Driving in Iceland in June: Campervan Road Trip Tips for Summer Travelers

June hands you the keys. No rules, no rush, no lights-out. Driving in Iceland in June means long days, dry roads, and finally seeing the country without ice in your teeth. 

It's when campers make the most sense. Hotels are packed. Tour groups are loud. You’ve got your own bed and burner, and the freedom to pull over when the sky does something stupidly beautiful. 

This isn’t a dreamy blog post. It’s the blunt, useful version. What van to get. What to skip. What goes wrong when you trust Google Maps too much. Read this before you hit the gas.

Why June is a Great Month for Campervan Travel in Iceland

What is Iceland like in June? Dry roads, open campsites, light that barely blinks. The country finally wakes up. Highland routes start opening. Trails clear. Tourists arrive in packs. Hotels sell out. 

But you’re not worried about any of that, because your camper doesn’t need a front desk. June kicks off Iceland’s real travel season. No white-knuckle blizzards. No locked gate signs. Just space to roam and the hours to do it. 

You can drive past the crowds, park where it’s quiet, and cook dinner under a midnight sky. If freedom matters more than fresh towels, June is your month.

Weather and Daylight Conditions in June

Before you roll out, get a grip on what June in Iceland actually looks like. Otherwise, good luck sleeping.

Midnight Sun and How to Prepare

Visit Iceland in June and you’ll forget what darkness feels like. The Midnight Sun hits hard. Daylight stretches past 20 hours and doesn’t quit. You can hike at 11 PM, eat dinner at a waterfall, or drive with perfect visibility at midnight. 

Sounds dreamy until you try to sleep. Bring blackout masks. Tape a towel to the van window. Whatever works. Ease into a weird sleep schedule, or you’ll burn out by day three. The light is soft, golden, endless.

Great for photos. Better for freedom. If you’ve ever wanted to chase the sun, June is your shot. Literally.

What Kind of Weather to Expect

The weather in Iceland in June is a mix of calm skies and quick mood swings. Temperatures sit around 9-15°C (48-59°F), cool enough to keep you awake. Winds average 8 m/s and never really stop. 

Rain comes in short bursts, mostly light showers that fade before you finish your drive. The south stays wetter, the north clearer but colder when the sun slips. Fog rolls in fast near the coast, then clears without warning. Locals shrug and say, If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes. That’s classic Icelandic weather for you.

What Is It Like Driving in Iceland in June?

Let’s look at what you’re actually driving into and which camper will suit driving in Iceland in June the best:

Road Conditions Across the Country

The Ring Road (Route 1) is paved and smooth for the most part. It wraps around the country and keeps to safer terrain. But stray from it and you're hitting gravel. 

That means bumps, loose edges, and slower speeds. In June, most of the snow is gone, but not all the water. Watch for melt-related flooding, especially in the east. Ice isn't the issue anymore. 

Tourists are. Expect sudden stops, erratic pulls to the shoulder, and drivers who forgot what a mirror is. 

Access to the Highlands and F-Roads

The Highlands are Iceland’s wild interior. No towns. No gas stations. Just lava, glaciers, steam vents, and space. To get there, you’ll drive F-roads. These are unmarked gravel tracks only open to 4x4 vehicles. 

Most of them don’t open until mid or late June. Some like F35 open earlier. Others, like the road to Askja, might hold out until July. These routes unlock the serious stuff. Landmannalaugar, Askja, and places where you won’t see another soul. 

They close again in fall once the snow returns. Expect rough terrain, river crossings, no bridges, and no cell signal. If your camper isn’t 4x4, turn around.

2WD vs 4x4: What Camper Do You Need?

If you’re here to rent a camper in Iceland and stick to the Ring Road, don’t waste your money on a 4x4. A 2WD gets you to the waterfalls, the black sand, the campsites, and all the tourist stuff people come for in June. Roads are clear. Towns are close. You’ll be fine.

But if you’re aiming for F-roads or heading into the Highlands, stop pretending. You need a 4x4. Not for comfort. For survival and legal reasons. Clearance, grip, and yes, a rental contract that actually allows it. Fuel costs more. Gravel eats tires. But a 2WD stuck in a river doesn’t go viral for the right reasons.

