Insider’s Guide: Navigating Iceland with the Perfect Van Rental Experience

Unlike popular tour options, renting a car allows you to create your itinerary and spend as much time as you like at each destination. Learn more about the car rental process, standard rental requirements, and how to get the best deal on a vehicle in Iceland. Many roads in Iceland are gravel, so paying attention to road conditions is essential. Watch out for strong winds as well; they can damage your windshield if you aren’t careful.

Be Prepared for Weather

Iceland can be windy sometimes, especially on the open roads without tree cover to shield your car from the elements. It is best to check the weather forecast regularly throughout your stay in Iceland to prepare for sudden changes like ice, snow, or rain.

You should also pack some layers to ensure you’re comfortable, no matter the temperature. A base layer for warmth, a fleece or warm jacket, and a waterproof outer layer are all essential to pack when traveling in Iceland. If you plan hiking or walking, it’s also a good idea to bring hiking boots rather than regular sneakers since the terrain can be rugged and require sturdy shoes.

Getting a van rental in Iceland for your trip will help you save time waiting around for buses that may not show up on schedule or that can limit the locations you visit based on their availability. Renting a car is the best way to see Iceland on your terms and explore all it offers.

Know Your Limits

A road trip in Iceland can be an exciting adventure, but knowing your limits is essential. Especially if you’re not used to driving on gravel, ice, or snow. If you’re traveling during the winter, consider renting a 4×4 vehicle to help you navigate the roads in snowy conditions.

You’ll also want to be careful when driving unpaved roads, as loose rocks can cause your car to skid. Additionally, paying attention to stray animals wandering the road is essential. Another thing to remember is that most bridges in rural areas are one-lane, and it’s a good idea to slow down when approaching them. This is especially true if you see cars coming from both sides. Finally, speeding is not a good idea in Iceland, as the country has some of the highest speeding fines in the world!

Keep Your Luggage Organized

It’s essential to keep your luggage organized when traveling to Iceland. This will help you save time and prevent any mishaps. Pack a travel purse that fits all your essentials, and use compression bags for bulky items like snow pants. You can also roll your clothes and use packing cubes to save space. This way, you won’t have to worry about your clothing getting creased and will be more comfortable.

Another essential item to bring with you is a pair of gloves. These will be helpful when exploring the outdoors, hiking, or even Facetiming with friends while at a waterfall or outdoor hot springs. You may also want touchscreen-friendly gloves to take photos and use your phone without removing them.

Also, pack a spare pair of shoes that can be worn while walking and hiking. You never know when a muddy path or a puddle will ruin your shoes. Also, warm socks are necessary so your feet don’t freeze.

Don’t Forget the Food

Many campervan rental companies in Iceland offer different options to suit a variety of travelers, but that also means that prices vary. To get the best deal, compare prices and read the fine print carefully before booking. Look for extra fees, mileage limitations, and insurance coverage.

It’s essential to remember that Iceland is wild, and animals often find their way onto the road. While it’s tempting to swerve around a stray sheep or lamb, that’s not very safe for you or them. It’s better to hit the animal head-on, especially if you don’t have time to stop and feed them.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring earplugs. The noise from the wind, glacier-carved rock, and surrounding lava fields can be loud in some areas. Earplugs will help ensure you get quality sleep while traveling through Iceland, regardless of the time of day. This is especially true for people who struggle with sleep in new surroundings. In addition, earplugs can help block out the snoring of fellow passengers.

Be Flexible

When traveling to Iceland, you need to be flexible. This is because the weather can change multiple times in a single day. You might start the day in glorious sunshine and then be soaked by a heavy downpour or blown around by the wind just a few hours later.

You’ll also want to be flexible regarding the vehicle type you rent. Depending on your preferences and the terrain you plan to drive on, it may be worth upgrading to a larger vehicle or paying for more comprehensive insurance. Lastly, it’s essential to consider whether or not you’ll need to get snow/all-weather tires. With an almost non-existent crime rate and unique geological conditions, Iceland is one of the safest countries in Europe.

Despite this, road safety is still paramount. Especially as speeding fines are pretty steep in this country. Plus, all tunnels in Iceland have at least one-speed camera! So, always obey the speed limits and be aware of any wildlife on the side of the road. Remember to bring your thermals or wool underwear because Iceland can be cold.