11 August 2025
Summarize with AI:
Why you should wait to pick up your rental car in Reykjavík
The hidden danger: driving right after a long flight
A Reddit user on r/VisitingIceland issued a powerful warning: "Driving after an international flight … I would say no biggie … but … if you feel tired stop..."
This reflects a common yet underestimated risk. Post-flight tiredness can impair reaction times almost as much as alcohol. Medical studies and traveller forums echo the same concern: cognitive alertness after a long flight is significantly reduced. Many travellers have shared near-miss experiences or actual accidents caused by fatigue behind the wheel.
Even if you land in Iceland during daylight hours, the body's internal clock may still be operating on a different timezone. That misalignment can impair judgment, spatial awareness, and reaction time—all of which are critical when you're adjusting to unfamiliar roads, traffic signs, and changing weather conditions. In Iceland, even a simple lapse in concentration can turn dangerous.
Iceland’s rural roads are unique — and sometimes unforgiving
A major 2025 study published in Traffic Safety Research examined 712 single-vehicle crashes on Iceland's rural state roads (2016–2018). The findings were clear:
- Over half of serious or fatal crashes were run-off-road accidents
- Two roadside hazards—rocks and steep transverse slopes (like those at junctions or access roads)—more than doubled the likelihood of severe injury
- High-risk routes include the Ring Road along the south coast and Reykjanesbraut, the highway between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík
- Many of these crashes occurred in daylight and fair weather—proving that road conditions alone aren’t to blame. In fact, the most dangerous factor might be a tired driver unfamiliar with Iceland's topography.
- Narrow bridges, blind curves, gravel transitions, and strong crosswinds are common across Iceland, especially outside the capital. These factors create a driving environment that is less forgiving than in most travelers' home countries.
If you want to read the publication directly, you can do so here.
Zero Car’s safe & well-rested arrival: the better plan
Arrive, rest, then pick up in Reykjavík
Instead of collecting your rental car right after landing—when you may be groggy or jet-lagged—consider this safer plan:
- Land at Keflavík International Airport
- Take a shuttle or taxi to Reykjavík
- Check into a central hotel
- Get a full night’s rest
- Pick up your Zero Car rental the next morning in Reykjavík
- Driving from Reykjavík after a night of rest is far safer than navigating unfamiliar roads right after a long flight.
This is especially true if your itinerary includes stops like Þingvellir National Park, the Golden Circle, or the southern coast. All of these routes are more enjoyable when you’re refreshed and fully alert.
Why Reykjavík pickup works for travellers
- The city offers comfortable hotels and services to help you rest and adjust
- Zero Car’s Reykjavík pickup location is central and convenient
- Starting fresh reduces your accident risk dramatically
- You’ll be better prepared to begin longer journeys, like the Ring Road adventure
- You can explore Reykjavík on foot or via public transport while adjusting to the new environment
Detailed advice for waiting to pick up your car
1. Book accommodation in Reykjavík in advance
Especially during summer, rooms book quickly. Find lodging close to downtown or Zero Car’s pickup office. Many hotels offer early check-in options or flexible luggage storage so you can relax as soon as you arrive.
Recommended areas include:
2. Use Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík shuttles
Flybus and Airport Express offer regular, affordable transfers to the city. Booking in advance is recommended. Taxis are also available and offer a more direct route if you’re carrying extra luggage or traveling in a group.
3. Hydrate, eat, and take it slow
Once you land, hydrate and eat something light. Walk and stretch. Let your body transition naturally before taking the wheel.
Jet lag affects digestion and energy levels. By giving yourself time to rehydrate, eat balanced meals, and get some fresh air, you’re helping your body adjust faster to the local rhythm.
4. Pick up your Zero Car in the morning
- Zero Car makes it easy to pick up your vehicle in Reykjavík after you’ve rested. You can even complete the check-in online, with fast collection.
- Learn how the process works in this guide to renting a car in Iceland with Zero.
- The morning pickup also allows you to:
- Avoid early morning traffic leaving the city
- Drive in optimal daylight
- Reach your first destination in time to enjoy the scenery or check into your next hotel
5. Begin your Iceland journey fresh and focused
Once you’re well-rested, drive with confidence to explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, or Westfjords. Starting from Reykjavík gives you the flexibility to shape your itinerary your way.
If you’re still building your itinerary, consider reading our road trip planning guide or explore tailored recommendations in our destination blogs.
What the TSR study teaches us—and how Zero Car helps
Dangerous roadsides
The TSR study shows:
- Steep roadside slopes and rocks significantly increase crash severity
- Run-off-road crashes are common and often serious
- Reykjanesbraut, the road from Keflavík to Reykjavík, is particularly hazardous when drivers are tired or distracted
- Even minor errors like drifting off the shoulder or reacting late to a curve can lead to rollovers or severe impacts. Iceland’s emergency services are well-prepared, but rural crashes often occur far from help.
Fatigue, not intoxication, is the problem
Interestingly, the TSR study noted that foreign tourists were rarely involved in intoxicated driving. Instead, fatigue and unfamiliar roads were key contributors to crashes.
Zero Car provides clear road safety tips and strongly encourages travellers to avoid driving while tired. In fact, we consider this one of the most common rental mistakes.
When you rent from Zero Car, you're getting more than just a vehicle. You're getting local advice, seasonal driving recommendations, and access to a team that genuinely wants your trip to be safe and stress-free.
Related travel safety tips for Iceland
For more information on what car suits your route and season, check out our Iceland car rental guide.
Sample itinerary: a safe start
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Arrive at KEF → Shuttle to Reykjavík → Hotel check-in → Dinner and rest |
| Day 1 | Breakfast → Pick up Zero Car in Reykjavík → Begin your journey fully alert |
This itinerary balances comfort with safety, setting you up for a memorable road trip.
If you’re planning a longer journey, consider adding buffer days between your arrival and your longest driving days. Iceland rewards slow, intentional travel.
Why Zero Car recommends starting in Reykjavík
Prioritises your well-being and road safety
Offers easy, flexible pickup options in central Reykjavík
Helps you build a smarter itinerary with personalised service
Ensures a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience
By picking up your car in the capital, you're also surrounded by helpful resources: convenience stores, gas stations, emergency services, and attractions to explore on foot before heading out on the road.
Final thoughts: Rest is part of the adventure
Driving straight after a flight puts you at unnecessary risk. Iceland is beautiful, but its roads demand your full attention.
Plan your trip so you can rest before getting behind the wheel. Zero Car makes this easy with our Reykjavík pickup option and helpful advice every step of the way.
To ensure the best experience, always choose safety over urgency. A good night’s sleep might be the best travel decision you make in Iceland.
Start smart. Travel safe. Drive rested.