Complete Guide to Best Motorhome Rentals in Iceland

If you are planning a trip to this Nordic island and want to explore the country independently, a great option is the rental of a motorhome in Iceland.

It is well known that Iceland is a unique country where wild nature and spectacular landscapes are the main protagonists. By traveling in a motorhome or camper, you will have the freedom to explore at your own pace and enjoy everything the island has to offer.

In this complete guide, we will provide you with all the information you need before you set out to rent a motorhome or camper in Iceland. To give you a much more complete idea, we will cover the pros and cons of this type of travel, the differences between a motorhome and a camper, and we will give you a price comparison and the main companies on the island. Easier impossible! Let’s get to it.

Ranking of motorhome rental companies in Iceland

Once the fleet, prices, and reviews have been evaluated, these would be the best motorhome rental companies in Iceland. We provide a bit more information that will help you make an informed decision about which rental company is best for you.

Campervan Iceland – 🏆🏆🏆

Campervan Iceland offers a wide variety in its motorhome fleet and campers in Iceland, from basic models to luxury options. We were able to see that the vehicles include CDW insurance and do not charge additional fees for kilometers.

This Icelandic provider operates on the outskirts of Reykjavik, but you can choose your pickup at their office at Keflavik airport. This is not a problem, as 99% of foreign visitors arrive in Iceland through this airport. And with your camper, you can easily travel from Keflavik to Reykjavik.

They have six types of campers and motorhomes and are one of the few companies that offer models like the famous VW California 4×4. The Volkswagen California is a tribute to the original camper of the 60s from the same company. Engineers worked tirelessly to design a vehicle that was intuitive and easy to use when camping. And they certainly achieved it!

This is a difference with other campers. Most tend to be vans adapted for sleeping, but were not originally made for this function. In the case of the California, it is designed to spend the night in it and is manufactured directly by Volkswagen.

We launched several test questions by email (in English and Spanish) and the customer service team responded to us in less than 10 minutes. They resolved our test questions kindly. We realized that in this motorhome rental company they have agents who speak Spanish.

Motorhome Iceland –🏆🏆

Motorhome Iceland has a wide variety of motorhomes and campers that adapt to all types of public. Normally, companies usually offer one or two different options, but in the case of Motorhome Iceland, you will surely find something that suits your needs.

We noticed that the vehicles are very well equipped, include CDW insurance as well and offer 24-hour roadside assistance. However, the price is less competitive than the previous option.

They also attended to us quite quickly by mail, and like Campervan Iceland, in Spanish and they were quite kind and helpful.

Campervan Reykjavik 🏆

Although the company Holdur is slightly better rated in terms of motorhomes, in campers Campervan Reykjavik makes the difference.

Holdur’s prices are comparatively higher, while the difference in other aspects with Campervan Reykjavík was not radical. For this reason, we have decided to put Campervan Reykjavík in third position. For good, beautiful… And cheap!

Campervan Reykjavík has a quite impressive fleet of campers. There are very interesting options for travelers with a very limited budget. They have cars like the Dacia Duster 4×4 with a rooftop tent at unbeatable prices!

So if you’re looking for ways to save money in Iceland and all you’re interested in is a cheap but reliable option to sleep and transport, you know where to look.

Keep in mind that there are many other motorhome rental companies in Iceland, but these three, besides being popular and local, would be the ones that, according to our research, offer a good variety of options for all budgets. And of course, a good value for money. Now it’s up to you to choose the most convenient one for your trip to Iceland.

Which to choose?

In our case, we opted for Campervan Iceland because we always wanted to have a VW California. The company has very good reviews and they treated us fantastically well.

You also have to take into account that in my particular case, I am young and do not need large spaces or luxuries, with the bed and where to eat, I am fine. If you are a minimalist traveler, prefer compact vehicles, the camper is your option.

Now, if you are a family or a large group, it is best to indulge yourself and go with all the comforts of a motorhome. Especially when traveling with children in Iceland, having the bathroom and kitchen on board will make life easier. In that case, the best option is Motorhome Iceland.

No matter what you choose, always compare, research online and book as soon as possible. Especially in high season, availability tends to vanish in the blink of an eye. Remember that the purpose of the trip is precisely to have fun, it is not so much the vehicle that makes a trip special but your experiences with it.

Where to rent motorhomes in Iceland?

There are several motorhome and camper rental companies in Iceland, and each offers different options and prices. To choose the right company it is important to consider several factors such as reputation, service, opinions from other travelers, rates, and rental policies.

Here we leave you a list of some of the most popular motorhome and camper rental companies in Iceland. We have compared the main LOCAL companies in Iceland. To do this, we have based ourselves on our own experience and onthe opinions of travelers from all over the web.

Comparison of companies and prices

Pros and Cons of Renting Motorhomes in Iceland

Before deciding if renting a motorhome or camper is the best option for your trip to Iceland, it is important that you know the pros and cons of this type of travel.

Pros:

• Freedom to explore at your own pace: with a motorhome or camper rental, you will have the freedom to choose where to go, when to go, and how long to stay at each place. You will be able to enjoy nature at your own pace, without having to worry about tour schedules or public transportation.
• Savings on accommodation: By sleeping and cooking in your motorhome or camper, you will save money on accommodation and meals in restaurants.
• Comfort and flexibility: Motorhomes and campers are vehicles equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as beds, kitchens, and bathrooms. This allows you to have the flexibility to stop at any time to rest or cook a quick meal.

