How Much to Rent a Campervan in Iceland? Your Complete Guide

Planning an Iceland trip almost always leads to one big question: how much to rent a campervan in Iceland? The truth is, there isn’t a single flat answer. The rental price depends on when you visit, which camper you choose, and whether you add extras like sleeping bags, cooking kits, or an extra driver.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Whether you’re coming in the peak season of July, visiting in the off season for cheaper rates, or hoping to catch the northern lights in northern Iceland, you’ll see exactly what to expect when setting your budget.

At Iceland Campers, we make the process simple and transparent. All of our campers are manual (no automatics or 4x4s), designed to handle Iceland’s rugged terrain, and easy to customize with extras to suit your trip.

Let’s dive into the details so you can plan your entire trip with confidence.

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Why a Campervan is the Best Way to Explore Iceland

There’s no denying it: a campervan gives you more freedom than any hotel or traditional rental car. Imagine waking up by the south coast cliffs, sipping coffee with a view of a glacier, or pulling over near a geothermal hot spring because you felt like soaking in warm water after a long day of driving.

That’s the magic of campervan rental in Iceland. You carry your home, your kitchen, and your bed everywhere you go. No strict schedules, no overpriced hotels, no last-minute stress. Just you, your camper, and the open road.

We’ve seen travelers come back year after year saying the same thing: “That was the best trip of my life.” And almost every time, they did it with a camper.

What Impacts the Cost of Campervan Hire?

So, let’s talk about money. The rental price for a campervan depends on several factors:

Season
The summer months (June, July, August) are the busiest and most expensive. This is the peak season, with endless daylight, open roads, and the warmest weather Iceland offers. Expect higher prices.
The off season (spring and autumn) is cheaper. If you want the cheapest time to visit, consider April, May, September, or October. You’ll still enjoy beautiful landscapes but at lower rates.
Type of Camper
A smaller two-person camper is always going to be the cheapest option. These compact vans are easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and perfect for couples.
Larger campers give you more space and comfort, but you’ll pay more per day.
Extras
Things like sleeping bags, a camping table, or cooking facilities aren’t always included. You can add them when booking, and they make your trip more comfortable.
Insurance choices (like gravel protection or lowering your self risk) also affect price.
Duration
The longer you rent, the better value per day. Many travelers book for 7–10 days to circle the ring road, but if you want to explore slower, 2–3 weeks is even better.

Average Campervan Rental Costs in Iceland

Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Budget / Cheap Campervan: Around €70–€100 per day in the off season. These are simple, smaller campers with basic equipment. Perfect if you’re trying to save money while still enjoying flexibility.
Mid-Range Camper: Around €120–€170 per day. These usually come with a heating system, cooking facilities, and a bit more space. Most travelers choose this category.
Luxury Motorhomes: €200+ per day, especially in peak season. While we focus on campers, some travelers choose larger motorhome rental options if they want showers, toilets, and more room.

Remember, this is just the cost of the rental in Iceland. You’ll also need to budget for:

Campsite fees (around €10–€20 per person per night)
Fuel (prices vary, but Iceland fuel is higher than most of Europe)
Food and extras

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Camper Rental vs Motorhome Rental

A lot of travelers ask us the difference between camper rental and motorhome hire. Here’s the short version:

Camper vans are smaller, easier to handle, and cheaper. They’re perfect for couples or small groups who want flexibility.
Motorhomes are larger vehicles that feel more like driving a small house. They’re more expensive, less fuel-efficient, and harder to drive on narrow Icelandic roads.

Since we specialize in campers, our focus is on practicality and affordability. That means we don’t offer 4x4s or automatic transmissions, but we do make sure every camper is well-equipped for Iceland’s rugged terrain and weather.

Why Rent With Us?

Here’s what makes us different:

All Manual Vehicles: More control on gravel roads and steep sections.
Add-On Extras: Sleeping bags, heating systems, camping table, or cooking facilities.
Convenient Pick Up: Close to Keflavik International Airport so you can start your trip right away.
Flexible Drop Off: Choose your drop off location and drop off date that works best.
Roadside Assistance: If you run into trouble, we’re just a call away.

