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Why Travelers Choose Zero Car for a Stress Free Iceland Car Rental

Travelers come to Iceland for freedom. They want open roads, dramatic landscapes, powerful waterfalls and the feeling of exploring one of the most unique places on earth. But researching car rentals can quickly turn that excitement into stress. Complicated insurance layers, large deposits, hidden fees and winter driving uncertainty make travelers feel unsure before their trip even begins.  Zero Car was built to remove these problems completely. This guide explains why renting a car in Iceland often feels complicated and how Zero Car creates a simple, honest and stress free experience for every traveler. ## Summary • Renting a car in Iceland often feels confusing because of complicated insurance and large deposits • Many travelers are unsure about what is actually covered and what is not • Zero Car includes zero excess insurance, no deposit, unlimited mileage and transparent pricing • Keybox pickup at Keflavik Airport removes lines, upsells and delays • This guide explains the common stress points and how Zero Car eliminates them ![Dacia Bigster driving on a dirt road in Iceland, care free.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/zerocar_stressfree_iceland_1_38666449d8.jpg) ## Why Car Rental in Iceland Often Feels Complicated Car rental in Iceland feels complicated because travelers encounter unfamiliar terms, long lists of insurance add ons and unclear pricing structures. Most companies offer several insurance tiers that must be reviewed quickly at the desk. Deposits of several hundred thousand ISK are common and can hold funds on a credit card for days after the trip.  Winter driving rules (see [best winter rental guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/what-s-the-best-car-rental-iceland-option-for-a-winter-road-trip)) such as understanding when [4x4 rental](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) is required or how conditions change add another layer of hesitation. Travelers also worry about wind damage, gravel hits and ash storms.  Online forums highlight upsells, hidden fees and long waits at counters, and travelers can learn more in the [Why you should wait to pick up your rental car in Reykjavik](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/why-you-should-wait-to-pick-up-your-rental-car-in-reykjavik) guide. The official [Driving in Iceland Guide](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland) helps travelers prepare, but the rental experience itself often remains confusing. ## The Six Most Common Stress Points for Travelers ### Confusing Insurance Options Travelers often face several insurance layers at the desk, including gravel protection, sand and ash protection, theft protection, collision damage waivers and liability coverage. Understanding these options quickly is difficult, especially after a long flight. Travelers worry about choosing the wrong coverage and being responsible for costly repairs. ### Large Deposits Deposits of 200,000 to 350,000 ISK are common. These holds reduce the available balance on a card and may take several business days to release. Travelers using debit or prepaid cards often struggle the most, as these funds are taken directly from their balance. ### Hidden Fees Additional charges for towing, late returns, gravel or administrative fees can appear at the pickup counter or after the rental is returned. Small incidents sometimes become expensive end of rental bills. ### Upsells at Pickup Peak arrival times at [Keflavik Airport](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/ultimate-guide-to-keflavik-airport-land-grab-drive) can mean pressure to upgrade insurance or add extra coverage. Travelers may feel rushed or confused and end up paying more than expected. ### Long Lines and Desk Delays Traditional desks at Keflavik Airport often have long lines during busy times. Travelers may wait 20 to 40 minutes, followed by paperwork and insurance discussions. These delays create frustration, especially for late night arrivals. ### Winter Uncertainty Winter conditions bring snow, wind and ice. Travelers want reassurance that their car is suitable for the season and that insurance covers winter related incidents. Many travelers overthink this part of the process, especially when planning drives to areas like the South Coast, [Snæfellsnes Peninsula](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/hunt-for-the-northern-lights-in-snaefellsnes-peninsula) or the highlands. ![Person standing on top of a mountain in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/zerocar_stressfree_iceland_2_f5b2542a20.jpg) ## Comparison Table: Zero Car vs Traditional Rental Companies FeatureZero CarTraditional Rental CompaniesDepositNone200,000 to 350,000 ISKInsuranceZero excess, full coverage includedMultiple layers, excess fees commonPricingTransparent, no upsellsUpsells and add ons at pickupPickupFast keybox pickup at KEFDesk lines, paperwork and wait timesMileageUnlimitedUnlimitedRoadside AssistanceIncluded 24 hoursOften limited or extra costWinter PreparationWinter tires and Iceland ready vehiclesVaries by company ## How Zero Car Fixes What Travelers Struggle With Zero Car was designed specifically to remove the pain points that travelers mention most. ### Zero Excess Insurance Zero Car includes full insurance with zero excess. Travelers do not pay out of pocket for covered damage. Gravel hits, minor scratches and wind related incidents are common concerns in Iceland, especially along the [South Coast](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/the-top-5-best-waterfalls-in-iceland) or exposed coastal areas. Zero excess removes the fear of unpredictable repair bills. ### No Deposit Zero Car does not take a deposit on any vehicle. There is no credit card hold and no waiting for funds to be released. This is especially helpful for travelers using debit or prepaid cards and for groups sharing travel expenses. ### Transparent Pricing The price shown at booking is the final price. No upsells, no hidden fees and no surprise charges at pickup. This clarity allows travelers to budget confidently before arrival. ### Keybox Pickup at Keflavik Airport Travelers collect their vehicle directly from a secure keybox. This eliminates long lines, paperwork and pressure to make last minute decisions. Keybox pickup is ideal for late night flights and families or groups who want a fast start. ![Blue Car Rental - dacia Bigster-4.jpg](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/Blue_Car_Rental_dacia_Bigster_4_615a601027.jpg) ### 24 Hour Roadside Assistance Zero Car includes full roadside assistance. Whether traveling along the [Ring Road](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/car-rental-iceland-faq-zero-excess-pricing-self-drive-and-f-road-guide), the [Eastfjords](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/beyond-the-summer-crowds-the-ultimate-off-season-iceland-road-trip-guide) or remote areas (check [Icelandic Road Authority](https://www.road.is/) for updates), support is always available. ## What Travelers Actually Want From a Rental Company Travelers want clarity and confidence. They want the final price to match what they expect. They want to skip long lines and avoid pressure at the desk. They want protection against Iceland’s unpredictable weather and volcanic terrain. For weather updates, see the [Icelandic Met Office](https://en.vedur.is/). For month by month seasonal changes, see the [Iceland weather by month guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/iceland-weather-by-month-a-practical-guide-for-road-trips). ## What Makes Zero Car Different From Traditional Rental Companies Zero Car removes the traditional rental desk model entirely. ### No Insurance Layers Travelers receive full coverage automatically. No comparisons, no sales pressure and no guessing. ### No Deposits or Holds Travelers can use their money freely throughout their trip, which is useful for long journeys like the [Ring Road](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/car-rental-iceland-faq-zero-excess-pricing-self-drive-and-f-road-guide) or [Snæfellsnes Peninsula](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/hunt-for-the-northern-lights-in-snaefellsnes-peninsula). ### Digital, Fast Pickup The keybox system allows travelers to skip the rental desk entirely and begin their trip within minutes of arriving. Instructions are provided in advance, and the car is ready on arrival. This creates a smooth experience, especially during late arrivals or peak hours. ![Car located on an F-Road in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/zerocar_stressfree_iceland_3_f001c83b4e.jpg) ### Cars Prepared for Icelandic Conditions Zero Car vehicles include features suited for Iceland’s weather and terrain, including winter tires ([Iceland winter driving tips](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland)) and strong performance for long routes. Vehicles are selected with local conditions in mind, ensuring reliable handling on coastal roads, mountain passes and remote areas. ### Simple and Honest Experience [Zero Car](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/iceland-car-rental-guide-best-cars-for-every-traveler-and-trip-with-zero-car) prioritizes clarity. The rental process is straightforward, the pricing is transparent and the insurance is complete.  Travelers avoid last minute decisions at the desk and unexpected charges after returning the vehicle. ## Real Travel Scenarios Where Zero Car Makes a Difference ### Winter Detours When weather forces rerouting, zero excess insurance means travelers maintain confidence and avoid extra costs. Winter storms can develop quickly, leading to road closures.  Changes in [route](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/discover-the-top-10-must-see-sights-with-car-rental-in-iceland) or distance will not result in financial stress. ### Late Night Arrival at KEF Many flights arrive late from North America. Traditional desks may be closed or short staffed. With Zero Car’s [keybox](https://www.zerocar.is/info/pickup-dropoff-process) system, travelers collect their keys immediately and avoid long waits or rushed insurance decisions. ### Shared Budgets Groups of friends or families often split costs. A traditional deposit placed on one person’s card can create budgeting stress.  Without a deposit, everyone contributes normally to fuel, food and accommodation. ### Roadside Assistance When Needed Unexpected situations are handled with support included in every booking. Whether it is a flat tire, a warning light or a locked key inside the car, roadside assistance ensures travelers are never alone. ## Why This Matters for Your Iceland Trip A self drive holiday in Iceland should feel free, flexible and enjoyable. Travelers want to focus on landscapes, geothermal pools, wildlife sightings and the open road. Zero Car removes the stress that typically surrounds car rental in Iceland.  Don't hesitate to check our [reviews from real renters](https://www.zerocar.is/info/reviews).

Age to Rent a Car in Iceland: Requirements & Restrictions Explained

Before you book, it’s essential to understand the country’s rental age rules, license requirements, and coverage details. This guide explains everything you need to know so you can travel confidently and avoid surprises on arrival. _**Updated November 2025**_ ## Summary * You must be **20 years old** to rent any car with [**Zero Car**](https://www.zerocar.is/) and **23 years old** for [large SUVs](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) or [passenger vehicles](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-proace).  * A valid driver’s license held for at least one year is required.  * Every rental includes **zero deductible insurance** and **no deposit**.  * Drivers of all ages are welcome as long as they meet license requirements. ## How old to rent a car with Zero Car in Iceland ? The minimum age to rent a car with **Zero Car** is **20 years old**. Renters must be at least 20 to drive any standard vehicle in our fleet, including compact, hybrid, and electric models. To rent a **large SUV or passenger vehicle**, you must be **23 years old**. These age limits exist to make sure drivers have enough experience to handle Iceland’s varied weather and road conditions. Larger SUVs and 4x4s are designed for gravel or mountain roads, which demand more control and awareness. If you’re under 23, you can still explore Iceland comfortably with an [**electric or hybrid car rental**](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/electric). They’re ideal for routes like the [**Golden Circle travel guide**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/discovering-iceland-s-golden-circle-with-zero-car) or scenic drives along the South Coast. ![drivers-license-iceland.png](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/drivers_license_iceland_bcc85b2712.png) ### Driver’s License Requirements To rent a car in Iceland, you must have a **valid driver’s license** that meets these conditions: * It must have been issued at least **one year before the rental date** * It must be printed in **Latin characters** (English letters) * If not in English, you’ll need an **international driving permit (IDP)** alongside your license **EU and EEA licenses** are fully valid in Iceland. Visitors from the **UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand** can use their national licenses without an IDP. If your license comes from outside these regions, it’s best to carry an IDP to ensure it’s accepted at pickup. ### Identification and What to Bring at Pickup **When you collect your car, bring:** 1. A valid driver’s license 2. A passport or official photo ID At **Zero Car**, you’ll never pay a deposit or face hidden costs. Every rental includes **zero deductible insurance**, giving you complete peace of mind from the moment you start your journey. No excess, no surprises — just straightforward, stress-free travel. ## Maximum Age Limit and Young Driver Policy * There is **no upper age limit** to rent a car in Iceland. Some companies may request extra documents for drivers over 75, but **Zero Car** does not impose age-based restrictions. As long as your license is valid, you’re eligible to drive. * Drivers under **25 years old** may have restrictions on vehicle type (for example, no large SUVs under age 23), but **Zero Car** does not charge additional young driver fees. We believe in transparent pricing and all-inclusive protection. To learn more about coverage and road safety, check our [**Driving in Iceland Guide**](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland). ## Insurance: Zero Deductible, Zero Deposit Most rental companies in Iceland charge large deposits and have high deductibles. At **Zero Car**, every rental includes **zero deductible insurance** — meaning no deposit and no excess payments, no matter what. You’re always fully covered for collisions, gravel, theft, and more. Our goal is to make driving in Iceland simple, safe, and sustainable. For more on how we protect both travelers and the environment, read our [**Electric Car Rental Guide**](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/electric). [![Screenshot 2025-11-04 095601.png](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/Screenshot_2025_11_04_095601_8169f5ce2f.png)](https://www.zerocar.is/) ## Renting a 4x4 or Camper if You’re Under 25 Yes, you can rent a 4x4 once you’re **23 years old** and have held a valid license for at least one year. If you’re under 23, electric or hybrid vehicles are the best choice — they handle all major routes with ease and suit Iceland’s weather year-round. You can comfortably reach famous landmarks like the [**Best Waterfalls in Iceland**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/the-top-5-best-waterfalls-in-iceland) and the [**Hidden Gems of Reykjanes Peninsula**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/beyond-the-summer-crowds-the-ultimate-off-season-iceland-road-trip-guide) without needing a 4x4. Before setting out, always check [**road conditions**](https://www.road.is) and [**weather updates**](https://en.vedur.is) to plan safely. ## Why Age Rules Matter in Iceland Iceland’s weather and terrain can change quickly; one minute you’re driving through sunshine, and the next, fog or wind.  These age and license requirements help keep travelers safe, ensuring everyone behind the wheel has enough experience for Iceland’s conditions. If you’re heading to the Highlands or tackling F-roads, a [**4x4 rental**](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) is mandatory. For everyday routes like the Golden Circle, an electric car is the most efficient and eco-friendly option. Read more about responsible travel and road safety in our [**Travel Stories**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog). ### Example: Driving the Golden Circle Safely The **Golden Circle** is Iceland’s most popular scenic route and accessible year-round with a standard or electric vehicle. Roads are well maintained, but weather can shift fast so checking road updates before you go is essential. If you’re 20 or older with a valid license, you can rent confidently and enjoy one of Iceland’s most iconic drives with Zero Car. ## Key Takeaways CategoryStandard & Electric CarsLarge SUV / Passenger CarMinimum Age20 years23 yearsLicense RequirementValid 1+ yearValid 1+ yearYoung Driver FeeNoneNoneDeposit RequiredNoNoInsuranceZero deductibleZero deductibleAccepted LicensesEU, EEA, UK, US, CA, AU, NZSameMaximum Age LimitNoneNone

How Good Is Zero Car’s 24/7 Roadside Assistance in Iceland?

Driving through Iceland’s wild landscapes is unforgettable, from lava fields to glacial valleys. But when you’re exploring a country where the weather can change in minutes, reliable roadside assistance is not just a bonus, it’s essential. That’s where [**Zero Car’s 24/7 Roadside Assistance**](https://www.zerocar.is/) comes in, a service built to keep you safe, supported, and stress-free wherever the Icelandic road takes you. ### What 24/7 Roadside Assistance Means in Iceland Roadside assistance in Iceland is about more than convenience, it’s about safety and preparedness in unpredictable conditions. Long distances, rural areas, and shifting weather can make breakdowns more challenging than in most countries. Zero Car’s service covers you across the entire island, not just in cities or near the [**Ring Road**](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland). Whether you’re parked near a waterfall in the Eastfjords or driving through the remote Westfjords, help is just a call away. ![Car driving a winding stretch of the Ring Road across golden autumn heath](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_2233113801_50f0394d34.jpg) ### What’s Included in Zero Car’s Assistance Program Every [**Zero Car rental**](https://www.zerocar.is/) automatically includes 24/7 roadside support. Our local team is available at any hour, day or night, to help with: * Flat tires or tire replacement * Engine or mechanical issues * Battery jump-starts * Lost keys or lockouts * Towing and transport to the nearest repair facility * On-call guidance during severe weather conditions You’ll also receive an emergency number at pickup, directly connecting you to Zero Car’s Iceland-based support team. ### Roadside Assistance Waiver: Complete Coverage with Zero Costs Every Zero Car rental includes [full insurance](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/iceland-car-rental-insurance-mitigating-risk-with-zero-excess) that includes the Roadside Assistance Waiver, giving you full coverage if your car breaks down, is damaged, or gets stuck during your trip. This reduces your cost for help to zero, no matter where you are in Iceland. Zero Car provides 24/7 roadside and breakdown support through our local team at **+354 773-7070**. When you call, you’ll reach an Iceland-based operator who quickly coordinates help through the nearest partner garage or service provider. Whether you need towing, tire replacement, a jump-start, or even a replacement car, we arrange it as fast as possible to keep your trip on track. Coverage applies throughout Iceland, including rural regions and main travel routes like the [**Ring Road**](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland). If your rental does not already include the waiver, you can easily add it before your trip begins. Without it, assistance fees can range from 35,000 ISK to 450,000 ISK, depending on the type of service and location. The waiver covers common issues such as mechanical failure, flat tires, and lockouts. It does not cover deliberate misuse or prohibited driving conditions, such as river crossings or off-road areas, which are explained in our [**Driving in Iceland Guide**](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland). This policy reflects Zero Car’s promise of honest pricing and stress-free travel, ensuring that no matter what happens on the road, you’re always protected and supported by a local team who cares. ![Zero_car_iceland_stress_free.png](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/Zero_car_iceland_stress_free_2290c42a51.png) ### Real Scenarios When It Makes All the Difference Imagine you’re driving the [**Golden Circle route**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/discovering-iceland-s-golden-circle-with-zero-car) and your rental’s tire pressure warning comes on, or you’re exploring the [**Snæfellsnes Peninsula**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/hunt-for-the-northern-lights-in-snaefellsnes-peninsula) and encounter a sudden snow drift. These moments can derail an itinerary unless help is minutes away. Our customers often mention that quick response times and local advice made all the difference. Even in remote regions, Zero Car’s local partnerships ensure prompt assistance and clear communication. ### How Fast Help Arrives And What You Can Expect Response times depend on your location, but most issues are resolved within 30 to 90 minutes around major routes and populated areas. If you’re traveling through rural or highland regions, our dispatch team will: 1. Track your coordinates via GPS or phone guidance 2. Send the nearest local partner or tow service 3. Stay in contact until help arrives Transparency and reassurance are core to our promise. You’ll always know what’s happening, who’s on the way, and how long it will take. For added peace of mind, you can review our full [**Driving in Iceland Guide**](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland) before setting off to learn more about local road safety and conditions. ### Why It Matters More in Iceland than Anywhere Else Driving in Iceland is unlike anywhere else. High winds, gravel roads, river crossings, and snow-covered routes make 24/7 support a necessity. Even experienced travelers underestimate how quickly conditions can change. That’s why Zero Car invests heavily in preventive maintenance, [**winter-ready 4x4 rentals**](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) with [studded winter tires](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/winter-tires-in-iceland-all-you-need-to-know) and year-round service coverage to give travelers full peace of mind. For those seeking a greener drive, our [**electric and hybrid car rentals**](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/electric) also include the same comprehensive roadside assistance. ![Image of roadside assistance in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/roadside_assistance_ZERO_28a79a37c1.jpg) ### Customer Experiences and Feedback Our travelers consistently highlight Zero Car’s reliability and communication. Many reviews mention how smoothly their support requests were handled, even in tough weather. > **“During my trip in April, my car unfortunately got stuck in the snow. They quickly arranged for someone to help rescue the car, and there were no extra charges. If you're on a budget, I highly recommend this company when visiting Iceland.”** > – [Panny Yip, Google Review (3 days ago)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/LPzawaawbFsVSwJs7) > > > This genuine experience shows why 24/7 assistance isn’t just a feature, it’s part of our identity and our commitment to stress-free, reliable travel across Iceland.  ### Final Thoughts: Safety You Can Depend On Choosing a rental company in Iceland isn’t just about price or car type, it’s about confidence. With [**Zero Car’s 24/7 roadside assistance**](https://www.zerocar.is/), you’re covered wherever your adventure takes you. Every rental includes this service automatically, giving you freedom to focus on what really matters: enjoying Iceland’s roads safely and without stress. If you’re planning a longer trip, explore our [**Best Waterfalls in Iceland**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/the-top-5-best-waterfalls-in-iceland) or uncover [**Hidden Gems of the Reykjanes Peninsula**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/beyond-the-summer-crowds-the-ultimate-off-season-iceland-road-trip-guide) for more inspiration on where to drive with total confidence.

