Islande

The rental price of a 2-seater van in high season (July, August) starts between €150 and €190 . Expect around €500 for a 5-seater motorhome .

If you travel in May, June, September, or October , prices drop on average by 40% compared to summer. A 2-seater van
rents for around €100 per day , whereas a 4-seater motorhome costs about €270 per day .

Winter offers the best rates , with prices up to half the summer price . While vans are generally available, motorhomes can be harder to find in winter.

The cost of your rental depends on many factors:

To rent a campervan in Iceland, you need to be over 20 or 21 years old and 25 for a motorhome (requirements vary by agency). A driving license in Roman letters is required to finalize the booking. Therefore, a French B license is sufficient , no international version needed.

Booking a motorhome in Iceland as early as possible will also help you get a good rental price. If you have specific requirements, it’s better to plan in advance, especially during high season.

Directly on rental agency websites

There are dozens of different companies. Below are the ones most frequently recommended by the 50,000 members of our Iceland Facebook group.

Here is a list of other rental agencies.

Through local comparison platforms

Unlike other European countries, Iceland’s camper market is dominated by local companies. As you can see above, there are dozens of rental options. The easiest way is to book via Icelandic comparison platforms like northbound.is or GuideToIceland. Prices on Northbound are often much cheaper than on the agency websites. Compare!

For campers and motorhomes, Northbound offers the largest catalog. In search results, filter by "motorhomes" and "camping-cars".

These platforms provide guarantees and payment options such as free cancellation, modification, and sometimes a "lowest price" guarantee.

Optional insurance can account for more than 30% of the booking amount. Rental companies usually include CDW insurance in the base price, but with a deductible in case of an accident. Unlike cars, vans and motorhomes are not covered by premium VISA or MasterCard Gold insurances. Check your bank or the contract for coverage. Choosing additional insurance depends on your driving experience and the level of risk you are willing to take.

☀️ Summer is the best season [Our recommendation]

(July/August) with mild temperatures ranging between 7 and 25°C, long days, and access to all roads in the Highlands and the Westfjords. All campsites are open in summer. This is also when rentals are most expensive.

🍂 Spring and autumn

(April/May/June/September/October), you have the chance to see the Northern Lights. Rentals are cheaper since it’s low season. Many campsites are closed from mid-September to the end of April, but most remain open year-round in the south. F-roads are generally only open from mid-June to mid-September. For motorhomes, most rental agreements forbid driving if wind exceeds 15m/s. In case of a storm, the risk of being stuck for several days in the same place is significant.

⛄︎ Winter (November to March) is the least suitable season

for traveling in a camper van or motorhome due to snow and cold, but it is still possible. You will need a vehicle with a Webasto heating system in addition to warm clothing and a good sleeping bag. Snow and wind make driving very difficult. To tackle snowy roads, opt for a 4x4 model.

A “campervan” is a van or truck converted for living in. Variants exist based on pick-ups or 4x4s. They usually come with basic cooking equipment (a stove and utensils) and sometimes even a shower (water pump). However, they do not have onboard toilets.

Motorhomes are much bigger and more comfortable than camper vans. The bodywork is redesigned to expand the original vehicle. The extra space allows for a proper kitchen and bathroom facilities.

The ideal model for your trip will depend on your answers to the questions below and your budget:

Number of passengers

There are vans for 2, 3, 4, or 5 people. It is the number of seats with seat belts that determines the maximum capacity of the vehicle. Also consider slightly larger models; for example, a 4-seater even if you’re only 3. For a small extra cost, you might gain significant comfort.

When will you visit Iceland?

Most campsites are open from May to September. Campsites in more remote regions of Iceland, like the Highlands and Westfjords, have an even shorter season, from June to August. While winter trips in a camper van or motorhome are possible, we do not recommend it. Snowstorms and extreme cold are major issues. You will often need heating options (not all vehicles have them) and a good sleeping bag. In winter, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for driving on snowy roads.

Will you take F-roads or go to the Highlands?

The Icelandic Ring Road, or Route 1, is accessible to all vehicles in summer, including camper vans and motorhomes. There are also F-roads in Iceland where only 4x4 vehicles can drive because you often have to cross rivers or streams. Never take these roads if your vehicle is not a 4x4. No insurance will cover you in case of an accident.

Planning to go through the Highlands? You will need to drive on F-roads. There are motorhomes and 4x4 vehicles equipped with roof tents suitable for these routes.

Plan your itinerary carefully and review the roads you will take to determine the appropriate vehicle for your trip.

Automatic or manual transmission

Manual transmissions are still the most common. Some automatic models exist but are more expensive. If you insist on an automatic, book well in advance. These models are highly sought after by American customers.

Sleeping inside or in a roof tent (outside winter)?

Weather can be harsh in winter, so we do not recommend roof tents during this season.

Desired level of comfort?

Rental companies offer different models with various options. Some options can significantly increase your comfort. For tall people, a pop-up roof is essential.

• Pop-up roof: In addition to providing extra sleeping space, this option greatly improves comfort, allowing you to stand inside the van while cooking, for example.

• Compact or large size: For more comfort, vans with a 2-meter ceiling and a double bed at the rear are available.

• Equipment: Depending on the season and intended use, you may appreciate onboard heating or a shower. Not all vans have these features.

Why rent a camper van or motorhome in Iceland?

Still unsure? Here are 6 good reasons to do it.

1. Freedom

Forget the stress of arriving late at your host. Enjoy sites until the last moment. For instance, you can marvel at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon without the tourist crowds.

You don’t need to plan your itinerary around hotels. Traveling by motorhome allows you to spend more time at attractions that interest you and adapt according to the weather. Campsites are plentiful in Iceland, and booking is not necessary even in peak season. You arrive when you want, there will always be a spot.

Wild camping is prohibited in Iceland; you must park your vehicle in a campsite.

2. Big savings

A motorhome or camper van costs more in fuel than a regular car or 4x4. However, you will save money overall, which you can reinvest in activities since campsites (around €20) are cheaper than hostels and hotels where a night costs at least €100.

You will also save on food thanks to the stove in the vehicle. While cooking elaborate meals in a small space is tricky, you can buy groceries and prepare your meals, avoiding daily restaurant expenses.

3. Comfort anywhere

A camper van or motorhome has everything you need: a comfortable place to rest and wheels to move around. Hungry? Cook a meal and enjoy it while admiring Gullfoss waterfall. Heavy rain? Relax on the rear beds while waiting for clear skies.

4. Meeting people

Campsites’ communal spaces make it easy to meet others. You’ll often see the same travelers and enjoy sharing stories, recommendations, and a few beers with fellow travelers.

5. Minimalist lifestyle

Spending so much time in such a tiny space will make you realize that you actually need very little to live happily. Van trips will help you appreciate the things money can’t buy – a sunset over a mountain, a storm in the middle of the night, or a coffee with a sea view.

6. Reconnecting with nature

If you chose to travel to Iceland, it’s probably because you love the wonders nature can offer. Waking up in front of a waterfall provides unique emotions and unforgettable memories.