The best rental car in Iceland depends on the number of travelers, luggage size, and travel plans. For those who want to combine transportation with accommodation,
renting a camper van is ideal. If you plan to explore cities and stick to paved roads,
renting a small economy car is enough. For winter travel or reaching remote hiking areas,
renting a 4x4 SUV ensures safety and versatility. For more details, see our
rental car size guide.
Here at Guide to Iceland, we aggregate all available rental cars from over 40 rental providers in Iceland, giving you the best way to compare prices and find the perfect rental car for you. Just put your requirements in our rental car search engine, and we will find you the best available rental deal from the
top car rental companies in Iceland.
Starting January 1, 2026, Iceland will introduce a new kilometer-based driving fee that applies to all vehicle types, including petrol, hybrid, and electric cars, as well as rental vehicles.
While a new fee may sound like an added cost, it is expected to be balanced out by lower fuel prices, so the overall cost of driving in Iceland should remain similar, just calculated in a different way.
The fee is based on the vehicle’s weight, and for passenger cars and SUVs up to 3.5 tons, it will be 6.95 ISK per kilometer.
The 2026 driving fee in Iceland may be charged per kilometer driven or applied as a flat daily rate based on average mileage. This varies by rental agency.
If you've already booked a rental car for 2026 and are wondering how this will affect you, contact your agency directly or Guide to Iceland for more details.
The cheapest way to rent a car in Iceland is to search the Guide to Iceland car rental marketplace. It is the largest travel marketplace in Iceland, offering the largest collection of car rental companies in Iceland, and the widest selection of rental cars. After selecting your travel dates, you can sort by the lowest price. Pricing depends on how many days you want to rent the car and the time of year.
The cheapest rental car you can get in Iceland is a Toyota Aygo. Rates are typically lower during the low season between October and May. The longer you rent the car, the cheaper it is per day. During summer, prices increase as demand rises. If a compact model is sufficient for your journey and you book well in advance, it's normally still possible to find
cheap cars in Iceland for your trip.
Car rentals in Iceland are not expensive if you know where to look for the best deals. The car rental search engine on Guide to Iceland compiles options from all the main providers, making it easy to compare and find the lowest prices on rental cars in Iceland.
The price of auto rentals in Iceland varies depending on the car type and season. Small economy cars suitable for paved roads are typically the most affordable, while SUVs and luxury vehicles, including 4x4 cars capable of river crossings, are also available at competitive prices. Comparing options ensures you get the best value for your trip.
Yes, many rental cars in Iceland come with automatic transmission, including options in
economy,
SUV, and
luxury categories. Automatic cars are a convenient choice, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Iceland’s road conditions. To guarantee an automatic vehicle, carefully read the product description before booking.
Yes, rental cars with manual transmission are widely available in Iceland, particularly in economy and mid-size categories. Manual cars are often slightly cheaper to rent than automatics, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Be sure to check the car’s specifications in the product description before booking to ensure it meets your preferences.
Yes, automatic rental cars are typically more expensive than manual cars in Iceland. The price difference depends on the car category, but automatic cars remain a convenient option for many travelers. Be sure to compare prices and confirm the transmission type in the product description before booking.
Yes, you can
rent camper vans in Iceland. Renting a camper van is a convenient way to explore Iceland’s natural beauty and enjoy flexibility in your travel plans. Camper rentals offer you the freedom to stay at
designated campsites, which you can find all around the country. We have plenty of options if you're looking for a cheap camper van to rent in Iceland, so check out our selection and find the best camper for you.
Luxury car rentals in Iceland are generally very new vehicles that offer high-end comfort and can accommodate up to seven passengers with luggage. Most of them have four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and are elevated to handle gravel roads and snowy conditions better. However, this category also includes some two-wheel drive vehicles, such as sports cars and high-end hatchbacks.
This depends on your travel plans. You don’t need an SUV to drive in Reykjavik or along the Ring Road, as these roads are paved and well-maintained. However, an SUV or 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to explore gravel roads or travel during winter when conditions can be snowy or icy.
