The tourism industry in Iceland has seen significant growth, with nearly two million tourists in 2022. Many of these visitors chose campervans as their mode of travel to enjoy the flexibility of exploring Iceland.
Iceland is well known as the hotspot for campervanning adventure seekers, and for a good reason, because independent travel perfectly matches the spirit of this extraordinary country.
From thundering waterfalls to geothermal hot springs, the land of fire and ice is nature’s paradise, and what better way to experience it than with your own cozy, mobile basecamp?
Are you dreaming of renting a campervan on your trip to Iceland?
Want to chase the northern lights without worrying about hotel check-in times? No problem. Eager to wake up to the sound of waves on a remote coastline? You got it.
Campervans provide the ultimate freedom to tailor your Icelandic adventure exactly as you want. Plus, the country’s well-maintained roads and abundant scenic campsites make it incredibly campervan-friendly.
While touring Iceland by campervan is a dream vacation, planning it may seem a little daunting.
Geysir Car Rental to the rescue! We understand campervans are the perfect choice for road trips in Iceland, and our full line of options will help make your dream a reality.
Renting a campervan with Geysir means you can affordably combine transportation and accommodation to experience the magic of Iceland with total freedom.
Our Campervan Rental Guide covers everything you need to know to create the best Iceland road trip. Are you ready to start creating your campervan adventure?
Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, get ready to discover why campervanning in Iceland is the adventure of a lifetime.
Costs of Renting a Campervan in Iceland
Before you hit those open roads, let’s talk numbers—specifically, what it will roughly cost to rent a campervan in Iceland. While campervanning in Iceland is an investment, it’s also an amazing and unique way to explore the island with your “home on wheels.”
Remember, prices vary based on the season, with the high season (June to August) being more expensive due to higher demand. Booking in advance and during the shoulder seasons (May and September) can often snag you a better deal. The costs below are only an approximation.
Average Rental Costs
Standard Campervans
For those looking for a no-frills, cozy experience, 2-person standard campervans are an excellent choice. These typically include basic sleeping and cooking facilities. On average, you’re looking at about $200 per day, depending on the season.
Deluxe Campervans/Motorhomes
If you’re after a bit more comfort and added features like heating and an upgraded kitchenette, deluxe campervans are your best bet. Depending on the model, these can sleep between 3-6 people and are usually priced between $350 to $550 per day, depending on the season and number of passengers.
4×4 Jeep iKamper Rooftop Tent “Campers”
For adventure seekers eager to explore Iceland’s rugged terrains and F-roads, 4×4 campers are the perfect choice. Our iKamper options sleep two adults and two children or three adults comfortably. While a Jeep 4×4 iKamper is pricier, ranging from $300 to $450 per day, they offer the freedom to roam where most can’t.
Additional Costs to Consider
Insurance
This is non-negotiable. All vehicles rented with Geysir include basic coverage with options to upgrade. While it might be possible to use insurance provided on your credit card, many do not provide coverage in Iceland—check the fine print. We highly recommend purchasing additional insurance coverage for peace of mind. This could cost you anywhere from $20 to $100 per day, and it’s worth every dollar for the full coverage in this unpredictable land.
Fuel
It’s true, filling up your gas tank in Iceland can be pricey, especially if you’re coming from North America. As of January 2024, according to prices published by Global Petrol Prices, Iceland’s fuel is priced at $2.31 USD per liter. To put that in context, the UK’s figure is $1.77 USD, and the USA’s is $.90 USD per liter.
Depending on your travel plans and the type of campervan you rent, plan on budgeting at least $100 for a full tank, considering you might need to fill up a couple of times depending on your itinerary.
While the price of gas in Iceland is fairly consistent throughout the country, the cost can fluctuate a bit in Reykjavík and its surroundings. You can plan out where to fill out by researching the current fuel prices in all of Iceland (you can even filter by location!) and planning your stops.
