Over the years, I have traveled extensively around Iceland in a camper van, so the pros and cons I’m sharing in this episode are from personal experience. While the list might not cover every possible pro and con, I think it will give you enough insight about the experience to help you decide if this is something you want to do.
Rent a Camper Van in Iceland & Save
If you plan to rent a camper van, I highly recommend using Go Campers. I’ve use two of their campers on long road trips. One was the Go Lite Automatic camper and the other is Go Big Automatic Camper. They currently have a large selection of campers available, great customer service, and competitive rates. When you use my code iceland7, you save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental.
Pros of Renting a Camper Van in Iceland
1. Save Money: Renting a camper van can be more cost-effective than constantly checking into hotels or guesthouses every night. By having your accommodation on wheels, you can reduce the expenses of your trip significantly.
2. Travel Flexibility: One of the greatest joys of a camper van is the freedom it offers. You’re not bound by hotel check-in/check-out times, and you can decide to stay longer in a place you love or move on if you’re ready for a change of scenery.
3. Icelandic Campsites: While this can also be a con (more on that later), many of Iceland’s campsites are situated in breathtaking locations. Waking up to a waterfall, geysers, or vast landscapes can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I recommend using the website tjalda.is to find campsites in Iceland.
4. Variety of Camper Vans: Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a family, there’s a camper van to fit your needs. From basic models to luxurious ones with all amenities, the choices are plentiful.
5. So Many Places to Explore: Iceland is replete with natural wonders, from the Blue Lagoon to the colorful mountains in the Icelandic highlands. With a camper van, you have the convenience of stopping at off-the-beaten-path locations, making your trip even more memorable.
6. What Comes with a Camper Van: Most camper vans come equipped with cooking facilities, bedding, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. This means less to pack and a more comfortable journey overall. A heater, electric cooler, a sink and different amenities are available on what kind of van you choose.
Cons of Renting a Camper Van in Iceland
1. Icelandic Campsites: Here’s the flip side – not all campsites are created equal. Some might be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, and may lack essential facilities.
2. Using the Bathroom at Night: Most camper vans don’t come with a toilet. So, those midnight nature calls can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re parked far from campsite facilities or in more isolated areas.
3. Extra Camper Van Costs: While the van itself might seem like a bargain, remember to factor in the cost of fuel, campsite fees, and any additional equipment or insurance you might need.
4. Icelandic Weather: Iceland’s weather is notorious for its unpredictability. Driving a camper van in strong winds, rain, or snow can be challenging. And even if you’re not driving, being cooped up in a small space during bad weather can be less than ideal.
5. Confined Space: Even the most spacious camper vans can feel tight after a few days, especially if you’re traveling with others. It requires a certain level of adaptability and patience. Here are some packing cubes that are so useful to use for your camper van adventures.
6. When Campsites Are Open: Not all campsites are open year-round. If you’re traveling during the off-season, you might find limited options, which can pose challenges for where you can legally and safely park for the night.
Free Iceland Packing Checklist for Winter & Summer
For the full list of essentials of what to pack and wear in Iceland, grab my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.
Random Fact of the Episode
My favorite campsite in Iceland is called Heydalur in the West fjords. They have such amazing facilities, like a gorgeous pool in a greenhouse, geothermal hot springs, beautiful grounds, a hotel, a restaurant and more.
Icelandic Word of the episode
Ferðabíll or Húsbíll – camper van