For driving in the Icelandic Highlands and on F-roads, a 4x4 vehicle or SUV is required, as these areas feature rough terrain and unpaved roads. Always check your rental agreement to ensure the car is approved for F-roads.
Cars that are suitable for traveling in the Icelandic Highlands are marked as such on our website. These are generally in the luxury, 4x4 Jeep, SUV, and camper van categories of cars to rent in Iceland. Please note that driving a rental car not marked for highland travel will void any insurance you've purchased. Therefore, you will be liable for all damages to the undercarriage or suspension.
Larger groups can rent minibuses or 9-seater vans. Ensure you book early, especially during peak seasons.
Fuel prices in Iceland are relatively high compared to many other countries due to taxes and import costs. As of January 2025, petrol (gasoline) costs between 300 and 330 ISK per liter, which is approximately 2.6 to 2.9 USD per liter. Diesel is slightly cheaper, ranging from 280 to 310 ISK per liter, or about 2.4 to 2.7 USD per liter.
For those measuring in gallons, petrol costs around 9.8 to 10.9 USD per gallon in Iceland. Diesel costs approximately 9.1 to 10.2 USD per gallon in Iceland. This is based on the conversion of 1 liter to about 0.26 gallons.
There are many options for picking up your rental car in Iceland. Many rental car companies give you the option to pick up your car at the
Keflavik International Airport in Iceland shortly after you land. You can also pick it up in
Reykjavik,
Akureyri, or several other locations, which you can select from the drop-down menu in our car rental search engine.
Yes, many car rental companies in Iceland offer the option to pick up your rental car directly at
Keflavik International Airport upon arrival. This convenient location allows you to drive straight to
Reykjavik or take a detour to the
Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak in its geothermal waters after your flight. At the end of your trip, you can easily return the car at Keflavik Airport before departure.
Yes, you can rent a car at Keflavik International Airport and drive directly to the
Blue Lagoon. The distance from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon is only 13 miles (21 kilometers) and can be driven in less than half an hour. The Blue Lagoon also has lockers to store your luggage while you soak in the warm geothermal water. Just remember to book your rental car and
Blue Lagoon entrance tickets in advance.
Yes, some car rentals are located at the
domestic Reykjavik airport, close to the city center. There you can conveniently pick up your rental car or drop it off before flying to another part of the country.
Yes, some car rental companies will bring your vehicle to your hotel or a specific address in the city. Make sure to read the description before renting the car and see if the car rental provides this service. It is also popular to simply pick up the car at the international airport in Iceland once you land in the country.
Yes, many car rental companies in Iceland offer one-way rentals with a different drop-off location than the pick-up location. You could, for example, pick up your car in Reykjavik and return it to Keflavik Airport. However, additional fees may apply.
Some car rentals are open 24/7, allowing you to pick up or drop off your rental car at any hour of the day. Usually, car rentals that are open around the clock are located at the Keflavik International Airport, so visitors can rent a car as soon as they land in Iceland and drop the vehicle off when they leave.
Yes, driving
Iceland's Ring Road is absolutely worth it. This route takes you through a wide range of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches and volcanic fields. The Ring Road is fully paved and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth drive as you explore Iceland’s breathtaking scenery and top attractions.
Driving Iceland's Ring Road, which circles the entire island, takes about 16–20 hours without stopping. However, this doesn’t allow time to enjoy the many attractions along the way. To fully experience Iceland’s natural wonders, we recommend renting a car for at least 4–5 days. Most travelers prefer spending 7–14 days exploring Iceland, following a self-drive itinerary tailored to their interests.
Self-drive packages in Iceland include a rental car, travel itinerary, and accommodations along the planned route, offering an easy way to enjoy an unforgettable road trip.
Yes, renting a car is one of the best ways to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland. It allows you to drive out to remote areas with dark skies, far from light pollution. For tips on finding the aurora, check out our guide on
how to spot the northern lights. If you’d like added convenience, a
1-week northern lights self-drive tour in Iceland combines a rental car, accommodations, and a pre-planned itinerary featuring top aurora-viewing spots.
