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Iceland in a motorhome is a dream. If you are looking for everything about how to travel to Iceland by motorhome, stay in this article because here we will tell you everything!

Iceland is a country that seems straight out of a fairy tale, with breathtaking landscapes, majestic waterfalls, towering glaciers, and active volcanoes . For many travelers, exploring this unique island is a dream, and doing so by campervan is an even more enriching and exciting experience. Traveling by campervan gives you the freedom to explore Iceland's most remote and amazing places at your own pace. In this guide, you'll discover everything you need to know to enjoy an unforgettable campervan adventure in Iceland.

Ready to embark on an exciting motorhome trip to the land of ice and fire?

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Take the motorhome there or rent a motorhome in Iceland?

Taking the motorhome by ferry to Iceland

The only option to go by motorhome from Spain or Europe to Iceland is to take one of the ferries that go to Iceland from Denmark or Germany. A maritime route that passes through the Faroese Islands and that lasts 2 days at a cost of about 4500 euros for two people and a motorhome, booking in advance.

Tips for the ferry trip

• Book in advance: As we mentioned before, be sure to book your ferry ticket early to secure your spot and get the best fares.
• Check the ferry regulations: Each ferry company may have different vehicle regulations and restrictions, so be sure to check the relevant information before boarding. What is normal is that you must turn off the gas in your motorhome, so the fridge is empty.
• Upload forecasts to the ferry cabin: Although the ferry may have food and drink options, it's a good idea to bring supplies for the journey, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or want to save some money on the trip.
• Prepare activities on board: The ferry ride can be long, so bring activities to keep you entertained, such as books, movies, or board games.
• Consider the weather: The weather in the North Atlantic can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate clothing to keep you warm and comfortable during your trip. It also carries biodramine with you in case there is a rough sea.

Plane + motorhome rental in Iceland

For us this is the best option, especially if you do not have 1 month to travel around Iceland, which is what would make the previous option better to pay off the ferry trip.

The first step to travel to Iceland in a rental motorhome is to buy the flights to there and then rent at the destination. There are several rental companies that offer a wide range of options, from compact motorhomes to fully equipped campervans. Make sure you choose a motorhome that fits your family size and comfort needs.

TIP: If you don't have a motorhome or campervan but want to rent one and try this type of travel, remember that the cheapest option with the best experiences is to rent from private individuals through a platform like Airbnb, but for motorhomes and campers.

When to go to Iceland by motorhome?

Iceland is a magical and fascinating destination throughout the year, but each season has its charm and offers unique experiences for travelers who venture into a motorhome. If you are planning a trip to this land of ice and fire on wheels, here is the best time to fully enjoy your Icelandic adventure.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Iceland by motorhome. During the months of June to August, the island is full of life and color. The days are long, the temperature is around 15º, with sunlight almost 24 hours a day, which will allow you to make the most of your days of exploration. Of course, take an ANTIFAZ to be able to sleep!

Autumn (September to October)

Autumn is another magical time to explore Iceland by campervan. During September and October, the island is bathed in golden and reddish hues, creating incredibly picturesque landscapes, and the Northern Lights begin to appear. Keep in mind, however, that most campsites in Iceland close from September 15th until mid-May: this will complicate your entire campervan trip through Iceland.

Winter (November to February)

If you are looking for a unique and magical experience, winter in Iceland is the ideal time. Although the weather can be more challenging, the rewards are incredible. Be clear that you will see the northern lights but you will hardly see an open campsite!

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a time of transition in Iceland, but it also brings its own charm. It is undoubtedly the best time to watch birds, puffins and other fauna. The auroras will be less visible and the campsites will reopen in mid-May.

How many days do I need to visit Iceland by motorhome?

We would say that you need at least 7 days to visit the most important part of Iceland in a motorhome, and that ideally you would need at least 14 days to go around the whole island and see the essential sights.

In 7 days we recommend you visit the south and east of the island to see the golden circle and the glaciers with some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island.

With 14 days you will be able to go around the island completely, although I am not fooling you, every day you will have to do about 3 hours of driving on average and some days a little more.

