Best Reykjavik RV Itinerary for cheap rv rental - Overview
A motorhome adventure originating from Reykjavik offers unparalleled flexibility to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes, providing a home-on-wheels experience. While a minimum of 7 days is recommended for a foundational experience like the Golden Circle and South Coast, a full Ring Road journey, such as the 'Iceland - Full ring road' trip, typically spans 15 days covering approximately 2045.2 km. The ideal season for RV travel in Iceland is summer (June-August) when daylight hours are long, roads are generally clear, and temperatures are mildest, typically ranging from 10-15°C. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Reykjavik - Complete Guide 2026 guide, which provides extensive local details and comparison tools to help you find the perfect vehicle. This guide provides detailed itineraries, cost considerations, and essential RV logistics to help plan your budget-friendly Icelandic road trip, ensuring a smooth and transparent booking process with no hidden fees or surprises.
7-Day Classic Route in Reykjavik
A classic 7-day motorhome route from Reykjavik allows you to experience Iceland's iconic Golden Circle and stunning South Coast, perfectly suited for a week-long adventure. On Day 1, after picking up your rented RV in Reykjavik, head towards Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site approximately 45 km east, before finding a designated campsite in Selfoss. Day 2 takes you further along the Golden Circle to see Geysir hot springs and Gullfoss waterfall, then continuing along the South Coast to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, with an overnight stay at Vík campsite. On Day 3, explore the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and the Dyrhólaey arch near Vík, driving approximately 70 km to a local campsite in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Day 4 involves heading east to Vatnajökull National Park for hikes in Skaftafell and visits to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, camping near the lagoon or Höfn. Begin your return journey on Day 5, covering about 200 km towards Hella or Flúðir, perhaps stopping at the Secret Lagoon for a relaxing soak. On Day 6, explore the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula, known for geothermal areas like Gunnuhver, and camp in Grindavík. Finally, on Day 7, enjoy a final Icelandic breakfast before driving approximately 50 km back to Reykjavik for your RV return, perhaps visiting the Blue Lagoon if time permits. This itinerary, designed for a relaxed pace of about 100-150 km per day, ensures you connect deeply with the culture and scenery. Bandana RV specializes in comparing prices across many suppliers, helping you secure the best cheap RV rental in Reykjavik for such a memorable route.14-Day Extended Journey in Reykjavik
An extended 14-day RV journey from Reykjavik provides ample time for a comprehensive exploration of Iceland's Ring Road, averaging approximately 146 km of driving per day. Days 1-4 trace the classic route through Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón, encouraging travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the dramatic South Coast landscapes. From Days 5-7, you'll venture through the picturesque East Fjords, visiting charming fishing villages like Djúpivogur and Seyðisfjörður, enjoying scenic coastal drives and the region's tranquility. Days 8-10 are dedicated to North Iceland's geothermal heart, where you can explore Lake Mývatn's wonders such as Dimmuborgir and Námaskarð, and visit Dettifoss waterfall before reaching Akureyri. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip along the Ring Road, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route and itemizing every expense with their RV PLANET routes. Days 11-12 offer an optional detour into the remote Westfjords or a leisurely drive through the North-West towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The journey concludes on Days 13-14 by discovering the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' before returning to Reykjavik. This extended route offers deeper cultural and natural immersion, a hallmark of RV travel. You can find detailed itineraries, including "RV Rental Deals in Reykjavik - Latest Offers 2026", to tailor your longer adventure perfectly.Recommended RVPlan Trip for Reykjavik
For travelers seeking a meticulously planned adventure directly from Reykjavik, consider the '
Iceland - Full ring road
Iceland Golden Circle - South West
Iceland - North West
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
When planning your cheap RV rental in Reykjavik, some destinations truly stand out for their beauty and cultural significance. Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana:- **Thingvellir National Park (Traditional Visit):** Avi Bandana highly recommends a visit to Thingvellir, not only for its historical significance as the site of Iceland's ancient parliament but also for its stunning geological features, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
- **Golden Circle Route (Traditional Visit):** Essential stops include the powerful Gullfoss waterfall and the erupting hot spring of Geysir, offering spectacular natural displays that are a highlight of any Iceland RV trip.
- **Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (Traditional Visit):** Witness the serene beauty of icebergs floating in a glacial lagoon, a truly unforgettable sight and an Avi Bandana favorite for its dramatic scenery and photographic opportunities.
- **Dyrhólaey Viewpoint (Animals Show / Wildlife watch):** Avi Bandana suggests visiting Dyrhólaey for its dramatic arch and panoramic views of the black sand beaches, and for a chance to spot puffins during nesting season (summer months).
- **Local Industry Experiences (Local Industry):** Seek out local woolen mills, such as Álafoss, or craft workshops to observe traditional Icelandic production and perhaps find unique souvenirs, offering a glimpse into local life and commerce.
- **Traditional Icelandic Restaurants (Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining):** While specific establishments aren't listed, Avi Bandana encourages travelers to indulge in local cuisine, trying dishes like Icelandic lamb, fresh seafood, or 'kjötsúpa' (meat soup) at a traditional eatery to truly immerse in the culture. Imagine cooking up some of these local flavors right in your RV's kitchen after a day of exploring; for more culinary inspiration, check out our RV-friendly recipes playlist.
Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Reykjavik
To truly savor the Icelandic experience, Avi Bandana recommends maintaining a leisurely pace of a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average, allowing ample time for exploration and enjoying the scenic stops. Iceland's roads, particularly outside the capital, often have speed limits lower than international norms (e.g., 90 km/h on paved rural roads), and conditions can vary from smooth asphalt to gravel, necessitating slower, careful travel. For example, driving from Reykjavik to Vík (approximately 180 km) can take about 2.5 hours of continuous driving, but to properly experience the South Coast attractions along the way, this segment is best spread over at least two days. Similarly, the journey from Jökulsárlón to Egilsstaðir (roughly 200 km) might take 2.5-3 hours of continuous driving but offers numerous viewpoints and detours through the East Fjords that warrant a full day or more. A shorter leg, like Akureyri to Lake Mývatn (around 90 km), can be driven in about 1 hour but invites extensive exploration of the Mývatn area's unique geology and baths, transforming a short drive into a full day's adventure. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination in Iceland. This philosophy is central to our "RV Travel Guide to Reykjavik - Tips and Top Spots 2026".Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
Choosing the right RV for your cheap RV rental in Reykjavik can significantly enhance your Icelandic adventure. For couples, a Class B Camper Van is an excellent choice for its compact size and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for navigating Iceland's roads and fitting into smaller campsites. Bandana's local fleet of Class B Camper Vans averages 5.4 meters in length, provides about 3.2 sleeping places, comfortably accommodates 2.8 adults, and typically achieves fuel consumption rates of 5-8 liters per 100 km, offering great value for money. For families, a Class SI Semi-integrated motorhome offers a comfortable balance of space and maneuverability, providing more living area and sleeping capacity perfect for family adventures. Locally, Bandana's Class SI Semi-integrated RVs average 6.8 meters in length, come with around 3.9 sleeping places, are suitable for approximately 3.3 adults, and have common fuel consumption between 9-14 liters per 100 km. To streamline your planning, our Rent&Plan service combines your RV rental with a pre-designed itinerary crafted by travel experts, providing full access to trip-planning software and removing the headache of organizing every detail. You can even enjoy a 25% planning discount when utilizing rvplan.net for your itinerary. This ensures you get the right vehicle and the perfect plan, tailored to your budget and travel style. You might also want to explore options in our "Luxury RV Rental in Reykjavik - Premium Prices 2026" if your budget allows for more spacious or feature-rich models.Can you park an RV anywhere in Iceland?
No, it is generally illegal to park a rented RV anywhere outside of designated campsites or private land with explicit permission from the landowner in Iceland. Iceland has very strict regulations against wild camping or overnight parking on public land, which are designed to protect its fragile environment and prevent issues like waste disposal and property damage. Violations can result in significant fines and legal consequences, making it crucial for RV travelers to plan their overnight stays in advance. The numerous official campsites, often over 170 across the island, offer essential facilities like waste disposal, fresh water, and electricity, providing a responsible and convenient alternative to unauthorized parking. Planning ahead and knowing your overnight stops is key to a stress-free trip. For comparing various options, consult our "RV Rental in Reykjavik - Prices and Best Deals 2026" guide.Is boondocking allowed in Iceland?
