10 Essential Iceland Road Trip Tips: Avoid Electrocution, Snowstorms, and More
Iceland vacation packages offer great savings on flights, hotels, and tours—especially for two—which is why I chose an Icelandair deal via Travelzoo for my trip, a perfect Christmas gift for my mom. Everything was pre-arranged for peace of mind.
Yet, I prefer independence over tour buses. I extended our stay by two days and rented a car from a local Icelandic site, hoping it was legit.
Day one: Driving from Reykjavik around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and back in two days.
Ten minutes in, tensions rose—yelling, passive-aggressive radio changes. Confining mom and daughter in a car across Iceland tested us. I envisioned serene roads, frolicking horses, and ambient music, not white-knuckled grips, passive-aggression, or April snowstorms.
Key takeaway: Pick your road trip buddy wisely (love you, Mom!). In Iceland, prepare for the unpredictable.
Here are 10 proven tips from my Snæfellsnes adventure to thrive on an Iceland road trip.
Research Car Rentals Thoroughly—Opt for Local Providers
Selecting an Iceland car rental? Consider season: compact for summer, 4x4 for winter volatility. In late April, our compact Suzuki handled paved roads fine, despite a surprise snowstorm and fierce winds. For December-April, choose 4x4.
U.S. firms like Enterprise or Hertz are reliable but pricey. Locals offer better value—but beware scams. Check reviews, avoid suspiciously cheap options. I recommend Route 1: user-friendly site, fair prices, modern cars, stellar feedback.
Embrace Spontaneous Stops
Iceland's landscapes shift dramatically every 15 minutes. Ditch rigid itineraries—let scenery dictate stops for craters, waterfalls, icicles, or horse encounters.
Steer Clear of Fences
Icelandic horses, with their flowing manes, five gaits, and friendly nature, beg for pets. A herd approached me eagerly, but leaning over the wire fence delivered a shocking zap. Those 'harmless' electric fences pack a punch!
Pack Games for Long Drives, Especially with Kids
Iceland stuns but spans vast, desolate lava fields and endless frozen waterfalls. Views fade into monotony; even my mom grew 'bored with waterfalls.' Games prevent endless loops of kids' songs.
Stock Up on Snacks and Drinks
Remote stretches lack services. Towns have limited spots, often closed off-hours. Pack plenty or go hungry.
Strategize Bathroom and Gas Stops
Wild peeing offers privacy but zero cover—visibility is endless. Use town facilities; gas up often to avoid stranding in freezing lava fields.
Make Friends Along the Way
A sudden snowstorm dropped visibility to 3-5 feet. Sheltering at Hotel Búðir, I bonded with shaken travelers over Instagram and got the manager's card for emergencies. In isolated Iceland, connections provide safety nets.
Choose Scenic Detours
Skip tunnels for routes like Hvalfjörður: turquoise fjords, snowy peaks, rushing rivers—far superior to darkness, worth the extra hour.
Pack a Car Charger
Phones drain fast from photos, music, GPS, and social media. With unlimited data, mine buzzed constantly—keep it charged or risk blackout.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Electrocution, windstorms, whiteouts, April chills—Iceland flips weather instantly. Gear up, embrace surprises, and let the road lead.
