As flight searches for Iceland skyrocket in 2025, travel behaviour is shifting—fast. According to Google Trends, queries like “Iceland Air,” “flights to Iceland,” and “Iceland airport” have surged in recent weeks, signalling a major uptick in interest for the Nordic destination.
But once travellers land at Keflavík International Airport, a new question emerges: What’s the best way to explore this land of fire and ice?
More and more visitors are choosing to skip the hotels and go mobile. The rise in flight bookings has coincided with a growing trend—renting a camper van to explore Iceland at your own pace.
Iceland by Road: The New Way to Travel
Rather than sticking to a fixed itinerary or paying high hotel prices, tourists are turning to camper rentals for the freedom to chase the northern lights, explore the Golden Circle, or park overnight near dramatic waterfalls like Skógafoss or Gullfoss.
This travel style has proven especially popular among families, couples, and solo travellers who want a more intimate experience with Iceland’s nature.
“The ability to cook your own meals, sleep with a view, and follow the good weather—that’s what makes campervanning in Iceland so appealing,” says a travel blogger who recently returned from a 10-day road trip around the island.
Top Attractions Easily Accessible by Camper Van
One of the biggest advantages of exploring Iceland in a camper van is the freedom to visit top natural attractions at your own pace — without the need to return to a hotel each night. Here are just a few iconic stops that are perfect for a road trip:
- Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site where tectonic plates meet.
- Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss – Two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, located along the southern coast.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Known for its dramatic basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – A surreal lake filled with floating icebergs from the nearby Vatnajökull glacier.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes, volcanoes, and coastline.
With a camper van, you’re not just visiting these places — you’re living in them, waking up to views most travellers only see briefly.
What to Know Before Renting a Camper in Iceland
Before you hit the road, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your camper adventure:
- F-Roads require a 4×4 vehicle – These highland roads are only accessible with four-wheel drive, and are usually open from June to September.
- Camping is well-organized – Iceland has over 170 designated campsites, many with facilities like showers, kitchens, and power hookups.
- Wild camping is restricted – To protect nature, overnight parking is only allowed in designated areas or with landowner permission.
- Download essential apps – Use Parka to pay for campsites, and Veður (from the Icelandic Meteorological Office) to check weather and road alerts in real time.
A little preparation goes a long way in Iceland — especially when the weather can change by the hour.
Iceland Is Trending — And So Is Van Life
Trending search terms also show a spike in interest for Þingvellir National Park, Hotel Búðir, and Iceland tourist attractions, suggesting that travellers are researching must-see locations before arrival.
For many, the idea of staying close to nature rather than inside a hotel room is part of the charm. And with more tourists seeking flexible, immersive travel experiences, the camper rental boom shows no signs of slowing down.
“According to the Icelandic Tourist Board, over 2.3 million tourists are expected to visit Iceland in 2025 — a 12% increase from last year. Many are opting for self-driven experiences over guided tours.”
A New Chapter in Icelandic Tourism
As Iceland continues to climb the ranks of top travel destinations, the way people choose to experience the country is evolving. With camper vans offering freedom, flexibility, and a deeper connection to nature, it’s no surprise they’re becoming the go-to choice for modern explorers.
For those looking to write their own adventure across Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, the open road awaits — no itinerary required.
Feature image by Camper Rental Iceland