Car Rental Iceland Winter: What to Expect with Zero Car

## What to Expect When Renting a Car with Zero Car in Iceland This Winter Iceland’s winter is one of the most magical seasons to explore. Snow-dusted landscapes, glacial lagoons, and the dancing Northern Lights create unforgettable travel moments. However, winter driving can raise understandable questions for visitors: What’s the weather really like? Are the roads safe? What kind of car should you rent? At Zero Car, we understand these concerns. That’s why every vehicle in our fleet is carefully prepared to handle Iceland’s unique winter conditions with safety, confidence, and comfort. ### Why Rent a Car in Iceland During Winter Exploring Iceland by car in winter offers freedom that no group tour can match. While tours follow fixed schedules and routes, a self-drive journey lets you chase the Northern Lights, stop at frozen waterfalls, or take an impromptu detour to a cozy countryside café at your own pace.   ![Image of a vehicle parked in the snowy weather in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/winter2_zercariceland_93acede6ff.jpg) Public transportation is limited outside Reykjavík, making a rental car essential for reaching Iceland’s most breathtaking winter destinations, from the South Coast to the Golden Circle. If you want to prepare for a safe and smooth trip, read our detailed [Driving in Iceland Guide](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland) before you go. ### What Makes Winter Driving in Iceland Unique Winter in Iceland generally runs from November through March. During this time, daylight hours are short, temperatures often fall below freezing, and road conditions can shift rapidly due to snow, ice, or strong winds. It’s not unusual to experience a snowstorm in one area and clear skies just a few kilometers away. Despite these challenges, Iceland maintains a well-managed road system. The [Icelandic Road Authority](https://www.road.is) provides up-to-date road and weather information daily, while the [Icelandic Met Office](https://en.vedur.is) issues alerts about wind, snow, and visibility. Checking these resources before you set out helps ensure safer and more efficient travel. Most main roads, including the famous Ring Road, are plowed regularly. However, highland routes and F-roads are closed during winter, so plan your trip around accessible highways. ### Zero Car’s Winter-Ready Fleet Every Zero Car vehicle is winter-ready from the moment you collect it. Whether you prefer a compact hybrid for city drives or a capable SUV for countryside routes, all cars are equipped for Iceland’s icy and snowy roads. #### **Winter Car Options at Zero Car** * Our winter-prepared features include: * Studded winter tires for maximum grip on icy surfaces * High-quality windshield wipers and washer fluid rated for sub-zero temperatures * Heated seats and mirrors for comfort and visibility ### Emergency equipment, including safety triangles and ice scrapers If you’re planning longer drives or rural exploration, a [4x4 rental](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) provides extra traction and control. For eco-conscious travelers, visit our [Electric Car Rental Guide](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/electric) to learn how EVs perform in winter and where to find charging points across Iceland. ### Safety Features You Can Count On At Zero Car, safety isn’t just a feature; it’s a commitment. Every vehicle undergoes thorough maintenance and inspection to meet Icelandic safety standards before each rental. Our local team also monitors road conditions daily to provide timely updates to our customers.   Each Zero Car rental includes: * 24/7 roadside assistance * Comprehensive insurance options * Guidance on driving routes and conditions * Dedicated customer support throughout your journey   ![Image of a vehicle driving in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/winter_zerocariceland_6673d27762.jpg) ## Essential Tips for Winter Driving in Iceland Winter driving in Iceland is all about preparation, awareness, and patience. With the right mindset and planning, it’s a deeply rewarding experience. Here are some key tips: 1. **Check the weather:** Always review conditions at [en.vedur.is](https://en.vedur.is) before departure. 2. **Plan for daylight:** Schedule longer drives between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when visibility is best. 3. **Drive slowly:** Even with winter tires, icy patches can appear suddenly. 4. **Keep your tank full:** Gas stations can be far apart in rural areas. 5. **Stay flexible:** If weather warnings are issued, delay your trip for safety. 6. **Pack smart:** Bring snacks, warm clothing, and a phone power bank for unexpected delays. With these precautions, most travelers find winter driving in Iceland straightforward and surprisingly peaceful. Roads are quieter, and the landscapes look even more striking under a blanket of snow. For more insights on tire performance, read our guide: [**Winter Tires in Iceland: All You Need to Know**](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland) ### What Zero Car Offers Beyond the Wheel Zero Car isn’t just about car rentals; it’s about helping travelers experience Iceland safely and sustainably. Our fleet includes electric and hybrid vehicles for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. We also ensure every car performs reliably, even in challenging winter conditions. Our local team is always available to offer travel advice, from spotting the Northern Lights to finding open geothermal pools in winter. Visit our blog for more seasonal insights, including [Iceland’s Winter Festivals and Cultural Calendar](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/icelandic-culture) and [Christmas in Iceland: The Ultimate Self-Drive Guide for December](https://www.zerocar.is/blog).   ![Image of a rental car from ZERO in winter and snowy conditions in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/winter3_zerocariceland_121091aaae.jpg) ### Confidence and Comfort on Iceland’s Winter Roads Renting a car in Iceland during winter might seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and support, it becomes one of the most memorable ways to explore the country. Zero Car ensures your journey is backed by safe, well-equipped vehicles, expert advice, and dependable customer care. Whether you’re driving to a glacier lagoon, chasing the Northern Lights, or exploring Reykjavík’s festive streets, you can do it all with confidence and comfort. Our winter promise is simple: reliable cars, real local advice, and a smooth experience from start to finish. With Zero Car, you’re free to embrace Iceland’s winter magic, one scenic drive at a time.

Essential 4×4 Car Rental Checklist for Iceland

Renting a 4×4 is the best way to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and unpredictable weather. Whether you are crossing highland trails in summer or driving snow-covered roads in winter, this checklist gives you everything you need to know from booking to drop-off. ## 1\. Choosing the right 4×4 for your route * Your car choice depends on where you plan to go and the type of experience you want.  * For city drives and the Ring Road, compact SUVs like the [Dacia Duster](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/dacia-duster-diesel-4x4-manual) or [Toyota RAV4](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-rav4) are ideal.  * For mixed conditions or family trips, the [Kia Sportage](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/kia-sportage) or [Dacia Bigster](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/dacia-bigster) provide comfort and space.  * If you plan to explore the highlands or travel on F-roads, choose a high-clearance model like the [Toyota Land Cruiser](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-land-cruiser-adventure-35) or [Jeep Wrangler](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-land-cruiser-adventure-35).  * These vehicles are stronger, more stable, and legally required on mountain routes. You can compare options and prices on the [Zero Car 4×4 rental page](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large). ## 2\. Booking tips that save time and stress * Book early for high-demand months such as June, July, and August. If you are traveling in winter, reserve at least two weeks in advance.  * Always add an extra driver if you plan long routes. Confirm whether pickup is at **Keflavík Airport or downtown Reykjavík**.  * Review your confirmation carefully for fuel type and mileage limits. See exactly how our booking and pickup process works in the [Zero Car rental guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/renting-a-car-in-iceland-with-zero-a-seamless-experience). * Luckily, with ZERO CAR, all insurance is included with your rental so you are all set when you arrive! [![zero_excess_included.png](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/zero_excess_included_f977850b14.png)](https://www.zerocar.is/info) ## 3\. Checking your car at pickup * When you receive your car, take a quick inspection. Check tire tread depth and confirm a spare or repair kit is included.  * Photograph all sides of the vehicle in daylight.  * Test headlights, wipers, traction control, 4×4 settings, and heated seats.  * Confirm your insurance coverage and roadside assistance details.  * Pair your phone with Bluetooth and download offline maps.  * If you are arriving by flight, review our [KEF Airport car rental guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/car-rental-at-keflavik-airport-the-ultimate-guide-for-first-time-visitors). ## 4\. Driving in Iceland safely year-round * Road conditions in Iceland vary by region and season.  * Paved roads are smooth, while gravel and F-roads can be rough and unpredictable.  * Always drive on marked roads because off-road driving is illegal and heavily fined.  * The national speed limits are 90 km/h on paved roads and 80 km/h on gravel.  * Headlights must remain on at all times, and mobile phone use is not allowed while driving.  * Learn more safe habits in the official [Driving in Iceland guide](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland). ## 5\. The F-road checklist for summer and highlands F-roads are open mainly from late June to early September. Only 4×4 vehicles are allowed to use them. Conditions can include steep hills, rocky terrain, and rivers that change depth quickly. Always check [road.is](https://www.road.is) before you travel.  Never cross a river that looks fast, opaque, or higher than knee level. Carry extra food, water, and warm clothes because highland routes have no services. Read our [F-road and river crossings guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/f-roads-and-river-crossings-in-iceland-what-car-you-actually-need-and-when-to-say-nope) for clear advice. ![4x4 Dacia Duster crossing a river on an F-road in Iceland](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_2294668645_08f98c60e8.jpg) ## 6\. The winter driving checklist From November 1 to April 15, all vehicles in Iceland must use [winter tires](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/winter-tires-in-iceland-all-you-need-to-know). Zero Car fits every vehicle with the right tires for your trip. Studded tires are best for icy bridges and mountain passes, while studless tires are suitable for Reykjavík and nearby areas.  Snow chains are not used in Iceland. Check daily road and weather updates on [road.is](https://www.road.is) and [SafeTravel](https://safetravel.is). Review local forecasts from the [Icelandic Met Office](https://en.vedur.is). Plan your routes by daylight hours because winter days can be short. Drive slowly, keep distance, and expect bridges to freeze first. For sample routes, read our [North Iceland winter guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/driving-in-iceland-in-winter-complete-guide-to-north-iceland). ## 7\. Smart driving habits for all seasons Refuel often because gas stations can be far apart. Park facing into the wind to avoid door damage. Avoid stopping on the shoulder of narrow roads. Keep snacks, water, and a flashlight in the car at all times.  Share your travel plan with someone if you are heading into remote areas. ## 8\. What to pack for a 4×4 road trip 1. Always bring your license, rental documents, charger cable, and credit card.  2. Carry a reflective vest, first aid kit, flashlight, scraper, and small shovel.  3. Pack warm clothes, waterproof jackets, gloves, a hat, and sturdy shoes.  4. Add a thermos, microfiber cloths, and reusable water bottles for comfort. See more sustainable travel ideas in our [eco travel guide for Iceland](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/eco-travel-in-iceland-a-sustainable-road-trip-guide-with-zero-car-rental). ## 9\. Returning your vehicle Refuel unless you selected pre-paid fuel. Clear trash and personal items. Check for damage, clean the windshield, and arrive at the agreed time. The return process at Zero Car usually takes less than five minutes. ## 10\. Useful links before you go [Zero Car 4×4 rental options](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/large) [Driving in Iceland guide](https://www.zerocar.is/info/driving-in-iceland) [Winter tire guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/winter-tires-in-iceland-all-you-need-to-know) [F-road and highland guide](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/f-roads-and-river-crossings-in-iceland-what-car-you-actually-need-and-when-to-say-nope) [Eco travel in Iceland](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/eco-travel-in-iceland-a-sustainable-road-trip-guide-with-zero-car-rental) For official updates, check [road.is](https://www.road.is) for road conditions, [en.vedur.is](https://en.vedur.is) for weather alerts, and [safetravel.is](https://safetravel.is) for safety advice. _Last updated: November 3, 2025_

Car Rental at Keflavik Airport: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors

