Navigating the Road to Driving in Iceland

You’re not tied to hotel bookings or someone else’s schedule. Just grab the keys and go.

Sounds romantic? It kind of is. But it also comes with wild weather, loose gravel, and rules worth knowing before you roll out. This guide ditches the usual stuff and gives you the real story of driving in Iceland.

From figuring out which van won’t drive you nuts to tracking down fuel in the middle of nowhere, we’ve got you covered. Thinking of hitting the road in Iceland? This is where you should start.

Why Explore Iceland by Campervan?

So what’s the deal with campervans in Iceland? Let’s just say once you try it, everything else feels... kind of basic. You’re not just passing through. You’re part of the landscape. One day, it's a glacier outside your window. Next, a lava field. No rigid plans. No crowd control. Just freedom, fresh air, and the road calling the shots.

Benefits of Self-Driving in Iceland

Driving around Iceland gives you something no tour bus can. Freedom. You’re not stuck with tight itineraries or herded around with strangers. With your own wheels, you call the shots.

Here’s why self-driving just makes sense:

• Make your own schedule. Linger at Skógafoss or leave early if the weather turns.

• No group drama. Skip the small talk, the delays, and the rigid plans.

• Stay flexible. Detour to a hot spring or dodge a storm without checking with anyone.

• Enjoy your space. Travel solo or with your people. It’s your pace, your comfort.

• Family-friendly. Extra snacks? Hiking boots? Drone gear? Bring it all.

• Go off the radar. Reach remote beaches, quiet valleys, and places buses ignore.

• Find hidden gems. A random gravel road might lead to the best part of your trip.

• Drive your way. Slow and scenic or fast and focused. It’s up to you.

How Campervans Enhance the Experience

If you plan to cruise in Iceland and actually want to enjoy the ride, a campervan just makes sense. You’re not juggling hotel bookings or chasing overpriced meals. You’ve got everything you need in one mobile setup.

Here’s what makes it work:

• Transport and sleep sorted. No separate hotel or rental car needed. Just pull over and rest.

• Cook meals yourself. Built-in kitchens let you skip Iceland’s pricey restaurants.

• Always have shelter. Weather shifts fast here. A camper keeps you warm and dry.

• Campgrounds are cheap. Expect $10 to $20 USD (1,280 to 2,560 ISK) per person. Many include showers, laundry, and communal kitchens.

• Campervans start at $79 per day. Compare that to $100 to $200 per night for hotels plus $90 or more per day for a car, before insurance and fuel.

• Great for families or small groups. One camper, one cost. Way simpler than booking multiple rooms.

Over seven days, you could save $700 or more. That’s money better spent on fuel, activities, or that one super pricey Icelandic sweater you’ll end up buying anyway.

What to Know Before Driving in Iceland

Before you hit the road, there are a few things worth sorting out. First, you’ll need the right paperwork. Iceland isn’t strict, but missing a key document can mess up your whole trip. Then there’s the van itself. 

Not every camper can handle Iceland’s backroads or F-roads, and not everyone needs the biggest model out there. And finally, the roads. The roads can change fast. Blind rises and narrow lanes are common too, especially outside towns. 

If you’ve never dealt with roads like that, no big deal. Better to know now than figure it out the hard way.

Essential Documents and Requirements

Driving in Iceland isn’t complicated, but the rules aren’t optional either. Show up with the wrong paperwork, and you could be watching your trip unravel from the side of the road.

Here’s what you actually need:

• A valid driver’s license held for at least one year.

• If your license isn’t in the Latin alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit.

• You need to be at least 20 to rent a standard car, and 23 if you want a campervan or 4x4.

• Third-party liability insurance is mandatory. With Campervan Reykjavík, it is included.

• Extra coverage like gravel protection or collision damage isn’t required, but you’ll wish you had it if things go sideways.

• Always keep your rental contract and booking voucher with you.

• Police can and do stop drivers to check documents and inspect vehicles.

• If something’s missing, you could face fines or even have your plates pulled.

• Keep your papers in the glovebox, not buried under snacks and gear.

What Insurance Do You Actually Need in Iceland

Iceland might be safe, but the roads love chaos. Think flying gravel, sideways wind, and ash that scratches everything in sight. That’s why we don’t just offer insurance. We strongly recommend it.

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) comes standard. It covers the basics and includes third-party liability. It’s a decent safety net, but don’t count on it for gravel chips, sand damage, or anything wild.

