Renting a campervan in Iceland is a popular way to experience the country’s massive glaciers, careening waterfalls, and steamy hot springs. It’s also a great way to avoid being tied down to expensive hotel reservations and play it more by ear.
It’s a good idea to book as early as possible because campervans can sell out fast, especially during the summer months. Before you leave, ask your rental company to show you how all the essential systems work.
Booking
If you’re planning a road trip through Iceland, renting a campervan is the most innovative way to see the country. It lets you get up close and personal with massive glaciers, cascading waterfalls, erupting volcanoes, and steamy hot springs without worrying about hotel reservations or driving on unpaved roads. With a wide variety of vehicles available, there’s sure to be a vehicle that meets your needs.
When choosing a motorhome Iceland rental, ensure they include everything you need for your trip. For example, some companies will not include a portable stove, so you must bring your own. They may also have a limited mileage allowance, so you must plan your route carefully.
Another important consideration is whether the vehicle you rent is automatic or manual. Unless you’re used to driving manual cars, you may be surprised by how much more work is to conduct an auto. Once you’ve sorted out the details with your rental company, ask to be shown around the vehicle before you leave.
If you’re traveling to Iceland in summer, you’ll want to book your campervan as early as possible. The best companies tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Also, check the weather forecast and travel advisories before booking a motorhome.
Insurance
If you’re considering renting a campervan in Iceland, there are many things to consider. First, make sure that you’re comfortable driving a large vehicle. Also, consider the distances between destinations and the type of roads you’ll be using. Many of the sights in Iceland are far apart and can be challenging to reach with a standard non-4×4 vehicle.
Some companies, such as Kuku Campers, offer 4×4 campervans suitable for the Icelandic highlands and “F” roads. These vehicles are ideal for travelers who want to visit remote areas of the country. In addition, they come with unlimited mileage and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Most campervan rental companies include insurance coverage as part of the rental agreement. This may include third-party liability and a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This coverage usually has a self-excess of up to 360,000 ISK. However, you can purchase additional insurance to reduce the self-excess amount. These include Super CDW, Gravel Protection, and Sand and Ash Coverage.
Motorhomes are a great way to experience the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes and culture. They allow you to explore the country’s vast wilderness and beautiful campsites while avoiding the expense and hassle of hotel stays. However, it would help if you always remembered to respect the country’s laws and natural environment when traveling in a motorhome.
Driving licence
Bring your valid driver’s license if you rent a car or campervan in Iceland. The driver’s license should have Latin letters and be in good standing. It would help if you also got Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance, which typically covers theft and damage to the vehicle. You can purchase this through most credit cards or at the rental company. However, CDW typically does not cover bodily injury if you’re in an accident.
Another thing to remember is that road signs in Iceland are written in kilometers, and speed limits are much lower than in the United States. This makes driving in Iceland a little more challenging. Additionally, the winding roads of Iceland can make distances seem farther than they are.
If you plan on doing the Ring Road (Route 1), a popular route for motorhome rentals in Iceland, staying within the speed limit is essential. Numerous speed traps are on the Ring Road, and fines are expensive in Iceland.
If you want to avoid expensive fines, book your camper rental with a company that offers unlimited mileage. This will give you the freedom to explore all of Iceland’s sights. A good option for this is Camp Easy, a company that has been renting vehicles since 2012. They have offices right by KEF airport and offer free transfers to their customers. In addition, they have 24/7 support and live fleet management systems.
Vehicle requirements
You should know a few essential things before renting a campervan in Iceland. First, it is vital to ensure the rental company offers all the equipment you need during your trip. For example, you should confirm the price includes a portable stove and enough space for all your luggage. You should also check whether the company provides free WiFi at Reykjavik Airport and a smartphone app to help you navigate Iceland.
When selecting an Iceland campervan, looking for a company that provides unlimited mileage for the duration of your rental is essential. This is an important feature, especially if you plan on traveling the country’s many inland roads. These roads can be rough and require a 4×4 vehicle. The best way to avoid a surprise overage is to choose a company with unlimited mileage in the rental price.
Another thing to remember is that renting a vehicle that can drive on F-roads, off-road, and gravel roads is crucial. It is not recommended to drive a standard car on these roads because it can cause damage and may void the insurance. In addition, you should be aware that driving on rivers is not covered by insurance, and you should always watch other vehicles crossing rivers before attempting it yourself.