Budget for a trip to Iceland in a motorhome

Traveling by motorhome in Iceland can be a cheaper option than staying in hotels and eating in restaurants. But perhaps, nowadays, since the motorhome boom after Covid, it is no longer so. Be that as it may, it is essential to plan an adequate budget to avoid unexpected expenses. Some things to keep in mind are:

• Motorhome rental cost: research different options and choose the one that best suits your budget and needs. In high season a motorhome can cost you an average of 3500 euros a week.
• Fuel Efficiency:: the price of gasoline in Iceland can be high, so calculate the cost of fuel according to the distance of your route.
• Food: buy groceries at local supermarkets to save money compared to always eating at restaurants that are overpriced. And if you can bring a checked suitcase full of food from Spain, you will pay off the suitcase.
• Campsites and services: Take into account the cost of the campsites and any additional facilities you may need, such as access to showers and electricity. The camping plus extras cost approximately 25/30 euros per night. And remember there are no other legal options, you must sleep in campsites, I'll tell you everything below.

Planning the route and being realistic to the days we have

Planning your route through Iceland is exciting and, at the same time, can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of breathtaking places the country offers. Also, although it may appear small on a map, it 's actually the 18th largest island in the world —maps can be deceiving. Some highlights you shouldn't miss include the Golden Circle, the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, Skógafoss waterfall, the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and the East Fjords. Organize your itinerary considering distances and the amount of time you want to spend in each place, and don't forget to book the most popular activities so you don't miss out on them when you arrive.

Book the activities that sell out quickly if you go in high season

After planning your route, it's important to book some of the most popular activities in Iceland as soon as possible, as they sell out easily during peak season.

The main activities that you will surely want to do are these:

• get into one excursion to the fascinating volcano Askja
• kayak tour to see the Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon and nearby glaciers or excursion inside a glacier
• Free tour of Reykjavik
• Whale watching in Húsavík or whales and puffins
• Entrance to the Mytvan thermal baths or Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik

DNI, health, roaming and other basic advice in Iceland in a motorhome to know before going

Now that we have the logistics figured out, let's go with some curiosities and tips to get the most out of your trip!

National Identity Card (DNI): You do not need to apply for a visa and you can use your DNI as long as it is valid for at least 3 months. If you wish, you can also bring your passport.

European Health Insurance Card and travel insurance: Don't forget to get your European Health Insurance Card before you travel, as it's valid there, but remember that there's a high co-payment you'll have to pay. That's why I recommend getting travel insurance, which will give you peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events and save you money and headaches.

A TIP : For health coverage while traveling, we used Iati Escapadas, which is the best travel insurance for motorhome trips around Europe . Besides medical coverage, it includes extras for the motorhome that other insurance policies don't, such as theft from inside the motorhome, which even the vehicle's own insurance doesn't cover. It even includes coverage for accidents involving your pet if you have a dog in your motorhome, like we did.

In this case, if you want to hire it, I leave you a 5% discount on the Iati Getaways that will be applied to you at the end by accessing the link below.

Roaming in Iceland and guaranteed internet everywhere: Mobile coverage in Iceland is quite good, so you'll be connected with your loved ones and can show off your amazing photos on social media!

Pack a suitable bag: Before embarking on your adventure, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies. The basic list includes clothing suitable for the Icelandic weather (which can be very changeable), a sleeping bag, cooking utensils, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and personal hygiene items. To save money, pack as much as you can, and also bring good warm clothing.

Learn a little Icelandic: basic words. Knowing a few basic words in Icelandic is always a good idea for interacting with locals. They'll love it!

Hello!

Takk: Thank you

Ha: Yes

Nei: No.

The Icelandic krona is the official currency of Iceland. 1000 krona is roughly equivalent to 7 euros. For the best exchange rate, remember to pay by card whenever possible, and consider a fee-free card like Revolut.

Circulating and driving in Iceland in a motorhome

Before we get into the stunning Icelandic landscapes, we need to know how driving works on this island. Iceland is famous for its winding roads, beautiful scenery, and changeable weather conditions. So here are some tips to enjoy driving in Iceland:

Summary of Icelandic traffic law

• Speed ​​limits: The maximum speed allowed in urban areas is 50 km/h, on rural roads 80 km/h, and on highways 90 km/h. Watch out for the data, don't cross the line, friend!
• Spanish and European driving license: Your Spanish or European driving license is valid in Iceland, so you don't have to worry about getting a special driving license. Ready to hit the Icelandic roads!

