Renting a car in Iceland might sound like an easy task, but with bumpy roads, an unpredictable weather and many other situations you can encounter, this is definitely a task you should take in calm and check your different options. We decided to make a short guide with 21 very useful tips when renting a car in Iceland.
Plan your route ahead and find out if you need to rent a small car (only for driving on the ring road), SUV or a camper.
Insurances won´t pay for damages caused on roads you are not allowed to drive on.
Small accidents and car damages are common in Iceland. Get a proper car insurance when you are renting a car in this country. Don’t save at the wrong end! FairCar offers a ZERO Collision Damage Waiver (ZCDW) insurance, which covers almost everything.
Before driving in the highlands, check where the next gas station is. You don’t want to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere.
Car companies rent out mini campers for two people to sleep in comfortably and cheaply.
Overnight parking is usually allowed in touristic places, often for free, unless you have a camper or pitch a tent.
Rent a car in advance and compare prices before booking. It is cheaper than getting one directly at the airport.
If you are looking for a more comfortable driving experience in Iceland: car companies offer Wi-Fi hotspots, 12 to 220V car inverters and FM transmitters for an extra charge. An excellent choice if you want to travel around Iceland fully equipped
All gas stations have free and extremely clean bathrooms.
Check the road conditions at www.road.is before you start driving and avoid unconfortable surprises.
Check the weather conditions before you start driving.
Get a road map before your arrival. You can buy one on amazon in advance or directly at the airport
Download an Iceland map from Google Maps before your arrival.
Have the following emergency numbers with you all the time:
Car rental telephone number
24/7 service number
Road conditions number: 1777
Get an Icelandic SIM card for internet and emergencies.
Flat tires are mainly caused by driving too fast on gravel and F-Roads. Stay under the allowed maximum speed.
Stop occasionally and be amazed by the incredible Icelandic landscapes. Check out these 11 photos showing why Iceland is the perfect roadtrip destination.
Parking in Reykjavik from 6pm to 10am is free almost everywhere.
Driving in Iceland can be exhausting. Decide in advance, if you want to pay for a second driver and make your travel easier and way more confortable. Car rental companies allows a second or third driver for an extra charge
The only toll fee in Iceland has to be paid at the Hvalfjorour tunnel (8 USD).
Wind is extremely strong in Iceland. Be careful when you open the doors of your car. Many car damages are due to this minor situation.
we created a great guide for traveling around Iceland. From car rental guides and northern lights photography to information and itinerary guides. Check these out and plan your next trip to Iceland better.
