Ashley KaiIf you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you may be considering whether to rent a car while you’re there. After all, so many spectacular sights and adventures can be accessed by driving around this beautiful country. See more about Iceland on this page here.
However, before you lock in your rental vehicle, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of the car, driving tips, and the cost of insurance coverage. Whether it’s your first trip or if you’ve already explored Iceland by a car multiple times before, below is a guide about renting a car in Iceland.
Understand the Driving Requirements
When planning a trip to Iceland, check if your driver’s license is valid and up-to-date. No expired licenses are allowed; ensure that you have them for at least a year. They should be in English and depending on your country of origin, you may need an International Driver’s Permit in addition to your current driver’s license, so bring both.
Certain restrictions exist on the type of vehicles you can drive, so you must understand the rules before heading out onto the roads. Also, the legal driving age in Iceland is 17 years old or over, so if anyone under this age is planning to drive, they should be aware that they will not be able to legally do so, and they should bring someone with them to take the wheel. Taking these precautions can help ensure a smooth and stress-free road trip during your stay in Iceland.
Never Stop in the Middle of the Road
In Iceland, drivers stopping abruptly in the middle of the road are one of the most frequent reasons for traffic accidents. Despite how enthralling and majestic your surroundings may be and whether it’s a stunning white landscape or an ethereal Northern Lights display, do not stop on the road! Most roads are narrow, and other motorists might not have enough time to come to a complete stop after turning around a bend. Always choose safe places to pull over to avoid potential danger if you want to take pictures.
Learn About Fuel Policies
When you rent a car, save time and money by researching the fuel policy ahead of time. Every rental company has distinct guidelines for gas, so taking steps now can help you avoid costly surprises later on. Planning pays off.
No doubt, petrol is expensive in this country since it needs to be imported. Prices may vary but usually spike during summer, so double-check the company’s pricing before booking a car. Most gas stations close at 8 pm, and you will need a debit card PIN code to access them after hours.
While travelling through Iceland, you may come across long stretches of the land without another house or person in sight. To avoid being stranded on these lonely roads and experiencing extreme anxiety, fill up your tank whenever possible since it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Read the Vehicle Specifications
Knowing the vehicle specifications for your rental vehicle is essential before you drive off. From the type of car, make, and model to its size and number of seats, these features can make a difference in personal comfort while on your trip.
Before your trip, take the time to decide if you’ll be driving a manual or automatic car. You must select a sturdy design because strong winds can easily cause doors to swing open as you get in and out of the vehicle. Also, investing in four-wheel drive technology is especially beneficial when touring during winter or travelling through mountainous regions. Contact an expert for advice on which option best fits your needs, so your journey proceeds without unexpected hiccups.
Research Rental Agencies
When planning a trip and renting a vehicle, comparing prices and services offered between different agencies is key. Researching your options months before the trip can help you save money and ensure you have the right type of car for your needs.
Start by researching which agencies are available in your area, then compare their rates to determine which fits your budget best. Look into aggregate sites like leiebilguiden.no/island/ and see what types of services they offer, such as pick-up or delivery, roadside assistance, special offers, discounts, flexibility in changing or cancelling a reservation, etc., to ensure you’ll be getting the best deal. A little due diligence can go a long way towards a successful car rental experience.
Where to Go?
Go Online for Options
For an affordable option, book a vehicle well in advance online before you head to Iceland. Ensure the car is ready for pick-up when arriving at Keflavik International Airport. Rentals are also available within Reykjavik City, but they tend to be pricier than those located out of town, like Akureyri. When you’re in the country, you can also visit local dealerships for the vehicles available that will make you safe on your trip.
When you are in doubt, select the options with no concealed expenses, zero wait times where everything is done online, cancellation and a full money-back guarantee, discounted rates, new vehicles, and other benefits. Stay connected to your journey while on the road so that you know exactly where to go. GPS or offline maps downloaded from your phone can also be useful.
Factors for Consideration
When researching your rental car options in Iceland, there are a few important points to consider. Depending on your plans and travel companions, it might be worth paying extra for a larger vehicle, and you can search online for the best deals.
This will give you space for additional luggage and make your ride more comfortable. It’s also worth comparing different companies to get the best possible rate. Before signing the agreement, read through any insurance coverage they offer and what policies you agree to.
If you seek views like no other and plan to go off-the-beaten path, look into SUV or 4×4 vehicles, as they often come with features such as enhanced traction and increased ground clearance useful for uneven terrain in Iceland. You can usually find additional features, such as GPS tracking, that you can opt for when making your car rental reservation. Doing your research ahead of time can help ensure a stress-free rental experience.
Understanding Insurance
Learning more about insurance can help save you from many financial and other hassles. Most packages include coverage for personal accident insurance and third-party liability, but there are many different insurances you should be aware of. It’s important to understand the differences to get the best rate possible while being covered adequately in case something goes wrong.
When researching various insurance deals, consider all the options available, like daily and annual rates. Check if discounts are available with your credit card and with any additional membership you may have.
Double-check the package details before committing, as each provider will likely have varying conditions for different coverage or services. Also, try to find reviews from people who have used the service to ensure you’re making a well-informed decision before wrapping up your rental car insurance package.
Choosing a Reliable Company with Excellent Customer Service
When choosing a rental company, it’s important to research and selects a reliable business offering great customer service. Consider the reputation of the car rental company in Iceland, and be sure to read up on customers’ reviews to get an accurate idea of how their rental experience has been.
Contact them directly via phone or email and ask questions about their services. By doing so, you can see how quickly they respond and gauge for yourself the level of care taken in providing quality customer service. These steps will help ensure you get a safe and satisfactory rental experience and a safe drive while on vacation.
Ashley Kai
