What You Need to Know About Driving in Iceland in Fall by Campervan

Driving in Iceland in the fall by campervan gives you front-row seats to some of the country's best moments. Think fiery skies, fewer tourists, and roads that still let you explore almost everything. Fall is shoulder season, which means better prices, more freedom, and golden-hour light that sticks around for hours. 

But it's not all smooth sailing. Rain, strong winds, and surprise snow in the north can throw you off if you're not prepared. This guide will tell you everything you actually need to know to road trip Iceland smartly and safely.

Why Fall is a Great Time for a Road Trip in Iceland With a Campervan

Driving in Iceland in fall hits differently. The chaos of summer crowds fades out, and in comes the good stuff, such as crisp air, bold colors, and skies that might just dance for you. It’s the perfect season to explore Iceland by camper and experience the island at your own pace.

Let’s break it down.

Autumn Views Worth Slowing Down For

Fall flips the switch on Iceland's already epic scenery. Lava fields go golden. Mountains wear coats of orange and red. Even the moss seems to glow. Add some early snow on the peaks, and it feels like someone cranked up the saturation. Every roadside pull-off becomes a photo op.

Prime Time for Northern Lights

Here's the sweet spot. September and October bring dark skies without the deep freeze. With a campervan, you're not stuck hoping the Northern Lights will show up outside your hotel window. You drive to clearer skies, park, and wait it out with a warm drink and a heated van.

Way Less People, Way More Peace

Tour buses thin out. Hot springs feel like yours again. And waterfalls stop doubling as Instagram battlegrounds. Fall gives you breathing room. And trust us, that makes a big difference when you're soaking in a natural pool with no one around.

Better Prices, More Availability

Summer's done inflating the prices. Campervan rentals drop by 25 to 35 percent, especially in September and October. Campsites stay open, too, often with fewer bookings. That means more freedom to roam and no scrambling for a spot.

Go Where the Weather Isn't

With a campervan, you dodge storms like a local. Wind picking up in the East? Cruise west. Rain in the south? North it is. No hotel cancellations, no tight schedules. Just you, the road, and the forecast on your phone.

Comfort That Saves You Money

Modern campervans are basically cabins on wheels. Built-in heaters, thick insulation, a real mattress, and your own kitchen setup. You cook, sleep, and stay warm all in one place. No overpriced guesthouses. No packing and unpacking every night. Just Iceland, outside your window.

Weather Conditions by Month: September, October, and November

To help you plan smarter, let's break down what to expect month by month, from golden September to stormy November.

September

September still feels like late summer if you time it right. Daytime highs hover between 10 and 15°C (50–59°F), with nights dipping to around 5 or 6°C (41–43°F). It's not freezing, but it's also not shorts weather. Rain shows up often, with around 70 mm (2.8 inches) falling over as many as 15 days.

Winds can sneak in, too, so don't expect still skies. On the bright side, you'll get about 12.5 hours of daylight to work with. Fall colors peak now, and longer nights finally make the Northern Lights possible. Most major roads stay open, though some highland routes may already start closing.

October

October is a mixed bag. Temperatures start to drop, with highs around 9°C (48°F) and lows dipping just below freezing. Rain is relentless, often turning to snow as the month winds down.

It's one of the wettest months, with more than 20 days of rain or snow. Expect around 80 mm (3.1 inches) of precipitation. Daylight slips to around 9 hours, and storms get more frequent. On the upside, you've now got plenty of dark hours for aurora hunting.

Main roads usually remain passable, but remote or elevated routes may already be off-limits.

November

Now you're in winter's waiting room. Average temperatures hover around 1°C (34°F), but the wind along the coast cuts deeper. Snow becomes a regular guest, mixing with rain across roughly 73 mm (2.9 inches) of total precipitation.

Daylight continues its slide, shrinking from 8 hours down to as little as 5. That means longer nights, clearer skies, and better odds of catching the Northern Lights. Just don't underestimate the driving. Ice, wind, and sudden weather changes can make things dodgy.

Is It Safe to Drive in Iceland in the Fall With a Campervan?