• Premium Insurance steps it up with CDW, SCDW, GP, TP, and SAAP. That means better protection against things like blown tires, flying rocks, and ash storms. Deductibles still apply, so read the fine print before assuming you’re invincible.

• Platinum Insurance is the full package. It covers everything above and drops your excess to zero. You break it, we cover it. Simple as that.

If you’d rather focus on the views instead of panicking over every flying pebble, Platinum makes life easier. It’s the one we’d pick.

Understanding Iceland’s Unique Road Conditions

If you think roads in Iceland are smooth all the way through, think again. Only about 35 percent are paved, mostly around Reykjavik and along the Ring Road. The rest? Gravel. Lots of it. Expect loose stones, potholes, and narrow, steep sections that make fast driving a bad idea.

Blind rises sneak up on you fast. Ease off the gas before you hit the top. What’s waiting beyond it might not be the view you were hoping for.

And don’t be surprised if a sheep or two wanders into the road. Reindeer show up too, especially in East Iceland. They don’t look both ways, so you’ll have to do it for them.

Road closures are common in winter and in the Highlands. It could be snow, flooding, wind, or all three. Check Umferdin.is before heading out. It’s Iceland’s live road info site, and it might just save your trip.

Choosing the Right Campervan for Your Trip

If you plan to drive in Iceland, picking the right campervan can make or break your trip. Get one that’s too small and you'll be tripping over your backpack. Too big and you'll spend more time parking than sightseeing. Here's how to get it right:

• Match your van to your crew. Solo? Couple? Family of four? Size matters.

• Sticking to the Ring Road? A 2WD will do just fine and sip fuel instead of guzzling it.

• First-time driver or van newbie? 2WD models are smaller, lighter, and easier to handle.

• Planning to hit the Highlands? You’ll need a 4WD. F-roads are rough, remote, and sometimes wet.

• 4WDs handle Iceland’s wild weather better, but don’t expect great fuel economy or easy parking in tiny towns.

• Basic vans = bed and maybe a stove. Don’t expect luxury unless you upgrade.

• Premium campers come with fridges, heaters, and space to actually stand up. Worth it in winter or when traveling with others.

Most Popular Campervans for Driving in Iceland

Too many options? Here are three campervans from our fleet that people actually book and love. No nonsense, just great choices that work.

• Dacia Duster 4x4 + Roof Tent - Seats 4–5, Sleeps 2 - Manual: Great for Highlands trips and F-road detours. You get a roof tent, optional kitchen gear, and enough space for luggage and spontaneity. If you're cool with climbing into bed on the roof, this one's for you.

• VW Caddy Beach Minicamper - Seats 2, Sleeps 2 -  Manual or Auto: It’s simple, reliable, and doesn’t drink fuel like a beast. Works well for two people, sticking to the Ring Road or just trying to keep things low-key and budget-friendly.

• Renault Master - Seats 5, Sleeps 5 - Manual: Big enough to stretch out without stepping on someone’s shoes. Good beds, a real kitchen setup, and actual breathing room. Perfect if tight spaces aren’t your thing.

Thinking of booking a campervan in Iceland? Summer dates fill up fast, and the best campers always go first. 

Safety Tips for Driving in Iceland

Figure out the basics while driving in Iceland. Then take it slow and don’t do silly stuff. That’s half the battle already won. Let’s walk through the stuff that actually matters.

Preparing for Iceland’s Weather

Forget tropical weather here. Iceland doesn’t do warm. In summer, you might get 46 to 57°F (8 to 14°C) on a good day. Winter’s colder, somewhere around 28 to 39°F (-2 to 4°C). And the wind? It shows up, ruins your plans, and then all of a sudden disappears entirely.

Daylight takes a hit in winter, too. In winter, there’s not much light. Some days you get a few gloomy hours, and that’s it. Check the forecast before you head out. Locals use Vedur.is, and so should you. Pack like you’ve done this before. 

Start with something that pulls moisture off your skin, throw on a warm layer, then seal it all in with a shell that handles wind and rain. Wet socks ruin days, so boots and rain pants are worth it. You’ll probably land in a puddle at some point.

Weather messes with the road more than people think. If things look bad up ahead, slow down or turn around. Iceland isn’t going anywhere.

Navigating Gravel Roads and F-Roads

Trying to figure out how to drive in Iceland without sending your rental off into a ditch? Step one: Slow down when you hit gravel. Grip disappears quickly. If you slam the brakes or twist the wheel too fast, things can go sideways quite literally. Gravel isn’t forgiving. When you leave the pavement, slow down the speed and let the tires do their thing.

