Camper Rental in Iceland - Motorhome, caravan, campervan Rental Iceland

If you’re planning to tour Iceland by car, then Icelandic camper van rentals provide the cheapest and best way to explore the vast island. It is increasingly popular to travel trough the Icelandic nature in the comfort of a camper van or a luxurious caravan. It gives tourists the opportunity to experience Iceland freely without involving too much planning.

Even though Iceland has a small population, the island itself is three times bigger than Scotland. Motorhome travel in Iceland is the ideal way to get around, because along the way there are so many well hidden natural gems that just demand a stop off.

Here you can find the youngest and the oldest camper rentals in Iceland and campers of all sizes and prices. Whether you need a ordinary family camper, caravan or a RV you can find it on this page. Below you'll find a list of the top camper rentals in Iceland.

CAMPER VAN PRICE COMPARISON
May 7th to 14th (7 days) - Prices with GPS, CDW Insurance, unlimited km & pick up / drop off

Option A - New Campers:

CAMPERVAN ICELAND * Recommended 
www.campervaniceland.com
Camper Renault Kangoo (2 persons)           701 EUR / 875 USD
Camper Renault Trafic (4 persons)              1.330 EUR / 1.660 USD

EUROPCAR
http://www.holdur.is/en
Camper Toyota Hilux (2 persons)               1.834 EUR / 2.519 USD
Camper Motorhome (3-4 persons)              2.343 EUR / 3.218 USD

CAMPER RENTAL ICELAND * Recommended
www.camperrentaliceland.com/
Camper 2 DIESEL  (2 persons)                    715 EUR / 892 USD
Camper 4 DIESEL (4 persons)                     1.360 EUR / 1.696 USD

Option B - Old camper vans:

MOTORHOME ICELAND
www.motorhomeiceland.com
Camper Nissan Diesel   (2 persons)               881 EUR / 1.075 USD
Camper Renault Trafic  (4 persons                1.468 EUR / 1.825 USD

CARAVAN.IS
www.caravan.is
Camper VW Caddy (2 persons)                   1.040 EUR / 1.297 USD
Camper Renault Trafic (4-5 persons)           1.442 EUR / 1.798 USD

LAVA CAMPERS
www.lavacampers.is
Camper Mercedes (2 persons)                      1.201 EUR / 1.649 USD
Camper Ford Transit (4 persons)                  1.540 EUR / 2.115 USD

CAMPERVAN ICELAND 
www.campervaniceland.com
Camper Renault Kangoo (2 persons)            701 EUR / 875 USD
Camper Renault Trafic (4 persons)               1.330 EUR / 1.660 USD

SNAIL
www.snail.is
Camper VW Transporter (2 persons)              1.150 EUR / 1.434 USD
Camper VW Transporter (4 persons)              1.720 EUR / 2.145 USD

Why choose a camper van in Iceland:

1. It's really cheap. Why spend your money on a expensive hotel and a car when you can use a Camper van or a Motorhome for both?
2. The weather in Iceland is as predictable as roulette table and therefore you will want to be mobile and ready to move at any given time. We don't recommend you to have to pack your tent in the rain, and then sit wet in your car for the rest of your day.
3. In Iceland there is a law that allows you park your motor home or camper van anywhere for one night. It´s called the law of survival and it also allows you to eat whatever you can put in your mouth (do not forget). 
4. In a camper van you can go anywhere, sleep anywhere and do anything you want to do.
5. There are 3 persons per square kilometer in Iceland. This allows you to basically disappear into the nature in a motor-home, caravan or camper van. 
6. In Iceland you won't need to reserve a spot at a camp site . You need simply to show up and enjoy it. Camp sites are very modern and have good facilities.
7. All of Iceland's ring road (road no.1) is asphalt which allows you to drive safely around Iceland in any type of camper van. 
8. In a camper van in Iceland you won't need to plan your trip. You just follow the good weather and enjoy where it takes you. 
9. In Iceland there are hardly any trees. Therefore you always have an amazing 360° view from a camper at all times. 
10. With a Camper van you have a kitchen wher-ever you go. This will save you lot´s of cash. Fast food in Iceland is expensive. 

