Van Travel in Iceland

Van Life in Iceland: The Ultimate Road Trip Experience

Van life in Iceland is an incredible way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. With the freedom to stay wherever you like (within the boundaries of Iceland's camping regulations), a camper van is the best way to travel Iceland's Ring Road.

Camper Van Rentals Near KEF Airport:

Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, is a major hub for travelers arriving in Iceland. There are several camper van rental companies located near or at the airport, making it easy to pick up your van as soon as you arrive. Some well-known companies to consider are:

• Go Campers: Offers a wide range of camper vans and motorhomes with easy pick-up options from KEF.

• Campervan Iceland: A popular option with various camper van sizes and 4WD models for more rugged adventures.

• Happy Campers: Known for their affordable, well-maintained vans, with an office in Reykjavik but convenient pickup options at the airport.

When choosing a van, opt for a 4-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle if you plan to explore Iceland’s F-roads (mountain roads). These roads are not paved and can be challenging, so a 4WD is essential. However, if you are sticking to the Ring Road and not planning to venture off on the F-roads, you do not need a 4WD vehicle.

Campsites Around the Ring Road:

Booking campsites along the Ring Road is generally very straightforward. There are over 200 campsites scattered across the country, and most are open from May to September. Last-minute bookings are usually easy to manage, especially outside of peak summer months, as campsites tend to have plenty of space available. In the high season (July and August), some of the more popular campsites may fill up, so it’s wise to book ahead if possible. We used this master campsite map to find and book all of our sites, and we booked each site the day of depending how far we decided to drive that day.

Campsites are well-equipped with basic facilities, including toilets, picnic tables, and sometimes cooking areas. Many campsites also offer additional services like showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi, though it can vary from site to site.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity:

Staying connected while traveling in Iceland can be important, especially for navigation or sharing your adventure. There are a few options to ensure you stay connected:

• Wi-Fi Routers: Many camper van rental companies offer Wi-Fi routers as an additional service when renting a vehicle. These portable devices provide a mobile hotspot, allowing you to connect your phone or laptop to the internet while on the go. We purchased this add-on on our trip and were very grateful to have it.

• eSIMs: Iceland has good mobile coverage along the Ring Road and in most towns, but service can be spotty in more remote locations. You can purchase an eSIM which is an excellent option for those who want to avoid swapping physical SIM cards, and it can be activated quickly upon arrival.