Car Camping In Iceland: 2025 Ultimate Guide

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide for camping in Iceland, you’ve come to the right place!
Iceland is a beautiful place to camp if you are interested in going a little off the beaten path and having 360 degrees of beauty when you wake up in the morning.
Keep in mind that it is illegal to camp anywhere in Iceland, due to the increase in tourism over the years, they have restricted camping to designated campsites only.
I went car camping in Iceland for a week, and frankly, I wish I had done it for a month. Not only was it affordable, but I felt safe, it led to a different type of adventure, and we met a lot of awesome travelers along the way.
Short on time? These are the best rental companies:
🚗 Car Rental: DiscoverCars
🚗 Campervan Rental: Happy Campers
Can You Camp Anywhere in Iceland?
No, it is no longer legal to sleep anywhere while camping in Iceland. Due to the increase in tourism and wild camping, Iceland has limited camping to only designated campsites to protect Iceland’s fragile ecosystem.
There are plenty of campgrounds throughout the country of Iceland for visitors who do want to camp. It is legal to sleep in your car, as long as you are at one of these designated campsites.
Since wild camping has been prohibited in Iceland, the designated campsites have stepped up their excellent facilities. Almost every campground we stayed at had bathrooms, showers, and wash stations, and some had coking areas. The facilities were well-maintained and clean at all the campsites.
Always respect nature and adhere to Iceland’s Leave No Trace principles.
For those who are staying in Reykjavik or other larger cities, I highly recommend planning and reserving your campsite early. When I was in Reykjavik and decided to last minute spend a night at the campsite there, there was no availability so we had to backtrack to a different campsite.

Is it Safe to Camp in Iceland?
Camping in Iceland is generally very safe. The crime rates in Iceland are low, and I felt comfortable at each campsite we stayed at during our car camping trip. Practice general safety as you would anywhere else.
Weather can be a bit unpredictable in Iceland. We car camped in early July and thankfully had comfortable weather. Some days we only needed a T-shirt and shorts. On other days we wore a sweatshirt, rain jacket, pants, and hiking boots.
While you pack for your trip, check weather forecasts regularly and always have a backup plan due to Iceland’s sudden changes in temperature, wind, or rain.
My Favorite Camping Items
– Ultralight 2-Person Tent: Marmot Camping Tent
– Warmest Slippers (Inside/Outside): NORTH FACE Insulated Slipper
– Best Headlamp: Energizer LED Headlamp PRO
Is Camping in Iceland Worth It?
Yes! After I spent a week car camping in Iceland, I can report that it was a beautiful way to see more of the country. Hotels can’t match beauty like it.
It’s not just about saving money, though that’s a nice perk. It’s about the experience: pulling off the road to hike up a volcanic crater, sipping coffee as steam rises from a nearby hot spring, or spotting puffins along the cliffs near your campsite. Iceland’s nature feels more alive when you’re right there, living in it.

Camping also gives you unparalleled freedom to explore. You’re not tied down to rigid itineraries or check-in times. If you find a hidden gem, like a lesser-known hot spring or a quiet stretch of beach, you can linger longer without worrying about rushing back to a hotel.
This flexibility is priceless in a country as dynamic and awe-inspiring as Iceland. Plus, the opportunity to stay in remote areas offers better chances to catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Costs of Camping in Iceland
Camping in Iceland is a great option if you are looking for an affordable way to visit.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Campsites range from $10 – $20 per person per night.
- Compare this to Airbnb or hotel stays, which can cost typically $150 per night (on the lower end of the scale).
- Consider purchasing the Iceland Camping Card, this gives access to over 40 campsites for a flat fee.
Camping Options: Tent, Campervan, RV, or Car
Camping in Iceland offers plenty of ways to experience the great outdoors, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a minimalist looking to pitch a tent or someone who prefers a cozy campervan, there’s a style of camping that’s just right for you. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide which option suits your adventure best.

Here are ways to camp and travel around in Iceland:
🏕️ Tent Camping
Tent camping is the go-to choice for budget travelers seeking a more traditional camping experience. It’s also the best way to plunge yourself into Iceland’s incredible landscapes.
However, you’ll need a durable, waterproof tent that can handle Iceland’s infamous wind and rain. Look for campsites with good facilities, like sheltered cooking areas, as these can make all the difference during bad weather.
Make sure to bring a high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures and a sturdy sleeping pad for added comfort.
🚐 RV Camping
RV camping is perfect for families or groups wanting more space and comfort. With an RV, you’ll have a warm place to sleep, cook, and relax after a day of exploring. While RVs can be pricey to rent and require more fuel, the convenience of having everything in one vehicle is unbeatable.
Iceland’s main roads are well-maintained, but keep in mind that some remote areas might not be accessible with larger vehicles. There are roads in Iceland called “F-Roads”, which are unpaved gravel roads that typically lead to the highlands. These roads are not suited for RVs.
Campsites for RVs often have hookups for electricity and water, making it easier to settle in.