F-roads are a whole different game. Open only in summer, from June to September, and yes, you need a 4x4. No exceptions. These aren’t just bumpy roads. You’ll get rocks, deep dips, rivers, and stretches that look like someone forgot to finish building the road.

River crossings? Not a fun surprise. Check the depth. Walk it if you have to. Cross slow and steady, and whatever you do, don’t stop halfway through.Thinking about airing down your tires for extra grip? Maybe. Ask your rental company first, or prepare to explain the repair bill.

If the road ahead looks like a bad idea, it probably is. Turn around. Iceland’s best spots aren’t all hidden behind flooded trails and cratered gravel. Want more tips? Check out our full guide on driving on gravel roads in Iceland.

Managing Strong Winds and Single-Lane Bridges

When you're driving around Iceland, the wind sometimes tends to be problematic. Out in the open or up in the highlands, it can hit like a wall. Speeds over 60 mph (97 km/h) happen more often than you’d think. If you're in a campervan and not holding that wheel tight, things get weird fast.

• Ease off the speed when it starts blowing hard. Keep both hands on the wheel and stay sharp.

• Big vehicles like campervans or SUVs get tossed around more easily. They’re taller, making them less wind resistant.

• If it gets too intense, find a safe spot and wait it out. No view is worth white-knuckle driving.

• Always park facing into the wind. That way, your door closes more easily instead of flying open.

• Open one door at a time with both hands. And keep hold of both the handle and frame.

• At single-lane bridges, slow down and wait for your turn. The closest vehicle crosses first. Also, never stop in the middle. Check the signs and give way.

Practical Advice for Campervan Travelers

Once you’re out on the road, life in a camper sounds pretty dreamy. And it is until you accidentally park where you shouldn't, forget to fuel up before a long stretch, or wake up to a note from an angry local taped to your window. 

This next part is all about the stuff that doesn’t make it into the Instagram captions. Where to park without hassle. How to find a decent campsite. What to stock up on and when, etc.

Parking Regulations and Best Practices

If you're going to drive in Iceland, don't come unprepared when it comes to parking. The rules aren’t complicated, but ignoring them will cost you:

• In towns? Use properly marked spaces. No squeezing into weird corners or hopping the curb.

• Reykjavik runs a color-coded system. Each zone has its own rates and limits. Check the signs and don’t guess.

• Paid parking hours? 9 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday. Sundays start later at 10 AM.

• Apps like Parka or EasyPark make it easier. Download them or deal with coins and stress.

• Campervans can’t just park and sleep anywhere. Campsites only, unless you have written permission from the landowner.

• Gas station overnights? Illegal. So is pulling off on the side of the road and crashing there.

• Scenic pull-offs? Great for a break. Not for the night.

• And seriously, check the signs before parking. Icelanders don’t love blocked trails or people damaging their natural beauty.

If you want more details on what’s allowed and what’ll get you fined, check out our full breakdown on where to park your campervan in Iceland.

Campsites and Overnight Parking Options

Campsites are everywhere. Some have hot water, kitchens, and power. Others are basically a field and a toilet. Most don’t need a booking unless it’s summer and the lot’s full by dinner. Use Tjalda.is to check what’s nearby. It’s faster than driving in circles at 10 PM hoping for an open gate.

Wild camping with a campervan? Not a thing. It’s banned. And expensive if you get caught. That rule exists for a reason. Too many people have trashed nature or blocked someone’s land.

Tent campers far from roads can still camp if they have permission. But that doesn’t apply to vans. Don’t try to stretch it. Want a view? Þakgil, Vík, and Ásbyrgi all have awesome spots. Just expect some company. You’re not the only one who Googled ‘best campsite in Iceland.’

Fueling and Supply Stops in Remote Areas

Driving the roads in Iceland is incredible, but running out of gas or snacks in the middle of nowhere? Not so much. Remote travel here takes a bit of planning. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Fuel up when you can. Even if your tank's half full, top it off. Stations get rare fast outside the Ring Road.

• Gas is easy to find near big towns. It gets tricky in the Westfjords, East Fjords, and Highlands.

• Major gas chains in Iceland include N1, Olís, Orkan, and Atlantsolía.

• Most pumps are self-service and open 24/7, but you’ll need a credit or debit card with a PIN.

