First-Time RV Itinerary in Iceland - Beginners Plan 2026

Best Iceland RV Itinerary for rv rental beginners - Overview

A minimum of 7 days is recommended for a beginner's RV itinerary in Iceland to adequately cover major highlights like the Golden Circle and South Coast, though 14 or more days are ideal for a comprehensive Ring Road experience. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Iceland - Complete Guide 2026 guide. The best season for RV touring is typically June to August, offering mild weather and extended daylight, sometimes up to 24 hours with the Midnight Sun. Traveling slowly, we recommend covering a maximum of 100-150 km (approximately 60-90 miles) per day on average. This pace allows you to immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery, discover hidden gems, and truly connect with the culture and food of this incredible island, rather than just rushing from one famous spot to the next. Our expertise as true RV specialists means we genuinely know these routes and love helping you uncover them.

7-Day Classic Route in Iceland

A 7-day classic RV itinerary in Iceland typically focuses on the southwest and south coast, providing a memorable introduction to the island's iconic natural wonders without feeling rushed. This route covers approximately 1,300 km (800 miles) and includes stops at renowned waterfalls and black sand beaches. Here's a suggested breakdown:

• Day 1: Reykjavik → Hveragerði (45 km). Begin your adventure by exploring Reykjavik, then drive to Hveragerði, a town known for its geothermal park and hot spring-fed river.
• Day 2: Hveragerði → Vik (120 km). Traverse the stunning South Coast, visiting Seljalandsfoss (where you can walk behind the waterfall) and Skógafoss, followed by the dramatic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach near Vik.
• Day 3: Vik → Skaftafell (140 km). Continue eastward to explore the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, home to floating icebergs, and the adjacent Diamond Beach.
• Day 4: Skaftafell → Höfn (140 km). Journey through parts of the Eastern fjords, with panoramic views of Vestrahorn mountain and the rugged coastline, before reaching the charming fishing town of Höfn.
• Day 5: Höfn → Egilsstaðir (180 km). Drive through the scenic East Fjords, characterized by narrow inlets and towering mountains, arriving in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland.
• Day 6: Egilsstaðir → Lake Mývatn (170 km). Head north to witness the immense power of Dettifoss waterfall, then explore the unique geological formations and warm waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths.
• Day 7: Lake Mývatn → Akureyri (100 km). Visit the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall before concluding your journey in Akureyri, North Iceland's vibrant capital, where you can easily find your rental return point.

This itinerary, with an average of 127 km (79 miles) per day, ensures a comfortable pace for beginners.

14-Day Extended Journey in Iceland

An extended 14-day RV journey in Iceland allows for a more immersive Ring Road experience, covering approximately 2,000 km (1,240 miles) and offering ample time to delve deeper into each region. This longer duration is perfect for those who truly wish to travel slowly and savor the incredible diversity of Iceland. Consider our RV Rental in Iceland - Prices and Best Deals 2026 guide for budgeting your extended trip. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.

• Days 1-3 (Southwest): Explore Reykjavik, hike the trails of Thingvellir National Park, and discover the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle, including Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir hot spring area. Also, dedicate time to the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic landscapes.
• Days 4-6 (South Coast): Enjoy the majestic waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Visit the dramatic cliffs at Dyrhólaey and the basalt columns of Reynisfjara Beach near Vík. Continue to the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.
• Days 7-8 (East Fjords): Drive through the picturesque East Fjords, stopping in charming towns like Höfn and Djúpivogur. Experience the tranquility of Seyðisfjörður and the cultural hub of Egilsstaðir.
• Days 9-11 (North Iceland): Discover the raw power of Dettifoss waterfall and the otherworldly landscapes around Lake Mývatn, including Krafla and Dimmuborgir. Continue to Goðafoss and explore Akureyri, before taking a scenic drive along the Tröllaskagi Peninsula.
• Days 12-13 (Westfjords/Snæfellsnes): Venture into the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," with its iconic Kirkjufell mountain and the dramatic basalt columns at Arnarstapi. Explore the fishing villages and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.
• Day 14 (Return to Reykjavik): Conclude your journey by driving back towards Reykjavik, making stops at Borgarnes and the beautiful Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

Recommended RVPlan Trip for Iceland

For a truly stress-free and expertly designed RV trip in Iceland, consider one of our pre-planned itineraries available through RV PLANET (rvplan.net). These routes are crafted by professionals who know the country intimately, ensuring you don't miss a beat.

