Your Guide to Driving in Iceland in July by Campervan

Driving in Iceland in July is about as good as it gets. The roads are open, the weather is mild, and the Midnight Sun gives you more hours to explore. If you’re planning to rent a campervan, July is your window to roam freely. 

No frozen roads, no blizzards, no endless darkness. Just long daylight hours and access to places that stay shut the rest of the year. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about driving in Iceland in July, with camper-specific tips that go beyond the basics, because the right prep turns a good trip into a great one.

Why July Is One of the Best Months for a Camper Trip in Iceland

So, what is Iceland like in July if you're rolling around in a camper? In short, everything actually works. Roads are open, the weather behaves (most of the time), and you’re not battling ice or darkness. July gives you full access and zero excuses.

• F-roads are finally open, so the Highlands are no longer off-limits
• Campsites are open, dry, and reachable in pretty much any camper
• No chains, no snow tires, no drama. Just drive
• The Midnight Sun keeps the sky lit almost around the clock, so you can hike after dinner or chase waterfalls at midnight
• Puffins hang around the coast, and whales love showing off this time of year
• July is packed with local festivals, so don’t be surprised if you stumble into a party in the middle of nowhere
• Scenic detours are easy. No snow blocking your way and no closures ruining your route

What to Expect When Driving in Iceland in July

Let’s be real. Driving in Iceland in July isn’t exactly off-season. It is our peak season. Everyone’s here. Traffic picks up fast in July. Tourists, rental cars, and campervans are everywhere. Around Reykjavík and the Golden Circle, it gets busy. You definitely won’t be alone out there.

• Tour buses appear out of nowhere, so don’t be shocked if they hog the road a bit
• Campervans and RVs move like they’re on vacation, which they are, so bring some patience
• One-lane bridges are a thing. The first car to reach it goes first. No drama needed
• Towns love their parking fees. Machines or apps handle the charge, and yes, they check
• In the countryside, parking’s usually free, but not a free-for-all. Don’t block driveways or crush moss
• Fuel stops are easy to find. Most sell hot dogs, coffee, and the illusion of decent Wi-Fi
• July turns Iceland into a green postcard. Wildflowers, waterfalls, no snow in sight
• Weather still likes to stir the pot. Fog and rain show up just when you think you're safe

If you want to get the full scoop about what driving is like in summer, then read our full blog.

Weather and Road Conditions

July in Iceland brings decent weather for road trips, but you’ll still need to stay sharp. It’s not winter, but the weather isn’t really ‘predictable’ either.

• Most days in July feel mild, usually somewhere between 10 and 15°C (50 to 59°F)
• Every now and then, you’ll get a warm one that hits 20°C (68°F), but don’t count on it
• Nights cool down quite a bit. Temps often drop to around 7 to 10°C (44 to 50°F)
• You’ll want a hoodie or something warmer once the sun dips
• You’ll probably run into rain at some point. It adds up to about 50 mm or 2 inches over the month
• Fog has a habit of drifting in near the coast, especially when you’re not expecting it
• Winds aren’t wild most of the time, averaging around 3.6 m/s (8 mph), though it definitely feels stronger when you’re out in the open
• The Ring Road and most roads in towns are paved and easy to handle
• Roads in rural areas and the Highlands are gravel and call for slower, more careful driving
• Gravel surfaces can mean loose stones, narrow tracks, and hills with zero visibility
• Heavy rain may reduce visibility or wash out backroads
• Curves and blind spots are frequent, so take your time
• Use Umferdin’s live map to stay updated on road conditions before setting off

Midnight Sun and Long Driving Days

If you’ve been reading this far, you are probably very familiar with the term ‘midnight sun’ by now. It’s one of the most unique parts of summer travel here. The weird part? It never really gets dark. Even at midnight, the sky still looks like early evening. It happens in summer when the northern part of the Earth tilts closer to the sun. Places like Iceland end up getting daylight almost the entire day because of it. Here’s how it changes the way you travel:

• You can explore at any time. Drive, hike, or sightsee late into the evening without racing the sunset
• Popular spots are quieter after hours. Visit once the tour buses leave and enjoy a bit more peace
• You’re not stuck in traffic all day. Shift your driving hours to early mornings or late evenings to avoid crowds
• Sleeping in a camper is trickier. The sky stays bright, which can throw off your sleep
• Blackout curtains or a sleep mask help a lot. Use them if you want to rest properly

Is It Safe to Drive a Camper in Iceland in July?

