\n Discover our converted vans! \ud83c\udf0b <\/strong>\n All the equipment included for your comfort.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Prepare for departure<\/h2> \t\t
When to go on a van trip in Iceland?<\/strong><\/p>
The ideal season for traveling by van stretches from May to September<\/strong>. Each period has its advantages:<\/p>
May-June: fewer tourists, nature awakening, and rapidly lengthening days. Prices are more reasonable than in the middle of summer. However, it can still be quite chilly at night, so heating will be your best friend.<\/li>
July-August: peak tourist season, generally milder weather. This is the time of the midnight sun, perfect for enjoying long evenings outdoors. Campsites are busier and prices are higher.<\/li>
September: a great compromise. Fewer crowds than in summer, the first northern lights starting to appear, and beautiful autumn colors. The weather remains decent at the beginning of the month, but be prepared for cooler nights.<\/li><\/ul>
To dive deeper into this topic, check out our detailed guide on when to go to Iceland according to the seasons and climate<\/a>.<\/p>
What budget to plan?<\/strong><\/p>
For a one-week road trip by van in Iceland, expect to budget around:<\/p>
Van rental: \u20ac800-1200 depending on the season and equipment<\/li>
Supplementary insurance: \u20ac200-300 (recommended)<\/li>
Fuel: \u20ac300-400 (gasoline is expensive in Iceland, expect around \u20ac2\/liter)<\/li>
Campsites: \u20ac15-20 per person per night<\/li>
Food: \u20ac50-80 per day for two if you cook for yourselves<\/li>
Cooking gas: \u20ac10-15 for the week<\/li><\/ul>
Total for two people: \u20ac1500-2000 for the week, excluding flights and activities. It's a significant budget, but Iceland remains an expensive destination. The good news is that by cooking in your van and camping, you save a lot compared to hotels and restaurants.<\/p>
The necessary documents<\/strong><\/p>
No visa is required for European citizens<\/strong>. You need:<\/p>
A valid driver's license<\/strong> (a regular class B license is sufficient)<\/li>
A credit card<\/strong> for the rental deposit (usually \u20ac1000-2000 blocked)<\/li>
A travel insurance<\/strong> (check what is included in your rental)<\/li>
The Iceland Road and Coastal Administration app<\/strong> to monitor road conditions<\/li>
The SafeTravel app<\/strong> for weather alerts and road conditions<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Conduire en van en Islande<\/h2> \t\t
Driving Specifics<\/strong><\/p>
Driving in Iceland is pretty straightforward, but there are a few specifics to keep in mind:<\/p>
Speed limits: 90 km\/h on paved roads, 80 km\/h on gravel roads, 50 km\/h in towns. There are many speed cameras, and fines can be hefty (starting from \u20ac100). Make sure to strictly follow the speed limits, especially on roads where gravel can damage your windshield.<\/li>
One-lane bridges: very common in Iceland. The first vehicle to arrive has the right of way, while others wait. Slow down as you approach and check that no vehicle is coming before you cross.<\/li>
Sheep: they roam freely on the roads, especially in summer. Slow down when you see them, as they are totally unpredictable and might suddenly cross in front of you.<\/li>
Weather: it changes very quickly. Check the forecast every morning and adjust your plans accordingly. Be very careful when opening your doors in strong winds (doors ripped off by the wind are a classic in Iceland and are not covered by insurance).<\/li>
Gravel roads: many secondary roads are gravel. Slow down (max 60-70 km\/h) to avoid losing control and kicking up stones that could damage the vehicle.<\/li><\/ul>
Managing Fuel<\/strong><\/p>
Gas stations are frequent along the Ring Road, but much more spaced out in remote areas. Never let your tank drop below a quarter.<\/strong><\/p>
Most stations operate on a self-service<\/strong> basis with card payment at the pump. Make sure your card works (PIN code required). Some stations only accept chip cards.<\/p>
Daily Parking<\/strong><\/p>
Day parking: you can park anywhere it\u2019s not explicitly prohibited. Take advantage of this to have lunch with a view, take a nap, or simply enjoy the scenery. Be cautious of paid parking near tourist sites (rates posted, payment online or at kiosks).<\/li>
Size: even though the van is compact, think about your height in covered parking (rare in Iceland, but it exists). And in small fishing villages, be mindful of the width of the streets.<\/li>
Overnight parking: we\u2019ll cover that right after; it\u2019s a whole chapter on its own!<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Dormir en van en Islande<\/h2> \t\t
The golden rule: camping is mandatory<\/strong><\/p>
Let's be clear from the start: wild camping is prohibited in Iceland. You must only sleep in official campsites<\/strong> or designated areas for campers.<\/p>
This rule exists to protect Iceland's fragile nature. It is strictly enforced: rangers patrol, and the fine<\/strong> can go up to \u20ac1000. Not to mention, the locals really don't appreciate tourists who break this rule.<\/p>
Campsites in Iceland<\/strong><\/p>
Iceland has an excellent network of campsites with quality facilities. Forget the image of basic camping with questionable toilets: here, you often have spotless hot showers<\/strong>, covered kitchen areas<\/strong>, wifi<\/strong>, electrical outlets<\/strong>, and sometimes even geothermal hot tubs<\/strong>.<\/p>
Rates: expect to pay \u20ac15-20 per person per night. Some campsites charge an extra fee for electricity (\u20ac5-10) if you want to plug in your van.<\/li>
Services: all campsites have at least toilets and showers. Most also offer covered kitchen areas (super handy when it rains), washing machines, charging stations for phones, and free wifi.<\/li>
Booking: during high season (July-August), some campsites can be fully booked. It's recommended to reserve a few days in advance, especially in very touristy areas like V\u00edk, J\u00f6kuls\u00e1rl\u00f3n, or near Reykjavik. Off-season, you can usually arrive without a reservation.<\/li>
Arriving at the campsite: most campsites have a reception where you check in and pay. Some operate with automatic kiosks if you arrive late. Choose your spot (usually free), set up, and enjoy.<\/li><\/ul>
Living at the campsite<\/strong><\/p>
Showers: almost always paid (500 ISK, about \u20ac3-4 for 5-10 minutes). Always have some change on you. Showers are generally spotless, with nice hot water. It's a great time to enjoy it after a day outside exploring the must-see sites of the island<\/a>.<\/li>
Kitchen areas: real spaces with cooktops, sinks, tables, and chairs. Perfect for cooking sheltered when it rains or when it's too windy outside. They are usually well-heated, making it nice to hang out in the evening.<\/li>
Electricity: if you pay the extra fee for electricity, you can plug your van into a campsite outlet. Otherwise, your van's battery recharges while you're driving during the day, which is usually enough for your basic needs (charging phones, using lights).<\/li>
Wifi: available in most campsites, but not always very fast. Take advantage of it to send your photos, check your emails, and download maps for the next day.<\/li>
Other travelers: campsites are great places to meet other travelers, exchange tips, and share a meal around a table. The atmosphere is generally very friendly.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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