6 Reasons you Should Rent a Campervan in Iceland
Renting a campervan in Iceland is the single best way to see the magical country and stunning landscapes. Yes, you can stay in a hotel and map out your trip to the T. Or you can go with the flow, stay where you want, and truly adventure while in Iceland.
I prefer the second option.
Having the ability to stay in a campervan allows you to choose where you might stay that night on a whim. It’s the complete freedom to choose your own adventure that I love so much about renting a campervan in Iceland, and I hope these reasons inspire you to do the same!
I’ve spent 20 days in Iceland over my two trips, and I hope my experience can help steer you toward a fantastic trip and persuade you to rent a campervan to experience the very best of Iceland!
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Why You Should Be Renting a Campervan in Iceland
1. Freedom to Explore as you Want
This is far and away the top reason to rent a campervan in Iceland.
Having zero obligations on where you sleep means the open road is your oyster, and you are free to explore where you want for as long as you want. As much as I enjoy planning things out, I like the ability to stay longer in an area if we’re in love with it. At the same time, if a place craps out, it’s cool to move on.
On my 2023 trip, we pulled into most campsites after 11 pm when we sporadically decided this was where we would sleep that evening. This allowed us to spend a little time in small coastal cities in the middle of nowhere, and we never felt forced to be somewhere at a particular time.
If you want to truly adventure across Iceland, I highly recommend renting a campervan and making every day special.
2. Protects You From Weather
You likely know this, but the weather in Iceland can be a bit tricky at times. There are heavy winds, rain, and dust. I’ve seen a lot in my two trips here. Sleeping in a van will give you the protection you need from the elements and help you sleep through inclement weather.
Plus, it is not just sleeping. Renting a campervan in Iceland gives you a place to hang out in case you can’t go outside during the day.
3. Lodging and Rental Car is Covered
Talk about knocking out two birds with one stone. Iceland hotel costs are not cheap, and there can be limited availability, especially if you plan to drive the Ring Road and see the East Iceland Fjords.
The same goes for renting a car here. In June, renting a car in Reykjavik costs $60-$120 daily. Combined, it’s about the same price as getting a campervan.
Now, if you plan on only hitting the Golden Circle or staying around the southern Iceland Coast, there will be far more lodging options.
4. Iceland Campgrounds are Quite Nice
There are hundreds of campgrounds across Iceland that, while low-key, offer great places to spend the night. Most are wide open fields, so there’s not a ton of privacy, but most have showers, bathrooms, and an indoor area to make food and eat.
You’ll never confuse them for a five-star resort, but if you’re all about the adventure life, you’ll be just fine out there!
Get Your Guide: Book Iceland Tours
Viator: Find Awesome Iceland Tours
5. Fun Way to Spend Time with Friends
Exploring Iceland in a campervan with friends was one of the best trips of my life in 2019. We spent 10 days driving around, hiking, camping, and having a blast. It’s best to get two couples with a rig with two beds in it.
However you do it, road-tripping with your friends in a foreign country will be the time of your life!
6. Saves you money from eating out and you can eat anywhere
For some people, being frugal isn’t necessary, but for others, eating cheap and out of the campervan can bring down the trip’s overall cost. I personally love making my own meals. Plus, eating out in Iceland is EXPENSIVE. Most meals cost $30+ each and can quickly run into the $70 range if you add a drink or appetizer.
Now, buying groceries isn’t precisely cheap over here, either. But you will spend a heckuva lot less and be able to eat wherever you want. This is probably the best food reason for renting a campervan in Iceland. You won’t always be in a town with food, and being able to pull over at a beautiful vista and make breakfast, lunch, or dinner is fantastic.
For Jaimie and I’s first night, we randomly pulled over at a waterfall at 8 pm and made dinner. Having that freedom was incredible.
Questions About Renting a Campervan in Iceland
How expensive are campervans in Iceland?
The cost of renting a campervan in Iceland depends on how nice of a rig you’re looking for and how long you’ll have it. It’s no news to anyone that a longer trip will be more expensive.
Another factor is seasonality. Summer in Iceland will be more expensive than the shoulder season.
A company like GoCampers, where you can get 10% off a rental when you purchase my Iceland Guide, has options ranging from $80 per day to $325 for their LUX 4×4 campervan.
How long is an ideal trip to Iceland?
I always tell people that 10 days is ideal for an Iceland trip. This usually means flying out on a Thursday evening and arriving in Iceland on Friday morning. Then, you have an entire week to explore the beautiful island and see many top things to do.
How expensive are the campgrounds in Iceland when renting a campervan?
Each place varies, though most are between $10 and $25 per night per person. The most expensive place we stayed at was Skatafell Campground, though it was pretty nice. It was in a national park and offered hot showers and laundry.
Some are on the honor system, though, while others make you pay to receive a bathroom code.
Do you need to rent a 4×4 campervan in Iceland?
No, you do not. You can see almost the entire island in Iceland by staying on the Ring Road and exploring non-F-Roads. That said, you won’t be able to see the Highlands. But there’s an easy workaround.
Book a tour into the Highlands and see some of the most magical terrain on Earth without the stress of driving through the sandy, bumpy roads.
Get Your Guide: Day Trips into Landmannalauger
Viator: Day Trips into the Icelandic Highlands
What comes in a standard Icelandic campervan setup?
Each company is a bit different, so I can only speak to what GoCampers gave us.
We had the following:
- All bedding needs
- All cooking needs (plates/utensils/cookware/drinkware
- Chairs
- Mobile Wi-Fi (so no need to get a SIM card)
Bascially, it was a home away from home. At their headquarters, there’s an area where people leave things they won’t be taking back. This is a perfect spot to pick up random items for free!
Hiking Gear for Iceland
- Base Layers
- Sun Hoodie – Men’s & Women’s
- Fleece – Men’s & Women’s
- Hooded Puffy Jacket 800+ down – Men’s & Women’s
- Lighter Puffy Jacket, no hood – Men’s & Women’s
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Hiking Poles
- Waterproof Boots
- 30L+ Hiking Pack – Men’s & Women’s
- Snacks while on the trail
- Bear Spray
- Headlamp
Final Thoughts on Renting a Campervan in Iceland
Renting a campervan in Iceland is the ultimate way to experience the country’s stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and natural wonders on your own terms. It offers the flexibility to explore popular destinations and hidden gems, all while keeping costs manageable and enjoying the comfort of a mobile home.
From navigating the iconic Ring Road to capturing breathtaking Northern Lights displays, a campervan unlocks the freedom to embrace Iceland’s beauty and adventure at your own pace.
No matter, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a budget-conscious traveler, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, renting a campervan in Iceland, is a decision you won’t regret.
Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.
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