Arriving in Iceland at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the start of an unforgettable adventure. For most travelers, the journey truly begins when you hop into a rental car and hit the open road. Renting a car at Keflavik Airport offers unparalleled freedom – you can drive straight to Reykjavík or detour to sights like the Blue Lagoon on your own schedule. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything a first-time visitor needs to know about car rentals at KEF: why it’s worth renting right at the airport, how to pick up your vehicle smoothly, important tips on choosing the right car and insurance, and key Iceland driving rules. With a little preparation (and a few insider tips), you’ll be road-trip ready from the moment you land – with zero stress and maximum excitement. Let’s dive in!Why Rent a Car at Keflavik Airport?Renting a car directly from Keflavik Airport is simply the most convenient way to start your Iceland trip. KEF is Iceland’s main international airport, about a 30–45 minute drive from Reykjavík. By picking up a rental car as soon as you land, you save time and can begin exploring immediately instead of navigating bus transfers or costly taxi rides. With your own wheels, you’re free to set your itinerary from day one. For example, many visitors stop at the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on the way into the city – it’s only about a 20-minute drive from KEF. Having a car makes this easy and lets you arrive on your own timing.Another big advantage is flexibility. Public transport in Iceland is limited, and guided tours can be rigid. A car lets you reach off-the-beaten-path spots and travel at your own pace. Want to pull over for an impromptu photo of Iceland’s roaming sheep or a glacier sunset? With a rental car, no problem. You can also adjust plans on the fly if the notoriously fickle Icelandic weather changes – something tour buses won’t do. Simply put, a rental car gives you freedom that is especially valuable for first-time visitors who want to see as much as possible.Finally, renting at the airport can actually be safer and more comfortable. You can stash luggage in the trunk and avoid hauling bags onto a bus. Plus, if you arrive on an early morning flight, having a car means you can drive to your hotel or a nearby sight like the Blue Lagoon to relax until check-in. (Pro Tip: If you’re extremely jet-lagged or landed overnight, use your best judgment – some travelers choose to rest for a few hours or even wait until the next day to start driving. Fatigue can impair driving similarly to alcohol. In fact, one of our own Zero Car blog posts highlights the hidden danger of driving right after a long flight.) But with proper rest, picking up a car at KEF is typically smooth and safe.In short, renting at Keflavik Airport sets you up for an efficient, flexible start to your Iceland adventure. Now, let’s look at how to actually get your car at KEF without a hitch.Picking Up Your Rental Car at KEF: Step by StepOutside Keflavík Airport’s arrivals area. A free shuttle bus connects travelers to off-site car rental lots near KEF.Step 1: Book in Advance. The most important step happens before you even arrive in Iceland – reserve your rental car ahead of time. Iceland is a hugely popular destination, and in peak seasons (summer, holidays) the rental car inventory can sell out quickly. Booking online well before your trip guarantees you get the vehicle class you want at a better price. Last-minute rentals at the airport tend to be more expensive and limited in choice. As soon as you know your travel dates, lock in a booking. This is especially crucial if you need an automatic transmission or a larger vehicle, since those are in shorter supply. Early booking not only ensures a car is waiting for you, it often saves money with early-bird rates.Step 2: After Landing – Finding the Car Rental Shuttle. Once you’ve collected your luggage at Keflavik Airport, follow the signs to the exit and look for indications for “Car Rental Shuttle” or rental car pick-up. Keflavik has a well-marked shuttle bus stop just outside the arrivals hall (near the P2 parking area).The shuttle runs frequently (every 10–15 minutes) throughout the day and serves major companies like Blue Car Rental, Zero Car Rental, Iceland Car Rental, Reykjavik Rent a Car or Lagoon to mention a few. It’s typically a short ride (5 minutes or so) to the car rental lot where these agencies are located. If you’ve booked with Zero Car Rental, you’ll take the Zero/Blue Car shuttle – our office is the second shuttle stop, at Blikavöllur 3, very close to the terminal.Step 3: Documentation – What to Bring. When you arrive at your rental agency’s office or meet their representative, you’ll need to present your driver’s license, a credit card, and your booking confirmation (printed or on your phone). Make sure your driver’s license is valid and written in the Latin/Roman alphabet. Most foreign licenses (USA, UK, EU, etc.) are accepted in Iceland as long as they have a photo and use Latin characters. If your license is in another script (e.g. Chinese, Cyrillic) or not easily readable in English, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a translation. Also, drivers must be at least 20 years old and have held a license for a minimum one year to rent a car in Iceland in almost all cases – this is a common requirement among rental companies. The credit card is typically needed for the rental agreement and any security deposit or hold (though as we’ll mention later, with Zero Car you won’t have a deposit held on your card).Step 4: Skip the Counter (with Zero’s Keybox Service).If you book with a company that offers online check-in and self-service pickup, you can save a lot of time at arrival. For example, Zero Car Rental uses a secure keybox system instead of a traditional rental counter. This means no waiting in line after your flight. You complete check-in details online before your trip, and Zero emails you a personal PIN code. When you reach our office via the shuttle, you simply enter your code on the keybox to retrieve your car keys. In literally minutes, you’re ready to drive away. Many travelers find this a relief after a long flight: “No queue, no upselling insurance at a desk – just grab the key and go.” If you’re renting from another provider with a normal counter, expect to take a ticket and wait your turn. During peak times, lines can be somewhat long, but major agencies do staff up when large flights arrive. Either way, having all your documents prepared (license, passport if needed, credit card, confirmation) will speed things up.Step 5: Vehicle Handover and Inspection. After getting your key or contract, you’ll be directed to your rental car – either in a nearby lot or brought around by staff. Before driving off, take a few minutes to inspect the vehicle. Walk around and note any existing scratches or dents. It’s wise to snap photos of each side of the car (and the wheels) with your phone, just to have a record of pre-existing damage. While rental companies in Iceland are generally fair, it doesn’t hurt to have documentation. Check that the spare tire and emergency kit are present (many cars come with basic kits, reflective vests, etc.). Also verify the fuel level and mileage match what’s on your contract. If you spot anything significant not noted on the paperwork, inform the staff before leaving. This quick inspection can prevent any disputes later. When renting with Zero, we include full insurance with zero excess on all our cars, so you’re covered even if you later notice a rock chip or scratch – but it’s still good practice to look over the car. Also ask any last-minute questions (how to operate the GPS, where the nearest gas station is, etc.). Our Zero team is always happy to help with local directions and tips.Step 6: Ready to Drive Off. Once you’re satisfied, set up your GPS or phone map for your destination, fasten seatbelts, and you’re off! Exiting the Keflavik rental area is straightforward – you’ll likely merge onto Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut), the main highway connecting Keflavik Airport to Reykjavík. And don’t forget: headlights on (more on that later)! If you need to fuel up, there are gas stations on the way out of the airport area; it’s a good idea to start with a full tank. Now you’re officially on your Iceland road trip – congrats!Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland (and Making the Most of It)Renting a car in a foreign country can be intimidating, but a few key tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and travel smarter. Here’s what first-time Iceland visitors should know when renting a car at Keflavik Airport:Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Trip: Think about the season and your planned route. In summer months, if you’re sticking to main roads (Ring Road, Golden Circle, etc.) and traveling with 2–3 people, a 2WD economy car can be perfectly sufficient – no need to pay extra for a 4x4 you won’t utilize. However, if you’re visiting in winter (roughly November through March) or plan to explore remote areas, a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended. Iceland’s winter roads can be snowy and icy, and highland interior roads (marked with an “F” before the route number) legally require a 4WD vehicle by law. Standard 2WD rentals are not allowed on F-roads and frankly wouldn’t survive them – these mountain tracks involve gravel, potholes and unbridged river crossingszerocar.is. So if you dream of places like Landmannalaugar or Þórsmörk, you’ll need a proper 4x4. Even in summer, a mid-size SUV provides extra ground clearance and stability in Iceland’s unpredictable terrain. Bottom line: match your car to your itinerary. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and get the 4x4 for peace of mind. And if you absolutely only plan simple city drives and popular spots in good weather, a small car will do the job economically. Understand Insurance Options (and Avoid Surprises): Insurance is a big topic in Iceland car rentals, because the country’s unique natural hazards aren’t always covered by standard policies. Wind can literally rip a car door out of your hand; volcanic ash or sand storms can sandblast the paint off a vehicle. Most basic rentals include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with a hefty deductible (self-risk amount). Extras like Gravel Protection (GP) and Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) are usually offered at the counter for an additional fee – and they’re highly recommended if not already included. We’ve heard many tales of travelers declining these protections to save money, only to face large bills later for a cracked windshield or paint damage from a surprise sandstorm. With Zero Car Rental, however, you don’t have to worry about any of this. We include full insurance coverage with zero excess automatically in every booking. That means CDW, GP, SAAP, theft protection, and 24/7 roadside assistance are all bundled in the rate with Zero – no deposit on your card, no upsell at the desk, no deductible if something happens. If you rent elsewhere, strongly consider buying the extra coverage for gravel and ash at minimum. Tip: Check your credit card’s travel insurance benefits too; some credit cards cover auto rentals, but in Iceland they may exclude things like wind damage or require you to decline the rental agency’s CDW – read the fine print carefully. In short, know what is and isn’t covered. It’s worth paying a bit more per day for comprehensive coverage, given Iceland’s conditions. Nothing ruins a vacation like a $500 bill for a shattered headlight because a truck kicked up a rock (a common occurrence on gravel roads). No Deposit Car Rental: One annoyance with many car rentals is the hefty security deposit or credit card hold. It’s not uncommon for agencies to put a hold of $2,000–3,000 (or equivalent in ISK) on your card until you return the car, especially if you don’t take their full insurance. This can tie up your credit line during the trip. If this concerns you, look for a company like Zero that requires no deposit at all – we simply take an imprint of your card for incidentals, but do not freeze any funds during your rental. This policy gives travelers more financial flexibility for the rest of their trip (fuel, hotels, tours, etc.) If renting elsewhere, be prepared for a deposit – ensure your credit card has enough available limits. Drivers and License Tips: We mentioned the one-year license requirement and IDP for non-English licenses already. If you have multiple people in your group who can drive, you might consider registering an additional driver on the contract. There is usually a small daily fee per extra driver (around $10–15), but it’s worth it if you want to share driving duties on long road trips. Only registered drivers are insured – if an unlisted friend drives and gets in an accident, insurance can be void. Also note that the minimum age for renting is 20 (and often 23+ for larger vehicle categories). At the upper end, most companies have no maximum age as long as you have a valid license. Fuel Policy and Gas Stations: Nearly all Iceland rentals use a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you receive the car with a full tank and you should refill it before returning. Gas (petrol) and diesel are expensive in Iceland, but stations are conveniently located in towns and along highways. From KEF to Reykjavík there are a few stations en route – it’s good to fill up near the airport on return to avoid high fuel charges. Many stations are self-service and some are unattended at night, requiring a card with a PIN. Make sure you know whether your car takes petrol (95 octane) or diesel; the fuel type is usually indicated on the fuel cap or key tag. Diesel pumps have black handles, petrol usually green – double check to avoid mis-fueling. If you’re given a fuel discount card or tag by the rental company, don’t forget to use it (some agencies partner with certain fuel chains). On long drives, try not to let the tank go below 1/4 – distances between stations can be over 100 km in remote areas. One plus: Icelandic gas stations often have good coffee and snacks, and many have restrooms and WiFi, so they make nice pit stops. Plan for Navigation: Driving in Iceland is relatively straightforward – there aren’t many roads – but you’ll still want navigation help. Ask your rental company if the car has a built-in GPS. If not, you can use your smartphone’s mapping app (Google Maps works well in Iceland, as does maps.me or Waze). Tip: Download offline maps of Iceland to your phone before traveling, in case you lose cell signal in remote areas. Keflavik Airport offers free Wi-Fi, so you can also use that upon arrival to load directions. A car charger or USB port is essential for keeping your phone powered; most rental cars have USB outlets, but consider bringing your own car charger just in case. Road signage in Iceland uses Icelandic names – sometimes tricky to spell – so having an electronic navigator to follow is easiest. Also, familiarize yourself with common road signs (speed limit signs, one-way bridges, animal crossing signs, etc.). Our blog even has a primer on Icelandic road signs and meaning – worth a glance so you recognize symbols like the fjord (for ferry) or the gravel road warning. Emergency and Roadside Assistance: Ask your rental provider how to contact them in case of any problem (accident, breakdown, flat tire, getting stuck). Save their emergency number in your phone. With Zero, you get 24/7 free roadside assistance included, with no deductible.. That means if you, say, get a flat tire on a rural road, we’ll send help at no cost. Not all companies include this by default – some will charge for recovery or towing if you didn’t purchase an assistance waiver. It’s good to know what’s covered. Also, keep the number for 112, which is Iceland’s emergency services (police/ambulance) number, similar to 911 in the US. For non-urgent roadside help like towing, rental agencies will arrange it, but 112 is for true emergencies. Additionally, check the weather and road conditions each day (more on that below in Driving Safety) to avoid getting into trouble in the first place. Save Money on Rentals: A quick note on saving money: Booking early, as mentioned, can secure lower rates. Renting for a longer duration (a week vs. a few days) often yields a better daily rate. Manual transmission cars are cheaper than automatics – if you’re comfortable driving stick shift, you can save significantly. Also, local Icelandic rental companies can offer better prices than big international brands, and often more personalized service. Don’t assume the familiar name is the best – many seasoned visitors recommend local companies for their included insurance and no surprise fees. Finally, return the car on time to avoid late fees, and in reasonably clean condition – you don’t need to wash it (most expect some dirt from Iceland roads), but overly muddy interiors or litter could incur cleaning fees. From Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik (and Beyond)Once you’ve picked up your car at KEF, you’re on your way! The drive from Keflavik to downtown Reykjavík is about 50 kilometers (30 miles) and typically takes around 45 minutes. The route is simple: follow Route 41 eastward. Initially, you’ll pass through the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula, a stark and otherworldly landscape. Don’t be surprised if your first impression is an expanse of black rocks covered in moss – it’s a hint of the volcanic nature of this island. The road is paved and in good condition. Speed limit is generally 90 km/h on this highway (about 55 mph), dropping to 70 km/h as you approach the capital region. Keep an eye out for occasional speed cameras along the way; Iceland enforces speed limits strictly with automated cameras and hefty fines for violators.If you’re not in a rush to get to the city, you have some enticing options now that you have a car. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous attraction near KEF. As mentioned, it’s roughly a 20-minute drive south of the airport. Many travelers either stop at Blue Lagoon directly after landing (to soak away the jet lag in warm geothermal water) or visit it on their way back to the airport at the end of their trip. The Blue Lagoon spa does require advance reservations due to popularity, so plan accordingly. It has a large parking area for your rental car and offers luggage storage if you want to visit before hotel check-in. Another nearby point of interest is the Reykjanes Peninsula itself – the region around the airport is geothermally active and dotted with attractions like the Bridge Between Continents (a small footbridge over a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates) and the Gunnuhver hot springs. These are within 20–30 minutes of KEF. If you have a few hours to spare, a short scenic drive around the peninsula is a great introduction to Iceland’s geology. Just be cautious on side roads – some may be gravel. Stick to marked routes unless you have a 4x4 and are comfortable on rough roads.When driving from the airport, be mindful of the weather. Even on Route 41, wind can be a factor. The Reykjanesbraut stretch is known to get strong crosswinds coming off the Atlantic, which can catch drivers off guard. If it’s very windy, reduce your speed and keep both hands on the wheel. Also, hold onto your car door when opening it – seriously. Tourists frequently damage car doors at viewpoints or gas stations because a gust flung the door wide open (hinge damage is common – and yes, insurance often considers that negligence unless you have full cover). Secure any loose items if you step out. In winter, this road can occasionally get icy patches or blowing snow, though crews do plow and grit it frequently. Always check road.is (the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration site) or SafeTravel.is for alerts if the weather is stormy. Usually, the road between KEF and Reykjavik remains open year-round, but in extremely severe weather (rare) authorities might temporarily close or redirect routes. Summer driving is generally easy.If you feel very tired upon landing (for instance, after an overnight flight from North America), one strategy is to drive just a short distance to the town of Keflavík or Reykjanesbær (5-10 minutes from the airport) and take a break. There are cafes, bakeries, and even museums (the Icelandic Museum of Rock ’n’ Roll, for example) in this area. Grabbing a bite or resting in the car for a bit can help you recharge before the drive to Reykjavík. As mentioned earlier, our blog at Zero has addressed this issue – driving fatigued can be as dangerous as drunk driving, so don’t push yourself if you’re feeling drowsy. There’s no shame in taking a nap at the airport (it even has some quiet zones) or booking a day-use at a local hotel. Iceland’s roads – even the short leg to the city – require alertness, as you’re adjusting to a new car and driving conditions.Upon reaching Reykjavík, you’ll merge onto the city streets where speed limits drop to 50 km/h. If your hotel is downtown, be aware that parking in the city center often requires payment on weekdays (look for parking signs and meters or use the PARKA app). Many hotels have arrangements for parking or can guide you to the nearest garage. It’s a relatively small city to navigate. Some visitors actually pick up their rental car in Reykjavík a day or two later to avoid driving immediately – but if you’ve rented at KEF, you now have the flexibility to also explore areas outside the city during those first days. You might drive the popular Golden Circle route (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss) or do a short excursion to the Reykjanes Peninsula spots we mentioned. Having a car from the get-go truly opens up your options.Finally, make sure to fuel up before returning to the airport when the time comes to drop the car off. The last gas station before KEF is in Keflavík town or on the highway just before the airport exit. Plan to arrive a bit early for your flight so you can return the car (especially if you need to shuttle back to the terminal). With Zero’s keybox drop-off, it’s a 2-minute process – just park in our return area, pop the key in the secure box, and hop on the shuttle. Other companies may do a quick inspection at drop-off. Allow ~30 minutes for returns and shuttle in case it’s busy.Driving in Iceland: Rules and Safety RemindersDriving in Iceland is a pleasure, but it comes with its own set of rules and cautions. Here are the essential driving rules and safety tips every first-timer should know:Drive on the Right & Seatbelts On: Iceland, like mainland Europe and North America, drives on the right-hand side of the road. It might sound obvious, but if you’re visiting from the UK, Australia, or other left-driving countries, remember to adjust (especially at roundabouts and turns). Seatbelt use is mandatory for everyone in the vehicle, front and back. Police do enforce seatbelt laws, and fines apply if you’re caught without one. Basically – no excuses, buckle up every time. Headlights 24/7: Uniquely, Icelandic law requires headlights to be on at all times, day or night, summer or winter. Even if it’s broad daylight at 2 PM or the midnight sun in June, you must drive with low beam headlights on. Many modern cars have automatic daytime running lights, but ensure yours are actually on. This rule is for safety, as weather conditions can change visibility quickly. It’s a common mistake for visitors to forget this – don’t be that person driving with no lights in a tunnel or fog. Make it a habit to switch on the lights the moment you start the car (and double-check, since some cars allow you to manually control it). Speed Limits & Cameras: Speed limits in Iceland are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads unless signs indicate otherwise. These limits are strictly enforced. There are speed cameras on many main roads (including the route from KEF to Reykjavík) and fines are steep – often delivered via your rental company if you’re caught speeding. As a rough guide, a minor violation (e.g. 10-20% over the limit) can result in a fine of 10,000–50,000 ISK, and it only goes up from there. Also, Icelandic police patrol with radar, especially in summer when traffic is heavy. Slow down for towns and respect speed limit signs; they often drop suddenly when entering villages. Keep in mind that driving too fast on Iceland’s roads is not only illegal but dangerous – conditions like high winds or narrow lanes can make high speeds very risky. Save your race car dreams for another country! No Drinking and Driving – Zero Tolerance: Iceland has one of the strictest drunk-driving laws in the world. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02% BAC, effectively zero. This means even one small beer can put you over the legal limit. In practice, you should not consume any alcohol if you plan to drive, period. Enforcement is strict – if caught, you face heavy fines (up to 100,000 ISK, about $700) and even jail time for higher offense. The local mentality is that drinking anything and driving is unacceptable. So play it safe: if you enjoy Iceland’s craft beers or schnapps (Brennivín), do so when you’re done driving for the day. Also note, you must be 20 years old to consume alcohol in Iceland, and alcohol is expensive (buy duty free if you want some for evenings). But absolutely no drunk driving – the law and social norms won’t tolerate it. No Mobile Phone Use While Driving: It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving in Iceland. If you need to make a call or program your GPS, pull over at a safe spot. Police can fine you if they see you holding a phone. Many rentals have Bluetooth – set it up before departing if you’ll need to take calls. But generally, focus on the road; the landscape might be distracting enough! General Road Etiquette: Off-road driving is strictly forbidden in Iceland. This is very important – you may see inviting open fields of lava or beach, but driving off marked roads can damage fragile nature and land you a massive fine. Always stay on marked tracks or parking areas. When you see a beautiful waterfall or view, do not stop in the middle of the road. Either find a designated parking area or at least pull completely off the pavement onto the shoulder if it’s safe. Iceland’s roads often have narrow shoulders, so it’s best to find an actual pull-off. Many accidents happen from tourists abruptly stopping on the roadway to snap photos. Use common sense – the car behind you might not expect it. On one-lane bridges (you’ll encounter many on Route 1), the general rule is the car closest to the bridge has right of way, while the other waits. Approach slowly and be prepared to yield; a courteous flash of your headlights to signal “you go ahead” is common. In rural areas, watch out for sheep on the roads (especially in summer). If you see sheep near the road, slow down – they are unpredictable and may dart across. Hitting a farm animal can be both dangerous and costly. Check Weather and Road Conditions Daily: This bears repeating: Iceland’s weather can change dramatically, and so can road conditions. In winter, roads can close due to snowstorms – including parts of the main Ring Road. In warmer months, heavy rain or sudden floods can also impact roads (especially in the Highlands). Every day before you set out, it’s wise to check the official road conditions map at Road.is and the weather forecast at Vedur.is (Icelandic Met Office). Another great resource is the SafeTravel website and app, which posts warnings (e.g. a storm in the south, or an alert for high winds in a certain region) and general safety tips. Many rental cars (including Zero’s) provide a tablet or WiFi so you can monitor these. By staying informed, you can avoid driving into a dangerous situation. If authorities issue a travel warning or close a road, heed it – do not try to be adventurous and bypass closures, it’s not worth it. Also, plan extra time for every drive. If Google says 3 hours, assume it might take 4 with stops or weather delays. There’s a saying here: “If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” Be ready for anything – pack water, snacks, warm clothes in the car, especially if driving long distances in winter, in case you get stuck waiting out a road closure. By following these rules and tips, you’ll greatly enhance your safety and enjoyment while driving in Iceland. Most of it is common sense mixed with understanding Iceland’s quirks (like that headlights law!). Thousands of tourists successfully self-drive around the country each year – with the right preparation, you can be one of them.Final Thoughts: Enjoying Iceland by Car – With Zero HasslesRenting a car at Keflavik Airport gives you the keys to explore Iceland on your own terms, right from touchdown. For first-time visitors, it’s the ideal way to see the famous sites and the hidden gems alike. As we’ve covered, a bit of homework goes a long way: plan what type of vehicle suits your needs, book early, make sure you have the proper license and coverage, and keep the local driving rules in mind. Iceland’s roads can lead you to stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters, black sand beaches, and snow-capped fjords – many of which are inaccessible without a car. With your rental, you can wake up one morning and decide to chase the northern lights outside the city, or drive out to that less-touristed hot spring you read about, all on your own schedule.At Zero Car Rental, our goal is to make this experience as easy, transparent, and safe as possible for you. That’s why we include full insurance (zero excess, no deposits, all the important protections) by default, and why we pioneered the keybox self-service pickup to get you on the road faster. We want you to spend your time enjoying Iceland, not standing in line or puzzling over insurance fine print. When you land at KEF, it’s literally land, grab, drive – land in Iceland, grab your keys, and hit the road. No long waits, no hidden fees, no worries. And if you ever need help or tips during your trip, our team is available 24/7 to support you (in English or Icelandic).Ultimately, renting a car in Iceland is about freedom and discovery. So take advantage of it! Pull off at that scenic viewpoint, visit that small-town bakery, adjust your itinerary when a local tells you about a must-see spot. Your car lets you go beyond the typical tourist coach route. By following the guidance in this article – and driving carefully and respectfully – you’ll create incredible memories on those Icelandic roads.We hope this guide has answered your questions and eased any worries about renting a car at Keflavik Airport. Now the only thing left is to experience it for yourself. If you’re ready to embark on an Iceland road trip with zero headaches, you can learn more or book with us at Zero Car Rental. We’d love to be a part of your adventure. Happy driving, and welcome to Iceland – land of fire, ice, and epic road trips!