Yes, renting a car in Iceland is an excellent way to explore the wonders of the
Golden Circle. The route is fully paved and well-maintained, so a cheap car from our
wide selection of small rental cars in Iceland is perfect for driving this famous loop. You can easily rent a car for the day and enjoy this iconic journey at your own pace.
Yes, some of our cars in the Luxury category are electric or hybrid cars. These include electric vehicles from car companies such as Tesla and Toyota.
Yes, Iceland offers a growing number of hybrid and electric rental cars, including Tesla and Toyota models. Charging stations are available in Reykjavik, Akureyri, and along the Ring Road, but they are limited in remote areas.
Yes, since Iceland is rich in
geothermal energy, you can find charging stations at many gas stations and parking lots around the country. It's good to plan ahead where you will stop and charge along the way, which you can do while exploring Iceland's natural wonders.
The number of electric vehicle charging stations in Iceland is always growing, with multiple parking spots in the downtown area and most gas stations offering charging for electric vehicles. However, once you leave the capital, the number of electric charging stations becomes more sparse.
To rent a car in Iceland you will need a valid ID, an international credit card, and to have had valid driver's license for at least 1 year. Most car rentals in Iceland also have an age requirement of 20 years old. Additionally, if your driver's license is not written in the Latin alphabet, you will need to provide an International Driving Permit.
To rent a car in Iceland, the driver needs to be at least 18 years old and to have held a valid driver's license for at least 12 months. However, some car rentals require the driver to be at least 20 years old or they may add a small surcharge per day if the driver is under 20. To rent a minibus or a 4x4 vehicle, there is an age requirement of 23.
Most rental companies in Iceland require drivers to be at least 20 years old, but some companies have a higher age requirement, while other companies allow people under the age of 20 to rent a car for an extra fee. It is best to check the minimum age on the rental car page beforehand to see if they allow drivers under the age of 20.
To rent a car in Iceland, you need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and to be at least 20 years old (some rental companies have a higher age requirement). It is also recommended that you have a valid passport.
No, renting a car in Iceland without a valid driver’s license is not possible. Your driver’s license must be issued by a recognized authority in your home country and be valid throughout your rental period. If your license is not written in the Latin alphabet (e.g., Russian, Arabic, Chinese), you must also present an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your original license.
Yes, you can drive in Iceland with a valid foreign driver's license. However, if your license is not written in the Latin alphabet, you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before arriving in Iceland.
You do not need an international driver's license to drive in Iceland if your license is written in the Latin alphabet (such as English). If your national driver's license is in another alphabet (such as Cyrillic or Chinese), it must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit. You will be asked to present a physical copy of your license when you pick up your rental car in Iceland.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if your national driver’s license is not written in the Latin alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic, Japanese, Arabic). If your license is in English, Spanish, French, German, or another Latin-based language, an IDP is not required. However, you must carry your original license at all times.
Yes, early rental car returns are allowed in Iceland, but no refund is due unless the amendment has been requested before the pick-up date. Depending on the car rental, you can return your rental car early at the Keflavik Airport in Iceland or the domestic airport in Reykjavik.
The rental car deposit in Iceland normally equals the CDW self-risk amount mentioned on the car rental booking page. Purchasing Premium or Platinum insurance exempts you from paying a deposit.
Some but not all car rental companies in Iceland offer pick-up/drop-off services outside of office hours. Please contact your car rental company directly for further information and note that extra charges may apply.
Customers need to present a valid credit card in the name of the main driver in order to rent a car in Iceland. If the person registered for the rental car does not have a credit card with them, the extra driver needs to be registered using their credit card, and they must have a valid driving license. If there is no credit card, the car rental company will ask for a deposit. The amount can vary depending on the rental company.
It depends on the rental company. Some companies accept debit cards, but others require a credit card. In some cases, you will be required to buy full insurance or leave a deposit if you book with a debit card. It is best to check on the rental car page beforehand to see what payment methods are accepted.
Yes, you can make a car rental deposit in Iceland with any credit card, as long as it is in the main driver's name.