Short answer? Yes. Longer answer? Still yes, but don’t get cocky.

• Sheep do not care about your travel plans. They’ll walk right into the road, stare you down, and take their sweet time. Slow down. Don’t swerve. It’s not worth wrecking your trip
• Wind? Wild. It sneaks up when you least expect it. If you’re parked, face into the wind and hold your doors tight unless you enjoy expensive repairs
• Many roads are narrow, especially outside the city. You’ll hit one-lane bridges and blind curves. In a big camper, that means slowing down more than you want to
• Campsites exist for a reason. Use them. Random cliffside spots might look cool until you’re rolling out of bed at a 30-degree angle
• Parking on uneven ground? Just don’t do it. Leveling blocks help. So does not parking on soft grass during a rainstorm
• If you’re stopping in the middle of nowhere, keep your hazards on or throw on reflectors. It helps people see you from a distance when conditions aren’t ideal.

Do You Need a 4x4 Camper for Iceland in July?

You’ll be fine with a 2WD if you’re sticking to the main spots. Think Ring Road, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and Snæfellsnes. The roads are good, and summer takes care of the rest. 

• 2WD campers are easier to drive, more fuel-efficient, and cheaper to rent
• Driving on F-roads like F208, F35, and F905 is a different story. A 4x4 is legally required there
• These roads often involve rough terrain, river crossings, and sharp elevation changes
• A 4x4 camper opens the door to Iceland’s wildest landscapes, but it’s larger, heavier on fuel, and more expensive

The key is planning your route before you book. If you’re chasing major sights, stick with 2WD. If the Highlands are calling, upgrade to a 4x4. 

Our Top Campervan Picks for July in Iceland

Let’s be honest. The camper you pick can make or break your trip. You’re not just driving it. You’re sleeping in it, cooking in it, and living out of it for days. It needs to match your plans and how you like to travel. These three picks from our fleet cover different budgets and comfort levels. They all come with front-wheel drive, which is exactly what you want for July roads if you're sticking to the main areas.

Budget pick: Fiat Doblo or Kangoo 

A no-nonsense van. It’s small, simple, and gets the job done without costing too much.

• Manual transmission
• Fits two people, with two beds
• Built-in heating, which helps on colder nights
• Great for the Ring Road, South Coast, and popular routes
• No F-road access

Mid-Range Option: VW Transporter 

If you want more space and don’t feel like shifting gears every hour.

• Automatic
• Sleeps and seats three
• Includes heating
• Ideal for couples or small groups doing a full circle around the island

Larger Group: Ford Transit (2019–2021 Automatic)

If you’re rolling with a group or just like space to spread out.

• Automatic
• Seats and sleeps five
• Heating included
• Works best for longer trips with friends or family

If Iceland in July is on your radar, now’s the time to sort out your camper. Figure out where you want to go, then pick the van that fits. Booking a camper early in Iceland helps a lot. Things fill up fast, and scrambling last-minute never feels good.

Rules for Driving and Camping Overnight in Iceland

So you rented a camper and figured you’d just pull over anywhere that looks nice. Well, think again. We have some interesting camping regulations that might not be the same as what you are familiar with back home. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know before you go. 

Legal Camping Regulations for Campervans

Since 2015, Iceland has cracked down on wild camping, and the rules aren’t just suggestions. They are enforced.

• Sleeping in your campervan outside of official campsites is illegal, no matter where you are in the country
• This applies to rural areas, roadside viewpoints, gravel pull-offs, and even national parks
• The only exception is if you have written permission from a landowner, which is almost never granted
• The Environment Agency of Iceland actively monitors popular and protected areas, especially during summer
• If you're caught breaking the rules, you might get a fine or be asked to pay the cost of a campsite
• Campsites are easy to find, so there’s no real reason to camp illegally
• Signs are clear. If it says no overnight parking, take it seriously

Please read our guide on where to park your campervan for a better insight. 

Can You Wild Camp in Iceland in July?