Winter tires in Iceland: All you need to know

IntroductionWinter in Iceland is magical. The mountains wear snowy crowns, waterfalls freeze mid-cascade, and the northern lights paint the sky. But all that beauty comes with a catch: driving conditions that range from “manageable” to “are we in an Arctic rally?”The quiet heroes that keep Iceland moving through ice and snow aren’t superpowered cars or fearless drivers. They’re winter tires.And yet, winter tires are often misunderstood. Some visitors think they make cars invincible, others confuse them with snow chains (which are illegal here), and some don’t even realize they’re mandatory. At Zero Car Rental, we hear these questions all the time. So let’s clear up the myths, explain how winter tires actually work, and show you how we take care of everything — so you can focus on spotting reindeer, not sliding into them. When do winter tires go on in Iceland?In Iceland, winter tires aren’t optional. They’re required by law during the cold season. The official window usually runs from November 1st to April 15th, although road authorities can shift these dates slightly depending on conditions.Before November 1st: Studded tires are banned, even if there’s an early snowstorm. Why? Because they grind down the asphalt and create excess dust in urban areas. After April 15th: You’ll have to trust the road maintenance crews. The studs must come off, even if there’s the occasional spring blizzard. That might sound strange if you’re used to flexible tire rules at home, but here in Iceland, balance is everything: safety on icy roads in winter versus road preservation in summer.The good news: if you rent with Zero, you don’t have to worry about dates, deadlines, or tire shops. We handle the seasonal switch on every vehicle, right on schedule.Studded vs. studless: what’s on your rental car?Winter tires in Iceland come in two main flavors: studded and studless.Studded tires are the default for Iceland’s icy conditions. They have small metal pins embedded in the tread, giving them grip on hard-packed snow and frozen surfaces. It’s like giving your car crampons.Studless tires use softer rubber and deep grooves to bite into snow. They’re quieter and gentler on asphalt, but less effective on ice. In Reykjavík, where winter often brings wet snow, studless tires sometimes make sense. But once you venture into the countryside — where black ice lurks on bridges and mountain passes — studs are king.That’s why the vast majority of Zero cars are fitted with studded tires. They’re not glamorous, but they’re the most effective tool for Icelandic winter roads.What studded tires actually do (and don’t do)Here’s where things get tricky. Studded tires give you more control, but they don’t rewrite the laws of physics.They do:Shorten braking distance on icy roads. Improve traction when accelerating in slippery conditions. Help maintain control when cornering on hard-packed snow. They don’t:Eliminate the risk of skidding on black ice. Allow you to drive at summer highway speeds in a blizzard. Magically stop you from sliding if you slam the brakes on sheet ice. Think of studded tires as good hiking boots. They’ll keep you steady on a snowy path. But if you sprint downhill on ice in those boots, you’re still going to wipe out. The same goes for cars: studs support careful driving, not reckless confidence.Why you can’t put them on earlier (or keep them longer)Many visitors ask: if Iceland is cold year-round, why not keep winter tires on all the time?The answer is simple: road damage. Studded tires act like tiny chisels, carving ruts into asphalt when the roads aren’t frozen. Over time, that creates grooves that trap water, leading to hydroplaning risks. They also kick up dust that worsens air quality, especially in Reykjavík.That’s why Iceland enforces strict start and end dates. And while it might feel odd if you’re visiting in late April and encounter a surprise snowstorm, rest assured: the roads are constantly monitored and cleared when needed. Snow chains: leave them at homeAnother common misconception: snow chains. In some countries, they’re required on mountain passes. But in Iceland, they’re illegal.Chains tear up paved and gravel roads alike. They’re unnecessary because all vehicles must use winter tires in season. If you’re googling “snow chains in Iceland,” close the tab, relax, and remember: your rental already has the best setup allowed. What drivers actually need to do about tiresThe best part about winter tires in Iceland is that you don’t need to worry about them at all. With Zero Car Rental, there’s no need to request special tires, swap them out, or check their condition. Every vehicle is fitted with the right set for the season, carefully maintained, rotated, and inspected before you even pick up the keys. All that’s left for you to do is focus on the road ahead and drive responsibly. Driving carefully is still non-negotiableEven with the best tires, you need to adapt your driving. Winter conditions in Iceland are unpredictable. One minute, you’re cruising under blue skies; the next, you’re in a whiteout.Some essential tips:Slow down. 70 km/h may feel slow, but it’s realistic on icy roads.Keep distance. Braking takes longer, even with studsWatch bridges. They freeze before the rest of the road.Mind the wind. Gusts can push cars sideways. Always hold doors firmly when opening them.Check conditions daily. Sites like road.is and SafeTravel provide live updates. Remember: winter tires don’t mean “business as usual.” They mean “you’ve got a fighting chance.”Funny myths we’ve heard about winter tiresLet’s set the record straight on some of the funniest misconceptions we’ve encountered:“Studded tires mean I can drive like it’s summer.”Nope. They help, but snow and ice still demand caution. “They work perfectly on gravel.”Not exactly. Gravel is loose. Studs don’t dig in; they just slide around. “I can drift like in Fast & Furious.”Please don’t. Iceland is not a movie set, and rental cars are not drift machines. “If I slide, studs will catch me.”They won’t. Studs improve traction, but if you lose control, they won’t snap you back on track. Why Zero makes winter driving easierHere’s where we take a little pride:All cars come with winter tires included. No hidden fees. No upsells. We fit high-quality studded tires on nearly every vehicle, not budget versions. 24/7 roadside assistance is part of the deal. If anything happens, we’ve got your back — no deductible, no stress. No deposits, no excess. With Zero Car Rental, you’re covered from the start. If you’re planning a longer trip, check out our great feel of rental cars — from compact city cars to 4x4s ready for snowy fjords. Other tips for winter driving in IcelandWinter tires are essential, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Here are a few more:Use headlights at all times. It’s the law in Iceland, day and night.Refuel often. Gas stations get sparse outside major towns.Plan extra time. A drive that takes 3 hours in summer might take 5 in winterCarry warm layers. If you do get stuck, you’ll be glad you have them.Don’t stop in the road. Pull over safely for photos — even if the aurora is dancing. A closer look: Iceland’s unique winter conditionsWhat makes driving in Iceland so tricky compared to other snowy countries?Black ice: Invisible and especially common near rivers, lakes, and the coast.Changing weather: It’s common to experience sunshine, sleet, and snow within the same hour.Narrow rural roads: With little shoulder space, mistakes can be unforgiving.Wind exposure: Flat lava fields and coastal stretches can funnel gusts strong enough to close roads. Even the best tires can’t erase these challenges. They just give you the grip you need to handle them sensibly.ConclusionWinter tires in Iceland are your unseen travel partners. They don’t sparkle, they don’t boast, but they’re the reason you can drive from Reykjavík to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula without sliding into a snowdrift.At Zero Car Rental, we take care of the tires, the insurance, and the roadside support. You just focus on the adventure — and maybe practice saying “slow and steady wins the race” in Icelandic.Drive carefully, respect the elements, and let winter tires quietly do their job: keeping you safe on Iceland’s icy roads.

Car hire in Reykjavik: A simple, honest guide for 2025

If you want freedom in Iceland, rent a car. Simple! Reykjavik is an easy place to start. Roads are clear. Signs are simple. Most people speak English. And the best parts of the country are a short drive away. This guide keeps it real. It tells you what matters, what to skip, and where to get the facts.Throughout, you will find direct links to trusted sources and to helpful guides from Zero Car. If you are comparing options, you can check Zero Car’s reviews and browse the full fleet. Should you pick up at KEF or in Reykjavik?Most visitors land at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). KEF sits on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 45 to 50 minutes from central Reykjavik by car. You have two simple choices.Pick up at KEF if you want to start driving right away. This is the most common choice. You leave the terminal, collect your keys, and go. If your flight is late or early, it is fine. With Zero, online check-in and 24/7 keybox pickup keeps things smooth, and there are staff at the KEF office if you need help, even at odd hours. For a quick overview, read The smart traveler’s choice: car rental at Reykjavik airport.Pick up in Reykjavik if you plan one or two days in the city first. You can take a shuttle or bus to your hotel, walk the compact center, and collect your car later. This can save a day of car hire if you won’t use it in town. If you choose this route, use this city guide: Reykjavik with a rental car: your ultimate guide to Iceland’s capital.Not sure? One honest rule works well. If you will leave the city in the first 24 hours, get the car at KEF. If you are staying in town longer, collect in Reykjavik and avoid parking costs. For a deeper look at the airport side of the loop, see the local explainer Ultimate guide to KEF airport land-grab drive.What to expect when you book with a local companyBooking in Iceland should be simple. It is easy to get lost in glossy packages and fine print. Choose a company with clear cover and real support. Here is how Zero Car works, in plain terms:You get all-inclusive pricing with zero excess on the included covers. Gravel, sand, and ash are part of the package. Unlimited mileage is standard. 24/7 roadside assistance is included in the price. Online check-in and 24/7 keybox pickup make late arrivals painless, and you can also drop off keys at any hour. If you have a question in person, there are always staff at the KEF office. You can scan the whole flow here: Renting a car in Iceland with Zero: a seamless experience.If you like to compare models before booking, start on the fleet page. It shows sizes, luggage space, fuel type, and transmission. If you want a deeper overview by trip style, this guide helps: Iceland car rental guide: best cars for every traveler.Which car should you choose for Reykjavik and day trips?You do not need a huge 4x4 to drive around Reykjavik. City streets and main highways are paved and well maintained. Your choice depends on your plans and season.If you will stay in the city and do short day trips in summer, a compact or midsize car is fine. It is easy to park and good on fuel. If you plan the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or Snæfellsnes in summer, a crossover gives more comfort and ground clearance.If you visit between October and April, pick all-wheel drive. Weather can change fast. AWD gives better traction on snow and ice. For families or small groups, a midsize SUV keeps everyone comfortable. For winter trips that may include rougher roads, a proper 4x4 is the safer call.If you are considering Highlands or F-roads in summer, you must choose a capable 4x4. Even then, river crossings are never recommended by Zero. If you are not sure, do not cross. The decision and risk is always yours. Stick to marked roads and safe choices.You can compare popular options on their model pages, for example the Dacia Duster for good-value 4x4 driving, the Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sportage for comfortable AWD, and the Kia Sorento or Toyota Land Cruiser 250 for more space and full 4x4 capability.How much time to plan for the city and airport drivesThe KEF airport to Reykjavik drive usually takes 45 to 50 minutes. It is a simple route on well-signed roads. From downtown Reykjavik to the start of the Golden Circle at Þingvellir, plan about 45 minutes. To the South Coast waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, plan two to three hours each way, plus stops. To Snæfellsnes, expect two to three hours each way depending on where you go on the peninsula. None of these drives are hard. The challenge is weather. Always check the latest road and weather warnings before you set out.For reliable updates, use these sources: Visit Reykjavik for what to do in the city, Visit Iceland for national travel planning, SafeTravel Iceland for safety alerts and trip planning tips, and the official road conditions at road.is.Parking and city basics you really needParking in central Reykjavik is paid in the busiest streets and free in many residential areas. Read the signs and pay for the right zone. Most hotels have clear guidance on where to park nearby. If you are unsure, ask your hotel or check the curbside machine. Apps like Parka and Easy park can help you see what areas are paid and not!Drive slowly in town. Give pedestrians space at crossings. Keep your headlights on at all times to be seen in changing light. Avoid parking on narrow side streets covered in snow. If you are new to winter driving, consider an AWD and take it easy on the throttle and brakes.Fuel stations are common around the capital area. You will find petrol, diesel, and usually toilets and snacks. If you are driving an electric car, Reykjavik has a growing charging network. Plan a little extra time for charging on longer day trips. Keep the charging provider’s app or RFID card handy if you use an EV.Day trips from Reykjavik worth your timeReykjavik is a great base for short road trips. Here are five that always deliver. Keep the car full. Pack warm layers. Check conditions on road.is before you leave.Golden Circle. This is the classic loop: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss waterfall. It is a full day because you will stop often. The roads are paved and easy in summer. In winter, go with AWD, slow down, and give yourself more daylight time. If you want a deep dive along the airport edge of the loop, read Ultimate guide to KEF airport land-grab drive.South Coast to Vík. This route strings together waterfalls, black sand beaches, and sea cliffs. You can see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, then head to Reynisfjara near Vík. Do not turn your back on the waves. They are strong. The drive is long for one day, but it is doable with steady pacing. For planning ideas across the country, check Visit Iceland.Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Think cliffs, lava fields, small fishing towns, and the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull. The roads along the peninsula are mostly paved. It is a good taste of Iceland without going far. In winter, start early and be flexible.Reykjanes Peninsula. This volcanic area sits between KEF and Reykjavik. It is full of geothermal sights and coastal views. It is perfect if you have a half day near the airport. The roads are simple, yet windy days are common, so hold the wheel firmly.West Iceland and Hraunfossar. Head north from Reykjavik toward Borgarfjörður for lava-field waterfalls and calm valleys. It is less crowded than the South Coast and gives a reliable winter day out when the weather favors the west. For events and tips in the city, browse Visit Reykjavik.For more city-based ideas and short hops, this local piece is handy: Reykjavik with a rental car: your ultimate guide.How to keep costs under controlPrices in Iceland reflect the country’s high operating costs. You can still keep the total fair with a few habits.Book early in summer and Christmas. The best value cars go first. Booking directly on the Zero Car website locks in the price and the cover. Choose the right size, not the biggest. Do not pay for a seven-seater if you are three people. Pack light if you can, but remember winter gear takes space.Refuel near the city before you return. Airport-area stations can be busy. Keep snacks and water in the car to avoid extra café stops. If you plan a city-first trip, wait to pick up the car and save two days of rental cost. This short read explains the logic: Why you should wait to pick up your rental car.Insurance and damage cover without the headacheIceland is famous for gravel, winds, and shifting weather. Standard foreign rental insurance often leaves gaps and excesses that surprise people at drop-off. With Zero Car, the package is simple. Pricing is all-inclusive with zero excess on the included covers. That means gravel, sand, and ash are not “gotchas.” Unlimited mileage and 24/7 roadside help are part of the deal. There is no deposit at booking. If you need to check how pickup, keyboxes, and returns work, this explainer walks through it all: Renting a car in Iceland with Zero: a seamless experience.One more clear safety point. River crossings are risky, even in summer. Zero Car never recommends crossing rivers. If you are not sure, turn around. The final decision is yours. Damage from misuse is always on the driver. It is better to change plans than to lose a car. For live road status and closures, always check road.is.Winter vs summer: what changesSummer is simple. Long daylight. Dry roads. A compact or crossover is fine for the city and the main sights. Crowds are the main issue. Leave early and enjoy the late sun.Winter is different. Light is limited. Roads can be icy. Wind can be strong. Choose AWD or a 4x4. Use steady inputs. Add more time between stops. Keep checking SafeTravel Iceland for alerts. Ask your hotel about local conditions before an early start. If the forecast looks bad, it is smart to switch plans and stay near Reykjavik for a day. Museums, hot pools, and cafés are right there. For more city ideas and updates, use Visit Reykjavik.A simple four-day plan starting and ending in ReykjavikDay 1. Land at KEF, collect your car, and drive to Reykjavik. Check in and go for a gentle city walk. Hallgrímskirkja, the harbor, and the sculpture walk along the bay give you a quick feel for the city. Use Visit Reykjavik to find a dinner spot that suits your style.Day 2. Drive the Golden Circle. Start with Þingvellir, then Geysir, then Gullfoss. Add a soak on the way back. Sky Lagoon is close to the city. Return to Reykjavik for dinner. If you are coming from the airport side, this route note helps: Ultimate guide to KEF airport land-grab drive.Day 3. Pick west or south. If the weather favors the west, drive Snæfellsnes. If the south looks calmer, go see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Keep an eye on road.is through the day.Day 4. Use the morning for a Reykjavik museum or a swim at a local pool. If your flight is late, loop around Reykjanes before you head to the airport. Return the car at KEF. With Zero, keybox drop-off is open 24/7, and staff at the office can help if you have questions. If you are weighing whether to delay pickup to save money, read Why you should wait to pick up your rental car.If you want more on city-first trips and practical choices, this short piece helps weigh the pros and cons: Reykjavik with a rental car. A quick word on “Reykajvik rent a car” searchesYou will sometimes see the phrase “Reykajvik rent a car” online. It is a common typo for “Reykjavik.” Search engines still understand it. If you typed it by mistake, you are in the right place. All the advice above applies. When in doubt, start with a simple, local provider and clear cover. Here is the main site again: Zero Car.Booking checklist you can use Decide when and where you will pick up. KEF or the city. Choose the right car for the season and group size. Check the cover. Look for zero excess, gravel, sand, ash, and 24/7 roadside help. Plan your first day’s drive and parking. Save the key safety links on your phone: SafeTravel Iceland and road.is. Skim a practical guide before you go: Iceland car rental guide: best cars for every traveler. If you want a city-based plan, keep this handy: Reykjavik with a rental car.

What’s the best car rental Iceland option for a winter road trip?