Here are a few fantastic options from our fleet, depending on where you’re going and how much comfort you want:

Essential Tips for Renting a Camper in June

As you already know, June is high season. So, that means higher demand and fewer options. Here's how to rent smart and skip the regret.

Booking in Advance During High Season

If you’re coming to Iceland in June, then book your camper early. June fills up fast. Wait too long and you're stuck with leftovers or nothing at all. Prices rise, options disappear. Compare deals while they’re still there. Look at cancellation policies. Read the details. 

Local companies like ours are always ready for summer. We prep every van for long days, rough roads, and sudden weather shifts. And if you time it right, we might even throw in a discount. 

June isn’t the month to gamble. Sort your camper now so you’re not panic-refreshing search pages two weeks before takeoff.

Must-Have Insurance Coverage

Driving in Iceland in June might look safe, but the landscape still bites. Gravel, wind, and sand are the main culprits. One strong gust can slam a door backward. One wrong turn on a gravel road and your paint job is gone. And don’t even ask what sand damage costs.

Basic insurance doesn’t cover much. You’ll get CDW and theft protection. That’s it. You’ll still be on the hook for up to 450,000 ISK in damage. We’ve seen renters rack up thousands for something as simple as a cracked windshield or scratched side panel.

If you want to drive without anxiety every time you hear a rock ping the side of the van, get better coverage. Here’s how it breaks down:

Camper Features to Look For in Summer

If you plan to visit Iceland in June, your camper needs to do more than just drive. It needs to keep you warm, rested, and ready for long days on the road. Here’s what to look for:

• Heating system - Nights can drop to 7°C (45°F) or lower. A diesel heater keeps things dry and warm.
• Blackout curtains or window covers - Midnight sun is no joke. Sleep masks help, but full blackout is better.
• Cooking setup - Gas stove, sink with water, and fridge or cooler keep meals simple and cheap.
• Storage space - Gear, food, clothing. If it’s not packed right, it’s chaos.
• USB ports and power outlets - Charge everything. Bring a backup power bank too.
• Insulated, sturdy build - Soft sides flap. Hard walls hold. Iceland’s wind makes this non-negotiable. If you rent with us, you get a state-of-the-art fiberglass shell built to handle real weather.
• 24/7 emergency assistance - We offer it. And you’ll want it when you're far from help.

Optional but Recommended Add-Ons

• 4x4 drivetrain - Required for F-roads and remote areas.
• Gravel protection insurance - Gravel damage is common and costly.
• Wi-Fi hotspot - Rent one from us. Useful when your signal disappears.

Where to Go on a June Campervan Road Trip

Here’s where to go, what to plan for, and how to make the most of it.

Ring Road Highlights for Summer Travel

Not sure what to do in Iceland in June? Start with the Ring Road. It wraps around the whole country and delivers the good stuff fast. Seljalandsfoss, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Reynisfjara black sand beach, just to name a few. June adds extras you won’t get later. 

Puffin cliffs at Borgarfjörður Eystri. Highlands turning green. Roads that were closed all winter finally open. A 7 to 10 day loop keeps things balanced. You get time to explore without rushing every stop. 

Long daylight hours let you stretch your days, but build in breaks. You’ll want space for the surprises Iceland throws at you.

Exploring the Highlands in June

Exploring the Highlands is one of the boldest things to do in Iceland in June. Roads like F208 to Landmannalaugar and F35 across Kjölur usually open mid to late June, depending on how quickly the snow melts. 

These routes are rough, remote, and not forgiving. Just remember that you’ll need a proper 4x4, river crossing skills, and a full tank. Fuel stops are rare. Think 150 km (93 mi) gaps, minimum. 

What you get in return is silence, geothermal valleys, and views that don’t show up on postcards. Camp only at marked sites. Wild camping is illegal out here, too, even in the middle of nowhere.

Westfjords and Remote Summer Adventures

The Westfjords become truly accessible in June. They don’t officially close in winter, but snow, ice, and poor maintenance turn large sections into no-go zones for most vehicles. What to do in Iceland in June if you want fewer crowds? Head here. Roads dry out. Ferries and gravel passes start running on schedule. 