It can be if you don't treat it like a summer road trip. Driving in Iceland in fall means dealing with quick shifts in weather and road conditions. Stick to the main roads unless you've got a 4x4 with proper tires. Temperatures hang between -1 and 10°C (30–50°F), and the wind can push your camper if you're not careful. 

Choosing the Right Campervan or Motorhome for Fall Travel

Pick the wrong camper, and your Iceland road trip turns into a chilly, uncomfortable grind. Your vehicle needs to do more than just drive. It's your bed, your heater, your kitchen, and your backup plan when plans change. Let's talk about what actually matters.

2WD vs. 4x4 in Autumn

For most fall road trips, a 2WD camper is just fine. If you're sticking to paved roads like the Ring Road or the South Coast. Iceland keeps those routes clear and salted when needed. But if you're eyeing more remote areas, or you're traveling later in the season, things change fast. 4x4 comes into play when you're dealing with:

• Early snowfall in the north or East
• Gravel roads in Westfjords
• Shoulder-season visits to the Highlands (though many F-roads will be closed)

If in doubt, go 4x4. It's better to have the traction and not need it than to get stuck wishing you did.

What to Look for in a Fall-Ready Camper

Fall isn't the time to skimp on essentials. Here's what actually matters:

• Insulated interiors – Thin walls don't cut it once the mercury drops below freezing
• Built-in heating – This is non-negotiable unless you like sleeping in your parka
• Winter tires – Some companies will charge you extra for winter tires. Don't fall for the trap. We include them FREE of charge when you rent with us
• Manual or automatic? Depends on your comfort level. Icelandic roads are more about the weather than the gear shift
• Storage space – You'll need layers, wet-weather gear, and actual food. Cramped vans get frustrating fast

What Campervans Do We Recommend?

Here are three excellent picks from our fleet that will do the trick for driving in Iceland in the fall:

1. Fiat Scudo 2023 (Automatic)

• Passengers/Beds: 3
• Heating: Yes
• Drive: FWD

This one's a no-brainer for comfort. Automatic drive, built-in heating, and space for a third passenger make it a great pick for couples or friends who don't want to feel like sardines.

2. VW Transporter 2023–2024 (Automatic)

• Passengers/Beds: 3
• Heating: Yes
• Drive: FWD

Sleek, modern, and ready for the elements. Perfect for small groups who want comfort, room to stretch, and a heater that doesn't mess around.

3. Ford Transit 2019–2021 (Automatic)

• Passengers/Beds: 5
• Heating: Yes
• Drive: FWD

Traveling with a group or a family? This one gives you space, power, and the kind of insulation that makes cold nights easy to ignore.

Each one's fully prepped for Iceland's fall weather. Want to sleep warm, drive easily, and stay flexible? Rent your campervan in Iceland with us and hit the road fully equipped for whatever the season throws at you.

Fall Road Conditions and Seasonal Closures

Let's talk about the real curveballs: F-roads and fall storms.

When the Highlands and F-Roads Close

F-roads are Iceland's rugged, unpaved gateways to the Highlands. Think river crossings, loose gravel, and zero cell service. They're a dream for adventurers in summer, but by fall, that dream starts shutting down.

• Typical timeline? Most F-roads close between late August and mid-October, with the bulk of closures happening in late September when the first serious snow hits.
• No maintenance, no mercy: Once these roads close, they're done. No snow plows. No emergency support. No go.
• Check before you chase waterfalls: Snow, rain, swollen rivers, and changing weather mess with opening times every year.

Tips for Navigating Wind and Rain Safely

Fall doesn't play nice with campervans. Gusts come out of nowhere, and rain doesn't fall. It attacks sideways. If you're not prepared, driving in Iceland in the autumn can go from scenic to stressful fast. Here's how to stay in control.

• Forecasts aren't optional. Refresh vedur.is and umferdin.is before every drive. Red alerts are serious. Don't treat them like suggestions.
• Slow it down. Wet roads and wind are a bad combo at high speed. Ease up and stay in control.
• Two hands on the wheel. Especially in open areas, bridges, or anywhere, the wind has room to build.
• Respect the wind. Anything over 11–17 m/s (24–38 mph) gets tricky for campervans. Over 18 m/s (40+ mph)? You shouldn't be on the road.
• Hold your doors. What is the most common campervan damage in Iceland? Wind catching a door and bending it backward. Always hold your doors tight and park into the wind.
• Back off from the car in front. Leave more room than you think. Wet roads and wind mess with braking.