The "

Iceland - Full ring road

For a shorter trip, the "

Iceland Golden Circle - South West

If your interest lies in Northern and Western Iceland, the "

Iceland - North West

Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)

Iceland is full of wonders, and as an RV specialist, Avi Bandana has a few personal favorites that truly capture the spirit of this unique destination:

• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Thingvellir is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates dramatically pull apart, visible even at the surface. It's also the historic site of Iceland's ancient parliament, Alþingi.
• Dyrhólaey Viewpoint: Located on the South Coast, this striking promontory offers breathtaking views of black sand beaches, a massive rock arch, and often, puffins nesting on the cliffs during summer months.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Witness massive icebergs calved from Vatnajökull glacier as they drift in a stunning blue lagoon before floating out to sea. The nearby Diamond Beach, strewn with glittering ice chunks, is equally mesmerizing.
• Mývatn Nature Baths: After a day of exploring the volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn, relax in the mineral-rich geothermal waters of these natural baths, a tranquil alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
• Seyðisfjörður: A picturesque town in the East Fjords, famous for its colorful wooden houses and a vibrant arts scene. The drive into Seyðisfjörður itself is one of Iceland's most stunning, with cascading waterfalls and dramatic mountain passes.

Beyond these, always consider trying a RV-friendly recipes playlist while cooking fresh local ingredients in your rented RV. Imagine a warm meal with a glacier view!

Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Iceland

Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100-150 km (60-90 miles) per day on average to truly savor the majestic Icelandic landscape and allow for spontaneous discoveries. This slow travel philosophy prevents burnout and ensures you connect deeply with the culture, food, and scenery. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention. Here are some typical driving distances and suggested times, accounting for stops:

• Reykjavik to Vík: This 190 km (118 miles) stretch typically takes around 2.5-3 hours of pure driving, but plan for 4-6 hours with stops at waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
• Akureyri to Lake Mývatn: The approximately 90 km (56 miles) drive is about 1 hour of pure driving, but exploring the Mývatn area (Dettifoss, Krafla, Dimmuborgir) easily extends this to a full day of activity.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to Höfn: A relatively short 80 km (50 miles) drive, taking about 1 hour of pure driving, allows ample time to enjoy the glacier views and perhaps savor some local seafood in Höfn.

Remember that Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, often requiring reduced speeds and extra caution. Flexibility in your daily plan is key to a rewarding RV trip.

Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks

Choosing the right rented RV class for your Iceland itinerary depends on your travel group and comfort preferences, with options ranging from compact campervans to spacious motorhomes. For couples or solo travelers, a Class B Camper Van, like the "Active Pop Top" (which typically features a length of 5.99 meters and sleeping places for 4), is ideal due to its compact size and maneuverability. These vans, such as the "Combi Van" with its 5-meter length and 60-liter fresh water tank, are perfect for navigating Iceland's Ring Road and fitting into smaller campsites with ease. Many Class B vehicles, including the "Luxury Small" with a 110/200cm double bed, offer essential features like a gas stove and refrigerator, with a fuel consumption around 10-12 Liters/100 km.

For families or larger groups of 4-6 people, a Class C Alcove motorhome, such as the "F4" which comfortably sleeps 5 people with bunk beds, provides significantly more living and sleeping space. Models like the "Category Family 5" often have an average length of 7 meters and 6 sleeping places, providing ample room and storage for longer trips with children. The "24' Class C Motorhome," with its 166-liter fresh water tank and up to 5 sleeping places, offers a balance of comfort and practicality. Bandana's fleet includes reliable Class C models such as the "MHC24" (7.3 meters long, 6 sleeping places, 150-liter fresh water tank) and "MHC28" (7.3 meters long, 7 sleeping places, 160-liter fresh water tank), both ideal for families. Rent&Plan service allows you to combine your RV rental with a professionally designed itinerary, ensuring a perfect match for your group's needs.