Check out our camper fleet here

Exploring Iceland by Campervan: Routes and Destinations

The Famous Ring Road Adventure

The ring road (Route 1) is the most popular route for campervan hire in Iceland. It circles the entire island in about 1,300 km, connecting nearly all major towns and natural attractions. Most travelers spend 7–10 days driving it, but you could stretch it to two weeks if you like a slower pace.

Driving the ring road with a camper means you can stop whenever a glacier, waterfall, or hot spring catches your eye. Imagine waking up near the black sand beaches of Vík, eating breakfast at a campsite with mountain views, then pulling over at a roadside waterfall to take photos without worrying about hotel check-in times. That’s the joy of exploring Iceland at your own pace.

The Golden Circle

For travelers short on time, the Golden Circle is a must. This loop is only 300 km and can be done in a single day, but renting a camper lets you stretch it into 2–3 days so you can enjoy it more deeply.

Highlights include:

Gullfoss Waterfall: A breathtaking cascade of glacial water.
Geysir geothermal area: Where hot water erupts every few minutes.
Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between tectonic plates.

By spending the night in your camper nearby, you avoid the crowds and can visit these places early in the morning or late at night when tour buses are gone.

South Coast Adventures

The south coast is a favorite for many travelers. You’ll see dramatic cliffs, massive glaciers, and waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Drive a little further, and you’ll reach Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift slowly toward the sea.

The south coast is also where you’ll find the iconic black sand beaches. Walking barefoot on the volcanic sands feels otherworldly, especially if you’ve just come from soaking in nearby hot springs.

Northern Iceland: Whale Watching and More

Heading into northern Iceland gives you a quieter experience. Towns like Akureyri feel less crowded, and the scenery feels untouched.

This is where you’ll have the best chance for whale watching, especially in places like Húsavík. It’s also a fantastic area to see the northern lights if you’re traveling in autumn or winter.

Campsites here are cozy, and nights often feel magical under the dancing sky. For many travelers, this is the highlight of their entire trip.

The Icelandic Highlands

The Icelandic Highlands are remote, rugged, and incredibly beautiful. Towering mountains, lava fields, and untouched landscapes stretch for miles. However, they are only accessible by 4x4 vehicles via Iceland’s F-roads.

Since our fleet doesn’t include 4x4s, we recommend exploring the Highlands with guided tours or on foot through hiking trails. But don’t worry, your campervan rental in Iceland still gets you close enough to enjoy the highland atmosphere before switching to other transport options.

Saving Money on Your Campervan Iceland

Travel Off Season

The easiest way to save money is by avoiding the summer peak season. The off season in April–May and September–October not only means lower camper rental prices but also fewer crowds at major sights.

Cook Your Own Meals

Eating out in Iceland can be expensive. Luckily, our campers come with basic cooking facilities, and you can add extras like a camping table. Stock up at local supermarkets, cook simple meals, and enjoy dinner with glacier views.

Share the Drive

Adding an extra driver makes the journey safer and more fun. Long drives feel easier when you can switch, and the cost of adding another driver is small compared to the value it brings.

Use a Camping Card

The camping card is a handy way to keep costs down. It gives you access to many campsites across the country for a fixed price, which can cut down nightly fees if you’re traveling for more than a week.

Practical Tips for Camper van Rental in Iceland

Insurance and Safety

When booking, you’ll see different insurance options. We recommend lowering your self risk, especially if you plan to drive on gravel roads or areas with loose gravel. Iceland’s rugged terrain is beautiful but unpredictable.

Unlimited Mileage

All of our campers include unlimited mileage, which means you can drive the entire island without worrying about hidden fees. Want to chase the northern lights from one coast to another? Go for it.

Weather and Roads

Always check the weather forecast before driving. Conditions can shift quickly—icy roads in winter, heavy winds in autumn, or sudden rain in summer.

If you plan to drive near Iceland’s F-roads (which require 4x4s), stick to safe, open roads. Our campers are designed for paved and gravel roads, but not for off-road adventures.