While there are plenty of petrol/gas stations all over Iceland, plan on filling up when you see one as there’s no guarantee the next one will be open, and there are some long stretches with no services.
Food
Like fuel, food is also pricey in Iceland. Stocking up on groceries in Reykjavik is the best option to save money and be prepared before hitting the road.
The budget-friendly grocery store chains Iceland, Kronan, and Bonus are great for snacks, canned goods, rice, pasta, and other essential items for cooking meals in your campervan. While there will be plenty of places along the way for eating out, self-catering is a wallet-friendly option.
If you’re staying at campsites with kitchen facilities, check if they have a ‘free food bin.’ Many kitchens have a designated space for leftover food staples such as oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, butter, and jam.
Drinks
If you’d like to bring a few bottles of wine, beer, or liquor for your campervan, it’s best to buy it at the duty-free shop when you arrive at Keflavík airport. If you miss that stop, try the state-run liquor stores (Vínbúðin), but be warned they have limited opening hours (usually 11.00-18.00) and heavy taxes.
There’s no need to buy bottled water. Iceland has premium quality tap water. If you buy or bring an eco-friendly refillable water container, you can fill up your bottles at gas stations, campsites, and springs—for free!
Campsites
Iceland is well prepared for campers, and there are designated campsites all over the country. Fees range from $15 to $45 per night, with most campsites offering kids 12 and under free of charge.
The campsites vary, but most will include facilities like toilets, hot showers, WiFi, kitchen amenities, and even dumping stations. You can plan all of your camping stops here and here.
Extras
Think about GPS, Wi-Fi, additional drivers, cooking and cleaning supplies or bedding. These add up, so factor them into your budget.
**It’s worth noting that unless you are driving during the winter months, visiting the Highlands, or exploring the F-Roads, renting a 4×4 is not necessary, and a regular 2WD is completely safe and sufficient for Icelandic adventuring.**
Top Five Rules and Regulations for Campervan Parking and Sleeping
When you’re rolling down the highway through this breathtaking landscape, it’s crucial to understand the do’s and don’ts of parking, sleeping and camping in Iceland.
Let’s break down the five essential rules and regulations you need to know to enjoy your road trip safely and respectfully.
1. Park and sleep in designated camping areas
The most important rule? You must park and sleep in designated camping areas. These areas range from basic to full-service sites, catering to various needs. There are plenty of camping sites to choose from. Plus, Icelandic camping sites are well-equipped and offer a chance to meet fellow travelers, making them a fantastic part of your campervan experience. Popular spots can get crowded, especially in peak season. Be sure to book in advance or travel during off-peak times for the best experience.
2. No Wild Camping!
Iceland has a delicate ecosystem protected by law. This means: No Wild Camping! Traditionally, wild camping meant setting up a tent outside of a campground. While this is still strictly prohibited, even parking a campervan outside designated areas without setting up a tent is considered wild camping and is considered illegal. Regardless of how remote it might seem, it is illegal for campervans (or any vehicle) to wild camp in Iceland.
3. Always respect private property
Staying overnight in a campervan on private land or residential areas without permission is a no-go. While it is technically possible to camp on privately owned land with the owner’s permission, always respect private property and look for official camping sites.
4. Check for specific environmental regulations
Iceland is serious about environmental concerns, as the soil and vegetation are incredibly vulnerable. Some national parks and protected areas may have designated camping spots, while others restrict overnight stays altogether. Iceland’s strict restrictions stem from a need to protect the fragile environment. Check the specific regulations of each park and obey the rules.
5. Stick to marked roads and campervan sites
Who wants to be fined on vacation? Not you! Authorities take these rules seriously, and so should you, as fines for wild camping or illegal parking can be hefty. Always stick to marked roads and campervan sites. Iceland’s beauty is fragile, and it’s up to each visitor to help preserve it.
Bucket List Destinations for Your Iceland Campervan Adventure
Traveling by campervan gives you a front-row seat to the most incredible destinations in Iceland. With so many places to choose from, it isn’t easy to know where to start.
