With Iceland’s growing popularity, more and more travelers are wondering if it’s possible to travel in Iceland by campervan during the winter months. It’s definitely possible, provided you take advantage of the services of a rental company that offers special winter tires and heated vehicles. Camping in Iceland has its special challenges and for the most part, you just need to be well-informed and well-prepared when embarking on your journey.
A new 2016 law requires people traveling in motorhomes to stay at authorized campgrounds or to make sure they seek the land owner’s permission to spend the night when camping out in the Icelandic countryside. In urban areas, it is acceptable to sleep in your campervan. Of course be careful not to camp on private property and make sure you are respectful of whichever space you choose. More and more campsites stay open until the end of October, and some are open all year round.
Be aware that winter driving conditions in Iceland can be demanding and dangerous. If a storm is coming, do not take any risks on the road and be sure to take refuge in the nearest town until the bad weather passes. Iceland has some extreme weather, and if the wind is too strong, it’s definitely not safe to drive. You should check updates on the condition of the roads regularly to ensure a secure, enjoyable journey. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry and traveling by RV in Iceland is no exception.
Road safety conditions aside, the main hazard when staying in a motorhome in Iceland in winter is the cold. It’s important that humidity stay as low as possible in the vehicle. Do not let your motorhome’s temperature get too low and avoid keeping wet clothes inside. Vent your sleeping bag every day and open the campervan each morning. This will give accumulated condensation a chance to dry out.
Bring a good sleeping bag and breathable night clothes. Some campervans provide sleeping bags and even have a small electric heater if the nights get too cold.
For convenience, if you cannot find an open campsite in the area where you are, you can use service stations for toilets, drinking water and garbage cans. These services are made available especially for travelers. To shower, you can enjoy the showers at the municipal swimming pools around the country.
Essential Guide to Traveling in Iceland by Campervan in Winter
There are several benefits of traveling in Iceland by campervan in winter
- Your rental is 40% cheaper on average than in summer.
- You have the freedom and flexibility to go where you want and to adapt your itinerary to the climate and road conditions.
- You can see the Aurora Borealis at all times from the vehicle.
- You get the opportunity to enjoy Icelandic landscapes 24/7. What could be better than that?
We hope you decide to pick up your camper rental in Iceland and hit the road this winter!
