Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Camper Van in Iceland

Your guide to freedom, flexibility, and finding beauty around every bend.

Exploring Iceland by camper van is one of the most immersive and liberating ways to experience the island’s dramatic landscapes. With winding roads that carve through volcanic plains, past roaring waterfalls and steaming hot springs, a camper van gives you the freedom to follow the road — and your curiosity — wherever it leads.

Whether you’re a first-time van lifer or a seasoned road tripper, this guide covers everything you need to know about renting a camper van in Iceland, from planning and costs to insider tips and responsible travel.

Why Choose a Camper Van in Iceland?

• Ultimate Flexibility: No hotel check-ins, no fixed itinerary — just your own rolling home.

• Budget-Friendly: Save on accommodation and dining by cooking and camping.

• Closer to Nature: Wake up to glaciers, waterfalls, or the Northern Lights — literally outside your window.

• Access to Remote Areas: Reach lesser-known regions that buses and tours don’t.

“We camped by a quiet fjord with no one else around. The mountains glowed pink at sunset, and we fell asleep to the sound of wind and waves.”
— @vanlifeskál, #UnchartedIceland

What to Consider Before Booking

1. Season & Weather

• Summer (June–August): Ideal for van life. 24-hour daylight, mild temps, and open roads.

• Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Fewer crowds, lower prices, but colder nights.

• Winter (Oct–April): Possible, but challenging. Requires 4×4 vans and serious cold prep.

2. Driving Requirements

• Valid driver’s license (some companies require an International Driving Permit)

• Must be 21+ for most rentals (25+ for larger campers)

• Experience with manual transmission is helpful — many vans are stick shift

3. 2WD vs. 4WD

• 2WD is fine for summer and standard routes like the Ring Road

• 4WD is necessary for F-roads (interior mountain routes), especially in shoulder seasons

Types of Camper Vans

• Basic Vans (2WD): Great for couples or solo travelers; includes a bed, cooking setup, and storage

• 4×4 Campers: Rugged and ready for the Highlands; often includes heating and off-road capabilities

• Luxury Vans: Bigger, better-equipped, sometimes with Wi-Fi, fridges, and indoor heating

• Motorhomes: Full-scale RVs with bathrooms — not always necessary for Iceland’s back-to-nature vibe

Where Can You Camp in Iceland?

As of recent regulations, wild camping is no longer allowed in most places — especially with camper vans.

Stick to:

• Designated campgrounds (there are 150+ across the country!)

• Many offer showers, cooking shelters, Wi-Fi, and friendly locals

• Average cost: 1,500–3,000 ISK ($10–$25 USD) per person per night

• Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis

💡 Tip: Get a Camping Card for access to multiple campgrounds at a discounted rate.

What’s Included in Your Rental?

Most camper van rentals come with:

• Sleeping setup (mattress, pillows, blankets or sleeping bags)

• Gas stove, cookware, dishes

• Small cooler or fridge

• Basic insurance and road map

• Optional extras: Wi-Fi, camping tables, GPS, extra gas canisters, heaters

Always check the fine print on:

• Mileage limits (many are unlimited)

• Fuel policy

• Roadside assistance availability

• Insurance coverage — gravel protection and sand/ash coverage are highly recommended

Cooking & Food Tips

• Stock up at Bonus, Krónan, or Netto grocery stores

• Choose non-perishable and easy-to-cook items

• Carry snacks for remote areas

• Be mindful of waste and leave no trace

Top Camper Van Routes in Iceland

• Ring Road (Route 1): The classic full-circle route around the island (~1,300 km)

• Golden Circle: Quick but scenic loop with Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: A microcosm of Iceland’s landscapes in 2–3 days

• East Fjords & Westfjords: Remote, raw, and unforgettable — ideal for longer trips

Responsible Van Life in Iceland

• Respect camping laws — only stay where permitted

• Use restrooms at gas stations or campsites

• Don’t drive off-road — it’s illegal and damages fragile ecosystems

• Leave no trace — carry your waste, be mindful of water use, and support local businesses

What Did the Road Reveal to You?

Was it a quiet lake you never planned to find?
A starry sky you watched from the warmth of your van?

At Uncharted Sanctuary, we invite you to share the road moments that changed you — the unexpected, the beautiful, the still.

📌 Use #UnchartedIceland or #VanlifeInTheNorth
📷 Share your view from the bed, your favorite stop, or your morning coffee in the wild
📝 Submit your story at unchartedsanctuary.com

Renting a camper van in Iceland is more than a travel hack — it’s an invitation to wander wisely, sleep under stars, and wake up where the map ends.

So pack light.
Drive slow.
And let Iceland show you the road less taken.