There’s a special kind of freedom in driving your own home-on-wheels around Iceland: one moment you’re tracing the coastline, the next you’re pulling over for a waterfall you’ve never heard of. A campervan lets you move at your pace, follow the good weather, and wake up close to the places you came to see.
This guide pulls together the essentials — how to choose the right vehicle, when to go, where to camp legally, what to pack, and how to plan a sensible Ring Road route — so you can spend less time guessing and more time exploring.
Why travel Iceland by campervan?
- Set your own rhythm: Chase clear skies for glacier lagoons or linger for sunset on black-sand beaches.
- Maximise daylight: In summer, you can stack more stops without racing to hotel check-ins.
- Save on accommodation & meals: Campgrounds + simple cooking keep costs predictable.
- Wake up near the sights: Shorter morning drives, more time on trails and viewpoints.
- Weather flexibility: If a storm hits the South, pivot North tomorrow — no rebooking headaches.
Campervan vs. motorhome: pros & cons
Campervan
- Pros: Easier to drive/park, lower fuel use, usually cheaper, good for 1–2 (max 3) people.
- Cons: Less interior height/storage, kitchen can be simpler, limited onboard bathroom options.
Motorhome (RV)
- Pros: More space and storage, standing height, often with toilet/shower, better for families.
- Cons: Higher rental price and fuel use, bulkier in strong winds, trickier on narrow/gravel roads.
Solo travellers and couples who prioritise flexibility usually prefer a campervan. Families or travellers who want a fixed bed, indoor cooking space and a bathroom lean toward a motorhome.
Choosing the right vehicle (size, 4×4 vs 2WD)
Group size & layout
- Match seats with seatbelts to travellers.
- Check bed size/orientation (length for tall travellers), interior height, and storage for bags.
- For families: look for ISOFIX, blackout blinds, and safe sleeping arrangements.
4×4 vs 2WD
- 2WD is enough for the Ring Road and paved/gravel side trips in summer.
- 4×4 is essential if you plan to drive F-roads (Highlands). Many F-roads involve rough surfaces and potential river crossings; always verify conditions before committing.
Comfort & climate
- Prioritise auxiliary heating, decent insulation, and a reliable fridge.
- In shoulder/winter seasons, ask about studless winter tyres or chains policy (where applicable).
Driving ease & economy
- If you’re not used to manual, choose automatic.
- Consider fuel economy and tank size; long stretches have few stations.
Power & utilities
- Check the leisure battery capacity, USB ports/inverter, and how the fridge/heating is powered.
- Ask about campground hook-up (cables included?) and what recharges while driving.
Campervan Road Trip in Iceland Booking tip
If you want to compare models and pricing before you book, check Iceland campervan rental for a clear overview of options.
How should you plan your Ring Road itinerary?
While some travelers dream about days spent exploring a single fjord, most people find themselves drawn to the Ring Road, formally known as Route 1. Like a loose belt around the whole island, it runs for roughly 1,332 kilometers and links many of Iceland’s most breath-taking sights. Sure, sticking to the Ring Road is a popular move, but sometimes taking a quick detour pays off in big ways, imagine veering off the main drag and finding a remote black-sand beach, just for you and a handful of curious sheep.
Best time of year to go
Summer (June–August)
- Pros: Most roads open, mild temps, endless daylight for flexible plans, widest choice of tours.
- Cons: Highest prices and crowd levels; campsites and vehicles book out fast.
- Who it suits: First-timers who want simpler logistics and longer hiking days.
Shoulder seasons (May & September–October)
- Pros: Fewer crowds, better prices than peak, autumn colours (Sep/Oct), Northern Lights chances after dark.
- Cons: Unsettled weather, some interior/F-roads still closed (May) or already closing (Oct).
- Who it suits: Travellers OK with a bit of weather variability and flexible plans.
Winter (November–March)
- Pros: Northern Lights, dramatic winter scenery, lower rental rates outside holidays.
- Cons: Short daylight, ice/snow, frequent closures; driving requires confidence and proper tyres.
- Who it suits: Experienced winter drivers comfortable slowing the pace and focusing on the South/West.
