with a shower or toilet, unless you're rolling in something the size of a small bus. 

So, you'll be using campsite facilities or public bathrooms like the rest of us. Showers are usually fine, sometimes even hot, but don't expect fluffy robes or mood lighting. Bring a towel, flip-flops, and maybe a little patience when the queue hits double digits.

Need the bathroom while on the road? Plan it out. Gas stations, cafés, and rest stops are your best friends. Peeing behind a rock might sound rustic, but it's not exactly the Icelandic welcome locals are hoping for.

Tips for Driving and Parking a Camper Van in Iceland

Driving in Iceland isn't difficult, but it's not like cruising a highway back home either. Wind, weather, and wild landscapes keep you on your toes. Parking? That's a whole other game. Here's what you actually need to know to keep your Iceland van trip smooth, safe, and fine-free.

• Don't park on the roadside. Ever. Not for a photo. Not 'just for a second.' It's illegal and dangerous, especially on narrow or high-speed roads.
• In towns: Only park in marked bays. Some are timed, some are local-only, and Icelandic parking signs love to hide in plain sight.
• In the wild: Use picnic areas or official parking zones for breaks. For overnight? Campsites only. Wild camping in a parking lot might earn you a knock from the police.
• Use the right apps. EasyPark and Parka are your urban parking buddies. For campsites, Tjalda.is shows what's open, what has showers, and where to dump your waste.
• Respect the landscape. Icelandic moss doesn't bounce back. Don't drive or park on it. Pack out your trash and sort it properly (yes, even the banana peel.)
• Face the wind. Park nose-first into strong winds. It helps keep your doors from flying open like helicopter blades and lets you sleep without thinking the van will take off.
• Fuel up often. Once your tank drops below half, start looking. Some areas go hours without a gas station, and walking to one isn't as scenic as it sounds.
• Stick to regular roads. F-roads look fun until you're stuck in a river with no cell signal. Unless your van is 4x4 and specifically allowed to go, skip them. Your insurance probably doesn't cover the mess anyway.

10-Day Iceland Van Trip Budget for 2 People

Category	Details	Estimated Cost (USD)
Campervan Rental	10 days at $814/day for the most affordable campervan	$8,140
Fuel	Approximately 1,000 km at $2.20/liter, assuming 1.5 liters per 10 km	$330
Campsite Fees	$20 per person/night × 10 nights × 2 people	$400
Groceries	$30 per person/day × 10 days × 2 people	$600
Dining Out	5 meals at $25 per person × 2 people	$250
Total	$9,720

Cost-Saving Tips and Travel Hacks

Vanlife in Iceland isn't cheap, but you can definitely avoid blowing your budget on things you didn't plan for. A few smart choices go a long way when every fuel stop and hot dog adds up. Here's how to stretch your króna without cutting into the experience.

• Book early, or pay later. Lock in your rental months ahead. Prices only go up, especially in summer. Better yet, travel in shoulder season when rates drop and crowds thin out.
• Pick the right van. Smaller models and diesel engines sip fuel instead of guzzling it. Unless you need a massive camper, go with what gets the job done.
• Skip the F-roads. Unless you've got a 4x4 and a plan, these gravel routes just burn fuel and raise the odds of something breaking. Stick to paved roads and save yourself the repair bill.
• Grab the Camping Card. If your camper van trip runs longer than a week, this card can save you serious money on campsite fees.
• Grocery shop like a local. Bónus and Krónan are your best bets. Avoid convenience stores unless you're okay paying double for the same bag of pasta.
• Refuel in towns. Gas is cheaper in cities. The deeper you go into nowhere, the higher the price.
• Drive like you care. Speeding burns fuel faster than you think. Keep it steady and you could use up to 25% less.
• Skip the paid showers. If you can handle the occasional rinse-off with a wet wipe and use campsite kitchens, you'll save small amounts that add up.
• Bring your own gear. Don't pay extra for stuff you already own. Pack your own cooking gear, GPS, or charging cables if you can.

Pros and Cons of Vanlife in Iceland

Vanlife in Iceland sounds like the dream. And most of the time, it is. But like anything, it comes with trade-offs. If you're weighing your options, here's the harsh reality of what you're signing up for.

Pros

• Total flexibility. Want to stay longer at that hot spring? Go for it. Hate your campsite? Drive on.
• No check-ins or check-outs. Your schedule is yours. No hotel drama or strict timelines.
• Wake up to actual views. Waterfalls, glaciers, black beaches. Beats a parking lot in Reykjavík.
• Budget-friendly (kind of). Compared to hotels, meals out, and guided tours, you're saving. Especially if you cook your own meals.
• All-in-one setup. Your van is your bed, your kitchen, your gear locker, and your shelter from the storm.

Cons

• Weather can mess with everything. Rain, wind, snow. Sometimes all on the same day.
• Limited space. You're living in a box with wheels. It gets cramped fast, especially if you overpack.
• Showers aren't guaranteed. Some nights, you'll go to bed a little funky. It's part of the deal.
• Driving takes effort. Iceland's roads are no joke. Gravel, ice, sheep. You'll be on alert more than you think.
• No wild camping. You have to stick to official campsites. Spontaneity stops at bedtime.

Is Vanlife in Iceland The Right Choice?

So, is vanlife in Iceland the right call? If you want freedom, flexibility, and the kind of views that make your phone storage panic, then yes. It's not luxury travel. It's rugged, raw, and occasionally damp. 

But it's also waking up next to the sound of waterfalls, cooking dinner under the stars, and pulling over just because the view's too good to ignore. If that sounds better than hotel buffets and fixed itineraries, you already have your answer. 

Pack smart, plan loose, and hit the road. Iceland rewards the curious, the prepared, and the slightly stubborn. You'll fit right in.