Driving In Iceland: Your Guide To Hitting The Road
Embarking on an Icelandic road trip with a rental car offers unparalleled freedom to discover this mesmerizing country at your own pace. This comprehensive guide will equip you with vital insights, safety tips, and crucial information about vehicle rentals in Iceland, ensuring your adventure is both unforgettable and problem-free.While you might be a seasoned pro when it comes to renting cars in other parts of the world, Iceland presents a unique set of considerations. Understanding these distinctions is key to avoiding potentially costly issues and making the most of your journey. We've personally experienced the ins and outs of Icelandic car rentals, and we're here to share everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable self-drive experience.
Navigating Iceland's Roads: Speed, Hazards, and Gas
Keeping Your Speed in Check: Icelandic roads are not designed for high speeds. The maximum speed limit on paved highways is generally 90 km/h (approximately 56 mph), while gravel roads often have a limit of 80 km/h (around 50 mph), and urban areas typically range from 30-50 km/h. It's crucial to adhere to these limits, not only for safety but also to avoid hefty fines. Speed cameras are common, even in seemingly remote areas, and police actively monitor for violations. Some roads even have digital signs that will give you a friendly (or not-so-friendly) reminder of your speed. Be particularly cautious on gravel roads, which can be unpredictable, and when approaching single-lane bridges, where the car closest to the bridge has the right of way. Remember, the focus in Iceland is on the journey and the stunning scenery, not breaking speed records.
Gas and Fuel Availability: Fueling up in Iceland requires a bit of planning. Gas stations are generally reliable along the Ring Road (Route 1), often found every 100 km (62 miles) or so. However, in more remote areas like the Westfjords or East Fjords, they can be few and far between. The Icelandic Highlands, accessible only in summer with a 4x4, have no gas stations whatsoever, so carrying extra fuel is essential if you plan to venture there.
Self-Service is Common: Many stations, especially outside of major towns, are self-service and require a credit or debit card with a PIN for payment. It's highly recommended to have a backup card.
Fuel Types: Be mindful of the correct fuel type for your rental. In Iceland, the petrol (gasoline) pump is typically green, and the diesel pump is black.
Major Brands: N1 is the largest and most widespread chain, often offering convenience stores, food, and restrooms. Other common brands include Orkan (often known for slightly lower prices) and Olís/OB.
Fuel Discounts: Some rental car companies partner with fuel providers to offer discount programs, so inquire about these when you pick up your vehicle.
Don't Run Low: A good rule of thumb is to refuel whenever your tank is half-full, especially before embarking on longer drives or heading into less populated regions. Always check opening hours for stations in smaller towns, as some may not be 24/7.
Understanding Rental Car Insurance in Iceland
Rental car insurance in Iceland is a critical consideration and differs from what you might be accustomed to. Neglecting proper coverage can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Mandatory and Common Inclusions:
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL): This is legally required and always included in your rental. It covers damage or injuries you might cause to other people, vehicles, or property.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Most rentals include a basic CDW, which limits your financial liability for damages to the rental car itself. However, it almost always comes with an "excess" or "deductible," meaning you're responsible for a certain amount of the repair cost before the insurance kicks in.
Highly Recommended Optional Coverages:
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW): This is an upgrade to CDW and significantly reduces your deductible, sometimes to zero. It's often a wise investment given the potential cost of repairs in Iceland.
Gravel Protection (GP): Absolutely essential for driving in Iceland! Many roads, even sections of the Ring Road, are gravel. GP covers damage to the windshield, headlights, and body of the car caused by loose stones and gravel. Chips and cracks from gravel are one of the most common damages.
Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP): Unique to Iceland, this covers damage to the vehicle's body from sandstorms and volcanic ash, which can be picked up by strong winds. These types of damage can be very expensive.
Tire Protection: Covers damage to tires, which can be vulnerable on rougher roads.
Underbody/Undercarriage Protection: Damage to the car's underside from uneven terrain or large rocks is not typically covered by standard CDW. If you plan to drive on less-maintained roads or F-roads (which strictly require a 4x4), this coverage is crucial.
Things That Can Go Wrong (and are often NOT covered):
Even with comprehensive insurance, certain situations are typically excluded from coverage:
Driving on F-Roads without a 4x4: F-roads (mountain roads) are only accessible by law to 4x4 vehicles. Driving a 2WD car on these roads will immediately void your insurance.
Water Damage (River Crossings): Attempting to cross rivers or deep water, especially on F-roads, is usually not covered. Even if your rental is a 4x4, exercise extreme caution and assess depth and current before attempting any crossing.
Driving Off-Road: It is strictly illegal and forbidden to drive off marked roads or tracks in Iceland. Doing so will void your insurance and result in heavy fines.
Wind-Damaged Doors: Iceland is notoriously windy. If a strong gust catches your car door while it's open and causes damage (e.g., bending it backwards), this is often considered negligence and may not be covered by standard insurance. Always hold your doors firmly when opening.
Driving Under the Influence: As anywhere, driving while intoxicated will void all insurance and lead to severe legal consequences.
Negligence: Any damage caused by reckless driving, ignoring road closures, or otherwise acting negligently will not be covered.
Animals: Collisions with free-roaming sheep or other animals are generally not covered by insurance. Slow down in rural areas and be aware of livestock.
Credit Card Insurance: While some credit cards offer rental car insurance, it's vital to confirm their specific coverage for Iceland. Many do not cover unique Icelandic risks like sand and ash damage or gravel damage. If relying on credit card insurance, you typically pay for damages upfront and seek reimbursement later, which can be substantial given Iceland's high repair costs.
Essential Driving Tips for Iceland
Headlights On: By law, headlights must be on at all times, day or night, year-round.
Seatbelts Mandatory: All occupants must wear seatbelts.
Mobile Phones: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
Check Road and Weather Conditions: Iceland's weather can change rapidly. Always check www.road.is and vedur.is (Icelandic Met Office) for current road and weather conditions before setting out, especially for longer drives. Road closures are common, particularly in winter.
Single-Lane Bridges: Slow down and be prepared to yield. The car closest to the bridge typically has the right of way.
Blind Hills ("Blindhæðir"): Reduce speed significantly before cresting blind hills as you cannot see oncoming traffic.
Gravel Roads: Slow down when transitioning from paved to gravel roads. Drive cautiously, as loose gravel can cause skidding and reduce visibility from dust.
Emergency Number: In case of an emergency, call 112.
No Off-Road Driving: This cannot be stressed enough. It's illegal, environmentally damaging, and your insurance will be voided.
Park Safely: Never stop on the side of the road, especially on main highways, for photos. Use designated pull-offs.
Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, booking your rental car well in advance can secure better rates and ensure availability.
Choose the Right Vehicle: A 2WD car is generally sufficient for the Ring Road in summer, but a 4x4 is highly recommended for winter travel, the Westfjords, and absolutely essential for F-roads.
Renting a car in Iceland is undoubtedly the best way to experience its breathtaking landscapes. By being prepared for its unique driving conditions, understanding insurance nuances, and adhering to local regulations, you're set for an epic and trouble-free Icelandic road trip!