Iceland is a land of contrasts. All in the same day, you can expect to drive past stunning glaciers, picturesque waterfalls and breathtaking lava fields. Exploring the island by renting your own vehicle offers a unique and unforgettable experience. If you are planning a road trip, you might be wondering which vehicle is best, and if a motorhome is the right choice for your adventure.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the key benefits of motorhome travel to the driving tips and camping regulations you need to know for a smooth trip.

Top Benefits of Renting a Motorhome for Iceland

There are several benefits to renting a motorhome for your trip to Iceland. Let’s dive into the many advantages that make choosing a motorhome a good choice.

Freedom & Flexibility

The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and what started as a sunny day can quickly shift into rain and wind. When renting a motorhome you have the freedom and flexibility to go your own way without having to worry about hotel check-ins or fixed itineraries. With your home on wheels, you can simply adapt your itinerary to best fit the weather and road conditions. There's no need to worry about check-out times either, you can just hit the road whenever you feel like it.

Comfort & Convenience

Motorhomes have great amenities that offer a great deal of comfort and convenience. They are equipped with comfortable beds, a dining area where you can relax, your own toilet and shower, a well-equipped kitchenette including a stove and fridge, and plenty of storage space to keep your luggage and gear! By combining your transport, kitchen, sleeping, and living space, you can prepare meals and stop to eat whenever you feel like, and go on your adventure on your own schedule.

Ideal for Families & Groups

Selecting the right vehicle for a family or a larger group can often feel like a challenge, but with a motorhome, you don’t have to worry about that. At RV Iceland, our motorhome rentals accommodate between two and six people, with comfortable beds, a kitchen area, and a living space where you can relax and enjoy time together between explorations.

Motorhome vs. Campervan: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between a compact campervan and a full-sized motorhome depends on your priorities for comfort and space.

• Space and Amenities: While campervans are great for couples, motorhomes offer separate sleeping areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and an onboard shower and toilet, which is a game-changer for long road trips. Motorhomes also have larger storage spaces for your gear.
• Driving Conditions: Due to their size and 2WD drivetrain, motorhomes may require more skill to maneuver than compact campervans, and they are not permitted on F-roads. For F-road driving, a 4x4 is a legal requirement in Iceland. A 4x4 with a rooftop tent is a great option for those wanting to venture into the Icelandic Highlands.

At the end of the day, your choice greatly depends on your comfort needs, space requirements and itinerary.

Where to Stay with a Motorhome in Iceland

To protect Iceland’s fragile ecosystem, wild camping is strictly prohibited. You must stay at designated campsites. Fortunately, camping in Iceland is a great experience. Most campsites are well-equipped with kitchen and living areas, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy nearby. While many sites open in May, you can also find several that remain open throughout the winter.

For travelers planning a longer trip in Iceland, the Camping Card might help you save on camping costs.

Driving Safely in Iceland

For a smooth and safe trip, it is important to understand Iceland’s driving rules, road, and weather conditions. Here are some practical tips for a safe journey.

• Check Weather Conditions: Always check the weather before hitting the road. Use vedur.is for weather alerts and forecasts, and road.is for the latest road conditions.
• Headlights Always On: It is a legal requirement in Iceland to always have your headlights on.
• Animals on the Road: In Iceland, sheep often roam freely, and you may also encounter birds on the road. If you see animals near the road slow down and be cautious. They are unpredictable and may jump in front of your vehicle at the last second.
• No Off-Road Driving: Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and carries heavy fines. Never drive off the road, stay only on marked, designated roads.
• Respect Speed Limits: The standard speed limits are 30 km/h in residential areas, 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads. Always follow the indications on road signs, as limits can change depending on the area.
• Never stop in the middle of the road: This might sound obvious, but don’t stop in the middle of the road. There are plenty of designated spots to pull off in Iceland where you can safely stop and enjoy the view.

Check out our detailed guide to Iceland’s weather alerts to safely navigate the country's unpredictable weather.

Planning Your Motorhome Journey

Here are some tips to help you plan a smooth motorhome journey.

• Smart Supplies: We recommend stocking up at budget-friendly stores like Bónus or Krónan before leaving Reykjavík. This way you don’t have to worry about finding the next supermarket right in the middle of your trip.
• Water Management: You will find fresh water stations at most gas stations and campgrounds.
• Fuel: Motorhomes use more fuel than regular cars. A good rule of thumb is to refuel whenever your tank hits the halfway mark or before starting any long stretch of your itinerary. Always check where the next gas station is located.

To learn more about fuel costs and plan your budget, make sure to read about current gas prices in Iceland.

Ready for Your Motorhome Trip in Iceland

Ready for an unforgettable journey in Iceland? At RV Iceland, we provide a large fleet of motorhomes for hire. From automatic to manual transmission, and sleeping space accommodating 2 to 6 people, we have options for every traveler. Book your motorhome rental in Iceland today and hit the road with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you prepare for your trip, we have compiled some common questions about motorhome driving in Iceland.