One of the most requested questions we get in our socials and via email from clients is - What is the best car for winter for my Iceland car rental?  Short answer: The one that gives you a winter-ready 4x4, proper tyres, full cover with zero excess, and real humans on hand when the weather decides to audition for a Nordic thriller.  Longer answer - Check it out below: ## TL;DR for frosty planners **Pick a 4x4 with quality winter tyres.** Studded tyres are typically allowed in winter, and reputable fleets switch to winter rubber for the season. Always confirm before you book. Start with local guidance at [road.is](https://www.road.is/) and daily forecasts at the Icelandic Met Office, en.vedur.is. **F-roads are a summer fling.** In winter you stick to ploughed roads like the Ring Road and the Golden Circle. Check status and webcams on road.is road conditions and its webcams. **Headlights on, always.** It is the law in Iceland to drive with lights on at all times. See safety basics at [SafeTravel.is](https://safetravel.is/). **Speed limits are modest for good reasons.** Expect 50 km/h in towns, 80 on rural gravel, and 90 on paved rural roads. Drive to conditions and review tips on [SafeTravel.is](https://safetravel.is/). **Plan around daylight.** In December Reykjavík offers roughly four to five hours of usable light. Check sunrise and sunset for your dates at timeanddate.com/sun/iceland/reykjavik. ![Icelandic highway in blowing snow with crosswind and icy-road warning signs, low visibility.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_86542249_d065935496.jpg) ## Which car actually works in Icelandic winter? **Traction that does not panic.** Choose a 4x4 SUV with proper winter tyres. Studded tyres are commonly fitted in season and help on black ice. If you are new to Icelandic roads, keep [road.is](https://www.road.is/) and en.vedur.is bookmarked. - Pro tip - All our cars have winter tirues from November to April, as the law states. ## Dacia Duster - The budget and capable 4x4 If you are watching your budget yet want proper winter capability, the [Dacia Duster diesel 4x4 manual](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/dacia-duster-diesel-4x4-manual) is the sweet spot. It is compact for Reykjavík streets and tight guesthouse car parks, but has the ground clearance and four-wheel traction you want when roads are slick or freshly ploughed. The diesel engine sips fuel on longer Ring Road legs, which matters when distances stack up between fuel stops in the north. Many travelers also prefer the control of a manual gearbox on icy approaches to viewpoints or when easing down a snowy driveway, and the Duster makes that feel natural and predictable. ## Kia Sportage/Toyota Rav4 - The winter duo If you prefer an automatic and a bit more refinement, look at the proven all-wheel-drive crossovers. The [Toyota RAV4](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-rav4) and the [Kia Sportage](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/kia-sportage) are excellent winter companions that balance comfort with confidence. Both offer stable AWD systems that react quickly when a gust hits you on a coastal causeway or when you meet black ice on a shaded bend. They are easy to live with for long days, their cabins warm up quickly, and the automatics remove the stress of stop-and-go traffic at city lights or slow convoys behind snowploughs. These are the cars many first-time winter visitors choose, because they feel familiar to drive yet are built for exactly the weather Iceland throws at you. On a typical day you might start in drizzle near Keflavík, see sleet on Hellisheiði, then sunshine in the south coast rain shadow, and an AWD automatic just smooths it all out. ## Toyota LandCruiser 250 and Kia Sorento - Best in cold class Traveling with a bigger group, lots of camera gear, or child seats calls for something more substantial. The seven-seat [Kia Sorento](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/kia-sorento) gives families flexible seating and a calm ride on longer hops between towns, while keeping winter manners tidy on slushy tarmac. For maximum capability on challenging days, the [Toyota Land Cruiser 250](https://www.zerocar.is/icelandic-rental-cars/toyota-land-cruiser-250-automatic) brings serious 4x4 hardware and a high seating position that keeps you relaxed when visibility drops and snow drifts start forming along the verges. These larger SUVs are also a smart pick if your itinerary includes gravel access roads to guesthouses or viewpoints, since the extra clearance helps avoid scraping packed snow ruts. Remember that mountain F-roads are closed in winter and should not be attempted, yet even on maintained routes the extra stability of a full-size 4x4 is reassuring when the forecast turns lively. ## What else is best in winter? **Coverage that is genuinely all-inclusive.** Iceland has gravel, ash, side winds and single-lane bridges. A plan that includes gravel, sand and ash protection with zero excess saves both money and worry. This is a core promise of [Zero Car Rental](https://www.zerocar.is/). **Backup that answers at midnight.** If weather or a warning light interrupts your aurora hunt, 24/7 roadside assistance with no deductible keeps the trip on track. Zero includes this in the price and explains why local support matters here: [2025’s Best Car Rental Iceland: 10 reasons to choose a local company](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/2025-s-best-car-rental-iceland-10-reasons-to-choose-a-local-company). ![Close-up of a car with winter tires on a snow-packed Iceland road at sunrise.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_2253352489_1efaf24058.jpg) ## Where can you realistically drive in winter? **Golden Circle and South Coast** are the classic winter routes. Roads are maintained year-round, but closures happen in storms. Check Vegagerðin for road conditions, webcams, and the Icelandic Met Office for weather alerts. **F-roads** to the Highlands are seasonal and generally open June to September. Winter plans should not include them. Learn about seasonal access on [road.is](https://www.road.is/). **Off-road driving is illegal.** Stay on marked roads for your safety and to protect fragile landscapes. Review the do’s and don’ts at [SafeTravel.is](https://safetravel.is/). ## Two smart winter road trip plans ### Option A: 4 to 5 days on the South Coast with an ice cave finale **Day 1** KEF airport to Reykjavík, optional Blue Lagoon stop. KEF to the Blue Lagoon is about 20 minutes by car, then continue to Reykjavík. Prebook if you want a soak: bluelagoon.com. KEF to Reykjavík is roughly 50 km and takes about 45 minutes in normal conditions. If you prefer to settle in the city first, keep an eye on weather at en.vedur.is. **Day 2** Golden Circle loop from Reykjavík. Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss is a perfect winter sampler. Start with the national park at thingvellir.is, and plan the loop around daylight.  **Day 3** Reykjavík or Hella to Vík. Reykjavík to Vík is about 184–186 km and 2.5 to 3 hours without stops. The highlights are Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara. Please keep well back from the surf at Reynisfjara and read the guidance on sneaker waves at [SafeTravel.is](https://safetravel.is/). **Day 4** Vík to Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón. Vík to Skaftafell is roughly 140 km and about 2 hours. Skaftafell to Jökulsárlón is about 55–57 km and around 45–50 minutes. For background on the area, see the national park’s Skaftafell page: vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is/en/areas/skaftafell. Book a guided ice cave tour if conditions allow. Most natural ice cave tours run roughly November to Marc - We have a f[ull guide here on how to plan a self drive to the ice caves](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/rent-a-car-in-iceland-and-journey-into-ice-caves). ![Person standing at the entrance of a blue ice cave in Vatnajökull, Iceland.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_2429926043_9d67ba0df5.jpg) **Day 5** Return west. Aim to drive in daylight. Build a buffer for wind or snow closures and verify before set-off  **Hotel ideas along this route.** Reykjavík has many boutique options near Laugavegur for easy dining. Hella or Hvolsvöllur offer countryside hotels with hot tubs and dark skies. Vík has several modern hotels near the village. Between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón you will find glacier-view guesthouses ### Option B: 6 to 7 days adding Snæfellsnes Add one or two nights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before or after the South Coast. Roads are usually kept open, but wind can be a pain some times! ![Northern Lights over snow-covered Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_536321737_0ae7d720f1.jpg) ## How to schedule your winter days without racing the sun Plan around daylight and aim for one base-to-base drive plus one or two key sights per day. Know the default limits (50 km/h in towns, 80 on rural gravel, 90 on rural paved), but treat them as ceilings when roads are slick. Keep your lights on at all times and never stop on the road for photos. For more [ideas on northern lights hunting on Snaefellsnes, we got you covered here](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/hunt-for-the-northern-lights-in-snaefellsnes-peninsula). Have a look at [what to check before leaving the car rental lot af KEF Airport](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/what-to-check-before-leaving-the-car-rental-lot-at-kef-airport) for some sneaky good info! ## Safety check for Reynisfjara Reynisfjara’s black sand is spectacular and dangerous. Sneaker waves can surge much higher than expected. Stay well above the wet line, face the sea, and follow on-site warnings. Read beach-specific advice on why this is the [deadliest beach in Iceland](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/natural-wonders/reynisfjara-black-sand-beach-icelands-deadliest-beach) here. ![Snow-dusted cliffs and black-sand beach on Iceland’s South Coast in winter, sea stacks on the horizon.](https://zerocar.b-cdn.net/shutterstock_1234646035_4d901680a1.jpg) ## Why Zero is the best car rental Iceland option for winter **All-inclusive pricing with zero excess** means gravel, sand and ash coverage is included, so a wind-pushed pebble does not become a saga. See what this covers with [Zero Car Rental](https://www.zerocar.is/). **Roadside assistance included 24/7 with no deductible** is there if a warning light blinks in Höfn at 23:00. Learn why local support matters in this overview: [10 reasons to choose a local company](https://www.zerocar.is/blog/driving-in-iceland/2025-s-best-car-rental-iceland-10-reasons-to-choose-a-local-company). **Winter-ready fleet plus unlimited mileage** lets you choose the right 4x4 for your route and roam without counting kilometres. Browse options at [zerocar.is](https://www.zerocar.is/). **Seamless pickup at KEF with real staff on site** means you can collect keys from the keybox 24/7, and there are always staff at the KEF office to help if you have questions or need assistance with the keyboxes. Find the KEF office here: Google Maps location. City pickups in Reykjavík are available too at the Reykjavík office location. ## Packing list that wins winter Bring microspikes or clip-on traction for walking to waterfalls, warm layers plus a waterproof outer shell, spare gloves, a thermos, and a headlamp for short daylight windows. Add a battery bank for your phone, a paper map as backup, sunglasses for low bright sun on snow, and a credit card with PIN for pay-at-pump fuel. ## Recommended daily driving times In mid-winter aim for 3 to 4 hours of driving per day and keep the rest for sightseeing in daylight. As a guide, Reykjavík to Vík is around 2.5 to 3 hours in fair conditions, Vík to Skaftafell is about 2 hours, and Skaftafell to Jökulsárlón is about 45–50 minutes, but always check [road.is](https://www.road.is/) and en.vedur.is before you go.

Zero excess, zero headaches: The most complete car rental insurance guide in Iceland

If you have ever stood at a rental counter in Iceland wondering which insurance you actually need, you are not alone. Terms and conditions, abbreviations that look like food you want to avoid (CDW, SAAP, GP?), Iceland being a very particular country with volcanic sand, sudden winds, gravel roads and a long menu of add-ons, choosing cover can feel like a pop quiz you never revised for. That is exactly the problem Zero set out to fix.At Zero Car Rental, the price you see already includes full insurance with zero excess on the key Iceland-specific risks and roadside assistance with no deductible. You do not have to pick a bundle, resist a hard sell or wonder which damage is excluded. It is already handled in your rate. You can read the official wording on our own pages here: our Insurance Policy, the FAQs and the Terms and Conditions. Those pages state that all insurances are included, zero excess is included, and the Roadside Assistance Waiver is included as well, with no deposit held on your card during the rental. What you see is what you pay.Below, we explain exactly what “full insurance” means in Iceland, how other providers structure it, the common pitfalls that travellers report, and why Zero’s already-included package is the most comprehensive and stress-free choice right now.What “full insurance” really needs to include in IcelandIceland is not a typical driving environment. Local road risks make a few protections essential, so a truly complete package should cover them by default.Collision and super collision damage waiver (CDW and SCDW). These limit your liability for collision damage. With Zero, zero excess is already built into the price, so you are not deciding between basic and “super” versions at the desk. See our FAQs for the inclusion list.Gravel protection (GP). Windshields, headlights and paint chips from flying gravel are common even on ordinary drives. This is covered with a zero deductible..Sand and ash protection (SAAP). Strong winds can sandblast paint and even affect engine components. SAAP exists because standard collision insurance usually does not include these events unless you add it. Zero includes SAAP with zero excess. Our FAQ spells this out; many providers sell SAAP as a bolt-on, therefore not all offers are quite the same.Theft protection (TP) and third-party liability round out the basics and are included as standard.Roadside assistance with no deductible. This is the missing piece in many “all-inclusive” bundles. Without a specific assistance waiver, you can still be charged for towing, tire help, recoveries from snow or sand, or key issues, even if your damage excess is zero. At Zero the Roadside Assistance Waiver is included, reducing eligible assistance charges to zero. Again, see our FAQs since this is the key differentiator between us and others.All of the above are bundled into every Zero booking. No deposit hold. No last-minute upsell. Just pick up your keys and go.Why this matters in Iceland: real risks that cause surprise billsAsk any Icelander about wind. The single most common category of rental damage is often a door wrenched open by a gust. Even big rental brands publish safety leaflets warning that wind-blown doors are a very frequent cause of damage.Sand and ash are another classic Iceland gotcha. On the South Coast and other exposed areas, storms can strip paint in minutes. Travelers and Icelandic rental guides repeatedly recommend SAAP for this reason. Deposits and authorizations can also sting. Many companies take a substantial hold or an upfront charge that ties up your card for days after return. Zero’s FAQs state clearly that we do not hold a deposit during your rental, which keeps your card free for fuel, hotels and tours. Finally, even with zero-excess damage cover, roadside assistance can remain a fee unless there is an assistance waiver. Some providers sell such a waiver as a separate product. At Zero the Roadside Assistance Waiver is included in your rate. For your own planning, check official travel advisories and weather before you drive. The Icelandic Search and Rescue’s site Safe Travel aggregates key safety guidance, the Icelandic Meteorological office publishes detailed wind and weather forecasts, and IRCA’s Road.is shows current road conditions. A fair, current comparison: Who includes what by defaultA few Iceland companies advertise zero excess. The differences are what is included by default, what still requires paid add-ons, and what exclusions remain. Zero Car Rental. Zero excess on CDW, SCDW, GP, SAAP and TP included in the price on every booking. Roadside Assistance Waiver included by default. No deposit hold. Staff available at KEF to help with the keybox pickup, plus 24-hour phone support. Details in Insurance Policy, FAQs and T&Cs. zerocar.is+1Blue Car Rental. A widely used local provider. Their insurance page shows that a Liability Waiver is an optional add-on that reduces your deductible to zero and includes SAAP. They also offer a separate Roadside Assistance Waiver product. Zero bundles the effect of both in the price you see, so you do not have to decide at the desk. Geysir. Sells a Zero Excess insurance as an upgrade and presents tiered packages on its insurances page rather than including zero excess by default. Europcar Iceland (Höldur). Their Premium Protection Package is the route to Zero Excess Cover, which is not part of the basic inclusion.Hertz Iceland. Promotes a MAX coverage package that can bring self-excess to zero for covered items, while still listing exclusions such as underbody damage and water crossings. Iceland Car Rental. Markets “one price, no surprises” with zero excess included and no deposit, but while their package is offers zero deductible, still misses having roadside assistance included. The same applies to smaller companies, such as Lava Car, MyCar and beyond. What this means: As of today, Zero remains the only Iceland car rental company that bundles both a true zero-excess damage package and a roadside assistance fee waiver in the displayed price on every booking, while also not holding a deposit. Competitors may match parts of that picture, but usually not all at once without extra fees. Always verify current inclusions directly on the provider’s site before you book. The “this feels scammy” moments travellers complain aboutNot all car rentals are the same and we understand why some travellers come away upset. The pattern you will see in forum threads and advice blogs is consistent. People arrive expecting that “full insurance” is already handled, then discover at the desk that sand and ash is extra, or that roadside assistance is still a charge without a waiver, or that the damage excess only goes to zero if they buy the top bundle. There are also many stories about wind-blown doors leading to large invoices if the right cover was not selected. Even apart from damage, deposits can cause friction. A hefty hold or pre-authorization can tie up your card for days after return. Zero’s FAQs confirm we do not place a deposit hold. You complete online check-in, your card imprint acts as a guarantee, and you keep your credit line for your trip.Zero’s fix is simple. We price the complete package up front, do not block a deposit on your card, and provide 24-7 assistance with the fee waiver built in, so the most common support calls do not result in a bill. You can read this directly on our FAQ page.What exactly is included with ZeroFull protection with zero excess. CDW, SCDW, Gravel Protection and Sand and Ash Protection are included with a zero deductible, along with Theft Protection and liability. See Insurance Policy and FAQs.Roadside Assistance Waiver. If you need help for issues like a flat, a tow, a jump start or recovery, your assistance charges are reduced to zero. Stated on our FAQ page and referenced in our T&Cs. No deposit. We do not hold a deposit during your rental. 24-7 support and staffed offices. Pickup is via keybox at KEF and Reykjavík for speed and convenience, and there are staff present at the KEF office to help if you need assistance with the keybox or have questions. Support by phone is 24-7. Hours and details are listed in FAQsOne price, no counter upsells. The goal is that you arrive, grab your keys and drive, not stand through a script of “would you like to add…”. You can review all inclusions in Insurance Policy and even our reviews!Transparency about our provider. Zero partners with local expert Blue Car Rental to operate the fleet and service. Our FAQs state this transparently, which is why our Terms and Conditions reference Blue Car Rental in several clauses. The difference is that when you book on zerocar.is, the zero excess and roadside assistance waiver are already included in the price you see. How to sanity-check any Iceland rental if you are shopping aroundAsk what is included by default. If zero excess, GP and SAAP are not in the base price, ask what the final per-day cost is once you add them. Verify on the provider’s insurance page, for example Geysir’s packages. Confirm roadside assistance terms. Look for phrases like “Roadside Assistance Waiver” or “Assistance fees.” If it is sold separately, clarify what a tow or tire help would cost without it. Read exclusions carefully. Even “zero excess” products can exclude underbody damage or water crossings. If you plan gravel, highlands or river fords, get it in writing that your route is allowed and what is covered. See Hertz’s coverage guide and good luck understanding all the different extras.z.isCheck deposit policy. Holds vary widely and can take days to release. If you prefer no hold, choose a company that states this clearly in writing, like ZeroBooking with Zero: What the process looks likeYou book online, complete the digital check-in, and arrive knowing your insurance is done. At Keflavík International Airport or in downtown Reykjavík, you pick up the keys from a 24-7 keybox. If you need assistance, there are team members at the KEF office to help during opening hours, and 24-7 phone support for anything urgent. Returns are quick because zero excess and roadside assistance are already included and there is no deposit hold. All of this is described on our pickup and dropoff information. For deeper planning guides, see our long-form explainer Car Rental Iceland FAQ: Zero-Excess Pricing, Self-Drive and F-Road Guide. The bottom lineIn Iceland, what is included matters more than almost anywhere else. Wind can yank a door in a second. Sand can scour paint on a breezy day. Towing and recoveries are expensive. Many providers sell you a base price, then layer on zero-excess and roadside assistance as upgrades. Others promise “all-inclusive” but still keep assistance as an extra.Zero takes a different path. Zero excess is standard. Roadside assistance fees are waived by default. No deposit is blocked on your card. You pick up the keys quickly at KEF or downtown Reykjavík, and there are people to help if you need them. That is why, right now, Zero offers the most complete, already-included insurance and assistance package we can verify in Iceland. If you want a rental where you do not have to think about insurance once you land, choose Zero and drive. Then use your headspace for the things that actually matter here, like which waterfall to linger at or whether tonight looks good for northern lights.

Why you should wait to pick up your rental car in Reykjavík

The hidden danger: driving right after a long flightA 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 unforgivingA 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 accidentsTwo roadside hazards—rocks and steep transverse slopes (like those at junctions or access roads)—more than doubled the likelihood of severe injuryHigh-risk routes include the Ring Road along the south coast and Reykjanesbraut, the highway between Keflavík Airport and ReykjavíkMany 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.Zero Car’s safe & well-rested arrival: the better planArrive, rest, then pick up in ReykjavíkInstead of collecting your rental car right after landing—when you may be groggy or jet-lagged—consider this safer plan:Land at Keflavík International AirportTake a shuttle or taxi to ReykjavíkCheck into a central hotelGet a full night’s restPick up your Zero Car rental the next morning in ReykjavíkDriving 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 travellersThe city offers comfortable hotels and services to help you rest and adjustZero Car’s Reykjavík pickup location is central and convenientStarting fresh reduces your accident risk dramaticallyYou’ll be better prepared to begin longer journeys, like the Ring Road adventureYou can explore Reykjavík on foot or via public transport while adjusting to the new environmentDetailed advice for waiting to pick up your car1. Book accommodation in Reykjavík in advanceEspecially 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:Laugavegur: near shops, restaurants, and nightlifeHlemmur or Hlíðar: quieter neighborhoods within walking distance of central ReykjavíkVesturbær: ideal if you prefer a local vibe close to the Old Harbour2. Use Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík shuttlesFlybus 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 slowOnce 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 morningZero 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 cityDrive in optimal daylightReach your first destination in time to enjoy the scenery or check into your next hotel5. Begin your Iceland journey fresh and focusedOnce 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 helpsDangerous roadsidesThe TSR study shows:Steep roadside slopes and rocks significantly increase crash severityRun-off-road crashes are common and often seriousReykjanesbraut, the road from Keflavík to Reykjavík, is particularly hazardous when drivers are tired or distractedEven 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 problemInterestingly, 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 IcelandStop every 2 hours for a short breakKeep the car cool and the music on to stay alertDrink plenty of water throughout the dayAvoid scheduling long drives on your arrival dayCheck road.is daily for weather and road conditionsFor more information on what car suits your route and season, check out our Iceland car rental guide.Sample itinerary: a safe startDayPlanDay 0Arrive at KEF → Shuttle to Reykjavík → Hotel check-in → Dinner and restDay 1Breakfast → Pick up Zero Car in Reykjavík → Begin your journey fully alertThis 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 ReykjavíkPrioritises your well-being and road safetyOffers easy, flexible pickup options in central ReykjavíkHelps you build a smarter itinerary with personalised serviceEnsures a smoother, more enjoyable travel experienceBy 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 adventureDriving 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.

