Driving in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide for Campervan Travelers

man driving in Iceland with his arm sticking out of the window with a beautiful landscape at the back

Driving in Iceland is truly an adventure, giving you the freedom to see the sights at your own pace. While driving isn’t for everyone, it can be a great way to see more of the country in a timeframe that fits your travel style. Whether you’re off to experience more remote areas of the country in a 4x4 campervan or just want the flexibility camping offers, here’s everything you need to know about driving around Iceland.

Why Explore Iceland by Campervan?

Many visitors choose a campervan for their Iceland adventure because of the flexibility it provides. Not only can you avoid having to book your accommodations, but you won’t have to worry about check-in times and whether road conditions will allow you to reach your next destination. In some cases, renting a camper can be less expensive than a car and accommodations.

Benefits of Self-Driving in Iceland

Self-driving in Iceland offers much more than taking a tour. You are free to create your own schedule, spending as much or as little time as you would like at each stop. You won’t be limited by a tour schedule or have to worry about waiting for everyone to get on and off the bus. You have the flexibility to change your destination at a moment’s notice based on your preferences.

In addition to being more flexible, driving in Iceland yourself can be more cost-effective. If you have more than a couple of people with you, tours can quickly add up. Renting a car and driving yourself will save money in the long run. 

Three vehicles on the road with a snowed landscape at dusk

How Campervans Enhance the Experience

When you choose a campervan, you get the benefit of accommodations and a vehicle at one price. You will drive around in your accommodations, taking in the sights without worrying about whether you will make it to your next booked accommodation. While you must stay overnight at a campsite, you don’t have to book ahead. Simply choose one close by.

In addition to saving time and money on accommodations, a campervan gives you the ability to prepare meals yourself, saving money on food. You can stock up at the local grocery store and cook a quick meal for you and your companions in the comfort of your own campervan.

What to Know Before Driving in Iceland

You may have questions about driving in Iceland to help you make a decision. Many wonder if you can drive to Iceland or how to drive in Iceland. You may be curious about the road conditions or how the driving rules may differ from your home country.

Essential Documents and Requirements

First and foremost, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country, which must have been held for at least one year, feature your picture, and have an issue date and expiration date. You must also be at least 17 years of age, and your license should be in Latin characters. If it isn’t, you will need an international driver’s permit.

An international driver’s permit must be issued by the same country as your driver’s license. Its validity should not exceed the validity of your driver’s license.

Driving license permit with car keys on top

In addition to driver’s license requirements, you should be aware of rental car restrictions. In many cases, rental agencies require you to be at least 20 years old for a standard vehicle or 23 years old for a 4x4. Drivers under 25 may be required to pay a surcharge as a young driver, but at Camper Rental Iceland, you don't! 

Choosing the Right Campervan for Your Trip

Once you decide to rent a campervan for driving in Iceland, you will need to find the right one for your needs. Here are a few things you should consider to help you decide which one to rent.

One of the most crucial aspects of choosing a campervan for your Iceland road trip is where you will be going. If you are only interested in driving along the Ring Road and other main paved roads, a standard campervan will suffice. However, if you’re visiting in the winter or plan to drive into the highlands in summer, you should choose a 4x4 campervan.

In addition to choosing between a 2WD and 4x4 campervan, you will need to select a size based on the number of people in your party and how much luggage you will have. Some campervans comfortably fit two people, while others have more space. Pay attention to the seating and sleeping space.

Once you know the size and type of campervan, you can start exploring companies. Check reviews and services offered, along with insurance options, to find one that fits your needs and budget.

Campervan and car users setting their tent in a beautiful area of Iceland

Understanding Iceland’s Unique Road Conditions

When you drive in Iceland, you can expect to encounter road conditions you may not have at home. Even if you are from a place that routinely experiences winter weather, the weather conditions in Iceland can be much different. Wind is often an important factor to consider, especially when driving a campervan.

The Ring Road and many other main roads in Iceland are paved, allowing visitors to easily drive from one place to another. However, it’s important to note that there are also gravel roads. Some of these roads can be driven with a 2WD vehicle, while others, primarily the F-roads, require a 4x4. Ask your rental company whether there are any roads off-limits to the vehicle you are renting.

Roundabouts can be another challenge for drivers. Even if roundabouts are commonplace where you live, Iceland has unique rules. For instance, drivers in the inside lane have the right of way when exiting the roundabout. Drivers in the outside lane should yield to them. 

Safety Tips for Driving in Iceland

Roads in Iceland can be quite dangerous, depending on weather conditions and the terrain. As you prepare for driving on Iceland’s roads, there are some safety tips you should consider to give you the best chance of enjoying your trip without worrying about an accident.

Tourist holding a road map of Iceland standing by an RV

Preparing for Iceland’s Weather

Weather is usually one of the top things that can affect road conditions and the safety of driving in Iceland. While summer has a reduced risk of severe weather that can impede your travel, you should still be aware of the weather at all times. Icelandic weather is known for rapid changes and high wind speeds, which can make driving perilous quite quickly.