Without a credit card, you may need to purchase full insurance or leave a larger cash deposit, depending on the rental company’s policies. Some car rentals will refuse to rent their rental cars without a credit card.
Most rental car companies in Iceland do not require a deposit, but you will need to provide a valid credit card. Please make sure to check the details of each company on our website.
Features included with your rental car in Iceland will vary. Please read the description carefully and review the "Included" section before finalizing your booking. All rental cars include unlimited mileage and CDW insurance. CDW insurance covers all damage you might cause with the car and compensation for individuals hurt in an accident. Many
Icelandic Camper Vans rentals also offer free camping equipment, but make sure you read the vehicle description, as camping items vary.
When renting a car in Iceland, most companies allow for unlimited mileage while exploring the country. However, it's always advisable to read the rental agreement carefully and clarify any doubts with the rental company before finalizing your booking.
You will find the best prices on car rentals at Guide to Iceland, where any promotions or discounts are already calculated into the price, giving you the best value for your money.
Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Iceland with a one-way rental option, but it may come with additional fees.
Yes, you can rent a car for just one day. Simply choose the day you plan to rent an auto in Iceland in our car rental search engine and look at the available options.
Making a reservation in advance to rent a car in Iceland is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and around late December), to secure a car during your stay.
If you want to modify your rental car reservation in Iceland after receiving the confirmation, please contact us directly through the contact details on your voucher. Extensions are possible based on availability. Extra charges are subject to the duration of the extension.
If your flight has been delayed, please inform the car rental company in Iceland directly through the phone number listed on your voucher. Including your flight number on your reservation will help the car rental company track your flight and be aware of any changes ahead of time. Please use the orange "Edit booking" button on your electronic voucher to add your flight number.
Yes, if the car is available, it's not a problem to extend your car rental reservation in Iceland. Please reach out to us directly through the contact details on your voucher, and we will change the booking for you.
You can change your booking dates up to 24 hours before pickup completely for free. If your flight is delayed contact us as soon as possible so we can help you make the necessary changes.
Yes, you can cancel your car rental booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before your pickup time. Send us an email and we'll cancel it for you and issue a full refund.
All cars for rent in Iceland come with winter tires from November 1 until April 14. Snow chains are not allowed in Iceland because they damage paved roads and are usually unnecessary.
No, rental cars in Iceland generally do not have dash cameras. However, many auto rentals have a GPS device included, which customers are free to use while traveling around the island.
Some rental cars in Iceland come with a GPS included with the car rental. For travelers unfamiliar with Iceland, this is useful for getting around the country. However, not all rental cars come with a GPS device, so you might need to pay for an add-on if you want to include it. For drivers that are comfortable using a navigational app on their smartphone, a GPS device may not be necessary, but keep in mind that some remote regions in Iceland don't have internet service.
Yes, you can bring your own car seat or GPS device when renting a car in Iceland. However, most rental companies offer these items for an additional fee.
Yes, you can use a mobile phone for navigation, but coverage is unreliable in remote areas. Iceland has many regions without cell service, especially in the Highlands. It’s recommended to download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) before your trip or rent a GPS device from the car rental company.
Whether you need gravel protection in Iceland depends on where you will be driving during your visit. If you're staying in Reykjavik and planning to drive popular routes such as the Golden Circle or the Ring Road, gravel protection is not necessary as those roads are paved and well-maintained.
However, if you're planning to go off the beaten path and explore remote areas, you will need to drive on Iceland's gravel roads. In that case, it would be advisable to buy gravel protection insurance as the car could get damaged when driving on unpaved roads.
Even though Iceland has low crime and is a very safe country, it is worth getting theft protection if you carry valuables in your car.
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) insurance is included by default for all car rental reservations in Iceland. Most rental car companies also offer the option of adding SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver), TP (Theft Protection), GP (Gravel Protection), and SADW (Sand & Ash Damage Waiver) insurance.
Complete coverages are also available, such as Premium or Platinum insurances which usually reduce the self-risk to zero. These are the most recommended options for a carefree trip, especially if you’re traveling during the winter.