Each of these suggested destinations offers something unique for the intrepid traveler. Whether you’re marveling at a waterfall, soaking in a hot spring, or simply enjoying the midnight sun from your campervan, these must-visit campervan spots will make your Icelandic adventure unforgettable.
Don’t hesitate to chat with locals or fellow campervanners for tips on places to visit. You just might find the perfect hidden gem.
The Golden Circle
No campervan trip in Iceland is complete without cruising the Golden Circle. This route covers three stunningly beautiful attractions: the Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Þingvellir National Park. Each spot offers ample parking and multiple places for camping.
Vatnajökull National Park
Home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull National Park is a dream destination. Park your campervan and explore the nearby glaciers, ice caves, and volcanic landscapes. The Skaftafell area within the park is particularly campervan-friendly.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This is the best place to witness icebergs drifting from the glacier to the sea. The nearby campsite offers a stunning overnight stay, allowing you to experience the lagoon’s beauty at sunrise.
Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path
Westfjords Way
The least visited region of Iceland is immensely rewarding. The Westfjords offer dramatic landscapes, excellent birding, whale watching, waterfalls, and a sense of solitude. Campervan sites here let you immerse yourself in raw Icelandic nature. Don’t miss a soak in the Hellulaug hot spring at Flókalundur.
Landmannalaugar
Nestled in the Highlands, Landmannalaugar is a geothermal wonderland. The journey there, crossing black lava fields, is an adventure suited for 4×4 campervans. The area’s natural hot springs are perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of hiking in the rhyolite mountains.
Siglufjörður
Only 25 miles from the Arctic Circle, this charming fishing town, the former “Herring Capital of the World,” is a delightful stop. It’s well worth going out of your way to explore this northern gem. The smaller campsite here offers a more intimate experience of Icelandic town life and culture.
Campervan Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Money Saved—No added expense for hotels or guesthouses. | Limited Privacy—Campervans can get a little crowded. |
| Flexibility—Not a big planner? Advance planning is not necessary! | Showering—No long, hot, free showers. |
| Freedom—Change your mind? Change your route! | Night Time Toileting—It’s dark out there. Need we say more? |
| Exploration—You choose where you want to go and how long you want to stay. | Weather—If it’s cold, rainy, and windy, you’ll be inside a small (but cozy!) space. |
| Avoid the Crowds—Waterfalls at Sunrise? Go for it! | Off-Season—Not all campsites are open year-round. |
| Self-Catering—Eating out is expensive in Iceland and cooking saves money. | Maneuverability—Campervans are large and could be more challenging to drive than a car. |
| Iceland Campsites—Some of the most breathtaking locations you’ll ever see. |
Should You Rent a Campervan or a Car in Iceland?
Deciding whether to rent a campervan or a car in Iceland depends mainly on your travel style, preferences, and the nature of your trip. While renting a campervan has pros and cons, renting a car in Iceland has distinct advantages and disadvantages.
On the plus side, cars are easier to maneuver, especially on Iceland’s narrow winding roads. This ease of driving and the option to stay in comfortable hotels or guesthouses can make for a more relaxed and less weather-dependent trip.
However, renting a car can mean potentially higher overall costs, as you’ll have to pay for accommodation separately. You’ll also miss out on some incredible nature experiences that only come with camping and the adventure and flexibility of a campervan.
Additionally, with pre-booked accommodations, your itinerary is set with little room for spontaneity.
Renting a car in Iceland is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, ease of travel, and a structured journey, but it may lack the adventurous spirit and closeness to nature that a campervan offers. Only you know which kind of travel suits you the best. In the end, there’s something for everyone in Iceland!
Now that you know everything about renting a campervan in Iceland, all that’s left is to decide and start planning your road trip! You’ll find plenty of inspiration in the rest of our blog, where we share all the top tips and experiences Iceland has to offer.
Get planning—you’ll be here before you know it!
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