Basic advice for driving in Iceland in a motorhome

Stay calm and enjoy the journey! Some roads can be narrow and winding, so be patient and enjoy the scenery. The Ring Road is the best-maintained road in Iceland. It circles the island and is close to all the main tourist attractions. One piece of advice: stick to it. Avoid secondary roads in your campervan, as they are almost certainly unpaved, bumpy, and impassable for two vehicles to pass each other. Don't complicate things with such a large vehicle!

And of course, don't forget to have your camera ready to capture every unique moment during your roadtrip! Driving in Iceland is a pleasure just for the views.

Tolls in Iceland by motorhome

Good news, folks! There are no tolls on Iceland's main roads. So you can explore the island without worrying about extra costs. Just make sure you keep enough fuel in your campervan to cover long distances and avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Camping in Iceland in a motorhome: general regulations and fines

Now, where can we camp in Iceland with our beloved motorhome? First, it is important to know the rules and general camping regulations in this country.

You should know that since 2015, Icelandic law has prohibited wild camping across the entire island. Therefore, you can only camp in areas explicitly designated for camping or in campsites that are clearly marked and have basic facilities such as restrooms and outdoor cooking areas.

Remember that camping is taking out a table, chairs, awning, cooking outside and everything that involves protruding from the perimeter of your home vehicle. You can only do this in campsites or established camping areas in the country.

Staying overnight in Iceland in a motorhome: general regulations and fines

Now, where can we camp in Iceland with our beloved motorhome? First, it is important to know the rules and general camping regulations:

Free overnight in Iceland in a motorhome or camper van is prohibited

Unfortunately, Iceland does not allow camping or wild camping outside of designated campsites . But don't worry, there are plenty of options available for a comfortable overnight stay.

Places to spend the night in a motorhome in Iceland

Although free overnight stays are prohibited, we have options on the island:

The essential Icelandic campsites on your route through Iceland in a motorhome and the Camping Card

Iceland boasts a wide variety of campsites, some of which are part of the Camping Card network. This card grants you access to over 40 campsites across the island for a fixed fee, payable upon purchase. This fee is under €200 for a family of two adults and up to four children under 16. Furthermore, it provides access to 28 nights at network campsites, including running water, toilet facilities, and campervan waste disposal (if available) – an excellent way to save some money!

Although these Camping Card network campsites are sometimes far from the place of interest you want to visit, keep that in mind!

And in general, you should know that Icelandic campsites often leave much to be desired. Here are some additional drawbacks of Icelandic campsites :

• With the cost of the overnight stay, the government tourist tax does not enter and you must pay almost 3 euros extra per night.
• Many do not have water emptying and filling services for motorhomes and campers.
• In many cases, showers must be paid separately.
• In all Icelandic campsites, electricity, if any, is paid separately.
• On the other hand, only a minority of campsites are open year-round and most are only open from mid-May to mid-September.

This map shows all the campsites on the island and which ones are open only in summer or all year round . The blue ones are open all year round.

Other common places to spend the night in a motorhome in Spain and Europe in Iceland in a motorhome

For what it does other places to spend the night:

• Motorhome areas: Regrettably, no areas motorhomes in Iceland, but some campsites offer areas for motorhomes with basic services for them.
• Parking: Although There are no specific parking spaces for motorhomes for the nightIn general, in most places they allow parking during the day, but not camping or overnight. So, get ready to experience the magic of nature during the day and head to a campsite at night!

Motorhome services in Iceland

Iceland is a natural paradise, but when it comes to campervan services, things are a bit different. Not all campsites offer all the amenities , so it's best to be prepared and plan your route carefully to ensure you stay at campsites that actually have campervan facilities.

Most campsites have toilets, showers, and cooking areas. However, not all campsites have electricity, or facilities for filling and emptying black and grey water , so make sure to fully charge your devices before you leave and plan your route carefully.

Curiosities of Iceland: Land of volcanoes and glaciers

Iceland is a unique island with many interesting curiosities. Here are a few to impress your fellow travelers!

