Camping is the most affordable and flexible way to experience Iceland — you wake up next to waterfalls, chase good weather, and skip the high cost of hotels. Whether you prefer a rooftop tent on a 4x4 or a fully equipped camper van, Aurora Car Rental Iceland has a vehicle that turns the whole country into your bedroom. Here is everything you need to plan a self-drive camping trip in 2026.
Roof tent vs camper van: which is right for you?
Both options free you from booking hotels, but they suit different travellers. A roof tent mounts on top of a capable 4x4 like a Dacia Duster or SsangYong Korando — you keep the go-anywhere ability of an SUV during the day and pop up a comfortable tent at night. A camper van gives you an indoor sleeping and cooking space, better for cooler weather and travellers who want to stay dry and warm without setting anything up.
| Feature | 4x4 + Roof Tent | Camper Van |
|---|---|---|
| From (per day) | 22,000 ISK | 45,000 ISK |
| Sleeps | 2–4 | 3–6 |
| Off-road capability | High (4x4) | Moderate |
| Best season | Summer | Late spring–autumn |
| Cook inside? | No (outdoor kit) | Yes |
Aurora offers several combinations: the Dacia + Roof Tent (sleeps up to 4, from 29,000 ISK/day in summer), the Korando + Roof Tent (from 22,000 ISK/day), and dedicated Camper Vans for 3 or 6 people (from 45,000 ISK/day). Compare them on our cars page.
The rules: where you can and cannot camp
This is the single most important thing to understand. Since a 2015 law, wild camping in a vehicle or roof tent is generally prohibited in Iceland — you must stay at one of the country's several hundred designated campsites. This protects the fragile landscape and is strictly enforced. The good news is that campsites are plentiful, affordable (typically 1,500–2,500 ISK per person per night) and well-distributed along every major route, so you are never far from a legal place to sleep.
Most campsites offer toilets, running water and often showers and a kitchen shelter. Many sell a Camping Card that covers a network of sites for a flat seasonal fee, which can save money on longer trips.
When is camping season in Iceland?
Camping is a summer activity. The reliable window is mid-June to early September, when most campsites are open, the weather is mildest and the midnight sun means you can drive and pitch camp at any hour. Shoulder months (late May and mid-September) work for hardy campers in a camper van, but many campsites close and nights get cold. Winter camping is not practical for most visitors.
| Month | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Jun–Aug | Best: mild, long daylight, all campsites open |
| May & Sep | Cooler nights, fewer sites — camper van better than roof tent |
| Oct–Apr | Not recommended — most sites closed, cold |
Camping gear and extras
You do not need to fly with camping equipment — Aurora rents everything you need as optional extras, added to any booking. Popular items include sleeping bags, a mattress, pillows, a camping table and chairs, a gas burner, cooking pots, a frying pan, a tableware set, a cooler box and a water tank. A power inverter keeps phones and cameras charged on the road. Adding these to your rental is far cheaper and lighter than bringing your own, and everything is ready when you collect the car.
A sample camping route
A classic first camping trip follows the South Coast and loops back, staying at campsites along the way:
- Day 1: Collect car at Keflavík, drive the Golden Circle, camp near Selfoss
- Day 2: South Coast waterfalls, camp at Skógar or Vík
- Day 3: Reynisfjara and on toward the glacier, camp near Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Day 4: Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, return west, camp near Hella
- Day 5: Return to Keflavík
Reserve your camping setup on the booking page. Every Aurora rental includes insurance, unlimited kilometres and a free airport-area transfer, with no deposit and cash payment at pickup. Please note that all vehicles are unavailable 10–15 August 2026.
Practical camping tips
Icelandic weather is changeable, so choose sheltered campsites and always secure your roof tent well against wind. Nights can be cold even in summer, so a good sleeping bag matters. Fuel up whenever you pass a station, carry water, and respect quiet hours at campsites. Above all, follow the "leave no trace" principle — pack out all rubbish and never drive off-road to reach a camping spot.
Frequently asked questions
Is wild camping allowed in Iceland?
Generally no. Since 2015, camping in a vehicle or roof tent outside designated campsites is prohibited to protect the landscape. You must use one of Iceland's many official campsites, which are affordable and widespread.
Should I choose a roof tent or a camper van?
A roof-tent 4x4 is cheaper and keeps full off-road capability during the day, ideal for summer. A camper van is warmer and lets you cook and sleep indoors, better for cooler weather and larger groups.
When is camping season in Iceland?
The best window is mid-June to early September, when most campsites are open, nights are mildest and the midnight sun gives near-endless daylight. Winter camping is not practical for most travellers.
Does Aurora provide camping gear?
Yes. Sleeping bags, mattresses, pillows, tables, chairs, a gas burner, pots, a cooler box, a water tank and a power inverter are all available as optional extras and are ready when you collect the car.
How much do campsites cost in Iceland?
Most campsites charge roughly 1,500–2,500 ISK per person per night. A seasonal Camping Card covering a network of sites can reduce the cost on longer trips.
Sleep under the Icelandic sky
Book a roof-tent 4x4 or camper van with Aurora Car Rental Iceland — gear available, no deposit, free airport-area transfer.
Aurora Car Rental Iceland — Suðurbraut 890, 262 Keflavík | WhatsApp: +48 729 854 633 | carrentalaurora@gmail.com