Spring (April–early May)
- Pros: Quieter, improving daylight, good value.
- Cons: Changeable conditions; some attractions/tours operate on limited schedules.
- Who it suits: Budget-minded travellers happy to adapt day by day.
Quick date-picking cheat sheet
- Want easier driving + long days → July.
- Want Northern Lights + manageable roads → late Sep / early Oct.
- Want value + fewer people → May.
- Planning Highlands/F-roads → target mid-July to late August (and still check conditions daily).
The classic 7-to-10-day route
Now, if you’re the type who likes your days with a bit of structure but plenty of wiggle room, the classic journey takes a comfortable 7 to 10 days. That way, you’re not driving like you’re fleeing a movie monster, but instead have time to stop wherever curiosity tugs. Not everyone hits every highlight (weather can be moody), but some places feel almost essential for a first-timer: walk the spray-soaked path at Gullfoss, scan the horizon for tectonic drama at Þingvellir National Park, then shiver with awe at the icy blue of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The wild Mývatn region, the vast Vatnajökull glacier, and the craggy East Fjords also charm visitors again and again.
7 days — Classic Ring Road (clockwise)
Day 1 — Reykjavík + Golden Circle
Reykjavík stroll → Þingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss. Camp near Selfoss/Hella.
Day 2 — South Coast waterfalls & black sands
Seljalandsfoss/Gljúfrabúi → Skógafoss → Dyrhólaey → Reynisfjara. Camp near Vík/Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Day 3 — Glaciers & ice lagoons
Skaftafell hikes (Svartifoss or Skaftafellsjökull) → Fjallsárlón → Jökulsárlón & Diamond Beach. Camp near Höfn.
Day 4 — Eastfjords slow road
Hvalnes → Djúpivogur → scenic fjord hops to Egilsstaðir/Seyðisfjörður (if weather allows). Camp in the area.
Day 5 — North: Dettifoss & Mývatn
Head via Möðrudalsöræfi (if open) → Dettifoss (paved access when in season) → Hverir → Mývatn hot springs. Camp around Mývatn.
Day 6 — Akureyri & Tröllaskagi
Goðafoss → Akureyri → coastal drive via Siglufjörður (time/weather permitting). Camp near Sauðárkrókur/Blönduós.
Day 7 — West back to Reykjavík
Optional Borgarfjörður stops (Hraunfossar/Barnafoss) or straight return. Drop off.
Wet-weather swaps: Move Day 1 to the end; prioritise whichever coast has better forecasts.
10 days — Ring Road with extra breathing room (clockwise)
Day 1 — Reykjavík (easy day)
Groceries, gear check, Hallgrímskirkja & harbour walk. Camp near Reykjavík.
Day 2 — Golden Circle + South Coast warm-up
Þingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss → short hop to Seljalandsfoss. Camp near Hella/Hvolsvöllur.
Day 3 — South Coast deep dive
Skógafoss stairs → Sólheimajökull glacier walk (guided, optional) → Reynisfjara/Dyrhólaey. Camp near Vík.
Day 4 — Skaftafell hiking day
Choose one longer trail (e.g., Skaftafell Panorama/Svartifoss loop). Camp near Skaftafell or move on to Höfn.
Day 5 — Ice lagoons & Höfn
Fjallsárlón + Jökulsárlón (boat tour optional) → Höfn langoustine dinner. Camp nearby.
Day 6 — Eastfjords villages
Djúpivogur → Breiðdalsvík → Fáskrúðsfjörður → Egilsstaðir or Seyðisfjörður. Camp in the area.
Day 7 — North volcanic sights
Dettifoss (conditions permitting) → Ásbyrgi (short walks) → Hverir → Mývatn baths. Camp Mývatn.
Day 8 — Akureyri & whales (optional)
Goðafoss → Akureyri → continue to Dalvík/Húsavík for whale watching (in season). Camp around Akureyri/Dalvík.
Day 9 — Tröllaskagi coast to West
Siglufjörður heritage stop → Skagafjörður horse country → Borgarfjörður waterfalls. Camp near Borgarnes.
