Essential Camping Rules in Iceland
Check the essential camping rules to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Learn about camping regulations, safety measures, and tips for camping in Iceland.
Planning an epic Icelandic road trip? Whether you’re circling the Ring Road or venturing into the Highlands, your choice of camper van and rental company can make or break your journey. Find your perfect ride with the top five camper vans and campers in Iceland. Plus, read to the end for essential travel tips on driving in Iceland and how to plan a smooth camping trip in Iceland.
What to Consider When Choosing a Camper Van
There are several key factors to consider when selecting the right camper van for your trip.
Size: Choose a size suitable for the number of passengers and the level of comfort you seek. Keep in mind that smaller vans can be easier to drive and better on fuel. However, they have less room for luggage and sleeping. Larger vans have more room and extra features, but they can use more gas and be more challenging to drive and park.
Comfort: Generally speaking, the longer your trip, the more important comfort becomes. Consider the quality of the seating, bedding, and other amenities like heating systems or ventilation.
Fuel efficiency: Iceland’s vast landscapes mean that you’ll likely cover long distances. A fuel-efficient or electric camper van will help keep costs down.
Winter-readiness: If you’re planning to camp in Iceland in winter, ensure your van is equipped for the coldest conditions. You’ll need robust heating systems, insulation, and of course, winter tires.
Reputable rental agency: It’s crucial to choose a trusted camper van rental agency that provides well-maintained vehicles, clear rental terms, and reliable customer support. The company should also offer comprehensive insurance options.
With these considerations in mind, let’s dive into our top five choices of camper vans.
Top 5 Best Camper Vans
Whether you’re traveling with your family, your partner, a group of friends, or solo, there’s a perfect camper van for you. We’ve reviewed our top five options, all of which are new vehicles specifically designed for driving and camping in Iceland.
Space and Comfort for 5 People
The Easy Viking 4X4, a Volkswagen Crafter model, is a roomy and comfortable camper van for adventure-seeking travelers. This well-equipped vehicle can comfortably accommodate up to five passengers for sleeping and offers ample luggage space.
Best for: Large groups or families who value comfort, space, and agility. Thanks to its 4×4 capabilities and raised chassis, it’s perfect for long trips across diverse terrain.
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Three-person camper van ready for adventure
The Easy Clever 4X4 is made for the journey. It’s perfect for those hunting for the northern lights or tackling the Highlands of Iceland. This camper van offers a comfortable stay for up to three people.
Best for: Smaller groups or couples seeking a mix of comfort and adventure, especially in off-the-beaten-path trails.
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Compact and agile camper van for two people
The Easy Ranger 4×4, a Volkswagen Caddy Maxi, is the optimal blend of compact size and mobility. This model is perfect for couples or solo travelers ready to take on Iceland’s challenging F-roads (unpaved mountain roads) and Highlands.
Best for: Solo travelers or couples seeking mobility and adventure.
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4. Easy Fun
Economical camper van for three people
The Easy Fun, a Volkswagen Transporter, offers a good amount of space and outstanding value for money. This mid-size camper comes with all the equipment you need and a comfortable living room setup in the back.
Best for: Small groups or families seeking a balance between comfort, size, and budget.
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Two-person camper for eco-friendly travel
Fitted with a roomy roof box, the Tesla Camper Y 4×4 provides a sustainable way to explore Iceland. With most campsites offering electricity, we highly recommend this electric camper for the environmentally-conscious traveler. You’ll also save on gas.
Best for: Couples or solo travelers keen on eco-friendly travel.
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Essential Tips for Camper Van Travel in Iceland
So, you’ve chosen your perfect camper van, and you’re ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. But, before you hit the road, it’s crucial to prepare and familiarize yourself with some essential guidelines. Here are some key tips that will help you make the most of your Icelandic camper van adventure.
Planning Your Trip
Begin by crafting a well-thought-out itinerary. Keep the changing weather and road conditions in mind, and always have alternative routes or activities ready. Icelandic weather is known for its unpredictability, and it can influence your travel times significantly.
We recommend using this itinerary planning tool to consider your travel duration, key attractions you wish to visit, and the distance between them. Make sure your plan isn’t too packed, giving you ample time to admire the stunning landscapes, take photos, and rest. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination!
Driving Rules and Safety in Iceland
Driving in Iceland can be quite different from what you’re used to. The country’s unique terrain, coupled with changing weather conditions, demands careful driving.
Always respect speed limits, which are 30-50 km (19-31 miles) per hour in populated areas, 80 km (50 miles) per hour on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km (56 miles) per hour on paved roads. Be mindful of single-lane bridges, blind curves, and hills. Sheep roam free and often wander onto the roads, so be ready to slow down or stop when you see them.
In Iceland, off-road driving is strictly prohibited both for safety reasons and to preserve the delicate nature and soil. Stick to marked roads and trails, and make sure your camper van is equipped for any F-roads (mountain roads) you plan to tackle. And, of course, always wear your seatbelt!
Refueling and Recharging
While there are gas and charging stations all around Iceland, it’s wise to adopt a ’top-up whenever possible’ approach. This strategy is especially important when exploring the Icelandic Highlands, F-roads, and other remote areas where stations are few and far between. Most gas stations are automatic, self-service, and accept the most common debit and credit cards.
Parking and Overnight Stays
You must stay overnight in designated camping areas, which typically provide amenities like showers, cooking facilities, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. During high seasons, popular campsites can fill up, so booking ahead might be necessary. Here is a list of our top camping site in iceland.
Wild camping is not allowed in Iceland, and it’s also strictly forbidden to park overnight outside camping grounds in urban areas. For shorter stops, you can park anywhere there is legal parking, just like other vehicles.
Camper Van Maintenance
Even the best camper van needs regular checks during your trip. Keep an eye on tire pressure, oil levels, and battery or fuel status, especially before setting off each day. Lastly, always have a contingency plan in case of breakdowns. Familiarize yourself with the camper van’s insurance details and know how to reach the rental company’s roadside assistance.
Now that you’re well-equipped with the best camper vans and essential travel tips, your Icelandic adventure awaits! Enjoy the freedom of your home on wheels, and soak in all the beauty this stunning country has to offer. Safe travels!
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