Staying Comfortable

Our campers are compact but cozy. Extras like sleeping bags and a strong heating system keep you warm at night, even if temperatures drop close to freezing. And if you want more comfort at campsites, you’ll often find a hot shower included in the fee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Campervan Hire in Iceland

We get a lot of questions from travelers planning their first Iceland trip. Here are some of the most common ones, answered in detail.

Can You Sleep Anywhere in a Campervan in Iceland?

No, wild camping is not allowed in Iceland. You can’t just pull over anywhere and spend the night, even if the view is amazing. Instead, you need to stay at official campsites.

The good news is that there are many campsites spread all over the island. You’ll never be far from one, whether you’re driving the ring road or exploring the south coast. Campsites usually offer bathrooms, cooking areas, and sometimes even a hot shower, so it’s much more comfortable than parking on your own.

Is It a Good Idea to Rent a Camper van in Iceland?

Absolutely. Renting a camper makes your Iceland adventure flexible and unforgettable. You’ll get to explore Iceland’s rugged terrain at your own pace without worrying about strict hotel bookings.

For many of our happy campers, driving around Iceland with their bed and kitchen in the back of the van was the highlight of their entire trip. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, soaking in hot springs, or visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a camper gives you freedom and comfort.

Are Campsites in Iceland Expensive?

Not really. Campsites usually cost between €10 and €20 per person per night. Some even include extras like a hot shower or electricity for your camper. Compared to hotel stays, this is a huge saving.

If you plan a longer journey, consider buying a camping card. It gives you access to dozens of campsites for a single price, helping you save money during your trip.

Do Campervan Rental in Iceland Have Toilets?

Our campers do not have built-in toilets or showers, but since campsites are everywhere, this is rarely an issue. Facilities are clean and well-maintained, and most travelers prefer using them anyway. For added comfort, you’ll find cooking facilities and cozy sleeping setups in our campers, and you can always add extras like sleeping bags or a camping table.

Inspiration for Your Iceland Road Trip

Blue Lagoon and Hot Springs

A stop at the Blue Lagoon is a must for many travelers. Imagine soaking in steaming blue water after a long day of driving. And that’s just the start; Iceland is full of hot springs. Some are developed and easy to access, while others are hidden gems you’ll discover along the way.

Natural Attractions You Can’t Miss

Your campervan in Iceland puts you right at the doorstep of the country’s best natural attractions. Drive across lava fields, stop at waterfalls, and pull over at viewpoints where glaciers sparkle in the distance.

Highlights include:

Þingvellir National Park (UNESCO site, Golden Circle)
Black sand beaches on the south coast
Gullfoss Waterfall on the Golden Circle
The largest national park in Vatnajökull, where glaciers dominate the horizon

Northern Lights and Iceland’s Magic Skies

Many campers plan their Iceland travel in autumn or winter for the chance to see the northern lights. Renting a camper makes it easy, you can follow the weather forecast, drive away from clouds, and find a dark campsite where the aurora dances above.

Seeing the sky turn green, pink, and purple while wrapped in sleeping bags inside your camper is a memory that stays with you forever.

Road Safety and Driving Tips

Iceland is stunning, but it’s not always easy to drive. Keep these in mind:

Stick to open roads; our campers are not built for Iceland’s F-roads.
Drive slowly on gravel roads to avoid damage from loose gravel.
Watch for icy roads in winter.
Always check your pick up location, drop off location, and drop off date carefully.

Our rentals come with insurance options, roadside assistance, and choices to reduce your self risk. For peace of mind, consider travel insurance as well.

Extras and Add-Ons to Make Your Trip Easier

We know every traveler is different, so we let you add extras to customize your rental in Iceland. Options include:

Sleeping bags for warmth
Heating system upgrades for cold nights
Cooking facilities for self-catering
Camping table for outdoor meals
Adding an extra driver for long road trips

This way, you can shape your trip the way you want it.

Vehicles We Recommend

We don’t rent 4x4s, but we do offer sturdy manual campers designed for Iceland’s conditions. If you’re looking at alternatives, the Dacia Duster is a popular choice among travelers for road trips (though note, we only rent campers, not SUVs). For those who want a true road trip feel, a camper beats a car every time.