Why planning ahead is the secret to a stress-free Iceland car rental

Planning a trip to Iceland is a thrilling experience — volcanic landscapes, waterfalls that defy logic, glaciers that kiss the sea, and black sand beaches that feel like another planet. But there’s one essential part of your Icelandic adventure that travelers often leave too late: booking their car rental.Here’s the truth: Iceland is a destination best explored behind the wheel. And with tourism booming year-round, waiting to book your Iceland car rental can leave you with limited options, higher costs, or no car at all.At Zero Car Rental, we’ve analyzed our booking patterns and found that most travelers book their vehicle 30–60 days before arrival, but those who plan even further ahead often secure the best rates and widest selection. This blog will show you why booking early is not just smart — it’s essential. Why renting a car in Iceland is essentialBefore we dive into booking timelines, let’s address the obvious: Iceland is made for road trips. While Reykjavík is worth exploring, the real magic lies in the wild, remote landscapes you’ll find once you hit the open road.From the Ring Road to the Westfjords, from the Golden Circle to East Iceland’s secluded fjords, renting a car is the only way to travel independently, at your own pace. There’s little public transport outside the capital, and guided tours can be expensive and inflexible.If you want to make the most of your adventure, start by reading our Iceland car rental guide that covers the best vehicles for every kind of traveler. When is the best time to book an Iceland car rental?The earlier, the better — especially for IcelandAt Zero Car Rental, we’ve reviewed thousands of reservations and found that travelers who book well in advance consistently get better prices, better vehicle options, and better overall experiences.As soon as your flight dates are set, you should book your rental car. This could mean 60, 90, or even 180 days ahead. Booking months in advance isn’t just safe — it’s recommended, especially if you're traveling during peak times like June–August or December–January, when Iceland sees a surge in tourism and cars get snapped up quickly.Don’t wait for prices to rise or availability to drop. Book early and lock it in. 7 reasons to book your Iceland car rental as early as possible1. Get the car that suits your tripWhether you're traveling solo, with your family, or heading deep into the Highlands, booking early ensures you get the right vehicle for your route. Want a 4x4 to tackle F-roads? Or a fuel-efficient hybrid for a two-week Ring Road journey?The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find exactly what you need. Check out our detailed guide on choosing the right rental car in Iceland to match your car to your itinerary.2. Lock in the best priceCar rental prices in Iceland fluctuate with demand. As more bookings come in for a specific week or season, rates rise. Booking far in advance means you lock in today’s lower rate before prices climb.At Zero, our pricing is fully transparent and includes everything — insurance, roadside assistance, unlimited mileage — so there are no hidden fees or last-minute surprises. Our seamless rental experience is built around giving travelers peace of mind from start to finish.3. Plan your trip with confidenceOnce your car is booked, you can confidently start arranging accommodations, activities, and driving routes. Having your transportation locked in makes it easier to create a flexible, well-organized itinerary that suits your travel style.Whether you’re heading clockwise or counterclockwise around the island, check out our blog on planning a northbound or southbound Iceland car rental for route inspiration and tips.4. Avoid peak season shortagesCar availability in Iceland drops dramatically during summer (June–August) and the December holiday season. Travelers arriving with no rental booked often face long waits, inflated prices, or limited options that don’t fit their needs.Booking your rental well in advance avoids the stress of settling for whatever is left. It’s one of the top reasons to choose a local rental company like Zero, as we explain in our blog on why Iceland travelers trust local companies.5. More time to review what’s includedBooking early gives you time to understand what’s actually included in your rental. At Zero, every booking includes:Full protection with no deductible, voverage for gravel, ash, and sand and unlimited mileage plus 24/7 roadside assistance!Not only that, we offer a convenient keybox pickup/drop-off, with staff on-site at KEF Airport if you need help.You can compare options confidently and know exactly what you’re getting. For more, read our guide on why renting with Zero is the best decision.6. Sync your rental with your flightsMost travelers arrive in Iceland early in the morning at Keflavík (KEF). Booking early lets you schedule pickup from our KEF location immediately after you land — no waiting, no extra transfers. Begin your road trip right away.Even if you're using our keybox system, staff are always present at the KEF office to assist you. That’s part of what makes renting a car with Zero such a smooth process.7. Start your adventure without worryBooking in advance removes one of the biggest stress factors from your trip planning. When your rental is confirmed, you can focus on the fun parts: hiking trails, hot springs, coastal drives, and of course — the Northern Lights.Need ideas? Don’t miss our top 10 must-see sights with a car rental in Iceland to help build your dream itinerary. A common scenario: booking late vs. booking smartBooking late:You start looking for a car rental two weeks before your July trip. Here's what you might find:The vehicle category you want is sold outThe only cars available are oversized, overpriced, or manualThe agency requires a deposit and doesn’t include full insuranceAirport pickup isn’t available at your arrival timeBooking smart (well in advance):You reserved your car with Zero months before your trip:You selected a hybrid SUV at a great rateYou used the online check-in to save timeYou picked up your car directly at KEF AirportYou drove off with full coverage, no deposit, and total peace of mind How to plan your Iceland trip around your car rental1. Confirm your travel datesBook your flights into and out of Keflavík. Choose dates that give you enough time for your chosen route — at least 7–10 days for the full Ring Road.2. Choose your routeYour route determines the car you need. Want to drive into the Highlands? You’ll need a 4x4. Sticking to paved roads? A compact or hybrid will do.Check out our complete car selection guide to find the best match.3. Book early with Zero CarBook your rental car as soon as you confirm your dates. With Zero, you get:Cancel up to 24 hoursFull insurance as standard with no deductibleRoadside assistance with no deductiblePeace of mind!4. Plan the rest of your adventureOnce your car is reserved, you can confidently book hotels, tours, and stops without worrying about transportation availability. Why travelers choose Zero for their Iceland car rentalZero Car isn’t just a rental company — we’re a local team focused on making car rental in Iceland honest, easy, and stress-free.Here’s what sets us apart:All-inclusive pricing — no upsells, no surprisesZero deductible coverage for gravel, ash, sandUnlimited mileage and 24/7 roadside supportSelf-service keyboxes with live staff support at KEFA modern, fuel-efficient fleet of 4x4s, EVs, and moreThousands of travelers trust us every year. Learn why in our post on how to choose the best Iceland car rental company. FAQs: booking your Iceland car rental in advance1. How far in advance should I book my rental car in Iceland?As early as possible. Ideally, you should book your car as soon as your travel dates are confirmed — especially if traveling in summer or over the holidays.2. Do rental prices increase closer to the travel date?Yes. Rental prices rise with demand. Booking early helps you avoid higher prices and limited availability.3. Can I cancel or change my rental if plans shift?With Zero Car, you can cancel or change your booking up to 48 hours before your rental start time — no penalty, no deposit lost.4. Is insurance included when I book with Zero?Yes. All Zero rentals include full insurance coverage (gravel, sand, ash) with zero deductible, roadside assistance, and unlimited mileage.5. What if I arrive late at night or early in the morning?Our keybox system supports 24/7 pickup and drop-off. And there is always staff present at KEF to help if you need assistance. Book your Iceland car rental now and hit the road with confidence.

Choosing the right rental car in Iceland: A complete guide

Iceland’s spectacular landscapes offer everything from smooth highways to rugged mountain tracks. Having the right rental car can make or break your adventure. The vehicle you choose determines where you can go, how safe you’ll feel on changing terrain, and even how much fun you’ll have. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to pick the perfect car for your Iceland trip – whether you’re cruising the Ring Road in summer or venturing into winter snows – and highlight why Zero Car Rental ensures a zero-hassle, maximum-fun experience for travellers. 2WD or 4x4? Matching Your Car to Your Iceland ItineraryOne of the first questions to ask is: Do you need a 4x4 in Iceland, or will a 2WD car do? The answer depends entirely on your travel plans. If you plan to stick to well-paved routes – say exploring Reykjavík, the popular Golden Circle, and the main Ring Road (Route 1) – a normal 2WD car is perfectly suitable. Roads to major attractions are paved and well-maintained, so a small economy car or compact sedan can comfortably get you around. In fact, choosing a smaller car can save you money on rental rates and fuel, which is great if you’re watching your budget.However, Iceland’s wild interior and some rural areas demand a 4x4. The mountainous highland roads marked with an “F” (F-roads) are legally off-limits to standard 2WD vehicles – these rough trails have steep hills, loose gravel, even unbridged river crossings, and rental companies prohibit taking regular cars on them. If your itinerary includes spots like Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, Askja, or other Highland gems, you must rent a 4x4 with good ground clearance. Not only is it required by law to tackle F-roads with a four-wheel-drive, but doing otherwise could void your insurance coverage in case of an accident. Even on some non-F gravel routes (e.g. in the remote Westfjords or rough backroads), a 4WD or AWD vehicle will offer better traction and safety.In short, match your car to where you’re going:City & Paved Attractions: 2WD economy car is just fine (ideal for the Ring Road in summer, Golden Circle, South Coast main sites).Mixed Gravel & Rural Areas: A compact SUV or crossover (AWD) gives more comfort on gravel roads and in bad weather, even if F-roads aren’t on your plan.Highlands & F-Roads: A true 4×4 vehicle is mandatory. Think midsize or large SUV with high clearance (like a Toyota Land Cruiser or Jeep) if you’ll ford rivers and tackle mountain tracks.Max Adventure Anywhere: If unsure, err on the side of a 4x4 – it provides extra safety and lets you adapt if Mother Nature throws a curveball.Keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better for every trip. If you won’t go off asphalt, a smaller car not only costs less but also saves fuel. On the other hand, if your dream spots lie at the end of a rocky trail, you’ll thank yourself for getting a capable 4x4. It’s all about finding the right fit for your route.Pro Tip: Our team at Zero makes this easy – during booking we clearly indicate which vehicles are allowed on F-roads and which are not. This way you won’t accidentally pick a car that can’t legally (or safely) take you where you want to go!Summer vs. Winter: Seasonal ConsiderationsIceland’s driving conditions swing dramatically between summer and winter, and so should your car choice. In summer (June–August), nearly all roads are open and the midnightsun lights your way. If you’re visiting in summer and sticking to mainstream areas, you can rent pretty much any car confidently. A compact 2WD will handle the Ring Road in July just fine. That said, summer is peak tourist season, so book your car well in advance to ensure you get the type you want (rental demand is very high in summer months).Winter (November–March) is a different beast. Icelandic winter brings snow, ice, strong winds, and very limited daylight. If you’re traveling in winter, it’s highly recommended to rent a 4x4 with winter tires for better traction. Even main roads can be icy or get snowed over in a sudden storm. A four-wheel-drive (ideally an SUV) will give you stability and grip when navigating snowy streets in Reykjavík or driving out to see frozen waterfalls. Studded winter tires are a must in icy conditions – fortunately, all Zero Car winter rentals come equipped with proper tires for the season. Also consider a vehicle with heated features (seats, steering wheel) for comfort, as well as enough space to store bulky winter gear (parkas, boots, etc.).If you’re visiting in spring or fall (the “shoulder seasons”), you may encounter a mix of conditions. Late fall and early spring can still bring snow in the north or high elevations, so a 4x4 is wise if your April or October trip includes those areas. In May or September, weather is milder and most roads (except the highland F-roads) are usually open – a 2WD could suffice if you stay flexible and check forecasts.No matter the season, always monitor the weather and road conditions. Iceland’s weather can change fast year-round. Check the Icelandic Road Authority (road.is) and SafeTravel alerts before long drives, especially in winter. As part of our service, Zero provides live updates and even pushes storm alerts to some of our connected cars’ dashboards, so you’re never caught off guard by a sudden gale or snowstorm.Group Size and Luggage: How Much Space Do You Need?Another key factor in choosing the right car is your travel group size and baggage. Think about comfort on those long drives and how much luggage you’ll have. If you’re a solo traveller or couple with just a couple of bags, a small sedan or hatchback will be cozy and efficient. But if you’re a family of five or a group of friends with camping gear, you’ll need something larger.When comparing vehicle options, consider both passenger seating and cargo capacity. For example, a compact car might seat 4 people, but will it fit 4 large suitcases? Probably not. In such cases, sizing up to a station wagon or SUV is smart. SUVs and crossovers are popular in Iceland for good reason: they offer higher ground clearance and lots of cargo room without being as bulky as a full van. If you have 4 adults plus luggage, a midsize SUV (like a Kia Sportage or Toyota RAV4) strikes a good balance – everyone gets a seat and you can stash bags in the back.For larger parties or special needs, there are minivans and 7-9 seater vehicles available as well. These are great for big families or tour groups traveling together. Just remember that bigger vehicles mean higher fuel consumption. Carpooling with a larger vehicle can still be cost-effective when splitting costs, and it might save you from having to rent two separate cars. As noted in our 4x4 tips, sometimes a single 4x4 can replace multiple tour bookings – for instance, renting a 7-passenger 4WD van could allow your whole group to venture into the Highlands together, avoiding the need for expensive guided super-jeep tours.Lastly, consider your comfort preferences. If you’re tall, you might prefer a car with ample legroom. If you plan on car camping or napping in the car, maybe a roomy SUV you can fold seats down in. Zero’s fleet spans from economical city cars to spacious SUVs and even electric vehicles – so there’s something to suit every group size and travel style. And if you’re unsure, feel free to reach out to us with your headcount and itinerary, and we’ll happily recommend an optimal car category.Fuel Economy vs. Power: Keeping Costs and Environment in MindFuel in Iceland is not cheap (expect European-level fuel prices), so it pays to choose a vehicle that’s efficient for your needs. A major part of “the right car” is one that won’t guzzle gas unnecessarily. If you’re planning to drive long distances around the island, a smaller engine or a hybrid can save a lot on fuel costs. For example, if your route is mainly paved and you don’t need a heavy 4x4, renting an economy car can give you 50+ miles per gallon (or ~5 L/100km) instead of, say, an SUV’s 25 MPG (10 L/100km). Over a week of touring, that difference adds up at the pump.On the other hand, don’t go too small if it compromises safety or comfort. Straining a tiny car over mountains with four people and luggage can hurt its fuel economy and your experience. It’s about balance – right-sizing the car. Often a compact crossover (small SUV) provides better efficiency than a big truck-like SUV, while still giving you some power and clearance. Vehicles like the Dacia Duster 4×4 are known to be both fuel-efficient and capable on gravel, making them a popular choice for Iceland road trips.Electric and Hybrid Cars: Iceland is rapidly embracing electric vehicles (EVs), with more charging stations popping up even in remote areas. If you’re environmentally conscious, you’ll be happy to hear Zero offers electric and hybrid models in our fleet. Driving an EV in Iceland is a unique experience – nearly all of Iceland’s electricity is from renewable sources, so you’re road-tripping with a zero carbon footprint. Ranges on modern EVs are improving, but you do need to plan charging stops (especially in winter when range drops). We help by providing maps of charging stations (even off-grid ones), so “range anxiety” won’t spoil your trip. If an EV suits your itinerary (say, mostly within the Southwest or Ring Road where chargers are common), it can be a fantastic way to travel green. For longer expeditions with less infrastructure, a hybrid might be a safer bet so you have gasoline backup. Either way, if eco-travel is your style, ask us about available green vehicles and charging support.Picking Up at KEF Airport vs. Reykjavík CityMost international travelers land at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), about 45 minutes outside Reykjavík. Naturally, picking up your rental car right at the airport is the easiest way to start your journey. Zero Car Rental makes this super convenient with our self-service pickup at KEF. There’s no waiting in line at a rental counter – instead, once you’ve booked with us, you do an online check-in and then retrieve your car key from a secure keybox at our KEF location. Even if you arrive at 2 AM, this 24/7 keybox system means you can grab your keys and be on your way immediately. We often say our process is “Land, Grab, Drive” for a reason – you literally land, grab your keys, and drive off to explore! (For a detailed walkthrough of how the KEF pickup works, see our Ultimate Guide to Keflavík Airport: Land, Grab, Drive.)Now, what if you’re not immediately leaving from the airport? Some visitors plan to spend a couple of days in Reykjavík first, then rent a car. Or maybe you’re arriving by cruise ship to Reykjavík’s port. In these cases, you might prefer to pick up your car in the Reykjavík city office. Zero Car offers that too – we have a convenient downtown pickup location with the same keybox system for after-hours. It’s a quick taxi ride from most hotels. The process is just as seamless as at KEF, and you avoid paying for a rental on the days you’re just enjoying the city on foot. In fact, savvy travelers sometimes plan it this way: stay in the city upon arrival (skip the car for those days), then pick up the rental in town when you’re ready to hit the road. This can save you a day or two of rental fees and parking hassles. Our Reykjavik office keybox works 24/7 as well, so it’s all about what fits your schedule.Which to choose? If you’re eager to begin a countryside road trip the moment you land at KEF, airport pickup is ideal (and free shuttle buses take you straight to the rental lot). If your itinerary has you exploring the capital first or arriving via Reykjavik, downtown pickup might be more convenient. The good news is Zero Car supports both, with no extra hassle either way. Just let us know your preferred pickup location when booking. We’re one of the few companies offering no-wait self-service at both KEF and Reykjavík, so you get total flexibility.Why Choose Zero? – The Zero Car rental differenceBy now you have a sense of how to pick the right car type for your travels. The final piece of the puzzle is choosing the right rental company. As you plan your trip, you’ll notice you have many options – from big international brands to local Icelandic agencies. We humbly believe going with a local company like Zero is the best decision you can make for a stress-free adventure. Here’s why:All-Inclusive Pricing, No Hidden Fees: With many large rental companies, that “cheap” base rate can skyrocket once you add necessary insurance, extra driver fees, mileage fees, etc. Zero operates differently – our daily rate already includes full insurance coverage with zero excess, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 roadside assistance. There’s no security deposit held on your card either. The price you see is the price you pay, period. This transparent pricing means you won’t get nasty surprises on your credit card bill weeks after the trip. As our name implies, we’ve eliminated the nonsense: zero hidden fees, zero hassle.Zero Wait, Zero Paperwork: We described the keybox pickup – this is a game changer for weary travelers. You skip the rental counter entirely. No queues, no stacks of forms to fill out upon arrival. Just grab your keys and go. Returns are just as easy (drop the key in the box and you’re done). After a long flight, this convenience is priceless. Even during peak travel season when other rental lines are an hour long, you’ll already be on the road, perhaps already gazing at your first waterfall.Local Expertise and Support: When you rent with Zero, you’re getting a local team that knows Iceland inside and out. Our customer support isn’t some overseas call center; it’s a team right here in Reykjavík who can give real-time advice on weather and routes. Stuck in a snow drift or unsure if a river is safe to cross? We’re a phone call away, and we understand the situation on the ground. This kind of responsive, knowledgeable support is something global corporations just can’t match. We also hand-pick a fleet suited for Iceland – you won’t find low-clearance city-only cars in our lineup because we know even regular tourists often end up on gravel or face strong winds. Our cars come with features like studded winter tires, free GPS or Wi-Fi, and other perks tailored for Iceland driving.Full Insurance = Peace of Mind: Driving in Iceland is stunning but can be unpredictable – gravel can chip your paint, winds can knock a car door, ash storms can scratch windshields. Rather than scare you with all the insurance options like some companies do, we include the highest level of protection automatically. That means you have zero excess (deductible) if something happens. You won’t be fighting over damage charges or paying extra for sand and ash protection – it’s already in your contract. Knowing you’re completely covered lets you relax and enjoy the drive, which is what a vacation is all about!Trusted by Travelers: As a local business, our reputation is everything. We’re proud to have earned the trust of travelers from around the world – many of our customers have left glowing 5-star reviews that you can read on our site. They often mention the ease, honesty, and friendly service they experienced. We don’t have a global brand name to lean on; we prove ourselves with each rental. That means going the extra mile to make sure you have an amazing trip.In short, Zero Car Rental tries to take all the friction out of the car rental process, so that renting the right car isn’t a chore or a stress point in your Iceland plans. We’ve built our service around the needs of travellers just like you – folks who want to experience Iceland’s beauty their own way, without tour buses and tight schedules. By providing the right cars (for all roads and seasons) and backing it up with zero-fuss service, we enable you to unlock Iceland with confidence. As one of our blogs says, “Why renting a car in Iceland with Zero is the best decision” – our goal is to make sure you feel that way at the end of your journey!Final ThoughtsChoosing the right rental car in Iceland comes down to understanding your adventure. Are you chasing northern lights in winter or midnight sun in summer? Sticking to the classics or roaming into the wild highlands? Once you match your vehicle to your plans, everything clicks into place – you’ll have the freedom to go where you want, when you want, safely and comfortably.And remember, the company you rent from matters just as much. With a local, customer-first company like Zero, you’re not just getting a car – you’re getting a reliable travel partner. We want your Iceland road trip to be the highlight of your life, so we take care of the logistics while you focus on the wow moments. From landing at KEF to dropping off the keys, we aim to deliver zero hassle and maximum fun every mile of the way.So, gear up for the journey of a lifetime! Whether it’s your first visit or a return expedition, Iceland has new wonders waiting around every bend in the road. With the right set of wheels and the right support team behind you, there’s truly no limit to where you can go. Happy driving, and see you on the road in Iceland!

