Ultimate Guide to Campervan Travel in Iceland: Essential Tips from Experienced Travelers
Balancing the desire to explore beyond hotel balconies with the challenges of Iceland's windy, cold conditions? Campervan travel offers the ideal solution—freedom, comfort, and access to raw natural beauty.
Based on our firsthand experience, a campervan provided the most practical and convenient way to discover Iceland's landscapes. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before renting one.
Rent from a Reputable Company
Selecting a reliable rental company is crucial. We chose Happy Campers, a family-owned business, and were impressed by their excellent service and well-equipped vans. We highly recommend them for honest, top-tier rentals.
During peak summer season, book at least a few months in advance to secure availability from highly rated providers. Prices range from $110–150 USD in low season (before June/after early September) to $225–280 USD in high season.
Manual or Automatic?
Most rentals in Iceland are manual transmission. If you require automatic, expect a premium price and book early. Consider the terrain—many roads quickly turn to rough gravel.
What to Bring
Check your rental's inclusions; most list them online. Many companies, like Happy Campers, offer sleeping bag rentals. Their bags and blankets kept us warm nightly.
We rented chairs but rarely used them due to wind and cold—eating inside with windows open worked best.
Waterproof shoes are essential for wet hikes. Pack warm, lightweight layers; do laundry at campsites. Bring a multi-port rechargeable battery pack for devices.
Suitcase vs. Backpack?
A large backpack is easiest for space. Medium suitcases work if not oversized—we used two from this luggage set. Move gear to the front seat nightly.
Insurance
Iceland's insurance options can overwhelm—research ahead. Happy Campers includes mandatory CDW, limiting liability to 2,500 EUR (~$2,800 USD). Opt for extras like gravel protection, as roads chip paint easily.
For details, see Happy Campers' Insurance Q & A. Check your credit card's auto coverage for savings, especially with existing CDW.
Camping Fees
Wild camping outside designated sites is illegal. Expect 1,000–2,000 ISK (~$10–20 USD) per person per night; showers add 200–500 ISK (~$2–5 USD) for 3–5 minutes.
Meals
Vans include cooking gear—plan to self-cater. Stock up in Reykjavik, Akureyri, or Selfoss, as options are limited elsewhere.
Small fridges limit perishables; we stuck to salads, sandwiches, muesli, and pasta. $100 USD fed two for 7 days—meal plan to save.
Hygiene
Maintain hygiene easily. Campgrounds offer showers (often extra); town pools require pre-swim showers. Use biodegradable wipes and dry shampoo for quick refreshes.
Other Tips
- Fill up gas frequently—it's pricey but offsets hotel costs.
- Bring a debit card with PIN; not all stations accept travel cards.
- Stock alcohol at airport duty-free—it's 3x cheaper.
- Keep coins for some bathrooms/showers.
- Drink tap water—glacier-fed and pure from faucets or falls.
For our full itinerary and campsite suggestions, see our 6-Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary post.
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