Who We’re For

Most of our travelers are adventurers who want to keep things simple, cozy, and flexible. Whether you’re from Europe or a North American traveler crossing Iceland off your bucket list, we make sure you feel at home on the road.

We’ve had countless happy campers tell us their stories: driving along the ring road, setting up at quiet campsites, and feeling the magic of exploring Iceland without rushing. That’s the spirit we want for you too.

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Start Your Iceland Adventure

Renting a camper in Iceland isn’t just about transport, it’s about freedom, memories, and adventure. From exploring the Golden Circle and the south coast to chasing the northern lights in northern Iceland, your camper is your ticket to seeing it all.

With unlimited mileage, roadside assistance, and flexible drop off options, we make sure you enjoy the entire trip without stress. Whether you’re after a cheap campervan, a mid-range option, or something with a strong heating system, we’ve got you covered.

Check our campers and book your trip today

Your Iceland adventure is waiting. Pack your sleeping bags, plan your stops, and let us take care of the rest.

We rented the Renault Trafic 3 from Iceland Campers to drive the Ring Road in winter, and the experience truly exceeded our expectations. The van proved to be an excellent choice for anyone looking for comfort, safety, and practicality while travelling in Iceland. One of the biggest highlights was definitely the heating system, which worked flawlessly throughout the entire trip. Even with freezing temperatures and long nights, the interior stayed warm and comfortable, which made a huge difference. The interior space of the van is another strong point. Well-organized and functional, it allowed us to store everything we needed in an accessible way while still keeping a cosy environment for sleeping and cooking. For two travellers, the Trafic 3 offers the perfect balance between external size and usable interior space. In terms of driving, the Renault Trafic 3 proved to be reliable and safe even in snow and ice. We completed the entire Ring Road without any issues — the van handled well, with good traction and stability, giving us confidence even on the most demanding roads. Another extremely positive aspect was the professionalism of the Iceland Campers staff. Always helpful, attentive, and ready to assist, from the pick-up moment to the end of the trip. They made the whole process simple and stress-free. Overall, the experience was extremely positive. We highly recommend the Renault Trafic 3 and Iceland Campers to anyone planning to drive the Ring Road, especially in winter. Reliable, comfortable, and supported by an outstanding team.

I rented a car from Iceland campres during my trip to Iceland. While I encountered a few minor issues, the company’s exceptional customer service truly stood out. They were highly responsive, addressing my concerns promptly and professionally. Their dedication ensured that my journey continued smoothly. I highly recommend [iceland campres] to anyone planning to visit Iceland. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a reliable choice for car rentals in the region.

To start off, I contacted Iceland Campers about four months in advance by phone, and was immediately met by Eythor (the owner) on the other end. From that first call and all the way until the very last day of our trip, he was always available to answer our countless questions about everything related to a Ring Road journey in Iceland. I just want to give a huge personal thank you for your incredible work ethic and helpfulness. You are extremely service-minded, and it truly shows—it was both noticed and deeply appreciated. You really put our minds at ease throughout the entire trip! A few days before our departure, we realized that we had accidentally booked our van one day too early—both for the pick-up and the return. Luckily, this turned out not to be an issue at all. The van was still available for two more days after our departure, and Iceland Campers kindly let us adjust the booking by one day without any fees or problems. That was a big relief and speaks volumes about their flexibility. The trip itself was absolutely amazing. We truly got the full Iceland experience—everything from wild winds and heavy rain to stunning rainbows over waterfalls on sunny days. We saw it all: waterfalls, puffins, lava fields, mountains, and so much more! For our family of five (basically five adults), having a rental van was essential. We chose the Grand Camper, and it was perfect for us. Of course, traveling with soaked clothes after the rain wasn’t always ideal, but we managed just fine. The space inside was more than enough, and overall it worked out really well for everyone. Towards the end of our trip, we unfortunately had a flat tire in Vik. But, just as with everything else, the service was excellent. We were quickly guided on how to find the spare tire and the right tools to fix it. We were even offered help in the morning, but since we wanted to get going early, we managed to fix it ourselves without any problems. The prices are also very competitive, especially considering that Iceland Campers is still a smaller, family-owned company. That’s a huge plus in my book—without compromising on quality in any way. All in all, I can’t think of a single thing to complain about. This was truly a 5-star experience! Over the past few years, we’ve traveled quite a lot around Europe, and I’ve noticed that family-owned businesses are almost always the best option. If you’re deciding between Iceland Campers, a bigger rental company, or any other alternative—look no further. Even though I haven’t tried other companies in Iceland, I can confidently say that you can’t go wrong with Iceland Campers. Much love from Sweden and from my entire family—thank you once again for helping turn this trip into lifelong memories!

