Traveling Iceland with kids can be one of the most unforgettable family adventures imaginable. From erupting geysers and giant waterfalls to glacier lagoons and volcanic beaches, Iceland feels like a giant outdoor playground for children and teenagers alike.

An RV or campervan trip makes family travel in Iceland even easier. Instead of constantly packing and unpacking hotel rooms, your accommodation, kitchen, and transportation all travel with you. Families can stop whenever they need breaks, prepare meals on the road, and enjoy the flexibility to adjust plans based on weather or energy levels.

Whether you are traveling with toddlers, young kids, or teenagers, Iceland offers a safe, exciting, and nature-filled destination with activities for all ages.

Is Iceland a Good Destination for Families?

Iceland is one of the best destinations in Europe for family travel. The country is clean, safe, easy to navigate, and filled with outdoor attractions that appeal to both children and adults.

Families visiting Iceland can enjoy everything from geothermal pools and whale watching tours to horseback riding and glacier adventures. Teenagers often love the dramatic landscapes and adventure activities, while younger children enjoy waterfalls, puffin sightings, Icelandic horses, and interactive museums.

Food can also be part of the fun. Iceland offers unique snacks, famous hot dogs, homemade ice cream, fresh fish, and bakeries found throughout the country. Many restaurants are family-friendly, and supermarkets make it easy to stock up for road trips.

Ice Cream Wonderland

Icelanders absolutely love ice cream, and will indulge in this sweet treat even in the dead of winter in the middle of a blizzard. Families traveling around the country will quickly notice local ice cream shops in almost every town.

Trying Icelandic ice cream is a fun road trip tradition, especially after long drives or sightseeing stops. Many places serve soft ice cream with unique toppings, homemade flavors, and giant portions that kids usually love.

Try the World-Famous Hot Dog

Iceland’s famous hot dogs are considered by many travelers to be among the best in the world. Made with a blend of Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef, they are simple, affordable, and incredibly popular.

The classic Icelandic hot dog is topped with crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade sauce. It is an easy family meal option during busy sightseeing days and a fun local food experience for kids to try.

Become a Viking!

Iceland’s Viking history can turn any family trip into an adventure. Kids and teenagers often enjoy Viking-themed museums, historical exhibits, and interactive attractions around the country.

In Reykjavík, families can visit Viking exhibitions, themed restaurants, and even ice bars for a memorable experience. Learning about Iceland’s sagas and Norse explorers helps bring the country’s history to life in an engaging way.

Discover the Icelandic Horses

Icelandic horses are one of the country’s most beloved animals. Their friendly nature and smaller size make them especially popular with children.

Families can often see horses near roadsides during road trips, and horseback riding tours are available throughout the country for beginners and experienced riders alike. Many farms also welcome visitors interested in meeting the horses up close.

Why Choose an RV for a Family Trip in Iceland?

Traveling Iceland by RV offers comfort, flexibility, and convenience that can make family vacations far less stressful.

Long drives become easier when children have access to snacks, a bathroom, comfortable seating, and a place to relax during breaks. Parents also appreciate being able to prepare meals, avoid constant hotel check-ins, and keep travel schedules flexible.

Motorhomes are especially useful in Iceland where weather conditions can change quickly. Families can stop for lunch, warm up after outdoor activities, or take breaks without searching for restaurants or indoor spaces.

Many RVs also include onboard toilets, heating systems, water tanks, cooking equipment, and storage space for luggage and outdoor gear. For families traveling with young children, this extra convenience can make a huge difference.

Top 10 Activities to do in Iceland with Kids & Teens

Iceland offers countless family-friendly activities that combine adventure, learning, and unforgettable scenery.

Lava Show

The Lava Show in Reykjavík and Vík lets families safely experience real flowing lava up close. It is both educational and exciting, making it one of the most unique indoor attractions in Iceland for kids and teenagers.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding tours are available across Iceland and are suitable for many age groups. Riding through lava fields, black sand beaches, or countryside landscapes creates a memorable family experience.

Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of Iceland’s most popular family activities. Tours departing from Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Húsavík often spot humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds during summer months.

Jökulsárlón Boat Tour

A boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon gives families the chance to sail among floating icebergs while learning about glaciers and climate. Children often love spotting seals swimming between the ice.

Ziplining

Ziplining tours in Iceland combine adventure with beautiful scenery. Families with older children and teenagers can enjoy thrilling rides above rivers, canyons, and valleys.

Langjökull Ice Cave Tour

Exploring an ice cave inside Langjökull glacier is an unforgettable experience for adventurous families. Guided tours allow visitors to safely walk through tunnels carved into the glacier.

Hot Springs & Pools

Iceland’s geothermal pools are perfect for family relaxation. Many public pools include waterslides, shallow children’s pools, and hot tubs that make them enjoyable for all ages.

FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland in Reykjavík uses motion seating and special effects to simulate flying across Iceland’s landscapes. It is a fantastic indoor attraction for rainy days and a favorite among families.

River Rafting

River rafting tours offer exciting adventures for older children and teenagers during summer. Guided tours vary in difficulty and provide a fun way to experience Icelandic rivers and canyons.

Perlan Museum

Perlan Museum combines interactive exhibits, glaciers, volcanoes, and northern lights displays into one family-friendly attraction. The indoor ice cave and observation deck are especially popular with kids.

10 Must See Attractions in Iceland with Kids

Iceland’s major attractions are ideal for family road trips because most are easy to access and suitable for different age groups. Reykjavík city sightseeing is also a great way to begin or end your adventure, offering museums, playgrounds, cafés, and family-friendly attractions.

Geysir

Watching Strokkur erupt every few minutes is always exciting for children. The geothermal area’s bubbling mud pools and steaming vents make it feel almost otherworldly.

Thingvellir

Thingvellir National Park offers beautiful walking paths, dramatic landscapes, and fascinating history. Families can explore the rift between tectonic plates while enjoying easy outdoor hiking.

Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls and an essential stop along the Golden Circle. Viewing platforms make it easy for families to safely enjoy the scenery.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is famous for the pathway that allows visitors to walk behind the waterfall during suitable weather conditions. Kids often love the adventure and misty surroundings.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss impresses visitors with its massive size and frequent rainbows. The flat viewing area makes it accessible for families traveling with children.

Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park)

Skaftafell offers family-friendly hiking trails surrounded by glaciers and mountains. Short walks to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints are suitable for many age groups.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Floating icebergs, seals, and dramatic scenery make Jökulsárlón one of Iceland’s most magical attractions for families.

Diamond Beach

Located across from Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach is covered with sparkling ice chunks washed ashore from the glacier lagoon. Kids often enjoy watching the ice move with the waves.

Hverir Geothermal Area

Hverir’s bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and colorful geothermal landscape feel like another planet and are especially fascinating for children.

Goðafoss

Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss combines beautiful scenery with easy access and family-friendly walking paths.

Are Campsites Family-Friendly in Iceland

Many Icelandic campsites are very family-friendly and offer amenities designed to make RV travel easier with children. Some campgrounds include playgrounds, swimming pools nearby, open green spaces, and easy hiking access.

Hamrar Camping in Akureyri is especially popular with families thanks to its playground, spacious layout, and electricity hookups for motorhomes. Reykjavík Eco Campsite also works well for families because of its nearby pool facilities, playground access, and central location.

Hraunborgir Campsite is another excellent option for families looking for peaceful surroundings and kid-friendly facilities during a road trip.

If you are planning your route, our guide to the top RV campsites in Iceland can help you choose the best overnight stops for families.

Logistical Tips for RV Travel in Iceland

Planning ahead makes RV travel with kids significantly easier and more comfortable. Families should pay close attention to campsite infrastructure, electricity hookups, freshwater refill stations, fuel stops, and waste disposal points.

Because some regions are remote, it is important to stock up on groceries and supplies before long driving days. Understanding the basics of RVing in Iceland can help families travel more confidently and avoid unnecessary stress.

Water & Wastewater Management

Most campsites provide fresh water refill stations along with grey water and toilet waste disposal facilities. Families traveling longer distances should regularly empty wastewater tanks and refill fresh water supplies.

Electricity Hookups & Gas Tank

Electricity hookups are especially useful for families using heating systems, charging electronics, or preparing meals inside the motorhome. It is also important to monitor gas levels for cooking and heating during colder weather.

Fuel Strategy & Costs

Fuel stations are generally available around the Ring Road, but distances between stations increase in remote regions. Families should avoid driving with low fuel levels, particularly in East or North Iceland.

(Link to https://www.rviceland.is/en/blog/iceland-ring-road-guide/)

Iceland Car Seat Laws

Children must use appropriate car seats or booster seats according to Icelandic safety regulations. Families renting RVs should confirm child seat availability in advance before arrival.

Weather Conditions

Icelandic weather changes quickly and strong winds are common. Families should check daily forecasts and road conditions before driving, especially when traveling in larger motorhomes.

Packing Essentials

Packing layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, snacks, entertainment for long drives, and comfortable outdoor gear can make family travel much easier in Iceland’s changing climate.

10-Day Family Camping Budget

Camping in Iceland is generally more affordable than staying in hotels, especially for families. For a 10-day RV trip with 2 adults and 2 children, average campsite costs typically range between 45,000 and 80,000 ISK depending on the season, campsite facilities, and electricity usage.

Additional campsite-related expenses may include:

• Overnight tax
• Electricity hookup fees
• Shower fees at some campgrounds
• Laundry facilities

Families planning longer trips may find that the Camping Card might be worth it, particularly when visiting multiple participating campsites.