DRIVING IN ICELAND

Driving Conditions in Iceland are in many ways unusual and often quite unlike what foreign drivers are accustomed to. It is therefore very important to find out how to drive in this country. We know that the landscapes are beautiful, which naturally draws the driver’s attention away from the road. But in order to reach your destination safely, you must keep your full attention on driving.

-The speed limit in populated areas is usually 50 km/hr.

-The speed limit is often 60 km/hr on thruways, but in residential areas it is usually only 30 km/hr.

-The main rule in rural areas is that gravel roads have a speed limit of 80 km/hr, and paved roads 90 km/hr.

-Signs indicate if other speed limits apply.

Camper rentals in Iceland are a popular choice for travelers looking for the "road trip" experience in Iceland. Renting a camper in Iceland is a great option in Iceland because the country offers unique sites to see in all of its forur corners. 

112 Iceland App

The 112 Iceland app can be used for two things, both for added safety on your Iceland trip.

First of all you can call for help by pressing the red Emergency button. Your location will be sent by text message to the 112 response center. Remember that even though your phone shows no signal there is a possibilite that you can send text message.

The green Check In button is for you to leave your location with us so if something happens we have more information to work with. Only the 5 last locations are stored and we recommend you use this – don’t worry – you are not disturbing anyone – except for our big computer who wants to be disturbed.

Here you can download the app for Android phones, Windows phones and iPhone.

Wohnmobilvermietung in Island - Camping-cars en Islande - Alquiler de autocaravana en Islandia - Camper Rental in Iceland - Car Rental in Iceland - Autonoleggio Islanda

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Peter, Iceland24

Akranes Travel Guide

Located in the Western part of Iceland, Akranes is a major economic center that also has a lot to offer the intrepid traveler.

There is actually a lot more to Akranes than initially meets the eye. While not necessarily a shabby town, it is a little rougher around the edges than other tourist spots. It is only once you spend time there that you get to see the beauty that lies below the surface.

Akranes is a lot like Keflavik and Selfoss in that they would be major tourist spots where it not for their proximity to Reykjavik. These three town, as well as a few other smaller ones that sit nestled between them, share a common bond, which is that many of their residents travel to Reykjavic to work and play. This is especially true in Akranes, as the 1998 opening of the Hvalfjörður tunnel shaved the travel time to the Big City to about 60 minutes.

This is also a great benefit to tourists, as it makes Akranes easier to get to. There are a number of reasons why you would want to visit.

If history and culture are what you seek, Akranes is the place to visit. The Garðar museum area is where you will find all manner of different museums, displaying everything from sports memorabilia to the history of the aforementioned tunnel. The Akranes Folk Museum is home to a number of fun little displays, including a huge selection of thimbles. It’s also a fantastic place to grab a quick bite to eat.

Football fans will likely already know about Akranes, and specifically ÍA, who just happen to be one of Iceland’s most successful teams. All told, they have won the championship 18 times, with their glory years coming in the 90’s when they won it an incredible five times straight. Things went a little downhill after that, but the team is once again on the rise in the Pepsi League.

During the summer months, you need to visit Langisandur, which is close to Akranes, as well as being home to a wonderful beach. You will also find peaceful nature trails in the area, with many on and around Mount Akrafjall.

The mountain will even call to you when you are in Reykjavik, as it is clearly visible from the Big City. The peak of the mountain is easily accessible to even the most novice of hikers, and the views it offers really cannot be beat.

A new place to visit is the Akranes Lighthouse in Breiðin. The general public have only recently been granted access, and the views from the top are fantastic. On a clear day, you may even be able to spy Reykjavic off over the bay. The lighthouse is operated by a local photographer who loves to talk about his project. You can take in the lighthouse on weekdays between 10:00 and 12:00, during which time you will learn a lot about its history.

Akranes is located off Route 1, but is still easy to access. All you have to do is take a left after the Hvalfjörður tunnel, or you could also skip the tunnel route and take a trip along the old Hvalfjörður road. Both routes will add an interesting leg to your Northward journey.