Technically? Not in a campervan. Wild camping in vehicles is illegal unless you have written permission from a landowner. And almost nobody grants that. Still, the myth sticks around. People see wide open land and assume it’s free to use. It’s not.

People bring up gray areas sometimes. Maybe a quiet spot off a gravel road, far from towns and other travelers. You might think it’s fine. It usually isn’t. A few travelers say they got permission. Some just parked and hoped for the best.

Sure, it happens. But it’s rare. And honestly, it’s not worth getting fined or woken up at midnight by someone telling you to leave. Most of the time, people who try it get caught, especially in national parks. Rangers don’t play nice when it comes to illegal camping.

Best Campsites Open in July

If you’re visiting Iceland in July, then you’re in peak campsite season. Most places are open, easy to reach, and packed with the stuff camper travelers actually need.

• Reykjavík Campsite is right near the city. You get power, hot showers, Wi-Fi, laundry, and even a guest kitchen. It’s big and convenient if you’re just starting or winding down
• Skaftafell Campground sits inside Vatnajökull National Park. Glacier views, hookups, and paid showers. No need to book unless you’re with a big group. If you want electricity, show up early
• Egilsstadir Campsite is your go-to in the east. Full facilities. Playground. Kitchen. Gets busy in July, so book ahead if you can
• Pakgil Campsite, near Vík, feels more remote. You’ll get hiking trails, a cool cave dining area, and clean showers. Open from June to September. Cabins go fast
• Stykkishólmur Camping Ground has ocean views and basic comforts. Showers, power, and the town are nearby for food runs

Need help finding sites? Use the Parka app or Camping Card Iceland. Booking one or two days ahead makes life easier when spots start filling up.

What to Pack for a Camper Road Trip in Iceland in July

Packing for Iceland in July is trickier than people expect. It’s not freezing in July, but don’t pack like you’re heading to the beach either. If you’re sleeping in a camper, bring gear that keeps you warm and doesn’t make life harder when the weather turns weird.

• Wear layers you can swap out. A thermal base, something warm like a fleece or hoodie, and a waterproof shell. 
• Flip-flops for campsite showers. Trust us, you’ll want that barrier
• Quick-dry towel and dish soap. Glamorous? No. Useful? Absolutely
• Headlamp or small light. Not for the outdoors, but for inside the van or low-lit bathrooms, it’s handy
• Portable charger. Campsite outlets are limited, and someone’s always hogging them
• Snacks and basics. Stock up before heading into quieter areas. Grab water jugs and a spare fuel can, too, just in case

Need the full list? Have a look at our campervan checklist so you don’t forget the stuff that really matters.

Best Routes to Drive in July With a Camper

Once you're on the road, it helps to know what kind of trip fits your style. Some people like circling the whole island. Others prefer settling into one region and branching out from there. July gives you time to do either.

• A full Ring Road loop takes 7 to 10 days if you want to enjoy it without rushing
• Basecamping in places like Vík, Mývatn, or Borgarnes works well if you’d rather stay put and do day trips
• Roads are mostly paved, but some coastal and fjord areas can get narrow or rough, so plan for slower driving
• Popular routes are packed with stops, so resist the urge to overschedule
• July’s long daylight hours mean you can spread things out instead of cramming everything into one frantic loop

The Ring Road

The Ring Road circles all of Iceland, clocking in at 1,332 km (828 mi). In July, it’s wide open. Dry roads, no snow, and no daylight pressure mean you can actually enjoy the views instead of rushing through them. What to see in Iceland in July on the Ring Road? Start with Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Vík’s black sand beaches, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Lake Mývatn, and Akureyri. 

Campsites are everywhere and actually decent, with hot showers, cooking space, and views that don’t suck. N1 fuel stops cover the route, so you’re never stranded without gas or snacks. Most folks go counterclockwise, but do whatever you want. 

Just book campsites early because, surprise, you’re not the only genius visiting Iceland in July. The Ring Road is perfect for vanlifers who want to see it all without begging for directions.

The Highlands (F-Roads Access)

The Highlands feel like another planet, and in July, they’re finally reachable without a snowplow. But don’t expect a smooth cruise. These routes are steep, rocky, and often cut by rivers with no bridges. You’ll need a proper 4x4 camper and a bit of grit.

