Best Rental Car for Iceland? Tips to select ideal vehicle for you! 2025

Renting the right car can make or break your Icelandic adventure. With its diverse landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to rugged coastlines and gravel roads, Iceland demands careful consideration when selecting your rental vehicle. Here's a guide to the best types of cars for different trip plans to ensure you travel in comfort, safety, and style.

Planning to drive Iceland’s famous Ring Road (Route 1)? An SUV is your best bet. This scenic 1,332-kilometer route encircles the entire country, passing waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and glaciers. An SUV provides the comfort and space needed for a long road trip, especially if you're traveling with family or friends.

SUVs are versatile, capable of handling paved roads as well as gravel paths to lesser-known attractions. Popular models like the Ssangyong Tivoli, Korando or Dacia Duster come with spacious interiors and all-wheel drive, making them great for Iceland's varied terrain and unpredictable weather.

Many SUVs also come with modern features like heated seats, essential for chilly mornings, and advanced navigation systems to keep you on track. Opting for an SUV will ensure you’re ready for both comfort and adventure.

If your dream is to explore Iceland’s remote Highlands, a 4x4 vehicle is non-negotiable. The Highlands are crisscrossed by F-roads, rugged mountain trails that often require river crossings and are only accessible in summer. Renting a solid 4x4 like Ducia Duster ensures safety and compliance with Icelandic driving laws. When driving on F-roads you must remember that crossing rivers is not recommended and not covered by full insurance.

The 4x4's r off-road capabilities allow you to reach stunning destinations like Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork, or Askja. These areas are known for their breathtaking landscapes but can be challenging for standard vehicles.

However, driving in the Highlands demands caution. Always check weather conditions, road closures, and river depths before setting out. A 4x4 will give you the confidence to tackle Iceland's wildest terrains responsibly.

Iceland’s Ring Road, which circles the entire country, is packed with incredible sights, and a camper allows you to explore at your own pace. With the unpredictable Icelandic weather, having a warm and dry place to rest is a huge advantage. Plus, camping is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel, saving money on both accommodation and dining. Choosing the Right Camper Our car rental company offers campers for 3, 4, and 6 people, making it easy to find the perfect option for your adventure:

• 3-Person Camper – Ideal for couples or small groups looking for a compact and efficient way to travel.
•  4-Person Camper – A great choice for small families or friends who want extra space while still being cost-effective.
• 6-Person Camper – Perfect for larger groups, offering comfort and enough room to store your travel essentials.

What to Expect

All our campers are equipped with essentials such as sleeping arrangements, cooking facilities, and heating systems to keep you warm during chilly Icelandic nights. Depending on the model, you may also find extra storage, USB charging ports, and Wi-Fi options.

Exploring Iceland by 4x4 SUV with a rooftop tent is one of the best ways to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from rugged highlands to remote fjords. Renting a 4x4 with a rooftop tent provides freedom, flexibility, and access to off-the-beaten-path destinations that traditional campers might not reach.

Why Rent a 4x4 SUV with a Rooftop Tent in Iceland?

Iceland’s unpredictable weather and challenging road conditions make a 4x4 SUV the ideal choice for adventure seekers. With a rooftop tent, you can camp anywhere designated for overnight stays while having the capability to drive through rough terrains, including F-roads leading to Iceland’s untouched highlands.

Advantages of a 4x4 SUV with Rooftop Tent

• Compact and Versatile – A 4x4 SUV offers comfortable seating for travel while the rooftop tent provides a convenient sleeping solution without the need for a large vehicle.
• Better Handling in Extreme Conditions – Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, and a 4x4 SUV ensures safer travel through snow, gravel roads, and river crossings.
• More Freedom to Explore – While many traditional campers are limited to paved roads and designated campgrounds, a 4x4 SUV expands your possibilities.