• Debit cards may freeze a big chunk of your funds temporarily. Plan ahead.

• For groceries, stop in larger towns like Reykjavik, Akureyri, or Vik.

• Bonus and Kronan have the best prices and decent selection.

• Tiny village stores close early, often by 6 or 7 PM, and earlier on weekends.

• Remote spots might only have pricey gas station food.

• Carry snacks and backup supplies. Don’t count on finding what you need last minute.

Rules and Regulations for Driving in Iceland

Most of the rules here are common sense, but a few might catch you off guard if you’re not used to Iceland’s roads. Don’t worry, though. We’re not here to lecture. Just giving you the basics so you don’t end up fined, stuck, or explaining to a ranger why you drove across our protected moss. 

Speed Limits and Road Sign Etiquette

Speeding in Iceland is a fast way to empty your wallet. Fines are high, and yes, rental companies will make sure the bill finds you. Stick to the posted limits and drive slower if the weather turns ugly or the road surface changes.

Speed limits in Iceland:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)

• Paved rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)

• Gravel and F-roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Speed cameras are common, especially near towns and along the Ring Road. Police patrols pop up when you least expect them.

Road signs aren’t just suggestions out here. Pay attention, especially to these:

• Blind rises (Blindhæð): Slow down, keep right, and expect a car flying over the top at the same time you are

• Sheep signs: Yes, they’re real. And yes, sheep wander into the road like they own it.

• Other warning signs: Gravel transitions, falling rocks, icy patches, and crazy crosswinds all get their own signs. When you see one, take it seriously.

Off-Road Driving Laws

Off-road driving is strictly illegal here. That is because the moss, soil, and tundra look tough, but once damaged, they can take decades or even centuries to recover. One set of tire tracks is enough to scar the landscape and tempt others to follow, making the damage worse.

The minimum fine is 350,000 ISK, which is around $2,500 to $2,800 USD. It doesn’t stop there. Fines can increase depending on how much destruction is caused. In extreme cases, jail time is also on the table.

These aren’t empty threats. Authorities do monitor remote areas. Fines go straight to the police. No negotiation. No, shrugging it off. Off-road driving also drains local resources, since teams are stuck fixing damage.

Emergency Numbers and Roadside Assistance

If something goes wrong while you’re cruising around Iceland, here’s what you actually need to know.

• 112 is the emergency number. Police, ambulance, fire, rescue. Save it.

• Only use it if it’s serious. Accident. Injury. Someone stuck. That kind of thing.

• Break down? Get off the road if you can. Hazards on. Don’t panic.

• If it’s not urgent, call us at +354 539-0605. That’s our 24-hour line.

• You’ll also find it on your rental contract, so keep that handy.

• We’ll let you know if it’s fixable or if we’re sending a replacement.

• Ran out of fuel or popped a tire? That’s probably on you. Insurance doesn’t always cover it.

• Towing without the right coverage can cost up to 600,000 ISK. That’s over $4,300 USD.

• Good insurance usually covers it, but check first.

• Whatever happens, follow our process. If you don’t, your insurance might not count.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving in Iceland

Can You Drive in Iceland Without Experience in Winter? 

Yes, but it’s not ideal. Roads get icy, and visibility drops fast. If you’re nervous, rent a 4x4 and always check weather alerts first. If you rent through us, then we will equip your vehicle with snow tyres free of charge.

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

Campervans are fine on the Ring Road. F-roads are a different story. Only 4x4 campers allowed. If it’s not built for rough terrain and river crossings, don’t take it there.

What Should You Do in Case of Road Closures? 

Check Vegagerðin for live updates. Closed means closed. Look for detour signs or change your plans. Never push through a blocked road unless you like fines and rescue bills.

Can You Drive to Iceland?

Nope. Iceland is an island. You’ll need to fly or take a ferry from Denmark with your vehicle. Once here, driving is the easy part.

The Hardest Part of Driving in Iceland Is Overthinking It

Driving in Iceland gives you freedom that most trips don’t. You get to stop where you want, sleep where the view is best, and move at your own pace. It’s not complicated. Plan ahead, check the weather, and don’t overthink it. 

The roads can be wild, but if you stay alert and drive smart, you’ll be fine. Summer fills up fast, so if you’re thinking about it, book early and lock it in. The best trips don’t wait. Neither does Iceland. Miss your chance, and that glacier won’t be sitting around waiting for you to show up.