It is highly recommended that you purchase additional insurance when renting a car in Iceland, especially if you plan on driving in the winter months. The most common types of insurance are Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) and Gravel Protection (GP). It is important to note that these insurances do not cover damages caused by driver negligence, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
We recommend getting tire insurance if you plan to drive on any of the gravel roads in Iceland. That way you don't have to worry in case something happens to the tires while you're driving and you can focus on enjoying your surroundings.
You can forfeit the CDW insurance on your rental car in Iceland, but this is something we do not recommend. If you do, you will be personally liable for all and any damages that occur to the car, occupants, and other people involved.
Several rental car damages are not covered by insurance in Iceland. Those include damages caused by negligence, such as driving into waters and rivers. Driving off-road is illegal in Iceland and therefore any damages caused by driving off-road are not insured. Likewise, damage caused by the wind blowing a door off the car is not covered (keep a good grip on the car door when opening it under windy conditions). Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is, of course, not covered by insurance either.
Each Iceland car rental has its own terms and coverages. Therefore, we highly recommend checking for more details on the contract you sign when picking up the car.
Yes, many car rentals in Iceland offer zero-deductible insurance. The vehicle’s booking page will list it in their insurance options if available.
It depends on your insurance policy and the type of credit card you have. You should check with your insurance provider to see if your policy covers car rentals in Iceland. If it does, you will still need to purchase the minimum insurance required by the rental company.
No, off-road driving in Iceland is illegal and by doing so you forfeit all rental insurance. Even if the vehicle is undamaged, you might face a hefty fine when returning the car.
Yes, river crossings are not covered by standard rental insurance. If you plan to drive
F-roads in the Highlands, ensure that your rental is approved for river crossings and consider purchasing additional water damage insurance.
For experienced drivers, there shouldn't be any problem
following Iceland's traffic rules and adjusting to the local driving etiquette. Icelanders are mostly patient and courteous on the road and often give pedestrians the advantage even if it slows the driver down.
However, during the winter, it can be harder to drive in Iceland if the roads are slippery due to freezing temperatures or if there has been heavy snowfall. We recommend hiring a 4x4 vehicle to drive in winter conditions. All car rentals in Iceland will be equipped with winter tires from November 1–April 14. Be aware that
Icelandic weather can be unpredictable even in summer, and be sure you adhere to all traffic rules.
When traveling to remote places in the country, sometimes only gravel roads can take you there. In those cases, it's not enough to have a small car as it can get damaged. We recommend renting an SUV or a 4x4 vehicle to ensure you can traverse the gravel roads. And remember to always drive slowly on gravel roads.
The maximum speed limit on highways in Iceland is 90 km/h. The speed limit on gravel roads is 80 km/h. The speed limit in residential areas can be either 50 km/h or 30 km/h. Aside from these general rules, speed limits in Iceland are well displayed on yellow circular speed limit signs. For safety reasons, drivers
should always pay close attention to
Iceland's road signs and keep in mind that speed cameras are common.
The F roads in Iceland are mountain roads (The F stands for "Fjall," the Icelandic word for mountain) in
the Icelandic Highlands, which can be hard to traverse and are usually closed during the winter.
It's necessary to have a 4WD (four-wheel drive) or an AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicle to drive on Icelandic F roads.
It's also important to check road conditions on the
Icelandic Road Administration website before you embark on a drive into the Highlands on the F roads.
Once you land at the airport in Keflavik, you will notice that Icelandic road signs use the metric system. The text on road signs is almost exclusively in Icelandic, so it's a good idea to learn what differently shaped road signs indicate and use your phone's navigation system or a GPS device. For more information, read our
comprehensive guide on road signs in Iceland.
In Iceland, there is right-hand traffic, meaning cars keep to the right side of the road.
Yes, all towns and villages around Iceland have at least one gas station where you can refuel your rental car. Along the Ring Road, you'll also find some gas stations between villages. Usually, these service stations will have a small shop or diner where you can refuel yourself with some Icelandic hot dogs.