Kolla, Iceland24
© 2015 Iceland24

Camping in Iceland - Campsites in Iceland

Camping in Iceland is not like camping in your home country. Therefore, today we are providing you with Iceland camping tips so you can prepare.

What You Need

Money – Iceland does have credit card machines at locations that sell items. However, you still need to make sure that you have some cash on hand to make sure that you are prepared in the event that an emergency arises.

Alcohol – The government is in charge of alcohol distribution in Iceland. This means that you are not going to find beer anywhere. However, there are some state alcohol stores yet they are only in major towns and they can be hard to find since advertising alcohol is illegal.

Therefore, before coming camping you need to make sure that you stock up.

Food – Make sure that you have a cooler. If you plan to rent a campervan, they will probably come equipped with one. Having a cooler is going to save you money because you can fill it with the items that you need.

It is suggested that you purchase local food during your journey so you can have fresh food and support the smaller towns. If you get a craving for some junk food, you can always stop at one of the many gas stations that you will pass.

Staying Clean During Your Iceland Camping Trip

Bathing – When traveling in Iceland you can camp wherever you desire. This is nice because you are able to experience nature yet after a few days of doing so you are not going to smell so pleasant. The good news is Iceland has tons of geothermal energy, which enables them to pump boiling water out of the earth at a fair price.

Iceland is also full of swimming pools/hot tubs. It is suggested that you go swimming daily when camping in Iceland.

Doing Laundry – When at the campsites you have access to washing machines that can be rented for an affordable price.

Closing Thoughts

If you are planning a camping trip and need to rent a motorhome/campervan in Iceland or have any more questions, read our article, which includes price comparisons for reputable companies.

Enjoy your camping trip in Iceland!

Mike, Iceland24
© 2015 Iceland24

Where to stay during a trip to Iceland

There are many types of accommodations in Iceland: campgrounds, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, huts, rental cottages, hotels... Reservations are not necessary in winter, but during high season (June to August), we strongly recommend booking in advance because most places are full. It is a good idea to bring along a sleeping bag because sheets cost extra in hostels, and some guesthouses and cabins for rent. These prices are given as a guideline and refer to high season rates, so do not be surprised if they seem outrageous. In winter, lodgings are available for half that price, especially outside the capital.

For budget accommodations during the summer season (June to August), or off-season if you are brave and well-equipped, camping is your best option. No reservations are required. There are about 200 campgrounds spread throughout Iceland; they are listed online at http://tjalda.is. Rates range from 1 000 to 1 500 ISK per night, per person.

The Ferðafélag Íslands Association manages the huts stationed along the hiking trails. The list of huts is available on their website, http://www.fi.is. Per night, per person rates fall between 5 000 and 7 000 ISK. The huts have a small housing capacity and must be reserved well in advance.

Hostels are an affordable option, whether travelling alone or in a group. Rates start at around 4 500 ISK for a dormitory, 7 500 ISK for a single room and 20 000 ISK for a four-person room. Bathrooms and kitchens are shared. Breakfast is not included. http://www.hostel.is

Guesthouses or bed and breakfasts are everywhere in Iceland, and offer private rooms with different options or extras: private bathroom, breakfast, find the combination that is right for you. Rates are generally between 120 and 180 euros. The Iceland Tourism Office’s website lists them by region here: http://www.visiticeland.com. We recommend this little guesthouse in North Iceland: http://www.elfguesthouse.com

Icelandic Farm Holidays offers more than 170 lodgings, of all types and at any price, in the Icelandic countryside. More information is available on their website, http://www.farmholidays.is.

Airbnb is a new platform for staying in Icelandic houses or apartments during your trip. You can rent one room in a house or the entire home. Prices vary significantly depending on lodging type, date and city. https://www.airbnb.com

Hotels are plentiful in Iceland. Except for the Edda hotel chain, which are schools converted to hotels for the summer, they are expensive. If you can find a double room in a Hotel Edda for 100 euros, then the same room in a traditional hotel will cost double. http://www.hoteledda.is/en

If you are travelling as a family or in a group, you can reserve Icelandic summer cottages on http://bungalo.is. Most cottages have a two-night minimum stay and must be clean upon departure.

