You may assume that driving in Iceland is similar to your local environment, but this island country presents its own challenges that surprise American visitors. Knowing those differences prepares you for an experience unlike any other you’ve had.
Getting Your Rental Car Set Up
Hertz Iceland offers dependable car choices that navigate the nation’s rugged terrain more effectively than conventional vehicles. They maintain a fleet of robust SUVs and adapted sedans tailored for Iceland’s unforgiving climate.
Upon your arrival at Iceland international Keflavik Airport (KEF), anticipate more lengthy paperwork procedures than most American rental agencies. Employees take additional time to review local road regulations and weather warnings that may impact your travel.
Understanding Iceland’s Driving Conditions
Iceland’s roads are very different from American highways in a number of significant respects. While New York City motorists drive in heavy traffic and complicated intersections every day, Iceland offers broad open spaces with volatile weather patterns.
Los Angeles drivers may master bright freeway driving, but Iceland’s abrupt changes of weather produce dangerous conditions in a matter of minutes. Snow, rain, and high winds hit throughout the year, even in summer months.
They are:
- Narrow gravel roads beyond large towns
- Single-lane bridges where timing must be exact
- Slim cell phone coverage in the outlying country
Navigating the Iceland Ring Road
This popular road rings the nation and traverses about 830 miles of diverse landscape. The trip will take most travelers seven to ten days to do right.
As opposed to America’s Interstate system, Iceland’s Ring Road goes through rural towns where services are limited. Fuel stops must be planned because gas stations close early and might not take American chipless credit cards.
Weather conditions along the Ring Road change rapidly based on your location. While Chicago drivers handle snowstorms with confidence, Iceland’s winds reach hurricane strength and create whiteout conditions that force road closures.
Comparing Costs and Services
Fuel prices in Iceland cost roughly three times more than American prices. Budget approximately $150 per day just for gasoline during your Ring Road adventure.
Food costs also exceed American standards significantly. A basic meal that costs $15 in Denver might cost $40 in Reykjavik. Stock up on groceries from major towns before heading into remote areas.
Emergency services operate differently from those in American cities. While Miami residents expect quick police response times, Iceland’s small population means help could arrive hours later in remote locations.
Weather Preparation Essentials
Pack winter clothing regardless of your travel season. Even July temperatures drop below freezing at night in highland areas.
Consider these weather-related items:
- Waterproof jackets and pants
- Warm boots with good traction
- Extra blankets for emergencies
Also check out our Iceland packing list guide, and get yourself familiar what to pack for an Icelandic road trip
Planning Your Route Successfully
Download offline maps before leaving major towns. GPS signals disappear frequently in Iceland’s mountainous regions, leaving you without navigation assistance.
Book accommodations weeks ahead, especially during summer months. Iceland’s limited hotel capacity fills quickly with international tourists.
Create backup plans for weather delays. Storms often close roads for several days, forcing tourists to extend their stays unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts
Iceland’s beauty rewards patient travelers who respect its challenging conditions. While American tourists often rush through destinations, Iceland demands slower, more careful exploration. Your Ring Road journey becomes more meaningful when you allow extra time for weather delays and spontaneous discoveries along the way. For more information, visit our website today at Hertz Iceland.