We had the best experience with this company. Communication was excellent, and the owners were incredibly helpful. Our trip was fantastic thanks to the comfort of the camper, which was fully equipped with kitchenware, a refrigerator, chairs, and tables that made our experience even more enjoyable. The staff's energy was outstanding from beginning to end, which is why we always recommend them. We would rent from them again a thousand times.

We simply notified them once we’d collected our luggage, and our driver arrived promptly—no waiting around in the cold with tired kids. He was incredibly helpful, loading all our luggage and assisting with our three little ones, making the transition smooth and welcoming. Upon arrival at their location, we were greeted by Eythor, the Director of Operations, who delivered one of the most thorough briefings I’ve ever experienced. He walked us through everything: operating the van, navigating Iceland’s unique roads (including those tricky roundabouts), parking fees, tolls, road conditions, and even recommended websites and resources for real-time updates. Eythor was patient beyond words, taking the time to answer every single question we had, which instantly built our confidence and trust in the company. Traveling from the USA, we weren’t familiar with Iceland’s driving and camping norms, but his guidance made us feel fully prepared. Since we were traveling with kids, we’d added a bunch of extras to our rental—car seats, chairs, a table, stove, gas, and more—and Eythor meticulously checked off every item to ensure nothing was missing. No surprises or shortages here! Right after the briefing, he led us to our van, which was spotless, perfectly cleaned, and fully equipped with everything we’d ordered. We hit the road without a single delay, unlike the horror stories we’d heard about dirty vans or last-minute holdups from other providers. Eythor didn’t stop there; he provided us with all the contact info and phone numbers we’d need for any issues during our trip—roadside assistance, emergencies, you name it. Thankfully, we never had to use them because our 9-day adventure went flawlessly. The van performed beautifully as we explored Iceland’s stunning landscapes, and the initial briefing was key to navigating the societal differences in driving and camping compared to back home in the USA. Iceland Campers’ attention to detail gave us the confidence to focus on making memories, not worrying about logistics. This company is an absolute must if you want a partner who truly sets you up for success. At the end of our trip, dropping off the van was just as seamless. We met Eythor and Charlie, who handled everything efficiently. Since we’d booked a hotel for our last night in Iceland (after spending most of the trip far from Keflavík), Charlie kindly provided transportation back to our hotel. But he went above and beyond—knowing we had one evening left, he shared fantastic recommendations for nearby restaurants and viewpoints, even driving me around to point them out and giving detailed overviews of the best foods and spots to enjoy with the family. It was such a thoughtful touch that capped off our vacation perfectly. Later that day, we received a confirmatory email from Iceland Campers ensuring all parks, tolls, and fees were squared away—no loose ends or surprises. This level of professionalism and follow-through is rare and truly sets them apart. In summary, Iceland Campers turned what could have been a daunting trip into an unforgettable, hassle-free adventure. Their team—especially Eythor and Charlie—treated us like family, and we’re already planning our next visit with them. Five stars—book with confidence!

Will book with Iceland Campers if we were visiting this beautiful country again in the future. Iceland is To go with them was such a good choice. The van was a very good car to drive. The van‘s front window broke because of a small stone from the road but we had the zero risk insurance so we didn‘t have to worry about it at all. We recommend this camper van rental without hesitation. Thank you Iceland Campers!