Berglind Rós
Iceland24, June 2015

Icelandic horses: About the Icelandic Horse

When traveling around Iceland, you will probably notice the Icelandic horse, wherever you go. The small horse might look wild, but it is known for being very friendly, it is also believed to be one of purest horse breeds in the world. So what is Icelandic horse and why is he so unique? Here will be answers for those questions.

This small horse (average 135cm) came to Iceland when first viking settlers sailed to Iceland around year 800. Even though it is not a big horse, it is very strong, can carry a full-grown man and has adapted to Icelandic weather conditions very well. Most of the time horses spend outside, and during the winter time they grow very thick coat to protect themselves from the cold and strong winds.

The Icelandic horse is enormously muscular, and with very dense bones, often with a heavy head and compact body.  This breed is possessed of great agility and is also very sure-footed.

Icelanders are very proud of their horse, and it is not recommended to talk bad about their horses in front of them. Even they are in size of ponies, they are not called Icelandic pony.

The Icelandic horse is the only horse breed in Iceland. Natives are doing everything they can to protect their breed. That´s why all horse import in Iceland is strongly forbidden, no exceptions. Once the horse leaves Iceland, it never returns back. That way Icelanders can make sure their breed is pure and also no diseases come to the country.

Because Iceland is geographically isolated, with help of import ban, only very few horse diseases are known here. Which makes difficult for horses that leave this country, as they are are not immune for sicknesses that are popular in other countries.

Back in the days Icelandic horse was very important part of Icelandic people. Before cars came, it was the only way of transportation. Iceland is also one of not so many contries that eat horse meat (also still today). A popular entertainment among vikings was also stallion fights. Nowadays Icelandic horse is bred for leisure, sport and also meat.

The icelandic horse has 5 gaits.  The gaits are walk, trot and canter/gallop, like in other horses, but also the super smooth tolt and many of the Icelandics also master the 5th gait, the thrilling and fun flying pace.    

The tolt is a smooth four beat gait (similar to the running walk or rack)  The rider sits virtually bounce free at speeds up to 20 mph.  You can carry a glass full of beer or your favorite drink while riding the tolt, without fear of spilling it.  The tolt is a natural gait, and you often see foals and grown horses tolting in the pasture.

It is very popular among tourists to explore Iceland on horseback, there are many horse rentals all over Iceland that offer shorter and longer horse riding tours. If you have never had experience with horses, Iceland is a place to give it a try. Icelandic horse is a gaited horse, which means besides the „regular“ gaits that all horses have – walk, trot and canter, Icelandic horse has two „extra“ – tölt: very comfortable gait, often said to be faster version of walk and flying pace: a very fast gait, where the horse shows off all his power.

If you are interested in trying to ride and Icelandic horse, contact Icelandic Excursions (info@landmannalaugartours.com), and they will help you to find right riding tours that suits you.

Peter, Iceland24
June 2015

Green Driving Tips in Iceland

You CAN make a difference! 

As stated in our environmental platform, one of our objectives is to reduce emissions from the company´s car fleet. With regular maintaining and service, we keep our vehicles operating at peak efficiency. By following the „green“ driving tips below, you can improve your fuel economy and help us to reduce the negative environmental influence and create a greener future.

Plan routes and consolidate your trips: 

Whether going for a longer vacation or a quick trip, plan out your routes in advance to avoid heavy traffic periods and areas. If rush hour or road construction leads to traffic jams and stop-and-go driving, sometimes, the longer route can consume less fuel than a shorter one. So plan your routes to enable you to bypass congested routes and lead to fewer start-ups and less stop-and-go driving. Try to combine several short trips into one to save fuel and cut down on pollution. Warmed-up engines produce lower emissions.

