Renting a Campervan in Iceland: What to Know

Iceland is expensive, but you already know that.

But what most people don’t realize is that how you travel around the country makes a massive difference in how much you spend and how much you actually see.

After taking this trip ourselves, I can confidently say that renting a campervan in Iceland is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to explore the country.

It gives you flexibility, saves money on accommodation, and lets you experience places that tours simply don’t have time for.

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly how to rent a campervan in Iceland, what it really costs, what to look out for, and whether it’s actually the right choice for your trip.

➡️ Want to skip the research? You can compare campervan rental options here to quickly find the best prices and availability.

Quick Answer: Renting a Campervan in Iceland

• Best way to explore: Campervan road trip (most flexibility + best value)
• Average cost: $80–$250 per day depending on season and vehicle
• Best for: Travelers who want freedom, flexibility, and to save on hotels
• Not ideal for: Anyone who hates driving, cold nights, or tight spaces
• Easy way to compare options: Browse campervan rentals here

Why Renting a Campervan is The Best Way to See Iceland

Iceland isn’t the kind of place where you want to be stuck on a strict schedule.

Waterfalls pop up out of nowhere, viewpoints aren’t always marked, and some of the best moments happen when you can just pull over and explore.

That’s exactly why a campervan works so well here. You’re not tied to hotel check-ins, you don’t have to rush through stops, and you can adjust your plans based on weather, which changes constantly.

How To Choose The Right Campervan In Iceland

Not all campervans in Iceland are the same, and picking the wrong one can make your trip way less comfortable than it needs to be.

You do not need anything fancy, but there are a few key things that actually matter. Focus on these and you will avoid most of the common mistakes.

➡️ You can compare campervan options here to quickly see what is available based on your dates and budget.

Size And Space

If you are traveling solo or as a couple, a small van will do the job just fine and will be the cheapest option.

But if you have more than two people, or you just want a bit of breathing room, upgrading to a larger van is worth considering. Space gets tight fast once you add bags, food, and gear.

Think about how comfortable you are being in a small space for multiple days. That matters more than you think.

Heating And Season

This is one of the biggest factors when choosing a campervan in Iceland.

If you are traveling in summer, you can usually get away without a heater. It may still be chilly, but it is manageable with a good sleeping bag.

If you are traveling in shoulder season or winter, having a heater is a game changer. Nights can get cold fast, and relying on just blankets is not always fun.

If you are unsure, spend the extra money here. This is one of the few upgrades that is actually worth it.

To give you an idea, we went during shoulder season (Iceland in September), and it was cold! But doable with some layers and a good sleeping bag.

Manual Vs Automatic

Manual vehicles are usually cheaper, but only go this route if you are completely comfortable driving stick.

Iceland has wind, narrow roads, and sometimes rough conditions. This is not the place to be learning or struggling with gears.

If you prefer an easier driving experience, go automatic and do not overthink it.

2WD Vs 4×4

You do not need a 4×4 for most trips in Iceland.

If you are sticking to the Ring Road, Golden Circle, and other main routes, a 2WD campervan will be completely fine and will save you money.

You only need a 4×4 if you plan on driving on F-roads or heading into more remote highland areas, which are often closed outside of summer anyway.

For most travelers, 2WD is the smarter and more budget-friendly choice.

Cheap Vs Best Campervans

This is where most people get stuck.

The cheapest campervans in Iceland will get the job done, but they are usually basic. Think smaller space, fewer features, and older vehicles.

Mid-range options tend to offer the best value. You get a bit more comfort without a huge jump in price.

The more expensive vans come with added comfort like built-in heating, more space, and newer models, but they can add up quickly.

The right choice depends on your budget and how comfortable you want to be. If you are trying to save money, go simple. If you want a smoother experience, consider upgrading a bit.

➡️ To see the difference in pricing and features, you can browse campervan rentals here and compare options side by side.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Rent A Campervan In Iceland

Iceland is not cheap, and campervan travel is no exception. But it can be one of the best value ways to explore the country if you do it right.

Here is what you can realistically expect to spend, plus what we paid back when we did this trip.

What We Paid (Back Then)

For our trip, we paid about $1500 USD for 12 nights in a campervan… in 2017!

This total included: Gravel insurance (costs extra per day), two sleep bags, one power inverter, and one cooler. We also traveled in the shoulder season and snagged a bit of a deal.

But prices have definitely gone up since then…

Hidden Costs To Plan For

This is where people get caught off guard.

The base rental price is only part of the total cost. Once you add everything up, it can climb quickly if you are not paying attention.