Beyond the Summer crowds: The ultimate off-season Iceland road trip guide

Embrace Iceland’s "Secret Seasons"Picture yourself rolling up to majestic waterfalls, deserted beaches, and spectacular viewpoints with no one else around. Visiting Iceland outside the bustling summer months offers exactly this. After landing at KEF, grabbing your Iceland car rental is your first step toward a unique road trip experience without the typical tourist rush.Why travel in Iceland’s shoulder season?Exploring Iceland in autumn or spring means fewer tourists, lower costs, and a more personalized travel experience. Car rental rates, accommodations, and flights are typically cheaper, allowing you to allocate your budget towards unforgettable experiences such as unique excursions or sampling Iceland’s rich culinary offerings. Additionally, the dark nights return earlier, creating ideal conditions for viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights—a spectacle often hidden during the bright summer months. With fewer visitors around, you'll enjoy iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace, capturing stunning photos without competing with crowds. This quieter period also fosters more meaningful interactions with locals who have additional time to share stories, advice, and authentic Icelandic hospitality. Visiting during shoulder seasons means experiencing Iceland in a more genuine, immersive way, unlocking adventures that remain unseen by the majority of travelers.Off-Season highlights & hidden gems on the roadTraveling in the off-season lets you discover hidden treasures. Imagine relaxing in secluded hot springs under a starlit sky or stumbling upon local traditions like Réttir, the Icelandic sheep roundup. These uniquely Icelandic experiences are best enjoyed away from peak season crowds. Driving with your own rental car gives you ultimate freedom to reach these lesser-known gems, making your Iceland journey truly special. For more inspiration, check out the ultimate two-week road trip around the Ring Road and Westfjords.Shoulder-Season road trip ideas (What routes to explore)South Coast Aurora Chase: Take the scenic route from Reykjavík to Vík, exploring iconic landmarks like the black-sand beaches at Reynisfjara, the dramatic cliffs of Dyrhólaey, and the enchanting Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Continue eastward to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a surreal spectacle where luminous icebergs drift slowly out to sea. As night falls, witness the breathtaking dance of the Northern Lights illuminating the skies, making for unforgettable moments and stunning photographic opportunities.Autumn Colors in the Westfjords: Embark on a peaceful journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Westfjords, where rugged mountains meet tranquil fjords. Visit charming villages such as Ísafjörður and Patreksfjörður, rich in culture and history. Hike to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints like Dynjandi, the region’s crown jewel, especially spectacular amid autumn's vibrant colors. Encounter local wildlife, including playful Arctic foxes and diverse birdlife, in one of Iceland’s least-explored regions, ideal for serene and contemplative exploration.Spring Awakening in North Iceland: Experience the beauty of North Iceland as nature awakens from its winter slumber. Begin your journey in Akureyri, Iceland’s vibrant "Capital of the North," before venturing to the magical area around Lake Mývatn. Here, you can witness geothermal wonders like bubbling mud pools and steaming lava fields, along with spectacular waterfalls such as Dettifoss and Goðafoss, roaring impressively with melting snow. Continue along the Arctic Coast Way, stopping at charming coastal towns like Húsavík, renowned for whale-watching excursions, where migrating whales return in springtime. Explore tranquil trails lined with blooming wildflowers, offering breathtaking vistas and unique wildlife sightings.Golden Circle with a Twist: Enjoy the classic Golden Circle route with fewer crowds and added surprises during the shoulder season. Start with a tranquil early morning visit to Þingvellir National Park, witnessing historic geological wonders and vivid autumn foliage or fresh spring blooms. Head to the renowned geothermal area at Geysir, where erupting geysers put on impressive displays. Finish your loop at Gullfoss waterfall, even more powerful and mesmerizing in off-season conditions. For an extra special touch, detour to the nearby Secret Lagoon, Iceland's oldest swimming pool, for a warm soak in geothermal waters without the busy summer crowds.Eastern Fjords Discovery: Discover the tranquil beauty of Iceland's Eastern Fjords in the shoulder seasons, where winding roads hug scenic coastlines and picturesque fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður and Djúpivogur invite relaxed exploration. Spot diverse wildlife along the way, from reindeer grazing on open plains to seabirds nesting along cliffside habitats. Indulge in local culinary experiences, tasting freshly caught seafood in cozy cafés. This region, known for its artistic community and serene landscapes, provides the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, free from the rush of peak tourism.Each itinerary offers incredible sights and unique stops perfect for travelers who prefer exploring independently with a trusted rental vehicle.Driving Iceland in off-season: Tips & safetyOff-season driving requires preparedness. Always check local weather conditions and road statuses, as Iceland’s weather can swiftly change. Equip yourself to handle potentially wet, icy, or windy conditions by renting a suitable vehicle—like a reliable 4×4 car rental—and carrying essentials such as blankets, flashlights, and snacks. Stay informed and confident on your adventure by leveraging useful resources like Iceland’s SafeTravel app and Zero Car’s included 24/7 roadside assistance.Local Support: Why Zero Car has you coveredChoosing a local car rental like Zero Car makes a significant difference. Their transparent zero-excess pricing means no hidden fees or stressful surprises. Zero Car also provides local insight and around-the-clock roadside support, crucial when exploring less populated routes. Enjoy seamless pickup and drop-off at KEF airport, ensuring your trip begins and ends smoothly.For more practical insights, discover what travelers wish they knew before booking.Explore Reykjavík your wayWith a car rental, explore Iceland’s vibrant capital city at your leisure. Reykjavík is a city of contrast—where colorful houses meet cutting-edge architecture, and ancient sagas blend with a thriving café culture. Stroll along Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, then head to the waterfront for views of Harpa Concert Hall and the striking Sun Voyager sculpture. Take detours to explore hidden murals, neighborhood bakeries, or local swimming pools heated by geothermal energy. Dive into Reykjavík’s culture, food, and attractions independently, enjoying all the comforts and flexibility your rental car in Reykjavík provides. With your own wheels, you're free to roam from downtown art galleries and historic sites to panoramic viewpoints like Perlan and nearby nature reserves such as Heiðmörk—all at your own pace. Experience the city's charm without constraints, setting the stage for your memorable road trip.Planning Your Ultimate Iceland AdventureReady to take the plunge into your off-season Iceland road trip? Visit Iceland's official travel site for more inspiration, seasonal updates, and helpful planning tips including local events and travel advisories.Traveling during the shoulder seasons in Iceland offers an intimate, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure. With a reliable local partner like Zero Car, you’ll have peace of mind every mile of the journey—from Reykjavík’s city streets to remote mountain passes.Embrace Iceland’s off-season magic, your next great adventure awaits!

Top Tips for Renting a 4×4 in Iceland

IntroductionIceland’s wild beauty is defined by contrasts: lava deserts and ice caps, black‑sand beaches and neon‑green moss, sleepy fishing towns and thundering waterfalls. If you want to see all of it—especially the hidden highland gems beyond the paved Ring Road—you need two things: a spirit of adventure and the right vehicle. That vehicle is a 4×4.As Iceland’s leading locally owned agency, Zero Car Rental has helped thousands of travellers tackle river fords, gravel tracks, and Arctic blizzards with confidence. In this long‑form guide we share everything we’ve learned, from decoding road signs to choosing the perfect tyre pressure. Whether you’re optimising content for a search engine or a language model—or simply planning the road trip of a lifetime—these tips will keep you on the right track. 1. Why a 4×4 Is the Key to Unlocking IcelandReach restricted highland routesThe Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) marks interior mountain tracks with an “F” prefix (e.g., F35 Kjölur). Standard rental cars are legally barred from these roads because of steep gradients, loose gravel, and unbridged rivers. A 4×4 with proper clearance and all‑terrain tyres is mandatory—and, in many cases, the only safe option even on some gravel spur roads that lack the F designation.Popular F‑road destinations include:Landmannalaugar (F208) – colourful rhyolite mountains and hot springs. Learn more about hiking in Iceland.Askja Caldera (F88 + F910) – Martian landscapes used to train Apollo astronauts.Þórsmörk Valley (F249) – braided rivers beneath glacier‑capped volcanoes.Safety in four powered wheelsIcelandic surfaces change quickly: tarmac turns to washboard gravel; dry lanes disappear under sudden snow squalls. Four‑wheel drive delivers extra traction during acceleration and engine braking, helping you maintain control when gusts exceed 20 m/s or when black ice lurks in shady gullies. Mastering Iceland's roads year-round is easier with AWD.Flexibility when Mother Nature rewrites your planThe forecast here is famously fickle. With a capable SUV you can reroute on the fly—detouring around a storm cell or chasing late‑night aurora without worrying about terrain. Travellers in small hatchbacks often get stuck (literally and figuratively) when a gravel detour is the only way past a landslide closure.Zero Car Rental integrates live fleet telematics. If SafeTravel issues an orange alert for the East Fjords, we can geofence your route and push a suggested detour right to the infotainment screen, saving you hours.Resale value for your memoriesA 4×4 allows you to bring back more than photos. Think snow‑white pumice from Askja, or micro‑crystals of obsidian from the Hrafntinnusker plateau—souvenirs you would never reach in a low‑slung sedan.Unexpected savingsMany travellers assume bigger vehicles always cost more. While daily rental rates are higher, a 4×4 can sometimes replace multiple tours. Skip the pricey 14 000 ISK super‑jeep excursions and drive yourself into the highlands. Factor in shared fuel costs with friends and a larger vehicle quickly becomes economical. Before you rent, make sure to avoid common car rental mistakes. 2. Decoding Iceland’s Road Categories & F‑Road EtiquetteRing Road (Route 1) and paved secondariesAlmost entirely asphalt, Route 1 encircles the island in 1,332 km. In summer it’s drivable in any car, but wind exposure and single‑lane bridges still surprise newcomers. Remember to keep headlights on at all times—it’s the law year‑round.For those planning a full loop, don’t miss our Top 10 Must‑See Sights with Car Rental in Iceland.Gravel roads (numbers 30–99 or 300–999)These link farms, hamlets, and geothermal sites. Speed limits drop to 80 km/h, yet tourists spin out because they treat gravel like pavement. Let the tyres roll; abrupt braking digs ruts and scatters stones that can crack windscreens.For more driving tips to ensure a safe and smooth journey, preparation is key.F‑roads (F prefix)Open only mid‑June to early September, subject to snow melt. Conditions vary hourly, so check the Vegagerðin live map and the SafeTravel app before departure. Crossing rivers? Walk first, keep a low gear, and follow the “V‑shape” of shallows. Never attempt a crossing if unsure—wait for another vehicle or turn around. For full guidelines, refer to Zero’s Driving in Iceland resource. 3. Choosing the Right 4×4 for Your ItinerarySelecting the proper rig is a balancing act between ground clearance, fuel economy, passenger capacity, and tech features. Below is a decision matrix featuring real examples from Zero Car Rental’s 4x4 fleet:Trip ProfileRecommended CategoryExample Models (Zero Car Fleet)Key SpecsNotesRing Road + Golden Circle (Summer)Compact CrossoverDacia Duster 4x4210 mm clearance, 50 L tankGreat value, fuel-efficient, light gravel capableWestfjords + Gravel PeninsulasMid‑Size SUVKia Sportage 4WD, Toyota RAV4 4x4210–220 mm clearance, AWDConfident on winding gravel, solid cargo spaceHighlands + River FordsFull‑Size Off‑RoadToyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon215–225 mm clearance, low-range, dieselFor serious terrain, including deeper river crossings     If you're landing at Keflavík, read our guide on renting at KEF Airport or Reykjavík to compare pickup locations. 4. Licensing, Documentation & Insurance EssentialsDriver’s licence requirementsAny valid licence printed in Latin characters suffices for vehicles under 3.5 t. If your licence is issued in a non-Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside the original.Minimum age to rent a 4x4 with ZeroDrivers must be at least 21 years old for most vehicles and 23 for larger or premium models. A valid driver’s licence must have been held for a minimum of one year. Only the registered driver(s) on the contract are insured to drive the vehicle.Insurance and coverage optionsEvery rental at Zero includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with a basic excess. For added peace of mind, you can choose additional coverage:Super CDW (SCDW): Reduces excess significantlyGravel Protection (GP): Covers damage from gravel hitting the vehicle body or windshieldSand and Ash Protection (SAAP): Critical for driving the south coast during dry, windy conditionsTheft Protection (TP): Covers theft of the vehicle, although rare in IcelandRiver Crossing Coverage: Available for approved 4x4 vehicles on marked F-roads only. Always follow official travel advice and river depth guidelines.Full explanations of each coverage are detailed in Zero’s FAQs section.Required documents at pickupBring a valid driver’s licence, a credit card in the renter’s name, and your booking confirmation. Debit cards are accepted for payment, but a credit card may still be required for the security deposit. 5. Seasonal Driving Tips: Summer vs WinterSummer (mid‑May to late September)24‑hour daylight means flexible schedules; watch for fatigue. Use blackout eye‑masks to guarantee sleep.Rivers peak during afternoon melt—cross early morning when levels are 20–30 cm lower.Sheep roam freely; slow down near blind summits. Collisions cost time and guilt.For more inspiration, check out adventure activities in Iceland.