Dynjandi waterfall is in full flow. Látrabjarg cliffs are filled with puffins. Rauðisandur glows red under the late sun. Fuel and food are scarce, so stock up in Ísafjörður or major towns. Campsites are open but spread thin. Book early or build in flex days. This isn’t casual country. Prep matters.

Top Things to Do in Iceland in June

Let’s break down what to do in Iceland in June when you're not behind the wheel.

Take Advantage of the Midnight Sun

Iceland in June gives you daylight that barely ends. The midnight sun stretches the day past what feels normal, opening up hours most travelers sleep through. Hike at 11 PM while the trails are empty. Soak in hot springs at 2 AM with no one else around. 

The Blue Lagoon is always an option, but quieter spots like Reykjafjarðarlaug in the West is also a great option. Photographers can shoot all night in soft light that barely shifts. Driving late is safe with full visibility, but take breaks. Fatigue is still an issue.

Go Hiking and Wildlife Watching

Hiking and wildlife watching are two of the best things to do in Iceland in June. Laugavegur and Skaftafell finally open up. You get lava fields, glacier valleys, and trails that don’t need crampons. Puffins crowd the cliffs at Dyrhólaey and Látrabjarg. 

Whale tours leave daily from Húsavík and Reykjavík. Seals show up unbothered on quiet beaches, especially in the Westfjords. Snow still hangs around at higher altitudes. Some trails will be wet. So bring waterproof boots and clothing.

Soak in Geothermal Hot Springs

Geothermal hot springs are everywhere if you know where to look. The Secret Lagoon near Flúðir is easy to reach. Reykjadalur needs a 3 km (1.9) hike through a steam-filled valley, but it is worth the walk. 

Hellulaug in the Westfjords is more remote, quiet, and usually less crowded. These spots aren’t playgrounds. Rinse before you enter. Don’t leave trash behind. Stay on marked paths. Keep noise down. Locals use these places too. 

Attend Local Festivals and Cultural Events

Things to do in Iceland in June go beyond nature. The country actually throws a few good parties, too. June 17 is Icelandic National Day. Reykjavík fills up with parades, concerts, and locals who actually take the day off. 

The Reykjavík Fringe Festival kicks off in early June with theatre, comedy, and strange art that makes you stop and stare. Hafnarfjörður goes full Viking mid-month with reenactments and old-school markets. If you plan it right, you can hit a festival between your glacier hikes and hot spring stops. It adds something real. Not just sights, but the people who live here.

What to Pack for a Camper Trip in June

Packing for Iceland in June is all about balance. Here’s what to bring and not to bring:

Clothing for Unpredictable Summer Weather

If you’re wondering what to wear in Iceland in June, start with layers and leave the fashion show at home. Weather changes fast. Your clothes need to keep up. Here’s what makes sense:

• Base layer - Merino or synthetic. No cotton.
• Mid-layer - Fleece or insulated jacket.
• Shell - Waterproof and windproof, not just water-resistant.
• Pants - Quick-dry, breathable. Jeans stay wet forever.
• Footwear - Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support.
• Socks - Thick, warm, and extra pairs.
• Hat and gloves - Yes, even in June.

Camping and Cooking Gear

All of our campers come with a full kitchen set and a fridge, so the basics are covered. For extras, we rent out sleeping bags, camping chairs, tables, and inverters. Here’s what to pack smart and what to leave behind:

• Lightweight cookware - If you're bringing your own, keep it compact.
• Gas canisters - Available at most stations, check compatibility.
• Reusable water bottles - Icelandic tap water is clean, cold, and free.
• Coffee setup - If you need it, bring a small press or stove-top.
• Foldable camp chairs and table - Rent from us, skip the bulk.

Accessories for Driving and Sleeping in Bright Conditions

Staying rested and focused takes gear that keeps the light out and the essentials charged. Here's what to bring and what to leave behind:

• Eye mask - Even with curtains, light sneaks in.
• Window covers - Block out the sun and add privacy.
• Phone mount - For maps and music..
• Offline GPS app - Signal drops often, so download maps early from Maps.me.
• Power bank or inverter - Keep phones, cameras, and lights running.
• Small storage bins - Quick access to your gear saves time.