• Extras: Sleeping bags, coolers, cooking gear, and power inverters are often additional
• Fuel: Gas is pricey and distances between stops can be longer than expected
• Campsites: You cannot just park anywhere, so plan for nightly fees
• Insurance add-ons: Gravel protection and other coverage options are usually worth it

Even with these added costs, a campervan can still be more affordable than renting a car and paying for hotels every night.

The key is knowing what to expect so you can budget properly and avoid surprises.

Campervan Tips For Iceland

Living out of a van in Iceland is fun, but it can also get chaotic fast if you are not prepared. These tips will make your trip way smoother.

Setup And Comfort

• No shoes in the back. Seriously. It is wet, muddy, and gross outside most of the time. Keep your sleeping area clean or you will regret it immediately.
• Get organized on day one. Decide where everything goes right away. Clothes, food, gear. You do not want to be digging around for things in a tiny space every day.
• Rent or bring a good sleeping bag. Even in summer, nights can get cold. If you are not bringing your own, just rent one.

Food And Gear

• Get a cooler. You will use it more than you think. It makes it way easier to store food and avoid eating out all the time.
• Buy frozen food. Frozen vegetables double as ice packs for your cooler and are usually cheaper. Easy win.
• Make sure you have a burner. Most campsites do not provide cooking equipment. You will need your own setup if you plan to cook.
• Bring or rent a power inverter. If you have cameras, phones, or any gear, this is extremely useful for charging while you drive.

On The Road

• Fill up gas whenever you can. Gas stations can be far apart in some areas. Do not wait until you are low.
• Get gravel insurance. You will be driving on gravel at some point. It is not worth the risk of skipping it.
• Respect weather warnings. Iceland is not the place to ignore road signs. If something is closed or conditions look bad, take it seriously.
• Be mindful of others. Do not stop in the middle of the road for photos, do not camp where you are not supposed to, and just generally do not be that tourist.

What To Know Before Driving In Iceland

Driving in Iceland is not difficult, but it is different enough that you should know a few key things before you go.

• You do not need a 4×4 for most trips. If you are sticking to the Ring Road and main routes, a standard 2WD campervan is perfectly fine.
• F roads require a 4×4. These are rough, remote roads that are often only open in summer. If you are not specifically planning for them, you can ignore them.
• Weather changes fast. Conditions can shift quickly, even in summer. If you see warnings, take them seriously.
• Watch for one-lane bridges. These are common. The first car to arrive has the right of way, so slow down and pay attention.
• Sheep are everywhere. Especially in summer. They will walk into the road without warning, so stay alert.

Camping Rules And What To Expect In Iceland

Camping in Iceland is no longer a free-for-all, and this is something you need to plan for.

You must stay in designated campsites. Wild camping is heavily restricted, and you cannot just pull over anywhere for the night.

Most campsites are simple. You will usually get a place to park, access to a bathroom, and sometimes a kitchen or sheltered cooking area.

Do not expect luxury. Some are great, but many are very basic.

Costs typically range from about $10 to $25 per person per night, depending on the location and facilities. Some places charge extra for showers or other amenities.

It adds up, but it is still often cheaper than booking hotels across the country.

A Few Campsites I Used And Liked

I campervanned around Iceland and stayed at a mix of campsites along the way. Facilities can change over time, but these were a few that stood out for me.

• Mosskógar (near Reykjavik) – One of my favorites. Super friendly owners, a cozy greenhouse cooking space, and really nice hot showers (even if they’re outdoors). Great first or last night stop near the city.
• Húsafell – Spacious and well set up, with plenty of parking, basic kitchen space, and solid facilities. You can also pay extra to use the nearby pool, which is a nice bonus.
• Vík Camping – A solid option in an area where there aren’t a ton of choices. Large kitchen and bathroom facilities, and a convenient base for exploring the South Coast.
• Hellissandur (Snæfellsnes Peninsula) – A simple but reliable stop for exploring the peninsula. Basic cooking area, showers, and everything you need without being overly crowded.

Is Renting A Campervan In Iceland Worth It

If you want flexibility, access to more remote spots, and a more independent way to explore, then yes, renting a campervan in Iceland is absolutely worth it.

It is not the cheapest trip you will ever take, but it is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country.

You will cover more ground, stop whenever you want, and avoid being locked into a fixed itinerary.

That said, if you are short on time or prefer not to drive, guided tours might be a better fit. There is no wrong way to see Iceland, just different styles of travel.

➡️ If you are ready to plan your trip, you can browse campervan rental options here to compare prices and find the best fit for your dates.

And if you decide a campervan is not for you, you can always check out these day trips from Reykjavik as an alternative way to explore.

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