What do you need to rent an RV in Iceland

To rent an RV in Iceland, you typically need a valid driver's license, a major credit card for payment and deposit, and to meet the minimum age requirement. The minimum driver age for RV rental in Iceland is 21 years old, with no young driver surcharges or vehicle class restrictions based on age. It is essential that your national driver's license is in English; if not, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, though not strictly mandatory in most cases. A major credit card is crucial for the rental deposit, which can be significant, and for final payment; debit cards are generally not accepted for deposits. Some rental companies may also suggest or require proof of sufficient travel insurance, and you can opt for a top-level deductible reimbursement through Bandana RV for extra peace of mind.

How much does it cost to rent an RV in Iceland

The cost to rent an RV in Iceland can vary significantly, ranging from approximately $100-$200 USD per day for smaller campervans in off-peak seasons (like the "MH2 - IDUNN," which consumes 9-11 Liters/100 km) to $400-$600+ USD per day for larger, more luxurious motorhomes during the peak summer months. Prices are dynamic, similar to flight tickets, changing daily based on availability, seasonality, and supplier marketing decisions. In addition to the daily rental fee, anticipate ancillary expenses such as fuel (Iceland has high fuel prices, with diesel averaging 290 ISK/liter or ~$2.10/liter USD), campsite fees (typically $20-$40 per night for amenities like showers and electricity), propane, and potential toll roads. For easy budgeting, RV PLANET routes allow travelers to itemize and track every expense along the way. Fuel efficiency varies by RV class; for instance, Class SI Semi-integrated RVs like the "EcoLine 2" commonly consume 8-11 Liters/100 km, while Class TC Truck Campers such as the "4x4 Camper B - THOR" can be 12-14 Liters/100 km, directly impacting your overall trip cost. Strategies for finding cheaper RV rentals in Iceland include booking 3-6 months in advance to potentially save up to 25%, opting for flexible travel dates during shoulder seasons, and choosing a more compact and fuel-efficient Class B campervan like the "Group B" which offers 9-11 Liters/100 km efficiency.

What is the best month to RV in Iceland

The best months to RV in Iceland are typically June, July, and August, as these months offer the mildest weather, average temperatures between 10-13°C (50-55°F), and the longest daylight hours, including the magical Midnight Sun phenomenon. During this peak season, most roads, including many F-roads, are fully accessible, and national parks are at their most vibrant. While summer provides optimal conditions, be prepared for unpredictable Icelandic weather, which can still include strong winds, rain, and cooler temperatures even on sunny days. Shoulder seasons, particularly May and September, can also be excellent for RV travel, offering fewer crowds and potentially lower prices (up to 20% savings on rentals) while still providing decent weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5-10°C (40-50°F). Driving during colder months (October-April) presents significant challenges like severe snow, ice, strong winds up to 100 km/h, and limited daylight, which can impact driving safety and lead to frequent road closures. It's best to plan longer trips, at least a week-long trip or a two-week adventure, during the warmer months to maximize your experience.

Is it safe to drive an RV in Iceland

Driving an RV in Iceland is generally safe, provided you exercise significant caution and remain vigilant due to the country's highly unpredictable weather conditions, which can change rapidly. Icelandic winds are particularly notable, often strong enough to make driving larger vehicles challenging, so always monitor weather forecasts from the Icelandic Met Office. Gravel roads, common on many secondary routes and some parts of the Ring Road, require reduced speeds to prevent stone chips and loss of control. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention. In case of severe weather warnings or road closures, always follow official guidance and consider delaying your travel; attempting to bypass closures is illegal and extremely dangerous. Iceland's emergency number is 112, available nationwide for any urgent situations.

Do you need a special license to drive an RV in Iceland

No, a special license is not typically required to drive an RV in Iceland if the rented vehicle weighs under 3.5 tons (7,700 lbs), which applies to most standard campervans and Class C motorhomes. Your regular national driver's license, if valid in your home country, is generally sufficient. For visitors from non-English-speaking countries, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended to avoid any language barriers with law enforcement, though it is not legally mandatory in most cases if your license is clearly legible. The minimum rental age for all motorhome classes (Class A, Class B, and Class C) is 21, and Bandana RV does not impose young driver surcharges or vehicle class restrictions based on age, ensuring accessibility for younger adventurers.