🚗 Car Camping
A good middle-ground option for solo travelers or couples. While car camping doesn’t offer as much space or amenities as an RV or campervan, it’s a great way to stay mobile and explore Iceland’s less-traveled routes.
Just remember to park only at designated campsites, as sleeping in your car elsewhere is prohibited.
🚎 Campervan Camping
Companies like Happy Campers are a fantastic option for those looking for a mix of comfort and practicality. Most campervans come fully equipped with essentials like cooking equipment, bedding, and even heating, which can be a lifesaver during chilly nights.
They’re smaller than RVs, making them easier to navigate Iceland’s winding roads, and they allow you to enjoy the flexibility of car camping with added amenities.
Many campervan rentals also include extras like Wi-Fi or GPS to make your trip smoother.
Traveler’s Tip: For those choosing an RV, Car, or Campervan, read the restrictions ahead of time of what F-roads the vehicle can go on and/or any other limitations.
Still have questions? Ask the rental company before booking for detailed answers.
Best Time to Go Camping in Iceland
Camping in Iceland offers something unique no matter when you visit, but the best time depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
If you want to relax in the Midnight Sun and enjoy long daylight hours for exploring, summer is the ideal season. From late May to early August, the sun barely sets, giving you endless opportunities to hike, drive, and soak in hot springs without the worry of sunlight.

For those who dream of catching the Northern Lights while camping, plan your trip between late August and mid-April. The darker skies and crisp autumn or winter air make for excellent aurora-spotting conditions.
Just keep in mind that camping during these months requires more preparation due to colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions.
Weather Considerations
Iceland’s camping season typically runs from May to September, with the summer months (June to August) offering the best weather. Since more visitors have decided to go camping while staying in Iceland, many campsites are expanding their sites to stay open year-round to accommodate the influx.
Breakdown of Weather Considerations:
- Spring (April-May): Cooler temperatures but fewer crowds.
- Summer (June-August): Midnight sun, mild weather, and the most campsite availability.
- Fall (September-October): Stunning autumn colors but cooler weather.
- Winter (November-March): Unpredictable and challenging conditions, more campsites are opening up or remaining open for adventurous travelers.

Best Month to Visit
The best month to camp in Iceland is July, thanks to warmer weather and longer days. If you have a hard time sleeping when it’s light out be sure to pack a sleep mask.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in early September when the Northern Lights season begins and the temperatures begin to drop.
Best Campsites
- Reykjavik Campsite: Close to the city center with excellent facilities
- Skaftafell Campsite: Perfect for exploring Vatnajökull National Park
- Vik Campsite: Near the famous black sand beaches and Reynisfjara
- Þringvellir Campsite: Located in Iceland’s iconic national park (great spot to stay before/after snorkeling!)
✅ Tips for using the map above:
1. Click on the expand window
2. The left-hand side of the map gives you the option to filter between summer campsites, year-round campsites, and campsites included with the camping card
What to Pack for Camping in Iceland
Packing the right gear can make or break your camping trip. Depending on what season you go camping in Iceland, you should add extra layers and gloves. This packing list is a generalized list that I would recommend for any season while camping in Iceland.
Here’s what you’ll need for your trip:
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Inflatable travel pillow
- Kindle
- Layers (thermal base layers, fleece, waterproof outer layers)
- Headlamp
- Slippers
- Packable waterproof & windproof rain jacket
- Comfortable sandals
- Camping stove
- Beanie
- Toiletries essentials (mini shampoo, conditioner, lotion, face wash, etc.)
- Bathing suit
- Quick dry towel
- Paper map
- Portable phone charger
- Reusable water bottle
Traveler’s Tip: We rented a GPS from our Campervan rental (Happy Campers) and this was really helpful since we couldn’t use maps on our phones due to the lack of service.

How to Prep for Camping in Iceland
☘️ Test your gear before your trip. Make sure everything fits and works properly.
☘️ Bring extra batteries for headlamps and other electronics.
☘️ Learn how to use your camping gear. If you don’t know how to set up your tent or use your stove, it won’t do you any good when you’re out in the wild.
Related Posts:
🌟 Iceland Packing List: Ultimate All-Season Guide
🌟 How to Get Around Iceland – Transport Tips & Guide
Conclusion: Car Camping in Iceland
Camping in Iceland is an unforgettable adventure, giving you the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s raw, untamed beauty. Staying flexible and embracing the unexpected will help you navigate any challenges that come your way.
Whether you find yourself laughing at a full campsite or suddenly realizing it’s 2:00 am thanks to the Midnight Sun’s tricky glow, these moments will become part of your story. Trust me—both happened to us, and they’re now some of our favorite memories!
Happy Travels,
Mindful PNW Travels