Boondocking, or wild camping without facilities, is generally not allowed in Iceland and is subject to stringent rules, particularly for motorhomes and campervans. While specific regulations might vary slightly by municipality, the overarching rule is that you cannot simply pull over and camp overnight in a rented RV unless you are on private land with the owner's express consent or at an official campsite. The aim of these regulations is to mitigate environmental impact, prevent unregulated waste, and ensure public safety across Iceland's pristine landscapes. Travelers are strongly advised to utilize the hundreds of well-equipped campsites available nationwide, many of which can be found and booked using apps like Parka or through advance reservations during peak season. If a campground is full, do not despair; many national and state parks reserve 25-30% of their spots for first-come-first-serve arrivals, so you’ll find a spot. If not at the first campground, then the next one. Always call ahead before driving to confirm availability. These considerations are vital for planning a successful trip.Where to park an RV in Reykjavík?
For overnight stays in Reykjavik, rented RVs must park at the designated Reykjavik Campsite (Reykjavík Campsite, Sundlaugavegur 32, 105 Reykjavík), which offers full amenities including power hookups, fresh water, and dump stations. This campsite is conveniently located close to the city center, approximately 3-4 km from Hallgrímskirkja church, with easy access to public transport (local buses run frequently to the city). For day visits to the city center, RVs can typically utilize larger paid parking lots or designated areas suitable for bigger vehicles, such as those near Harpa Concert Hall or the Öskjuhlíð area, though navigating very narrow streets or finding parking directly in the bustling core can be challenging. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention, especially when looking for parking spots. Utilizing parking apps like Parka can help identify available parking spaces and their associated fees for shorter daytime stops within and around the capital. For budget travelers, exploring "Cheap RV Rental in Reykjavik - Budget Guide 2026" can offer tips on managing city parking costs.How much is a glass of coke in Iceland?
A glass of Coca-Cola or other soft drinks in Iceland is notably expensive, typically costing between 400-600 ISK (approximately 3-5 EUR or 3.50-5.50 USD) at restaurants, cafes, or convenience stores. This price point reflects Iceland's generally higher cost of living, particularly for imported goods and dining out. To save on beverage costs and other groceries during your RV trip, purchasing soft drinks, water, and other necessities from local supermarkets like Bónus, Krónan, or Nettó is significantly cheaper. Beyond soft drinks, budgeting for other ancillary costs like fuel (which is also expensive, around 300 ISK/liter or $2.20/liter), campsite fees (ranging from 1,500-3,000 ISK per person per night), and potential attraction entry fees is crucial for managing your overall travel expenses. Our RV PLANET routes allow travelers to itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting, ensuring full transparency in your trip's total cost. For tips on cost-effective travel, explore "Weekly RV Rental in Reykjavik - Pricing 2026".What is the most scenic drive in Iceland?
The Ring Road (Route 1) is widely considered the most scenic drive in Iceland, offering a comprehensive journey through a diverse array of stunning landscapes over its 1,322 km length. Specific sections, particularly the South Coast from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón, are often highlighted for their dramatic waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss), black sand beaches (Reynisfjara), and glacier lagoons. The Golden Circle, a popular shorter route from Reykjavik, also offers incredibly scenic views with its iconic trio of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. For those with more time, the East Fjords present rugged coastal beauty and charming fishing villages, while the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers 'Iceland in Miniature,' showcasing volcanoes, glaciers, and captivating shorelines, such as Kirkjufell mountain. Remember to travel slowly, averaging max 100-150 km per day, to fully appreciate each vista. Our specialists are here to help you compare prices and find the perfect rented motorhome to embark on these breathtaking routes.🎬 Video coming soon
What You Shouldn't Miss
- **The Northern Lights Hunt (Seasonal):** If traveling between September and April, dedicate evenings to chasing the Aurora Borealis from your rented motorhome, finding dark spots away from city lights like those on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
- **Geothermal Baths beyond the Blue Lagoon:** While the Blue Lagoon is famous, explore other fantastic options like the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir or the Mývatn Nature Baths, often more budget-friendly and less crowded.
- **Exploring Ice Caves (Guided Tour):** During winter months, booking a guided tour to explore the stunning natural ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park is an unforgettable adventure, providing incredible photographic opportunities.
- **Hiking to Hidden Waterfalls:** Beyond the well-known Seljalandsfoss (where you can walk behind the waterfall) and Skógafoss, seek out lesser-known cascades, often found along hiking trails leading from official campsites.
- **Local Icelandic Farm Stays (Optional):** Consider booking a night or two at a farm stay campsite to experience local hospitality, often with opportunities to interact with farm animals and enjoy homemade Icelandic treats.
- **Whale Watching from Reykjavik or Húsavík:** Take a boat tour from Reykjavik's Old Harbour or travel north to Húsavík, often considered Iceland's whale watching capital, for a chance to see various whale species in their natural habitat.