Can you sleep anywhere in an RV in Iceland

No, wild camping or "free camping" in a rented RV is largely prohibited in Iceland due to strict environmental laws designed to protect its fragile volcanic landscapes. Travelers must always sleep in designated campsites or on private land with explicit permission from the landowner. Violating these regulations can result in substantial fines, starting at €1,500, and potentially lead to legal action, as illegal camping can cause irreparable damage to the delicate moss and soil that take centuries to recover. Iceland offers a comprehensive network of designated campsites that provide essential facilities, including toilets, showers, and waste disposal services for gray and black water, ensuring a legal and environmentally responsible way to enjoy your RV experience. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route. Always plan ahead and book campsites, especially during peak season, although many national and state parks reserve 25-30% of spots for first-come-first-serve arrivals, so you'll usually find a spot; if not at the first campground, then the next one. Call ahead before driving to confirm availability.

How long does it take to drive around Iceland in an RV

Driving the entire Ring Road (Route 1) around Iceland in a rented RV typically requires a minimum of 7-10 days, but a more relaxed and comprehensive experience, truly allowing you to travel slowly and deeply, is highly recommended with 14-15 days. Our detailed "Iceland - Full ring road" RVPlan trip, for example, is designed for 15 days and covers approximately 2,045.2 km, averaging about 136 km (85 miles) per day. This pace respects Avi Bandana's recommendation of a maximum of 100-150 km per day. Allocating more time allows for spontaneous stops at hidden waterfalls, leisurely hikes, and the flexibility to adjust for unpredictable weather conditions, ensuring you can truly soak in Iceland's natural beauty without feeling rushed. For quicker trips, consider localized itineraries like "Iceland Golden Circle - South West" which can be enjoyed over a week-long trip.

Is a 4x4 RV necessary in Iceland

A 4x4 RV is only necessary in Iceland if you specifically plan to drive on 'F-roads' (mountain roads), which are typically unpaved, often involve river crossings, and are usually only open during the summer months. For traveling Iceland's main roads, including the entire Ring Road (Route 1) and most primary paved routes, a standard 2WD motorhome or campervan is entirely sufficient and widely used by renters. It's crucial to confirm that your chosen RV type is permitted on F-roads as most rental agreements prohibit 2WD vehicles from accessing them. If you intend to explore these adventurous routes, ensure your rented RV has good tires and sufficient ground clearance. Always exercise extreme caution on F-roads, check current road conditions on Road.is before departing, and understand that certain F-roads may be impassable even for 4x4s depending on recent weather and rainfall. Our Winter RV Driving in Iceland - Safety Guide 2026 offers more specific advice for driving in challenging conditions, though F-roads are generally closed in winter.

Top Cities for RV Rental in Iceland

Iceland offers several convenient cities for picking up your rented RV, each serving as an excellent starting point for your adventure. Whether you're planning an extensive journey or a focused week-long trip, these locations provide access to quality vehicles from our trusted suppliers like Apollo and Britz. You can explore options from a Cheap RV Rental in Iceland - Budget Guide 2026 to a Luxury RV Rental in Iceland - Premium Prices 2026 at these hubs.

• Reykjavik: As Iceland's capital, Reykjavik is the primary hub for RV rentals, offering the widest selection of motorhomes and campervans. It's the perfect starting point for any Ring Road adventure or shorter trips into the Golden Circle and South Coast.
• Keflavík (Keflavík - Airport): Located just outside the international airport, Keflavík is incredibly convenient for travelers flying into Iceland. Picking up your rented RV here allows you to start your journey immediately upon arrival, saving time and hassle.
• Hafnarfjörður: A charming port town near Reykjavik, Hafnarfjörður offers another convenient pickup location, often with excellent availability for various motorhome sizes.
• Kopavogur (Kópavogur): Adjacent to Reykjavik, Kopavogur is a growing urban area that also serves as an RV rental point, providing easy access to the capital region and the national road network.
• Reykjanesbær: Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, close to Keflavík and the Blue Lagoon, Reykjanesbær is another practical option for starting your RV journey, especially if you plan to explore the peninsula's geothermal wonders.
• Akureyri: Located in North Iceland, Akureyri is an ideal pickup point if you plan to focus your RV trip on the northern and eastern parts of the country, avoiding a long drive from Reykjavik immediately.

Remember that one-way rentals are also an option between some cities, which can be explored in our One-Way RV Rental in Iceland - Price Guide 2026.