Our Family-Friendly RV and Motorhome Rentals

We offer a range of family-friendly RVs and motorhomes designed for comfortable travel around Iceland. Each vehicle includes practical amenities such as heating, cooking facilities, freshwater storage, and sleeping space for families of different sizes. 

Motorhome Hekla

The Motorhome Hekla is based on the FIAT Caratour 600 DQ and is an excellent option for couples, small families, or groups of up to four travelers. This compact yet comfortable motorhome features manual transmission and is easy to drive around Iceland’s Ring Road and major sightseeing routes.

Inside, the vehicle includes sleeping space and seating for four people, a fully equipped kitchen with cooking essentials, a cooler/refrigerator, hot and cold running water, and a private shower and toilet. Travelers also benefit from a heating system that keeps the interior comfortable in Iceland’s changing weather conditions.

The motorhome comes with a 50L water tank, one full 10 kg gas tank plus an additional empty gas tank, camping chairs and table, Bluetooth/USB connectivity, and unlimited mileage. Its practical layout and compact size make it a great family-friendly option for flexible road trips around Iceland.

Motorhome Askja

Motorhome Askja is built on the Fiat Weinsberg R58 platform and offers a spacious interior designed for up to four travelers. With manual transmission and a reliable diesel engine, it is well-suited for comfortable family adventures around Iceland.

The motorhome includes four sleeping spaces and seats, a private shower and toilet, heating system, refrigerator, hot and cold water, and a fully equipped kitchen with cooking utensils for four people. The roomy interior allows families to relax comfortably during longer road trips.

Included amenities also feature a 50L water tank, one full 10 kg gas tank and one empty reserve tank, Bluetooth/USB radio system, unlimited mileage, and airport shuttle service. The spacious dining and sleeping areas make Askja especially suitable for families traveling with children.

Motorhome Esja

Motorhome Esja, based on the modern Forster Van 599 VB, is one of the newer and more luxurious options in the fleet. This manual transmission motorhome sleeps up to four people comfortably and is designed for travelers who want extra comfort during their Iceland road trip.

The vehicle includes a heating system, shower and toilet, refrigerator, kitchen space with cooking equipment, dining area, and fresh water storage. Its modern interior design creates a comfortable atmosphere for both short and extended family trips.

Esja also includes a 50L water tank, gas system, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, camping furniture, and unlimited mileage. Its compact but premium layout makes it ideal for families looking for a balance between drivability and interior comfort.

Motorhome Baula

Motorhome Baula is the automatic transmission version of the popular Forster Van 599 VB, making it a great option for travelers who prefer easier driving conditions while exploring Iceland.

The vehicle sleeps up to four people and includes a fully equipped kitchen, refrigerator, hot and cold water, onboard heating system, shower and toilet facilities, and practical storage areas for luggage and outdoor gear.

Families traveling with children often appreciate the convenience of automatic transmission, especially on longer driving days and changing road conditions. Baula also includes a water tank, gas supply, camping table and chairs, Bluetooth/USB system, and unlimited mileage for stress-free travel around Iceland.

Motorhome Sandfell

Motorhome Sandfell is based on the spacious Hobby Optima A70 GFM and is one of the best choices for larger families. With sleeping space for up to six people and manual transmission, this motorhome offers excellent comfort for extended road trips.

The interior features multiple sleeping areas, a dining space, kitchen facilities, refrigerator, heating system, shower, and private toilet. The larger living space makes it particularly convenient for families traveling with children or teenagers.

Included amenities feature hot and cold water, cooking equipment, gas tanks, water storage, camping furniture, and unlimited mileage. Sandfell’s spacious design provides extra room for luggage, relaxing, and indoor meals during Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Motorhome Keilir

Motorhome Keilir, built on the CaraHome 700 DG platform, is designed for larger families or groups seeking maximum comfort while traveling Iceland. The motorhome accommodates up to five seated passengers and provides sleeping space for as many as six people.

This spacious motorhome includes a large kitchen area with cooking equipment, refrigerator, hot and cold running water, heating system, shower and toilet, and multiple sleeping areas suitable for family travel.

Additional amenities include a 50L water tank, one full 10 kg gas tank plus an extra empty tank, camping chairs and table, Bluetooth/USB connectivity, and unlimited mileage. Its larger size and practical family layout make it ideal for longer camping holidays around Iceland.

Ready for an Epic Family Motorhome Trip in Iceland?

An RV or campervan trip through Iceland gives families the freedom to travel comfortably while experiencing some of the world’s most incredible natural landscapes. From waterfalls and glaciers to hot springs and wildlife, every day brings new adventures for kids and adults alike.

With the right RV rental, good planning, and flexible travel days, Iceland can become the ultimate family road trip destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning an RV trip with kids in Iceland? Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about planning such a trip below: