Parking A Camper In Iceland: Exploring The Options

Iceland is a popular destination for campervan travel, with its stunning scenery and summer midnight sun. However, it is illegal to camp outside of designated camping zones, and travellers must be aware of the rules and guidelines to avoid fines. So, where can you park a campervan in Iceland?

Campervan parking rules and regulations in Iceland

Where Can You Park?

In recent years, Iceland has made it illegal to park and camp outside of designated camping zones. This means that, unless you have permission from the landowner, you must stay in a designated campsite. This law was introduced to reduce waste and damage to the environment.

Campgrounds in Iceland cost around 10-20 USD per night for one person. Some campsites are free, while others offer additional amenities such as showers, toilets, electricity, and wifi for a small fee.

Booking in advance is not necessary to access campsites in Iceland, but it is recommended during the busy season to ensure availability.

Additional Considerations

• It is illegal to park on private land and to drive off-road in Iceland.
• Respect the environment by leaving your stopover site exactly as you found it and taking your rubbish with you.
• Be mindful of speed limits when driving your campervan in Iceland to avoid expensive fines.

Where to park a campervan in Reykjavik

If you're looking for where to park your campervan in Reykjavik, there are a few options. Firstly, it's important to note that Reykjavik has four parking zones, each with different rates. Zone 1 (red and pink) is the most central and expensive, Zone 2 (blue) surrounds the central areas, Zone 3 (green) is further out, and Zone 4 (orange) is primarily for residents. Zone 1 costs up to 600 ISK per hour, Zone 2 is 220 ISK per hour, Zone 3 is 90 ISK per hour, and Zone 4 is 220 ISK per hour during weekdays.

There are also free parking options in Reykjavik. Street parking is free before 9 am and after 6 pm on weekdays, and all day on Sundays and public holidays. Additionally, eco-friendly vehicles can park for free for up to 90 minutes in designated spots.

If you're looking to park a campervan specifically, there is a camping ground in Laugardalur, which is within walking distance of the city centre. This campsite offers washing machines, cooking facilities, and a nearby swimming pool. Alternatively, there is a parking garage underneath the Harpan concert hall that is suitable for motorhomes and campers.

Free campervan parking spots in Iceland

Iceland is a very expensive country, so finding a free place to park your campervan overnight can be a great way to save money. However, it's important to note that wild camping in a campervan is illegal in Iceland, so you'll need to make sure you have the landowner's permission before setting up camp.

Tips for finding free parking:

• Look for quiet locations on the main roads where you can park without causing any obstruction or concern.
• Be respectful and leave your parking spot exactly as you found it, taking all rubbish with you.
• Avoid parking on private land or driving off-road, as this is illegal.
• Use an app like Parka.is to find and book free campsites.

Free parking spots:

• Diamond Beach: Park in the car park near the beach, not on the beach itself.
• Seyðisfjörður: There is a dedicated truck/motorhome/campervan parking area at the back of an industrial area with electricity provided.
• Akureyri: Park in a large municipal car park just outside the town, facing the fjord.
• Fossarett: There is a dedicated area for vehicles right beside the main highway, well outside the urban area.
• Outside Reykjavik: Look for parking lots in small towns within a 20-minute drive from the city.
• Kirkjufell: You can park on the side of the road, but be mindful of signage prohibiting camping.
• Þakgil Campsite, Svínafell Campsite, Heiðarbær Campsite, Ísafjörður Campsite: These campsites are listed as staff favourites and are payable via the Parka app.

Best campervan sites in Iceland

Campervan travel in Iceland is a great way to see the country. With the freedom to stop wherever you like, it's one of the best ways to experience all that this fabulous country has to offer.

In recent years, Iceland has made it illegal to camp outside of designated camping zones. This means that you must camp at an established campsite or get the landowner's written permission to camp on their property. There are plenty of campsites to choose from, and camping is the cheapest form of accommodation in Iceland. Campsite prices range from 1375 ISK to 2750 ISK (about €10 to €20) per person.

Þakgil Campsite

This campsite is surrounded by some of south Iceland’s most gorgeous and colourful scenery. The campsite common area is inside a cave, and there are loads of great hiking trails in the surrounding area.

Svínafell Campsite

This campsite has a large building with a kitchen, plenty of table space, and lots of other campers and hikers to talk to. The showers are included in the camping fee, and the views of the glacier in the distance are phenomenal.

Heiðarbær Campsite

This campsite has a restaurant, a small lounge area, and even a swimming pool. It's a great spot to stay before going whale watching in Húsavík or if you want to avoid the midges around Mývatn.

Reynisfjara Campsite

This campsite is just north of Vík, so you can easily visit the abandoned airplane at Sólheimarsandur and the black sand beaches. The campsite lies just by the roots of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

Höfn Campsite

Höfn is your entrance to East Iceland. The campsite has stunning views in all directions, and it's very family-oriented with activities for everyone. There are washing and shower facilities, as well as good grocery stores close by. It's also a short drive to the glacier lake Jökulsárlón.

Diamond Beach

Located just across from the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Diamond Beach is a specific area that has been graded and made for vehicles to drive on. You can park up on the edge of the car park near the beach and watch the ice break off the icebergs and be funnelled out to sea.

Campervan parking in Iceland: Summer vs Winter

Campervan camping is a popular way to see Iceland's stunning sights. However, it's important to note that parking and camping on the side of the road are not allowed in Iceland. So, where can you park your campervan in Iceland, and is it different in summer and winter?

In recent years, Iceland made it illegal to park and camp outside of designated camping zones. This means that it's risky to stop and sleep anywhere in your campervan unless you have permission from the landowner. There are plenty of campsites across the country, which usually cost around $10 to $20 per night.

In the summer, most campsites are open, and the weather is milder, so you won't need to pack as many warm clothes. The long days and views of the midnight sun make it a great time for a road trip. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, so you'll need to book ahead.

In the winter, you'll find cheaper rates on campervan rentals and campsites, and you can see the northern lights. However, many campsites are closed during this time, and you'll need to make sure your campervan is outfitted for the cold with winter tires and a cabin heating system.

So, when is the best time to rent a campervan in Iceland? It depends on your preferences and budget. If you want to save money and don't mind the cold, winter is a great option. If you want milder weather and longer days, summer is the way to go. Just be prepared to pay more and deal with the crowds.

Free Overnight Parking in Iceland

While camping in designated areas is the safest option, there are some free overnight parking locations in Iceland. For example, in Northern Iceland, you can park in a large municipal car park in Akureyri, the second-largest city in the country. There are also some quiet locations on the main roads where you can park for the night without causing any concern, as long as you're responsible and leave the site as you found it.

Whether you're visiting Iceland in summer or winter, there are plenty of options for parking your campervan. Just be sure to do your research, respect the environment, and follow the local laws and regulations.

Frequently asked questions