• Stay smooth. Brake and accelerate gently. Sharp steering inputs? That's how you lose traction.
• Look out for debris. Strong gusts blow stuff onto the road. Watch for branches, rocks, and wind-driven water.
• Be ready to pivot. If the weather is wrecking your route, change it. One of the perks of vanlife is moving with the forecast, not against it.
• Know when to call it quits. If the wind's roaring or visibility is gone, pull over somewhere safe and wait it out.
• Avoid sandstorm zones in wind. Driving through, one can strip paint and pit windows. If it's windy and dusty, take a different route or stop.

Best Fall Road Trip Routes for Camper Travelers in Iceland

Here are three routes to hit with your campervan when autumn kicks in.

South Coast Highlights

The South Coast is Iceland's greatest hits album. It's popular for a reason and in fall, it finally gets room to breathe. No tour bus rush. Just big views, bright colors, and space to park your camper without stress.

Top stops to add to your list:

• Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi: Walk behind one and sneak through a crack in the cliff for the other. You'll get soaked. It's worth it.
• Skógafoss: Roars like a jet engine and has stairs if you're feeling bold. The view from the top is breathtaking.
• Kvernufoss: Tucked away just enough to feel like you found it first.
• Dyrhólaey & Reynisfjara: Arches, cliffs, and that moody black beach everyone talks about.
• Vík: Small town. Big views. Handy pit stop.
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: Easy stroll, massive payoff. Drone-optional, awe guaranteed.
• Jökulsárlón & Diamond Beach: Icebergs on one side, glittering black sand on the other. It's surreal.

West Iceland and Snaefellsnes in Autumn

If you want Iceland's greatest wonders in one compact region, Snaefellsnes delivers. Fall lights up the lava fields, the moss turns fire-orange, and the villages start getting cozy.

Must-see stops include:

• Snæfellsjökull National Park: Glaciers, lava, and quiet walking trails that feel off the grid.
• Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss: The mountain that's in half of Iceland's postcards. Bring your camera.
• Arnarstapi & Hellnar: Coastal cliffs with trails that don't feel touristy.
• Djúpalónssandur: Black stones, old shipwrecks, and that windswept Icelandic energy.
• Borgarnes & Hraunfossar: Waterfalls pouring from lava rocks. Add a soak at Krauma Spa and call it a good day.

Ring Road in the Shoulder Season

The Ring Road is the full Iceland loop. If you've got 8 to 12 days and a camper, it's the ultimate slow-travel flex. Fall is when this route hits a sweet spot before the deep snow, after the tourist wave.

Route at a glance:

• Length: About 1,332 km (827 miles)
• Recommended duration: 8–12 days if you want to enjoy it, not just race through

Major highlights by region:

• South Coast: All the waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers already mentioned.
• East Fjords: The drive through the East feels remote in the best way. You'll pass tiny fishing villages, curve along dramatic cliffs, and, if you're lucky, spot reindeer just doing their thing on the roadside.
• North Iceland: Akureyri feels like a laid-back base camp with actual coffee shops. From there, head to Lake Mývatn for bubbling earth and strange lava formations, then swing by Dettifoss, where the water doesn't just fall. It thunders.
• West Iceland: Think of wild waterfalls and lots of lava fields. 

What to Pack for Driving in Iceland in the Fall

The most important thing to keep in mind when packing for Iceland is to keep warm. Layers are your best friend. So is waterproof everything. Here's what to bring so your road trip doesn't turn into a soggy mess.

