Rent a Car
in Iceland

• Always use studded winter tyres (most rentals include these)
• Reduce speed significantly — black ice forms overnight on clear skies
• Keep 3× the normal following distance on snow and ice
• Check road.is every morning before setting out
• Never drive into a snowstorm — pull over and wait
• Carry warm clothes in the car in case of breakdown

• Ring Road is open year-round and fully paved
• Strong side winds near the coast — hold the wheel firmly when opening doors
• Single-lane bridges are common — yield to oncoming traffic
• Speed limit: 90 km/h paved roads, 80 km/h on gravel
• Sheep wander freely onto roads — especially at dawn and dusk
• Midnight sun in June — fatigue can be a hidden risk

• Require a high-clearance 4x4 approved for highland use
• Open approximately June to October — check road.is
• River crossings are common — never cross without assessing depth
• Never cross alone — go with another vehicle if possible
• Driving off marked tracks is illegal and causes permanent damage
• Standard rental insurance does NOT cover F-road incidents

• Iceland has thousands of km of unpaved gravel roads
• Slow down to 50–60 km/h maximum on gravel
• Flying gravel can crack windscreens — add Gravel Protection
• Avoid sudden braking — causes skidding on loose gravel
• Check tyre pressure regularly — gravel causes faster wear
• Keep both hands on the wheel at all times on gravel

• Iceland weather changes every 30 minutes — always check the forecast
• Vedur.is is the most accurate local weather source
• Wind can exceed 30 m/s — strong enough to damage car doors
• Never get out on the windward side during storms
• Low visibility in fog, rain or snow — headlights on at all times
• If a sand or ash storm starts, pull into a garage immediately

Always included in your rental price. Covers damage to the vehicle body in an accident — but you remain responsible for a deductible (typically €800–€2,000). Does not cover tyres, windscreen, undercarriage or interior.

Reduces your CDW deductible to zero. If you have an accident, you pay nothing extra. Typically adds €12–€25/day. Highly recommended for all renters.

Covers chip damage to the windscreen, headlights and bodywork from flying gravel. Iceland's unpaved roads throw stones at high speed. Not included in CDW or SCDW.

Covers paint and body damage from sandstorms and volcanic ash. The south coast near Vík and some highland areas are prone to sudden storms that strip paint in minutes. Unique to Iceland.

Covers theft of the vehicle or parts. Iceland has very low crime rates, but break-ins at popular hiking trailheads do occur. Covers the deductible if the vehicle is stolen.