Lighten your load and reduce drag: 

The more weight a car carries, the lower its fuel economy will be. Only pack what you need for vacations (including emergency items), and remove items that are not needed. Remove unneeded roof boxes, trailers and other items from your vehicle that cause wind resistance. These simple steps can cut significant weight and reduce drag, enabling your car to use less fuel.

Avoid quick starts, reduce your speed and keep the RPMs down: 

A smooth, steady speed improves your fuel economy, saves gasoline and reduces wear and tear on the engine, tires, transmission and brakes. As speed increases, so does drag. So, driving at higher speeds will reduce your fuel economy. Avoid quick starts. Putting the pedal to the metal when the stoplight turns green, increases your vehicle’s RPM level and lowers your fuel efficiency. Staying at or a bit below the speed limit and watching your RPMs can have a big impact on the environment and can lower your fuel cost. For every 15 km per hour you reduce speed, you can improve your fuel economy by 10 – 15%.

Think ahead in traffic: 

Try to anticipate stops and let your vehicle coast down as much as possible. Avoid the increased pollution, wasted gas and wear on your brakes created by accelerating hard and braking hard. Be smart as you navigate your way through traffic. Create space from the car in front of you and look ahead for any potential.

Keep a recommended air pressure in your tires: 

Maintaining recommended tire pressure can improve fuel economy as much as 6 percent. Over time, tires lose air pressure and as the air pressure decreases, rolling resistance increases and that makes your vehicle less fuel efficient. Recommended air pressure for your tires is shown in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Peter
Iceland24
May 2015

How to get from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík

Keflavík International Airport to/from Reykjavík:

Distance: 50 km
Methods of transport: Rental Car, Bus & Taxi

Going by Rental Car

This is the ideal option if you are looking for a hassle free journey and if public transport isn't your thing. For a very small fee, many of the well-known car rental companies in Iceland will provide a direct pick-up service from the airport. It's worth considering, as even if you're travelling with someone else, it's still cheaper than a bus ticket.

What better way to enjoy your first glimpses of Iceland than zipping along the country side with your own set of wheels. Also, it isn’t a difficult rout, directions are available at any time on map on ja.is.

Getting from Keflavík - Airport By Bus

There are two main air-link services to choose from: Flybus and Airport Express. Each providing effectively similar services, at a similar price, but with their own respective benefits:

Flybus:

- Provides pick-up for all flights. 

- 500 ISK charge per person for drop-off at hotel or guesthouse. 

- Free Wifi on all buses.

Airport Express

- Bookings must be placed in advance to guarantee a seat.
- Drop-off at most hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavík at no extra cost. 

- Wifi not provided.   

  

Getting from Keflavík - Airport By Taxi

Here in Reykjavík, the Taxi services are reliable, trustworthy, frequent and run on a meter basis. The usual price is around 15.000 ISK if you are traveling with up to 4 people. 

City Taxi is a small and reliable company, who will get you to where you want to go in a timely and comfortable manner. You'll be in good hands. (There is also no problem if you or a member of your group requires wheelchair access)!

You can usually get a cab without problem directly outside the arrivals area after you land; or, for your own peace of mind, have one booked waiting for you in advance. And now you know who to call!    

Alternative methods

If you are penniless and a bit adventurous you could try one of the following methods. Hitchhiking is a fairly common practice in Iceland and it's usually quite safe. Just always be sure to be safe and responsible if you are going to hitch. The certainty that you'll get a lift along this route isn't 100%, so you may have to do a little trekking before you get anywhere with it.

The second option, apart from walking (which let's face it, you'd probably struggle with even if you’d enjoy the scenery) is: keeping a look out for friendly, nice people who may have their car at the airport and would be willing to drop you off somewhere along their journey. There are lots of them in Iceland, don't worry. Strike up conversation on the flight or ask someone in the arrivals lounge if they're heading to Reykjavik too. If you don't ask you don't get – and what's the harm in trying, eh? 

  

Directions

Finding your way to and from Reykjavik or Keflavik Airport isn't too much of a challenge, but should you need directions check out map on ja.is.

Safe travels!

Jóhanna, Iceland24

May 2015