No, Iceland has only one toll tunnel, the
Vadlaheidargong tunnel near Akureyri. The toll must be paid online before or after use. Otherwise, all roads, including the Ring Road and Golden Circle, are toll-free.
In Iceland, the majority of roads and tunnels do not require toll payments. However, the one exception is the Vadlaheidargong tunnel in
North Iceland, which you can
pay for online or simply drive through, and a scanner will detect your license plate number and charge you through your rental car company.
Yes, Icelandic law requires children shorter than 135 cm (4 ft 5 in) to use an appropriate child seat or booster. Rental companies provide these for an additional fee.
Yes, you can add a booster seat for your child as an extra when renting a car in Iceland.
No. Icelandic law requires all cars to have their headlights turned on at any time of day, whether it's dark or bright outside.
No, Icelandic traffic laws do not allow turning right at a red light. When driving in Iceland, you will need to be patient and wait until the light turns green before turning right.
Yes, you should carry your driver's license, passport, and rental car documents while driving in Iceland.
Most car rental companies in Iceland require renters to return the car with a full tank of gas. If the tank is not full, the rental company may charge a refueling fee.
There will be no additional fees to the price you see on our website. This price includes all taxes. However, most auto rentals require a safety deposit on your credit card, which will not be charged if the car is delivered without damage.
Some car rentals in Iceland may add a young driver fee to your total, for drivers aged 25 years old or under. Similarly, a few car rental companies also apply a senior driver fee for drivers over the age of 70.
Most rental prices include taxes and basic insurance, but extra charges may apply for:
1. Young drivers under 25 or senior drivers over 70.
2. GPS rentals, Wi-Fi hotspots, or baby seats.
3. Late returns or early drop-offs outside office hours.
4. Gravel protection, tire insurance, or theft protection coverage.
Most car rental companies charge an extra full day’s rate if you return the vehicle more than one hour late. Always check the grace period for late returns and notify the rental provider in advance if you're delayed.
Yes, but all additional drivers must be registered when picking up the vehicle. Some rental companies allow one additional driver for free, while others charge an extra daily fee for each driver. Only registered drivers are covered by insurance.
No, using a mobile phone while driving in Iceland is illegal, unless using hands-free equipment. If you need to use your phone, it's always better to pull over to a safe location.
Some rental car companies may restrict driving on specific F roads or in certain areas of Iceland like the Highlands. It is recommended to check on the rental car page if the car is suitable for highland driving before you book
Yes, during winter, the Highlands and the Westfjords are mostly closed off. The so-called
"F roads" are closed off completely during winter as well.
No, off-road driving is strictly illegal in Iceland to protect the environment. Driving on beaches, lava fields, or moss-covered terrain is punishable by heavy fines of up to 500,000 ISK (3,600 USD). Always stay on designated roads and tracks.
In Reykjavik and larger towns, street parking is paid during business hours and is divided into zones (cheaper further from the city center). Payment is available via parking meters or mobile apps. Outside urban areas, parking is mostly free, but parking on private land or nature reserves is illegal.
The simplest way to pay for it is to bring the ticket to any local bank and pay it there. If you don't pay your ticket directly, you will be charged by your rental car company after returning the vehicle. Depending on how long you stay in the country, the fine may increase if it remains unpaid for multiple days, so it's better to take care of it sooner rather than later.
Check our
guide to parking in Reykjavik for further information to prevent parking tickets.
The best way to check weather forecasts in Iceland is
vedur.is. For current road conditions in Iceland, keep an eye on
road.is, operated by the Icelandic Road Administration in cooperation with the Icelandic Meteorological Office.
Driving in Iceland in winter is safe if you
rent a 4x4 vehicle and check road conditions daily. Roads can be icy, snowy, or closed due to storms. Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 14, and it is advised to check
road.is and
vedur.is daily for weather updates.
Some rental car companies in Iceland do provide emergency assistance, so make sure to read the rental agreement before booking your car. If you need assistance on the road in Iceland, call us directly at +354 519 79 99.