Before starting your adventure each morning, it is vital to check the weather and road conditions, especially in the shoulder and winter months. Vedur.is is your best source for current weather conditions, but the forecast should not be relied on too far ahead. You would also check road.is for road conditions to help you plan your route and avoid hazardous road conditions. Safetravel.is is another excellent resource.

If a weather warning is in place for your current location or destination, it is usually best to adjust your plans accordingly. Stay in place until the warning passes, or if the warning covers your destination, go somewhere else. If you are traveling in a campervan, you may want to consider spending the night in a hotel or guesthouse instead.

Road in Iceland covered in snow with a mountain range on the background

Navigating Gravel Roads and F-Roads

Gravel roads are commonplace in Iceland, so it’s important to know how to navigate them and whether your rental vehicle is allowed on them. Normal gravel roads can be driven by most rental cars, but roads classified as F-roads require a 4x4, and not all rental cars are allowed. F-roads are generally only open in the summer, typically from mid to late June until mid-September.

F-roads are generally indicated by road numbers starting with an F and typically have a sign before entering them. These roads may have river crossings, which should not be attempted by drivers without experience with water crossings. If you are unsure, turn back or wait for someone else to cross to determine if you are comfortable.

If you wish to avoid gravel roads, you can visit the Road Administration webpage to view which roads are paved and which ones are gravel. Having the proper insurance can protect you when driving these roads, but keep in mind that most companies will not cover river crossing damage.

Managing Strong Winds and Single-Lane Bridges

Iceland is known for its strong winds, making navigating roads difficult, particularly the mountain passes. When driving in Iceland, pay close attention to wind speeds. Areas known for high wind gusts will often have signs that will indicate the current wind speeds. If the speeds are showing in red, it is best to stop and wait it out or change your destination. 

Campervans, in particular, are susceptible to high winds, making it dangerous to drive them when wind speeds are high. In general, it is recommended not to drive a campervan or similar vehicle with wind speeds above 18 m/s. However, even 11-17 m/s can be challenging. If high winds are predicted, change your plans.

Sign of a one lane bridge in Iceland

When parking in high winds, park facing the direction from which the wind is coming whenever possible. This strategy will ensure the doors of your rental vehicle aren’t blown backward, bending them beyond repair. This damage can lead to high charges from your rental company because wind damage often isn’t covered by insurance.

Another common obstacle in Iceland is single-lane bridges. Even the Ring Road features some of these bridges. When approaching a single-lane bridge, watch for vehicles approaching from the other side. The first vehicle to reach the bridge has the right of way. Proceed with caution. If you are waiting for an oncoming car, make sure no one else has followed before proceeding.

Some of the single-lane bridges are longer, making it difficult to see if there is a vehicle approaching from the other side. In these situations, the bridge will contain pull-offs that will allow drivers to pull over to let another car pass in the other direction. If the pull-off is on your side, please use it.

Practical Advice for Campervan Travelers

As you plan your adventure in a campervan, it’s important to understand where you can park, camp, and fill up. Here’s what you need to know before driving in Iceland:

Parking Regulations and Best Practices

For the most part, parking in Reykjavík and other towns is allowed anywhere you can park a normal vehicle. As long as you aren’t intending to spend the night, you can typically follow the regular parking rules. Pay attention to whether you need to pay for parking and use the kiosk or the appropriate app to pay. If you are spending the night in accommodations, you can use their parking.

Parking in Reykjavík can be challenging to understand. The city is separated into several zones, each with different fees. The closer to the city center, the more expensive the parking will be. Parking is generally free overnight and may be free in some zones on the weekends.

In addition to city parking, many tourist attractions require a parking fee. Watch for the signage that indicates paid parking, and use the app or scan the QR code on the sign to pay for your parking. You generally have 24 hours to pay. Most sites use the Park or EasyPark apps to make payments.

Paid parking sign in Reykjavik

Campsites and Overnight Parking Options

First and foremost, wild camping in Iceland is not allowed when renting a campervan. If you will be driving in Iceland, you are required to stay in campsites located throughout the country. In the summer, there are many campsites to choose from, many of which won’t require reserving ahead of time. However, in the winter, you will need to plan carefully to ensure you stay in the few campsites that remain open year-round.

When traveling in a campervan, you should always have a few campsites in mind along your route to ensure you have a place to stay. Tjalda.is is the top website listing many of the campsites throughout the country, along with their opening dates and amenities, so you can find the one that best suits your needs. Campsites are low-cost, helping you save more money.

Fueling and Supply Stops in Remote Areas

You’re sure to find numerous gas stations and grocery stores around the Ring Road and in more populated areas. It’s always best to top off your fuel tank when you see a gas station to avoid running low and keep a stock of snacks and simple food and drinks for your road trip. However, visiting remote areas like the highlands can be more challenging.