Day 10 — Snæfellsnes taster or return
If energy allows: Arnarstapi → Hellnar → Djúpalónssandur → Kirkjufell; otherwise, easy return to Reykjavík.
Highlands add-on (swap into Days 6–8 only if 4×4 & open F-roads):
Kjölur (F35) linking Gullfoss area to the North with Kerlingarfjöll/Hveravellir geo-areas. Always check conditions and avoid river crossings you’re not trained/equipped for.
Exploring the Highlands with F-roads
Still, some adventurous souls just can’t resist poking into the untamed Highlands. Here, F-roads, wild, rocky tracks, crisscross the center like stories running through an old saga. Travel here is a different beast entirely, and not for the faint-hearted.
Do I need a 4×4 campervan?
Truth be told, if the Highlands call you, a 4×4 vehicle isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s absolutely essential. Regular campervans hit their limits here faster than you’d expect. Thorough preparation makes a big difference, always, and I mean always, check the current road status at www.road.is before venturing onto an F-road. Weather and river crossings can turn a calm day into a true test of nerves.
When is the best time to book your trip?
By the way, don’t underestimate just how quickly summer availability disappears. Icelandic summer, especially from June to August, is peak time for road trips, and local rental providers know it. Booking your campervan and snagging overnight spots at campsites ahead of time is just common sense, unless you fancy an unplanned night under the midnight sun… in a car. Not as dreamy as it sounds.
Where are you allowed to camp in Iceland?
At first, the thought of wild camping under the northern lights sounds thrilling. But Iceland has found that letting people park anywhere means its delicate nature takes a hit. That’s why wild camping, just stopping wherever your heart desires, is heavily restricted these days. Instead, you’ll find a vast network of official campsites, and honestly, many feel friendlier (and more scenic) than any parking lot. Staying in these sites isn’t just wise, it’s legally required. Responsible visitors keep Iceland wild and beautiful for the next dreamer in a van.
How can you drive safely and responsibly?
The weather in Iceland loves surprises. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s as if someone opened the clouds’ floodgates. So keeping safety at the top of your mind is really crucial when you’re logging all those miles, often far from help.
Checking conditions before you drive
Actually, it’s worth forming a habit: always check the local forecast along with www.road.is before you even think about turning that ignition. This is non-negotiable, especially on less-traveled paths.
Essential driving tips
- Fuel: Be mindful of the long distance between stations. It’s wiser to top off earlier than risk a game of “will I make it?”
- Payment: Cash is almost useless at Iceland’s automated pumps, so travel with an active credit or debit card to avoid headaches.
- Parking: Always park only in marked spots. Avoid flattening wildflowers, they’re rarer than you’d think.
- Waste: Follow all local disposal rules strictly. Icelanders take real pride in pristine surroundings, and so should you.
What essential gear should you pack for your campervan?
Honestly, what you pack can make or break your sense of comfort out here. Iceland might look mild on sunny afternoons, but nights get chilly, wind picks up, and rain can appear out of nowhere. Alongside the basics, there are a handful of items you just shouldn’t skip.
| Category | Essential Items | Notes |
| Clothing | Waterproof jacket & trousers, thermal layers, hiking boots, hat, gloves | Necessary even in summer due to unpredictable weather. |
| Navigation | Physical maps, mobile phone with offline maps | Don’t rely solely on mobile data, which can be unreliable in remote areas. |
| Camper Gear | Head torch, extra sleeping bag | Even with heating, an extra layer provides peace of mind on cold nights. |
| Kitchen | Basic cooking equipment, reusable water containers | Iceland’s tap water is of excellent quality and perfectly safe to drink. |
| Miscellaneous | European power adapter, insect repellent, first-aid kit, travel insurance | Insect repellent is particularly useful around the Mývatn area. |
Ultimately, the real magic of a campervan trip in Iceland lies in staying open to detours, tackling sudden changes with a sense of humor, and always keeping to the respectful side of adventure. Prepare well, listen to the landscape and locals, and you’ll return home with more than just photos, you’ll carry the pulse of the place in your memory, every bit as vivid as a glacier sunrise.
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