Yes, most major car rental companies offer 24/7 emergency support.
If the rental car breaks down or you get into an accident, contact the rental company as soon as possible. The rental company will provide instructions on what to do next and may arrange for a replacement vehicle if necessary. It's important to follow all procedures and instructions provided by the rental company in case of an emergency.
If you hit black ice, follow these safety tips:
• Do not brake suddenly—instead, ease off the accelerator.
• Steer gently in the direction of the skid to regain control.
• Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and reduce speed.
If you encounter a sandstorm or extreme wind, find a safe place to park and wait until the conditions improve. Keep your doors closed and secure all windows to prevent damage. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out at
road.is and
vedur.is.
If your rental car gets stuck in snow or soft terrain:
1. Do not spin the wheels aggressively, as this may damage the tires or engine.
2. Call your rental company for roadside assistance (many offer 24/7 support).
3. If you are in a remote area, call 112 (Iceland emergency services) for help.
4. If conditions allow, dig around the wheels and use traction mats if available.
If you encounter an emergency while driving in Iceland, such as a breakdown or an accident, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe location off the road, if possible. Then, follow these steps:
Call emergency services: In Iceland, the emergency number is 112. This number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services. Explain the situation and provide your location.
Use hazard lights: Turn on your vehicle's hazard lights to alert other drivers that there is an emergency.
Stay safe: Stay in your vehicle if it's not safe to exit, such as during a storm or in a high-traffic area. If you need to exit the vehicle, make sure to wear reflective clothing and stay in a safe location away from traffic.
Document the situation: Take photos or videos of the situation, including damage to the vehicle or any injuries sustained. Exchange contact and insurance information with any other parties involved.
Contact your rental company: If you are driving a rental car, contact the rental company to inform them of the situation and follow their instructions for the next steps.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority in an emergency situation.
No, snow chains are illegal in Iceland because they damage the roads. Instead, all rental cars come with mandatory winter tires between November and April.
If you hit a sheep, horse, or other animal, you must:
• Stop immediately and check for injuries.
• Call 112 (Iceland’s emergency services) and report the incident.
• Inform your rental car provider to assess vehicle damage.
Failure to report an animal collision can result in a fine.
Hazards near glaciers include icy roads, loose gravel, and sudden weather changes. Always drive slowly on gravel roads and avoid parking too close to the glacier edges. In remote areas, carry a charged phone, warm clothing, and enough fuel.
Car break-ins are rare in Iceland, but if they occur:
• Call the police (112) immediately and file a report.
• Contact your car rental provider for further instructions.
• Do not leave valuables in the car overnight, as theft is not covered by standard insurance.
If you lose your car key for your rental car in Iceland, you can expect to pay an additional fee when returning your car. However, some car rentals do offer insurance for lost keys and similar incidents.
Yes, idling is discouraged in Iceland for environmental reasons. Many Icelanders consider unnecessary idling wasteful and harmful to the climate. Turn off your engine when parked for long periods.
No, you cannot cross country borders with your rental car in Iceland. As Iceland is an island, the only way to do that would be via ferry. You can board your rental car to ferries that travel within Iceland's borders, but you can't leave Iceland's borders on your auto rental.
When renting a car in Iceland, considering the environmental impact is important due to the country's fragile ecosystems and the growing emphasis on sustainable tourism.
Size of Vehicle: Rent a car that suits your needs. Larger vehicles typically consume more fuel, so if you don't need the extra space, choose a smaller, more fuel-efficient model.
Stick to Designated Roads: Driving off-road is not only illegal in Iceland but also damaging to the environment. Stick to marked roads and paths to protect the delicate natural landscapes.
Car Sharing: If traveling with a group, consider carpooling in one vehicle instead of renting multiple vehicles. This reduces overall emissions.
Proper Disposal of Waste: Always dispose of your waste properly. Never leave trash in the rental car or throw it out in nature.
If you want to add guided tours or fun things to do while traveling Iceland on your rental car, you can
book self-driving activities around the country, which can easily be added to your itinerary.
