Finding the Perfect Camper Van Rental for Your Iceland Adventure

There are several benefits to renting a camper van for your Iceland adventure. Falling asleep beside a rushing river or waking up near a cascading waterfall can connect you with nature in ways that hotels cannot.

When you arrive at your campervan rental company location, read the terms and conditions thoroughly. They will cover everything from what’s included to insurance options.

Safety

Iceland has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and a road trip in a camper van is the best way to see it all. But it’s important to remember that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. It can go from sunny to rainy in minutes, so you must be prepared with the right gear for every situation. A good rain jacket and waterproof shoes will help you stay dry, while a hat and gloves protect your hands from the cold. You may also want to bring a swimsuit, as Iceland has natural hot springs perfect for jumping into. Another important safety consideration is the type of camper van you rent. Most of the options in Iceland are manual vehicles, so be sure you can drive a stick shift before your Iceland camper van trip. If unsure, consider taking a driving course before your trip to improve your skills and confidence. You’ll also need to familiarize yourself with the Icelandic road signs in a different language. Finally, remember that driving a camper van in Iceland can be more challenging than on the roads, so taking your time and driving safely is essential. Plenty of sheep are also in the streets, so be aware of their location and be careful not to hit one.

Size

Choosing which camper van to rent is a big part of planning your Iceland road trip. You must consider how many people the vehicle will sleep, fuel consumption, and storage space. You’ll also want to consider the amenities that will come with the rental, such as a kitchenette and a heater. Some camper van companies include all the basics with their rentals, while others require you to rent extras like blankets and French presses for your morning coffee. Once you arrive at your camper van company location, it’s essential to take the time to inspect the vehicle before you hit the road. Ensure the van is clean and there are no signs of previous damage, especially if you’re traveling during winter when snow and ice are expected. It’s also good to ask about additional features, such as a GPS and extra winter tires.

Lastly, be sure to bring a daypack and backpack for your hikes. Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, and it’s a good idea to get warm clothes and waterproof hiking gear even in summer. Having a daypack or backpack will also allow you to carry snacks and water for your hikes and give you the flexibility of changing your outfit when the weather changes. Iceland’s speed cameras are notoriously aggressive, so drive safely and follow the road rules.

Comfort

A camper van gives you a sense of freedom that is hard to match. You can fall asleep next to a rushing river or wake up to a cascading waterfall, and you don’t need to worry about finding and booking accommodation each night. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan.

Creating an itinerary for your trip is a great way to help you determine how long you should spend in each location and your driving plans. It would help if you also had a rough idea of where you will be parking each night. This information will allow LAVA to give you feedback on the best campsites for your trip.

Check the rental company’s website for additional insurance options when planning your Iceland trip. Some companies include insurance for renting the vehicle, while others offer it as an add-on. Some options may be worth the extra expense depending on your travel plans and budget.

Another essential consideration is gas expenses. Remember that Iceland sells gas by the liter. Try to map out your route and stop at the most convenient gas stations so you don’t run out of fuel. Luckily, most rental companies will include unlimited mileage with your reservation so you can travel without worrying about running up overage charges.

Insurance

Iceland is full of natural beauty — hues of blue at the Blue Lagoon and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green framing Skogafoss, and black sand beaches on the coast. A travel insurance provider offers a variety of policies, including those that provide medical and evacuation coverage for those who choose to rent vehicles. You must weigh your options and compare prices to find the right policy for your Iceland adventure.

Travel insurance policies with evacuation coverage will pay for getting you to a hospital that adequately treats your condition.

In addition to medical coverage, travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance with cancel for any reason coverage. This policy provides reimbursement if you must cancel a prepaid, nonrefundable trip due to an unavoidable circumstance, such as illness or family tragedy. It’s also worth looking into a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees to avoid additional charges while traveling abroad. These cards typically have lower interest rates than standard credit cards.