Clothing Essentials

• Thermal Base Layers: Start here. Merino wool tops and bottoms keep you warm without making you feel like a marshmallow. Bonus: they don't smell after one wear.
• Warm Sweaters or Fleece: Mid-layers should be cozy and easy to shed. Go with fleece or wool. Skip the cotton.
• Waterproof Outerwear: A thick jacket with a hood is non-negotiable. Add rain pants, too. Fall in Iceland loves to soak tourists.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Yes, they need to be actually waterproof. Look for deep tread and ankle support. You'll thank yourself later.
• Wool or Thermal Socks: One pair isn't enough. Bring extras. Cold, wet feet ruin everything.
• Hat, Gloves, Scarf: Even if it's not snowing, the wind will slap your ears. Don't leave these behind.
• Comfortable Pants: Jeans are fine for dry days, but hiking pants win if you plan to explore. Leave the skinny jeans at home.
• Swimsuit and Flip Flops: You'll find hot springs in the middle of nowhere. Be ready to hop in. Flip-flops make life easier at public pools.

Road Trip and Practical Gear

• Waterproof Backpack: Protect your gear. A rain cover or built-in waterproofing keeps your stuff dry when the skies open.
• Quick-Dry Towel: For hot springs, rain surprises, or just drying off your boots.
• Sunglasses: That low autumn sun? It's brutal when you're behind the wheel.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland's tap water is pure glacier gold. Save money, skip plastic.
• Snacks and a Cooler Bag: Shops can be far apart. Having food on hand makes road trip life easier. Bonus points for cheese and skyr.
• Power Bank and Car Charger: Dead phone = no maps, no camera, no tunes. Stay charged.
• Phone Holder for the Car: Makes navigation easier. Safer too.
• Navigation Tools: Use a GPS or download offline maps. Cell signal vanishes in some remote areas.
• Travel Adapter: Iceland uses the European two-pin plug. Bring one, or you'll be unplugged.
• Driver's License and Docs: You'd be surprised how many people forget these. Don't be one of them.

Safety and Comfort

• First Aid Kit: Cuts happen. So do blisters. Be ready for both.
• Reflective Vest and Flashlight: For roadside stops or walking near traffic in low light.
• Walking Poles: Not just for old hikers. They help on slippery trails and uneven paths.
• Trash Bags: Campervan life gets messy. A few bags will keep things under control.

Campgrounds in Fall: What's Open and What to Expect

If you're camping in a van this time of year, you've got to be a little more self-reliant and a lot more weather-aware. Let's break down what to expect when rolling into a campsite in autumn.

What's Actually Open?

Iceland has over 200 campgrounds, but most start packing it in by late September. Exact closing dates vary. Some highland or remote sites shut earlier due to weather. The good news? You're not totally out of luck once October hits.

There are about 25 to 30 campgrounds that stay open year-round. They're mostly near bigger towns and along main travel routes like the South Coast, the Golden Circle, and parts of the North and East.

Here are a few worth remembering:

• Reykjavik Eco-Campsite (Reykjavík) – Close to the city, but still feels like a proper campsite.
• Skjól (Golden Circle) – Great base for seeing Geysir and Gullfoss.
• Egilsstadir (East) – Handy if you're braving the fjords.
• Hild (North) – Geothermal views and decent facilities.
• Stykkishólmur (West) – Charming coastal village stop.
• Thingvellir National Park – Rarely full, no booking needed.

Fall Camping Reality Check

• Facilities are bare bones. Don't expect hot showers or kitchen access after September. In many cases, toilets may be closed too. Some places still let you park overnight, but that's it.
• No need to reserve. In the fall, most sites are walk-in. You'll rarely need to book ahead unless you're traveling in a large group.
• It's cheaper. Campsite fees often drop in the off-season, making fall travel more budget-friendly.
• You need to be prepared. Bring your own water, food, and a warm place to sleep. A heated campervan is more than a luxury. It's essential.
• The weather's a wildcard. October brings rain, wind, and the occasional snow surprise. Have backup lodging options if conditions get rough.

Tips for Fall Camping

• Check ahead. Use Tjalda's open campsite map to see what's actually available.
• Stick to main routes. Don't count on remote campsites being open or reachable.
• Stay flexible. If your go-to site is closed or weather shifts, you'll need a Plan B.
• Don't rely on full service. Fall means fending for yourself a bit more. Bring gear that works, and always assume the Wi-Fi is out.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights from Your Camper in Iceland

Catching the Northern Lights is part planning, part luck, and part not freezing while you wait. The best part about hunting auroras in a camper? You're not stuck in one spot. You can follow the skies and set up your own little viewing lodge wherever the weather plays nice. Here's how to get it right.