Many of the F-roads into the highlands do not have gas stations, stores, or rest stops. These remote areas require you to have enough fuel and provisions to make it through to a more populated area. Before heading into the highlands, stock up on food and drinks and fill up your tank. If you are heading out on a longer route, you may want to carry an extra fuel can with you.

Rules and Regulations for Driving in Iceland

One of the most vital aspects of driving in another country is making sure you are aware of the rules of the road, especially those that may differ from your country of origin. While driving in Iceland is similar to driving in other European countries and even North America, there are differences you should be aware of.

Of important note, Iceland drives on the right side of the road, the opposite of places like the UK, Australia, and Japan. 

Speed Limits and Road Sign Etiquette

Speeding is taken very seriously in Iceland. While the police presence may seem low, there are speed cameras, and officers can still monitor traffic, issuing speeding tickets to those who aren’t following the speed limit signs. Some areas also use average-speed cameras.

Speed sign on Iceland's ring road

Knowing the speed limit on a given road is easy in Iceland, particularly outside the city. In general, the speed limit between towns on the main roads is 90 km/h. Gravel roads generally have a speed limit of 80 km/h, but your actual speed will depend on the road and weather conditions. Urban and residential areas may be 30 or 50 km/h. 

Iceland often uses flashing signs to indicate speed limit changes. Speed limit signs are yellow with red circles that have the speed limit in the center. Warning signs will be yellow triangles bordered in red. Prohibited actions will be indicated by circular signs. It can be useful to familiarize yourself with the most common road signs before driving in Iceland.

Off-Road Driving Laws

Off-road driving is another serious offense in Iceland. While some people may refer to driving on F-roads as off-road driving, the definition in Iceland refers to leaving a marked roadway. This practice is expressly forbidden as the vegetation in Iceland is sensitive and easily damaged or destroyed. Off-road driving carries severe penalties, including high fines.

When driving in the Icelandic highlands, always stay on the marked road or track. Roads are marked by yellow traffic sticks and sometimes rocks. Even if there is water in the road or another obstacle, you must either drive through it or turn around, even if others have clearly driven around it. Leaving the road is strictly prohibited as it leaves deep tracks that do not heal and destroys the vegetation.

White camper parked by Iceland's ring road

Emergency Numbers and Roadside Assistance

Another important element to know before driving in Iceland is how to get assistance if you get into trouble. The most important number to know in Iceland is 112. This emergency line will get the help you need. When calling, be sure to know the general area where you are. Let them know who you are, what happened, and when.

Calling 112 can dispatch any number of emergency services, including the Coast Guard, police, Iceland Red Cross, ICE-SAR, fire department, ambulance, and more. The operator will determine which type of help you need and contact the appropriate authorities for you.

If you are broken down on the road, roadside assistance may be available. Before starting your Icelandic road trip, ask your rental agency what you should do in the event of a breakdown or if you get stuck. Some rental companies have a preferred method of contact for these emergencies. Calling them can guide you toward the appropriate resolution.

Two men pushing a 4x4 car stuck in the snow

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving in Iceland

Below, you will find some of the most frequently asked questions about driving in Iceland to help you decide if this is the right option for you.

Can You Drive in Iceland Without Experience in Winter? 

Icelandic winter conditions can be treacherous, particularly for individuals coming from a warmer climate who may have no winter driving experience. For the most part, it is best to have at least some winter driving experience before attempting to drive in Iceland during the winter. Many people are better off booking tours in the winter to ensure a safe trip and keep everyone else safe on the road. Iceland is not a good place to gain winter driving experience or to drive in winter conditions for the first time.

Are Campervans Allowed on the Ring Road and F-Roads? 

In short, all campervans are allowed to drive on the Ring Road, along with numerous other secondary roads, including standard gravel roads. However, not all campervans are allowed to drive on F-roads. F-roads are challenging gravel roads with minimal maintenance. They often contain large potholes, rocks, and other obstacles like unbridged river crossings. These roads will require a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. Your rental company can help you choose a campervan suitable for F-roads if they are on your itinerary.

What Should You Do in Case of Road Closures?

The Road Administration takes road closures seriously. They are only done when conditions make it unsafe for anyone to drive. If you encounter a road closure during your trip due to weather or other adverse conditions on the road, do not proceed. You will need to either wait where you are for the road to open again or change your route to avoid the closed road. Do not attempt to drive onto a closed road. Most road closures in Iceland don’t last long.

RV on the road in a dramatic black and green landscape

Final Thoughts on Driving in Iceland with a Campervan

A campervan rental can be a perfect solution if you want more flexibility to make last-minute changes to your itinerary without worrying about where you will stay. While a campervan is best used in the summer, it can also be an option in the winter, depending on your plans. With this guide, you can make the best choice as to whether you should book a campervan for your next Iceland journey.

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