Here’s how to avoid getting stuck or soaked:

• Fill your tank and bring extra fuel. There are zero gas stations once you’re deep in.
• Bring a full-size spare tire. Flats happen more often than you’d like.
• Check road and weather conditions every morning using Umferdin and Vedur.is. Things change fast.
• Tell someone your route before heading out. That “just in case” backup matters.

What to do in Iceland in July? If you’re up for raw, wild terrain, the Highlands are it. Just come prepared and keep your plans flexible.

Westfjords and Eastfjords in July

The Westfjords and Eastfjords are where you go when you’re done sharing space with tour buses. In July, these regions hit peak form. You’ll pass cliffs, fjords, and sleepy fishing villages without bumping into anyone else.

The Westfjords feel wild and untamed. Puffins cram into the cliffs at Látrabjarg, seals nap on beaches, and if you're lucky, an arctic fox might wander by. Over in the Eastfjords, things get quieter still. Wild reindeer roam the hills, and seabirds rule the skies.

If you’re in a campervan, this is the freedom zone. Soak in hot springs like Nauteyrarlaug or Hörgshlíðarlaug with no one else around. Park by the sea. Hike without a deadline. Thanks to July’s endless daylight, you’re never racing sunset.

Yes, the drive takes time. But the payoff? Absolute calm, raw nature, and a version of Iceland most people miss. Curious what to see in Iceland in July that skips the crowds? Start here.

Tips for Driving a Camper in Iceland in July

• Keep both hands on the wheel and drive slowly in windy conditions. Pull over safely if traffic builds behind you.
• Dump grey water and refill fresh tanks only at designated stations. Most campsites and gas stops like N1 or Olís have them.
• Never pour waste into random drains or onto the ground. Iceland’s nature is not your bin.
• In towns, only park in marked spots. Watch signs and pay the fee if required.
  Scenic views? Yes. Park responsibly and skip trampling moss or blocking trails.
• Respect the land and rules while driving in Iceland in July and you’ll have zero regrets.

Fuel Stations and Supplies

Fueling up is easy when you stick to the Ring Road, but if you’re going to Iceland in July and heading into the Highlands or Westfjords, plan ahead. Fuel stations get sparse in remote areas, and gas prices in Iceland hover around ISK 305 to 325 per liter (USD 2.15 to 2.44). 

N1, Orkan, and Olís are your go-to brands, all with 24/7 self-service. Bring a card with a 4-digit PIN or grab a prepaid option. Their apps help locate stations and unlock discounts. Grocery stores are mostly in cities, so stock up before leaving town. Gas stations cover snacks, toilets, and camper basics.

Navigation and Connectivity

If you're coming to Iceland in July, getting around is easy if you plan right. Cell coverage is quite decent along the Ring Road, but drops fast in the Highlands or fjords. Download offline maps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS before heading out. 

For connectivity, grab a local SIM from Síminn or Vodafone for better signal and data prices. While phone apps work great, GPS can be more reliable in no-signal zones. For emergencies, download the 112 Iceland app and check SafeTravel.is daily. It’s peace of mind for your road trip.

Insurance Recommendations for Camper Rentals

When picking a camper for Iceland during July, don’t rely on basic CDW alone. While included, it leaves you with a deductible of up to $3,000. Add Gravel Protection to cover damage from loose stones. A cracked windshield could set you back $300–400. Sand and Ash Protection is also worth it, especially on the South Coast, where high winds can cause serious damage.

For better peace of mind, we offer two upgrade options:

• PREMIUM – 4,300 ISK/day (30 EUR / 35 USD / 26 GBP)
• PLATINUM – 5,950 ISK/day (42 EUR / 48 USD / 36 GBP)

Full details in our Terms & Conditions.

Driving in Iceland in July With a Camper Is the Real Deal

Driving in Iceland in July means clear roads, full access, and daylight that never quits. It’s the easiest time of year to travel the whole country, from waterfalls and glaciers to wild fjords and hidden hot springs. If you’ve been on the fence, don’t be. 

Driving a camper in July is doable, flexible, and unforgettable. You stop when you want, sleep close to nature, and skip the crowded tours. Just don’t wait too long. Campers sell out fast in peak season. Book early, pack smart, and hit the road your way. Iceland in July is wide open. Make it count.