1. Chase Clear, Dark Skies

City lights ruin the show. If you're anywhere near Reykjavík or a town, drive out. The darker and more remote, the better.

Use your camper to escape the glow and aim for spots with no artificial light. Check the cloud forecast (white = clear skies) and track the aurora KP index. A KP of 3 or more gives you a decent shot, but even KP 2 can deliver magic if the skies are clear.

Top viewing locations?

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Kirkjufell Mountain
• Thingvellir National Park
• Godafoss
• Quiet beaches and hot springs with a northern view

2. Be Flexible and Ready to Move

If your spot fogs over, don't sulk; just drive. Use vedur.is to see where the skies are clearing.

Popular routes like the Ring Road, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Golden Circle offer lots of dark, scenic pull-offs. If one location flops, move to the next. That's the magic of vanlife.

3. Prepare for the Cold

Standing outside waiting for the aurora is no joke in October or November. Dress like you're heading into a freezer:

• Thermal layers
• A warm winter jacket
• Gloves, scarf, hat
• Wool socks and boots
• Keep extra blankets in the van. 

4. Plan for Comfort and Safety

Don't make it a struggle. Bring snacks, hot drinks, and maybe a midnight playlist. You might be out there for a while. Pick your parking spot wisely. Look for flat, legal areas, like pull-offs or campsites with open views of the northern horizon.

Essential Fall Driving Tips for Camper Travelers

Driving in Iceland during the fall isn't difficult if you're switched on and roll with the weather. It's about preparation, not panic. And with a camper, you've already got the freedom to adapt as you go. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

Insurance Recommendations

Don't skip this part. Icelandic roads may look friendly, but the elements are anything but. Insurance isn't just for peace of mind. It's for when the wind rips your camper door out of your hand, or a sneaky patch of black ice makes your van slide sideways.

Here's what's worth having:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Covers damage to the vehicle, but always check the deductible. Some are sky-high by default.
• Gravel Protection: Paved roads aren't everywhere. If you're exploring outside of major towns, this one's worth it.
• Sand and Ash Protection: Southern Iceland is known for sandstorms that pit windows and ruin paint. This isn't covered by standard insurance, so add it if you're going anywhere near the south coast or highland roads.
• Wind Door Damage: Not all policies cover it, and it's one of the most common claims. Make sure it's included or add it.

Before you book, read the fine print and ask what's actually included. If you're renting from us, we'll walk you through the details so you're not stuck decoding legal jargon at the counter. Better to know now than argue later.

Fueling, Shopping, and Overnight Stops

Fuel, food, and sleep need a bit of planning. Especially when towns are spaced out, and some services start scaling back.

Fueling Up

Gas stations aren't everywhere, and some smaller ones only accept cards with PINs. Don't wait until you're on fumes. Top up whenever your tank hits half, especially in the East or North.

Most stations are self-service and open 24/7 with card access. Look out for brands like N1, Olís, and Orkan. These often have mini-markets, too, which come in handy when the grocery store is closed.

Where to Shop

Bónus and Krónan are your best bets for stocking up. They're cheaper than gas station shops and carry everything from snacks to thermal socks. Load up on basics like:

• Bread, cheese, skyr
• Instant soup, pasta, tuna
• Coffee, tea, and treats

Rural areas have smaller stores, but they're hit or miss. Shop smart in bigger towns so you're not stuck paying triple for a granola bar in the middle of nowhere.

Is Driving in Iceland in Fall Worth It?

Absolutely. Driving in Iceland in fall gives you the best of both worlds. Fewer crowds and more color, lower prices, and longer nights. 

The weather keeps you on your toes, but with the right campervan and some common sense, it's part of the thrill. Roads are open, auroras are dancing, and you get Iceland almost to yourself. 

No rigid itineraries. No tour bus chaos. Just you, the open road, and whatever the season throws your way. Rent a camper, watch the skies, and enjoy the ride. Fall is short, but if you time it right, it's unforgettable.