Want to rent a car in Iceland?
Save money and enjoy a stress-free adventure! This blog will help you discover the best and most affordable car rental options across the island.
Whether you’re exploring Reykjavik’s city vibes or taking in the breathtaking views of the Golden Circle, having a reliable car at a good price will make your Icelandic journey fantastic!
Let’s find the easiest and most trustworthy rentals to make your Iceland trip smooth and budget-friendly.
Iceland Adventures Begin Here: Car Rental Price Compare Essentials
Set Your Search Filters
I specified the car type, location, pick-up and drop-off dates, and any additional equipment I needed to narrow down my options.
Check for Hidden Fees
Beyond the base price, I looked into insurance, taxes, and any one-way rental fees to avoid surprises.
Consider All-Inclusive Packages
Some companies offer packages with unlimited mileage, airport pickup, and extra insurance. I found these to be quite convenient.
Use Promo Codes and Discounts
To save more, I kept an eye out for promo codes and discounts on various websites.
Don’t Just Choose the Cheapest
While price was important, I also considered the company’s reputation, reviews, and the quality of its fleet.
By following these steps, I found a reliable and affordable car rental for my Icelandic adventure. Now, I’m all set to enjoy the open road!
Compare Car Rental Prices for Your Iceland Trip
Here are some key factors to consider when comparing car rental prices for your Iceland trip
What to Consider Before Renting a Car
I first figured out the places I wanted to explore and estimated how much driving I’d be doing. This helped me decide on the type and size of the car I required.
Since I was planning my trip during the peak season (June-August), I knew there would be high demand and limited availability. So, I booked well in advance to grab the best deals.
Knowing that I might want to go off the main roads, I considered getting a sturdier 4×4 for more flexibility.
I used websites like Discover Car, Economybookings.com, and localrent.com to compare prices across different rental companies and snag the most budget-friendly option.
Before confirming my booking, I made sure to understand the insurance options, excess charges, and fuel policies.
Rental Cost: Compare the daily rates of different rental companies.
Insurance: Check what insurance coverage is included and if additional coverage is needed.
Mileage: Look for unlimited mileage options to avoid extra charges.
Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy (e.g., full-to-full, same-to-same).
Vehicle Type: Choose a vehicle suitable for Iceland’s terrain and weather conditions (e.g., 4×4 for winter or highlands).
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations: Check if there are additional fees for airport pick-up or different drop-off locations.
Age Restrictions: Ensure the primary driver meets the age requirements and any associated fees.
Additional Drivers: Find out if there are extra costs for adding additional drivers.
Extras and Add-ons: Consider costs for GPS, child seats, Wi-Fi, etc.
Reviews and Reputation: Read reviews and ratings of rental companies for reliability and service quality.
Cancellation Policy: Understand the cancellation terms and any associated fees.
By considering these factors, you can better compare and choose the most suitable car rental option for your trip to Iceland.
Budget-Friendly Adventures: How to Save Money on Car Rentals
Additional Car Rental Tips
I opted for a local car rental company because they often offer better deals and more personalized service compared to big international brands.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather, gravel roads, and challenging terrain. Research road conditions and weather forecasts.
Before hitting the road, I took photos of any damage to avoid being charged for it later.
Since gas stations can be rare outside major towns, I made it a point to fill up whenever I encountered one.
I knew that GPS might not always work in remote areas, so I made sure to have offline maps handy.
I kept in mind that speed limits are strictly enforced, and driving off-road is a big no-no.
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so I adjusted my driving plans to stay safe.
Confirm the pick-up and drop-off location to avoid surprises.
Review insurance coverage thoroughly. Consider additional coverage for gravel protection and sand/ash damage.
Fuel stations can be sparse, especially in remote areas. Plan your fuel stops.
Winter driving requires extra caution due to icy roads and limited daylight hours. Summer offers longer days for exploration.
Plan your route, including must-see attractions and scenic viewpoints. Be flexible and allow time for unexpected discoveries.
Remember, driving in Iceland is an adventure, so stay safe, enjoy the landscapes, and have an unforgettable trip!
Plan Ahead: Book Accommodations Early for Peak Seasons
Solo Adventures on Iceland’s Loop Trails
Iceland is full of amazing places to explore, and I found some fantastic day hikes that you can easily do on your own.
One of my favorites was in the Icelandic Fjords, particularly Mjoifjordur and Lodmundafjordur. The scenery is breathtaking, and I could drive to Seydisfjordur and then walk to Lodmundafordur.
The trip is not too long, and there are affordable cabins in Lodmundafordur if you want to stay overnight.
On a clear day, walking to Borgafjordur offers stunning views, almost like the eye of Sauron!
Reykjanes Peninsula, West Fjords, and the entire country have plenty of day trip options. However, Thorsmork stole my heart.
It feels like another planet with its fresh dry lava, glaciers, and historic sites.
The weather is usually calm, making it a unique experience. I won’t show you pictures; you have to Google it to believe it.
👉 A crucial tip: Consider renting a 4WD vehicle for better handling on rugged roads
Be cautious of glacial rivers with a greenish color; they are dangerous. Always let someone know your plans, as the weather can change rapidly.
I learned to ask locals for advice on places to go and potential hazards. If you find a pond with steam and warmth, don’t jump in it could be scorching below.
Stick to paths to avoid stepping into boiling mud pits, especially in the south.
Remember to use toilets when available; bring a bag for toilet paper and leave no trace. Pack warm clothes, rain jackets, and energy-rich food.
Always have the number for Bjorgunarsveitin, a volunteer rescue team, in case of emergencies.
My solo adventure was incredible, even with the unpredictable Icelandic weather. Exploring the unique landscapes and connecting with locals made it an unforgettable experience.
The key is to have fun, appreciate the beauty, and be prepared for the ever-changing weather.
Travel Tips and Tales: Let’s Craft Your Journey!
Your All-in-One Guide to Explore, Eat, Stay, and Save!
Related Blog:
The Ultimate Guide to Finding Affordable Car Rental
In a nutshell
In conclusion, renting a car for your Iceland adventure is not just about saving money; it’s about making your trip stress-free and super memorable.
Whether you’re exploring the city vibes of Reykjavik or enjoying the amazing views of the Golden Circle, having a reliable and budget-friendly rental car is the key to having a great time.
In this blog, I’ve shared all the important stuff you need to know about renting a car for your Iceland trip.
You’ll find trustworthy and affordable options, so you can have a smooth and budget-friendly journey and focus on enjoying the beauty of Iceland.