Cons:

• Access limitations in some places: Certain roads, such as Icelandic F-type roads, absolutely require 4×4 vehicles, so with a rental motorhome in Iceland, it is not possible.
• Driving in extreme conditions: In Iceland, mainly in winter, weather conditions can be extreme. Traveling through Iceland in a motorhome during the winter can be tricky, especially for drivers without experience in these types of climates or terrains.

Differences between a camper and a motorhome

When it comes to renting a recreational vehicle in Iceland, there are two main options: renting a motorhome or a camper. Although both offer a similar travel experience, there are some key differences to consider.

• Size: Motorhomes are generally quite larger than campers, which can provide more space and comfort. However, they can also be more difficult to drive and park.
• Equipment: Motorhomes usually have more amenities and equipment, such as bathroom and shower, full kitchen, and storage space. Campers, on the other hand, may have fewer amenities, but are more compact and easier to handle.
• Cost: Motorhomes are usually more expensive to rent than campers, although this depends on the size and the season in which you rent.

It is important to take these differences into account when deciding which type of vehicle is the right one and which best fits your needs.

Things to keep in mind when going by motorhome through Iceland

Inthis section, we will explore everything you need to know to have a safe and comfortable road trip in Iceland.

The Icelandic Weather

Something you should not overlook when driving in Iceland in a motorhome is the weather, which can be very changeable and extreme at any time of the year.

There are many myths and realities about the Icelandic weather, but what is true is that you should always be aware of the weather conditions and check weather alerts before hitting the road and during the trip itself.

Camping Law in Iceland

The Icelandic camping law is the one that establishes where and when you can camp in Iceland. The camping law prohibits camping in private areas without the owner’s permission, as well as camping in protected or fragile areas. 

Therefore, you cannot camp anywhere in Iceland. If you travel in a camper or motorhome through Iceland, you must go to campsites or parking areas authorized to spend the night in this type of vehicle.

Gasoline

As for gasoline, it is important that you know that prices in Iceland are quite high compared to other countries, so you should consider this expense in your travel budget. 

Not all stations have the same price, so it doesn’t hurt to inform yourself about the gasoline prices in Iceland and compare to make the most of refueling.

Also, make sure to plan your stops based on the distances you will travel and the capacity of your motorhome or camper’s tank. It is also advisable to fill the tank whenever you have the opportunity, as there may be long stretches without service stations in some parts of the country.

The Equipment

As for equipment, motorhomes and campers generally come equipped with the essentials for a comfortable stay, such as beds, kitchen, bathroom, and heating. 

However, if you want to add something extra to make your stay more pleasant, such as bedding, kitchenware, or an outdoor table and chairs, make sure to check if your rental company offers that extra equipment.

The Insurance

In addition to the sections mentioned above, it is important to consider some additional aspects when renting a motorhome in Iceland. One of the most important factors is insurance, as it can significantly affect your trip. And with a vehicle of that size, it is always better not to take risks.

The companies we compared in this article all include basic CDW insurance, which is third-party and civil liability insurance. As extras, they usually offer:

• SCDW Insurance: to lower the deductible of the CDW.
• Gravel Protection: for Iceland’s unpaved roads.</span
  
• Insurance Packages: these packages include various coverages at a reduced price. Some with deductible, and others without it.

Make sure to read carefully the terms and conditions of the insurance offered by the rental company before booking. Remember that in things like this, it is always better to prevent than to cure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorhome Rental in Iceland

Here are some common questions that may arise when planning a camper trip in Iceland:

Do I need a special driving license to drive a motorhome in Iceland?

You do not need a special driving license to drive a motorhome in Iceland, as long as you have a valid and up-to-date driver’s license. The standard European type B license is perfectly valid, as these vehicles do not exceed 3500 kg in weight.

It is important to note that most motorhomes in Iceland are large vehicles and can be more difficult to handle than a small car. If you do not have experience driving large vehicles, you may want to practice before your trip or consider renting a smaller camper.

Is it safe to drive a motorhome in Iceland?

Yes, it is safe to drive a motorhome in Iceland. However, it is important to remember that Iceland has unpredictable weather conditions and roads can be dangerous in some places, especially during the winter.

During our research, we found that some companies do not rent the larger models of motorhomes in Iceland during the winter, and they specifically told us that it was for safety reasons.

Make sure you are prepared for changing weather conditions, research about how to drive in Iceland and always follow the rules and Icelandic traffic laws.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance to camp in Iceland?

If you plan to travel in the high season (from June to August), it is advisable to make a reservation in advance at the campsites you choose.

However, in the low season (from September to May), you may be able to find available places without prior reservation.

What should I bring on my motorhome trip in Iceland?

It is important to carry essential supplies such as food, water, and personal hygiene items. Many of the campsites in Iceland really do not have areas where you can buy basic items. So it’sbetter be prepared in advance.

Touring Iceland in a Caravan

In conclusion, renting a motorhome or camper is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and culture of Iceland. Although there are some important things to keep in mind before setting off, if you prepare properly, you will enjoy an unforgettable journey. 

Moreover, choosing a reliable and reputable rental company can help ensure that your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We hope this guide has been helpful and we wish you a happy journey through Iceland in a motorhome or camper. Enjoy your Icelandic adventure!

If you need to translate more of your document or have further questions about traveling in Iceland, feel free to ask!