Campsites and Overnight Parking in June

Parking overnight isn’t a free-for-all, so knowing the rules matters. Here’s how to find the good spots, avoid fines, and camp like you actually belong here.

How to Find and Book Campsites

Use apps like Parka, Tjalda, or Google Maps to find what’s near your route. Some campsites let you book ahead. Others run on a first-come system. In busy areas like the South Coast, showing up late usually means settling for what’s left. 

Popular summer-only spots like Þakgil and Atlavík are worth planning around. They’re remote, scenic, and only open for a few months. Always double-check opening dates and facilities before you arrive. Campsite quality varies. A little planning saves a lot of driving around in circles at midnight.

Wild Camping Regulations and Etiquette

If you’re wondering where to park your campervan in Iceland, skip the wild spots unless you know the rules. Wild camping is mostly illegal for campervans, even in remote areas. The only exception is private land, and you need clear permission from the owner. 

Parking off-grid without it can land you a fine or a visit from a not-so-friendly ranger. Stick to designated campsites. If you do get permission, show some respect. Leave no trash. No noise. No tracks. Don’t dump grey water in the grass. Iceland’s fragile terrain won’t survive lazy travelers. Clean up and move on without a trace.

Facilities: Showers, Waste Disposal, Electricity

Most campsites in Iceland offer the basics: toilets, showers, and power hookups. Hot showers usually cost 200 to 500 ISK and are sometimes available 24 hours a day. Larger sites offer electricity, but you’ll need the right adapter and may pay extra for access. 

Charging phones and gear is easiest through hookup points, not your van’s battery. Waste disposal matters. Gray water from sinks and black water from toilets must go into proper dumping stations. 

These are marked at most campsites, and some N1 and Olís gas stations also have them. Use campsite bins for trash and recycling, or dispose of at roadside stations when available. Don’t empty anything into the ground. That’s not how we do it here.

Driving Safely in Iceland During Summer

If you're behind the wheel, know what you're doing before it costs you. Here's how to drive smarter and safer:

Use of Vedur.is, Umferdin.is, and SafeTravel.is

Driving in Iceland in June still comes with surprises. These three sites help you avoid the worst of them:

• Vedur.is - Official weather site. Check wind, rain, temperature, and volcanic alerts before any drive.
• Umferdin.is - Real-time road conditions. Shows road closures, gravel sections, and F-road updates.
• SafeTravel.is - Safety info in one place. Warnings for floods, avalanches, and general travel alerts.

Use all three before heading out. Roads can go from fine to shut down in hours. Being informed means you don’t waste time backtracking or end up stranded.

Tips for First-Time Drivers in Iceland

• Watch for sheep - They wander into roads without warning, especially in rural areas.
• Single-lane bridges - Most are one-way. Yield to oncoming traffic.
• Narrow roads - Slow down when passing other vehicles.
• No stopping on shoulders - Use marked pullouts or parking areas for photos.
• Speed limits - 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on gravel, 90 km/h on paved rural roads.
• Transition zones – Slow down when moving from paved to gravel. Traction changes fast.
• Stay alert - Even in good weather, Iceland’s roads demand your full attention.

Navigating F-Roads and Gravel Safely

• Tire pressure - Drop slightly for better grip on gravel.
• Speed limits - Stay between 20-40 km/h (12-25 mph) on rougher sections.
• River crossings - Check depth, current, and entry angle. Walk it first to see if it's safe.
• Use low gear - Go slow, steady, and avoid deeper crossings.
• Insurance warning - Water damage is almost never covered.
• Travel in pairs or check in - Bring a satellite phone or GPS beacon like Garmin inReach if heading far out.

Why Driving in Iceland in June In a Camper Actually Makes Sense

Driving in Iceland in June in a camper just makes sense. The weather is as perfect as it can get, the roads are open, and the sun barely sets. You get access to places that stay locked half the year, with time to actually enjoy them. 

Campsites are open. Trails are clear. It’s peak season for a reason. Yes, it’s busier. Yes, prices jump. But if you book early and plan well, you get the best of Iceland without the stress. 

No snow tires. No frozen doors. Just you, your route, and the road ahead. Check out our rental options and start mapping it out.