• More sheep than inhabitants: Yes folks, Iceland has more sheep than people. A perfect place to feel in harmony with nature!
• Iceland without an army: That's right, Iceland is one of the few countries in the world without an army. Instead, they rely on the Police and the Coast Guard to ensure safety.
• Skýr, the delicious Icelandic yogurt: Try skýr, a delicious Icelandic yogurt, slightly more acidic and similar to fresh cheese. A delight for the palate!

Icelandic History: Tradition and Ancient Democracy

Iceland has a rich and fascinating history. It was one of the first countries to establish a parliament and thus democracy, the Althing, in 930 AD , making it one of the oldest parliaments in the world.

Furthermore, Iceland was a pioneer in the democratic election of a woman as president . In 1980, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir became the world's first democratically elected female president. An inspiration for gender equality!

Icelandic gastronomy: From strange dishes to surprising delicacies

Do you dare to try Icelandic gastronomy? Get ready to savor unique and surprising dishes such as:

• Hákarl, the fermented shark: You are brave? Then try hákarl, a fermented shark with a smell and taste that will challenge you to keep going. A real challenge for the brave adventurers!
• Skyr, the dairy treasure: But it's not all bravery. Enjoy skyr, a creamy and delicious Icelandic yogurt that has become a symbol of Icelandic cuisine.

Additional tips for traveling by motorhome in Iceland

respect for nature

Iceland is a country with a fragile and unique nature. Respect natural spaces and follow the rules and regulations of national parks and protected areas. Leave no trace of your passage and make sure you take all your trash with you to dispose of it properly.

Potable water

The water in Iceland is generally safe to drink, so filling your water tank at the service areas will not be a problem. However, in some remote areas, it may be useful to carry a water filter or water purification tablets as an extra precaution.

Meteorological conditions

Icelandic weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the cold, rain, and wind. Always check the weather forecast before going on a hike and stay informed about local weather conditions.

Iceland by motorhome with children

Traveling around Iceland in a motorhome with children can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The little ones will be delighted to discover the impressive landscapes and natural wonders of the country. However, keep in mind some additional considerations:

• Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for the weather, especially for children.
• Plan frequent stops so the kids can stretch their legs and enjoy play time.
• Take enough provisions and snacks to keep the children happy during the trip.
• Explain to them the importance of respecting nature and staying safe during excursions.

2 Routes through Iceland in a motorhome

There are many routes you can take; it all depends on your preferences and the amount of time you have. Here's a post about a campervan route some friends took through Iceland .

What I am proposing here is a couple of possible basic routes in Iceland by motorhome. For each route you will need a minimum of 7 days, so to go all the way around Iceland in a motorhome you will need a minimum of 14 days combining the two routes.

Route 1: the most typical, the one in South Iceland

We will begin our route through Iceland in a motorhome exploring the south of the country, one of the most visited regions and with some of the most iconic places.

We recommend starting your trip in Reykjavik, and then exploring the Golden Circle until you reach Vatnajökull National Park . Here you'll find breathtaking glaciers, glacial lakes, and unspoiled wilderness that will leave you speechless.

Route 2: Exploring North Iceland by motorhome

After enjoying the amazing south of Iceland, it's time to head north, a less visited but equally fascinating region. From Akureyri, the "capital of the north" and Iceland's second largest city, we recommend visiting the Lake Mývatn area and then continuing north and driving west to go whale watching in Húsavík, before heading south to Hervir.

Live the magic of Iceland in a motorhome!

In summary, friends, traveling to Iceland by motorhome is a magical experience that you cannot miss. Driving on roads surrounded by amazing landscapes, camping in the middle of nature and exploring unique places, you will immerse yourself in the very essence of the island.

Remember to respect and protect the nature of Iceland, following the local rules and regulations. Enjoy the freedom that the motorhome gives you to explore at your own pace and discover the wonder of every corner.

And above all, have fun! Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones, see the Northern Lights in the night sky, soak in natural hot springs and fall in love with the land of ice and fire.

Iceland awaits you with open arms and its impressive nature. So, fellow adventurers, get ready for an epic journey that will take you deep into the Icelandic campervan magic!

Bon voyage and see you soon, explorers!