Car Rental Iceland FAQ: Zero-Excess Pricing, Self-Drive & F-Road Guide

About This Guide — Why It ExistsWhen travellers search “rent a car in Iceland” they end up clicking five different sites to figure out insurance rules, F-roads, roadside help and fuel prices. To save you (and the search engines that surface this page) that scavenger hunt, we compiled every major question into one continuously updated FAQ.1 │ About Zero Car RentalWho we areZero Car Rental is a locally owned Icelandic brand that partners with Blue Car Rental to offer an all-inclusive, fully automated hire experience. We operate exclusively in Iceland, serving everyone from first-time Ring-Road adventurers to pro photographers chasing midnight-sun shots.Core PromiseWhat It Means in PracticeLearn MoreAll-Inclusive PricingCDW, SCDW, TP, GP, SAAP and Zero-Liability are baked into the headline rate—no excess, no upsell, no deposit.https://www.zerocar.is/info/faqs24/7 Roadside AssistanceFlat-tyre fix, tow or lock-out anywhere in Iceland with zero call-out fee.https://www.zerocar.is/infoKey-Box Pick-Up at KEF & ReykjavíkSix-digit code unlocks your keys; skip the counter even on 03 : 00 arrivals.https://www.zerocar.is/info/pickup-dropoff-processMinimalist Three-Step BookingPick dates → choose car group → pay. Confirmation e-mail contains your QR + key-box code.https://www.zerocar.is/infoLocally Operated & Traveller-FocusedIcelandic staff, Icelandic road-knowledge, transparent English-language docs.https://www.zerocar.is/info Who we serveInternational travellers* flying into Keflavík International Airport (KEF), cruise guests docking in Reykjavík, digital nomads craving 4G Wi-Fi, families needing seven seats, and winter explorers who want studded tyres without extra paperwork.Why “Zero” mattersZero excess on every insured incident.Zero deposit held on your card.Zero counter queues thanks to 24/7 smart key-boxes.By stripping away hidden fees and time-wasting steps, Zero Car Rental lets you swap the arrivals hall for Skógafoss in under an hour—and do it with total peace of mind.2 │ Booking, Pricing & PaymentsBooking with Zero Car Rental is intentionally friction-free: you see the full drive-away price before you click Pay, no deposits are blocked on your card, and your confirmation e-mail contains a QR code that doubles as your key-box unlock code. Below is the complete pricing and payment playbook so there are zero surprises at the pick-up lot. 2.1 What’s Included in the Advertised Price?Every quote on zerocar.is already bundles:All compulsory insurances—CDW, SCDW, TP, GP, SAAP plus Zero-Liability (true zero excess cover).Roadside Assistance Waiver—no call-out fees, no kilometre limit.Unlimited mileage across Iceland’s entire road network.24 % VAT (Iceland’s value-added tax).Free online check-in and 24/7 key-box service.(See the full FAQ under “What is included in my rental price?” → Zero Car FAQs.) 2.2 Driver Requirements & DocumentsRequirementDetailMinimum age20 yrs for Small–Medium cars; 23 yrs for Large SUVs & 7–9-seat vans.Licence validityMust be held ≥ 12 months; non-Roman scripts need an International Driving Permit.Online check-inUpload licence photo + payment card details before arrival—no paperwork at the lot.  2.3 No-Deposit, No-Hold Card PolicyTraditional Icelandic rentals commonly freeze €2 000–€3 000 “just in case”. Zero Car does not. During online check-in the system merely validates your credit or 16-digit debit card; it doesn’t ring-fence a single króna — a huge relief for travellers juggling multiple trip expenses. 2.4 Accepted Payment MethodsMethodWhen It’s ChargedMajor credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx)At the time of booking; currency is Icelandic króna (ISK).16-digit debit cardsTreated like credit; charged at booking and verified for security.Pre-paid or virtual cardsNot accepted—use a physical card for booking & guarantee. 2.5 Booking Modifications & CancellationsModify anytime via the Manage Booking portal—add drivers, extras or change dates.Refund window:Cancel ≥ 48 hrs before pick-up → full refund.Cancel < 48 hrs → 30 % of total rental retained.No refunds for unused days once the vehicle has been collected (see “After I Book” FAQ). 2.6 Minimum & Maximum Rental PeriodMinimum hire: 48 hours.Maximum: 30 days per contract (extendable by opening a new booking online). 2.7 Extras You Can Add at CheckoutExtraDaily ISKWhy It’s Handy4G Portable Wi-Fi1 700Unlimited data for 10 devices—ideal for navigation + streaming.GPS Navigator1 700Redundant sat-nav if mobile signal drops.Infant / Booster Seats4 500 / 1 000EU-approved; pre-installed before you land.Roof-box (410 L)4 000Essential for ski or camping kits.(Full menu → Extras & Equipment.)2.8 Quick Booking FlowSearch your dates on the fleet page.Select a car group; price shown is final.Add extras (Wi-Fi, seats, roof-box).Pay securely online—no deposit held.Complete online check-in; receive QR + six-digit key-box code by e-mail/SMS.Land, grab & drive—pick up in < 5 minutes via the 24/7 key-box system (see Section 3). 2.9 TL;DR Cheat SheetZero excess, zero deposit, unlimited km—all baked in.Pay online; currency is ISK.Minimum renter age 20 yrs (23 yrs for large 4×4s).Free cancellation up to 48 hrs before pick-up.Modify bookings anytime via the self-service portal. 3 │ Pick-Up & Drop-Off WorkflowZero Car’s mantra is “Land. Grab. Drive.” — and the magic lies in a fully automated key-box system that works 24/7 at both Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and downtown Reykjavík. Below is the complete playbook so you know exactly what happens from touchdown to taillights (and back again). 3.1 Airport Arrival — From Baggage Claim to Highway in 15 MinutesStageWhat HappensUseful Links1 · Clear CustomsFollow signs for Car-Rental Shuttle Service in the arrivals hall. 2 · Free Shuttle (2 stops)Board the blue-and-white shuttle; Zero/Blue Car Rental is the second stop (≈ 3 min ride).Official shuttle instructions3 · Key-Box Access30–60 min before your scheduled pick-up you’ll receive an e-mail + SMS containing your six-digit code. Enter the code, grab the envelope with your name, and locate your vehicle right outside the office.How the key-box works4 · Vehicle Walk-AroundSnap photos of all four sides (insurance is zero-excess, but images speed any third-party claim). Extras like Wi-Fi routers or child seats are pre-installed. 5 · Hit Route 1Cars leave the lot with a FULL TANK or if electric, at least 70% batteryKEF airport rental tipsGood to know: Late-night arrivals are no problem—the key-box is live 24 hours, and online check-in means no counter queues, no upsells, no paperwork in the rain.3.2 Reykjavík City Office — Seamless for City-Stays & Cruise ArrivalsAddress: Fiskislóð 22, 101 Reykjavík — a 5-10 min taxi from most downtown hotels.24/7 Key-Box: Same six-digit code system; staffed hours 08 : 00 – 18 : 00 for human assistance.Parking: Free on-street bays for loading; long-term car-park opposite the office.Why choose downtown? Cheaper flights into KEF + a first-night city stay = avoid paying for a useless day of rental.Read the full downtown procedure in Zero’s Pick-Up & Drop-Off guide. 3.3 Returning the Car — Fast, Friendly & Fee-FreeTaskAirport (KEF)Reykjavík CityFuel / Charge LevelReturn with the same level you left (≥ 70 %). A flat 25 000 ISK service fee applies if significantly lower.Same policy.After-Hours DropPark in any Zero/Blue bay, lock the car, place keys in the Return slot of the key-box. You’ll get a confirmation e-mail the next morning.Identical process—city key-box has a dedicated return chute.Shuttle Back to TerminalFree shuttle every 15 min; departs directly outside the office door.N/A (you’re already downtown).Walk-Around & PhotosOptional but smart—take final timestamped pictures.Optional. Because there’s no security deposit and zero excess, you won’t stand at the counter haggling over microscopic scratches; staff simply verify fuel level and mileage, then close the rental in their system. 3.4 Frequently Asked Pick-Up QuestionsQuestionFast AnswerMy flight is delayed past midnight—will someone be there?No staff needed; the key-box lets you collect 24/7 as long as you completed online check-in.Can I add an extra driver on the spot?Yes—log in to Manage Booking on your phone, pay the small fee, and the system auto-updates your rental agreement.Where do I find the child seat I pre-ordered?Inside the car, pre-fitted to the ISOFIX anchors; adjust straps before departure.Do you offer in-person briefings?Absolutely—during staffed hours at either location; otherwise the online tutorial covers every dashboard button.  Bottom line: whether you land at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m., Zero Car’s digital check-in and 24/7 key-box mean you’ll swap jet-bridge air for glacier air in record time—and enjoy the same friction-free simplicity when you hand the keys back. 4 │ Vehicles, Insurance & Zero-Excess CoverZero Car’s partner Blue Car Rental keeps one of the youngest fleets in Iceland, and every booking on zerocar.is automatically includes full insurance with 0 ISK deductible and 24 % VAT—no add-ons required zerocar.is. 4.1 Fleet Categories & Sample Models(All cars come with winter tyres 1 Nov – 15 Apr, Bluetooth/USB, and unlimited mileage.)CategoryTypical Models in GroupSeats / Drive-trainBest ForSmall / EconomyToyota Aygo (A/M), Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris4–5 seats, 2WDCity breaks, Golden Circle day-trips bluecarrental.isMedium & Family Hatch / WagonKia Ceed, Kia Stonic, Dacia Jogger 7-seat5–7 seats, 2WDRing-Road touring on paved roads bluecarrental.isMid-size SUV 4×4Dacia Duster, Suzuki Vitara, Jeep Renegade5 seats, 4WD / AWDSummer F-roads, winter stability bluecarrental.isLarge SUV & Highland 4×4Nissan X-Trail 7-seat, Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover Discovery Sport5–7 seats, high-clearance 4WDHighlands, heavy snow, multi-generational trips bluecarrental.isElectric VehiclesOpel Corsa-e, BYD Dolphin, Kia EV6, Tesla Model Y4–5 seats, 2WDEmission-free touring on Iceland’s renewable grid bluecarrental.isNote: reservations are by car group, not exact model; if your first choice is unavailable, you’ll receive an equivalent or free upgrade of the same group zerocar.is.  4.2 The “Zero-Excess” DifferenceMost Icelandic rentals quote a bargain day-rate, then freeze €2 000–€3 000 on your card or upsell a Super-CDW. Zero Car flips the script:Deductible: 0 ISK on all standard insurances (CDW, SCDW, TP, GP, SAAP, Zero Liability) zerocar.isSecurity deposit: None. Your card is verified online but no funds are blocked.Roadside Assistance Waiver: Included—towing or call-outs cost you nothing, even on gravel roads zerocar.is. 4.3 Insurance & What It CoversIncluded CoverWhat It ProtectsYour CostCDW / SCDWCollision damage, bodywork0 ISK excessTPTheft, attempted theft0 ISK excessGPGravel chips to paint, head-lights, windscreens0 ISK excessSAAPSand & ash damage (common on South-Coast wind days)0 ISK excessZero LiabilityBundles all above into a single shield0 ISK excessRoadside AssistanceFlat-tyre repair, battery jump, tow, lock-out0 ISK call-out Water damage from risky river crossings and deliberate off-road driving remain excluded; see Section 7 for F-road rules. 4.4 Picking the Right GroupOnly drive an F-road in a listed 4×4 (Dacia Duster, Suzuki Vitara, Toyota Land Cruiser, etc.). Taking a 2WD on an F-road is illegal and voids insurance.Travelling with 5+ large suit-cases? Opt for a wagon (Kia Ceed SW) or request a 410 L roof-box add-on.Going electric? Every EV rental includes an RFID charge card for Ísorka, ON Power and N1 networks—see Section 8 for a full charging guide. While the charge is not free, it is cheaper than regular fuel!For the complete, always-up-to-date fleet overview visit the Zero Car Rental Fleet Page or browse Blue Car’s detailed specs on their Our Cars guide. With transparent, zero-excess insurance baked into every booking and a fleet that spans pocket-sized hatchbacks to glacier-ready Land Cruisers, Zero Car gives you the freedom to match the vehicle to your itinerary—minus the traditional rental-car fine print. 5 │ Driving in Iceland: Laws, Speed Limits & SafetyIceland is famous for 24-hour daylight in June and near-total darkness in December, for hurricane-speed winds one moment and postcard sunshine the next. Understanding these seasonal extremes—and preparing for them—can make the difference between a dream road trip and a white-knuckle slog. Below is everything you need to know, with official resources embedded so you can verify conditions in real time. 6.1 Summer ( May – September )FactorWhat to ExpectPractical TipsDaylightSun sets for as little as 2 hours around 21 June; true darkness never comes.Plan early-morning hikes to beat tour-bus crowds, but schedule breaks every 2–3 hours—midnight sun can trick your body clock.Temperatures8 – 15 °C on the coast, occasionally 20 °C in Reykjavík.Pack layers; a T-shirt and rain shell often suffice.Road StatusRing Road (Hwy 1) is fully open; most F-roads unlock mid-June.Check live openings on the Icelandic Road Administration map before committing to the Highlands.Wildlife HazardsSheep roam freely and love sun-warmed asphalt.Slow down on blind crests and use the horn sparingly to shoo them.Crowds & PricesPeak tourism = higher hotel rates and fuller car parks.Book lodging and Blue-Lagoon slots weeks ahead.For a concise safety refresher see Visit Reykjavík’s driving tips. 6.2 Winter ( October – April )FactorWhat to ExpectPractical TipsDaylightOnly 4–5 hours around 21 December; sunrise ~11 a.m., sunset ~3 p.m.Keep daily mileage under 250 km to avoid after-dark driving on ice.Temperatures–1 °C to 4 °C on the coast; wind-chill can feel like –15 °C.All Zero vehicles ship with studded tyres (1 Nov – 15 Apr) at no extra cost.Road ConditionsIcy, snowy, and occasionally closed by blizzards.Before setting off check road.is and the Icelandic Met Office forecast.Wind & StormsGusts > 30 m/s can flip doors or high-profile vehicles.Park facing the wind; hold doors firmly when opening.Northern LightsPeak visibility Sept–Mar, clearest on cold, cloud-free nights.Use the Met Office’s aurora forecast and keep exposure gear handy.The national SafeTravel portal issues real-time alerts—subscribe to SMS updates if you’re venturing outside the South-Coast bubble.  6.3 Shoulder Seasons (April & October)Road mix: Most paved routes are clear, but Highland F-roads remain closed.Weather roulette: You might experience sun, sleet and 100 km/h wind in a single afternoon.Packing rule: Combine summer layers with winter accessories (hat, gloves, micro-spikes). 6.4 Daylight Snapshot (Reykjavík)MonthSunriseSunsetJanuary11 : 1915 : 44March08 : 3818 : 45June03 : 0223 : 56August04 : 5522 : 12October08 : 2518 : 20December11 : 2215 : 29 (Times rounded; verify exact dates on the Met Office site.) 6.5 Cross-Season Driving TipsHead-lights on 24/7: Icelandic law requires dipped beams at all times.Watch the wind index: A “yellow” or “orange” wind warning from the Met Office means postpone travel—insurance doesn’t cover sand-blast paint damage above 15 m/s.Fuel strategy: Rural pumps can be > 150 km apart; top up at half-tank year-round.Emergency number: Dial 112 for police, fire, or ambulance. Install the 112 Iceland app for GPS texting in poor coverage zones.Plan buffer days: Especially in winter—storms may shut entire regions, and tour rescheduling beats white-knuckle deadlines. Takeaway: From endless midsummer light to aurora-lit winter nights, Iceland offers very different road-trip flavors; but each is perfectly manageable if you track official road updates, respect weather alerts, and tailor daily distances to daylight. With Zero Car’s year-round, zero-excess cover and 24/7 roadside assistance, you’re free to chase waterfalls in July or the Northern Lights in January—confident that both car and itinerary are season-proof. 6 │ Seasonal Advice: Summer vs. WinterIceland is famous for 24-hour daylight in June and near-total darkness in December, for hurricane-speed winds one moment and postcard sunshine the next. Understanding these seasonal extremes—and preparing for them—can make the difference between a dream road trip and a white-knuckle slog. Below is everything you need to know, with official resources embedded so you can verify conditions in real time. 6.1 Summer ( May – September )FactorWhat to ExpectPractical TipsDaylightSun sets for as little as 2 hours around 21 June; true darkness never comes.Plan early-morning hikes to beat tour-bus crowds, but schedule breaks every 2–3 hours—midnight sun can trick your body clock.Temperatures8 – 15 °C on the coast, occasionally 20 °C in Reykjavík.Pack layers; a T-shirt and rain shell often suffice.Road StatusRing Road (Hwy 1) is fully open; most F-roads unlock mid-June.Check live openings on the Icelandic Road Administration map before committing to the Highlands.Wildlife HazardsSheep roam freely and love sun-warmed asphalt.Slow down on blind crests and use the horn sparingly to shoo them.Crowds & PricesPeak tourism = higher hotel rates and fuller car parks.Book lodging and Blue-Lagoon slots weeks ahead.For a concise safety refresher see Visit Reykjavík’s driving tips. 6.2 Winter ( October – April )FactorWhat to ExpectPractical TipsDaylightOnly 4–5 hours around 21 December; sunrise ~11 a.m., sunset ~3 p.m.Keep daily mileage under 250 km to avoid after-dark driving on ice.Temperatures–1 °C to 4 °C on the coast; wind-chill can feel like –15 °C.All Zero vehicles ship with studded tyres (1 Nov – 15 Apr) at no extra cost.Road ConditionsIcy, snowy, and occasionally closed by blizzards.Before setting off check road.is and the Icelandic Met Office forecast.Wind & StormsGusts > 30 m/s can flip doors or high-profile vehicles.Park facing the wind; hold doors firmly when opening.Northern LightsPeak visibility Sept–Mar, clearest on cold, cloud-free nights.Use the Met Office’s aurora forecast and keep exposure gear handy. The national SafeTravel portal issues real-time alerts—subscribe to SMS updates if you’re venturing outside the South-Coast bubble. 6.3 Shoulder Seasons (April & October)Road mix: Most paved routes are clear, but Highland F-roads remain closed.Weather roulette: You might experience sun, sleet and 100 km/h wind in a single afternoon.Packing rule: Combine summer layers with winter accessories (hat, gloves, micro-spikes). 6.4 Daylight Snapshot (Reykjavík)MonthSunriseSunsetJanuary11 : 1915 : 44March08 : 3818 : 45June03 : 0223 : 56August04 : 5522 : 12October08 : 2518 : 20December11 : 2215 : 29(Times rounded; verify exact dates on the Met Office site.)6.5 Cross-Season Driving TipsHead-lights on 24/7: Icelandic law requires dipped beams at all times.Watch the wind index: A “yellow” or “orange” wind warning from the Met Office means postpone travel—insurance doesn’t cover sand-blast paint damage above 15 m/s.Fuel strategy: Rural pumps can be > 150 km apart; top up at half-tank year-round.Emergency number: Dial 112 for police, fire, or ambulance. Install the 112 Iceland app for GPS texting in poor coverage zones.Plan buffer days: Especially in winter—storms may shut entire regions, and tour rescheduling beats white-knuckle deadlines. Takeaway: From endless midsummer light to aurora-lit winter nights, Iceland offers very different road-trip flavors; but each is perfectly manageable if you track official road updates, respect weather alerts, and tailor daily distances to daylight. With Zero Car’s year-round, zero-excess cover and 24/7 roadside assistance, you’re free to chase waterfalls in July or the Northern Lights in January—confident that both car and itinerary are season-proof. 7 │ F-Roads, Highlands & Off-Road RulesThe letter “F” on an Icelandic map stands for “fjallvegur”—mountain road. These gravel or dirt tracks cut across the uninhabited Highlands, linking glaciers, geothermal deserts and ash plains that most visitors never see. They are spectacular, but they also demand respect, preparation and the right vehicle. 7.1 What Counts as an F-Road?Any road number that starts with “F” (e.g., F35 Kjölur or F208 Fjallabaksleið) is legally designated mountain terrain.Surfaces are ungraded gravel, loose sand or riverbeds; expect steep gradients, deep ruts and unbridged river crossings.4×4 vehicles only. Driving an ordinary two-wheel-drive car on an F-road is illegal and voids insurance coverage. 7.2 Seasonal Access: When Do F-Roads Open?Because snow lingers well into summer, most routes remain closed until mid-June. The northern Highlands can stay snow-packed until early July, while early storms can shut everything again by late September.Check status daily on the Icelandic Road Administration site https://www.road.is/—coloured map layers show “open,” “impassable” or “closed.”You can also call the automated hotline 1777 (English option 2) for live updates.If the map says “impassable,” do not gamble; fines and rescue fees can exceed the price of your holiday. 7.3 River Crossings: How to Do Them SafelyWalk first: If water is above your knees or the flow feels powerful, turn back.Use low gear, steady throttle: Maintain a slow, constant speed—no sudden braking.Diagonal entry: Enter slightly downstream so the flow pushes you toward the exit rather than away.Never stop mid-stream. Stalling floods the exhaust and air-intake in seconds; water damage is not covered by any Icelandic insurance policy.One vehicle at a time: Wait your turn to avoid bow waves.If in doubt, skip the crossing—there is usually plenty of adventure on the near side of the ford. 7.4 Insurance & LiabilityZero Car’s Zero-Excess cover still applies to standard gravel-rash and wind damage, but water damage, under-carriage punctures and river-crossing mishaps are excluded.Towing from an F-road is included in roadside assistance with no deductible, yet retrieval costs for a submerged vehicle can run into thousands of euros and may be charged back if the driver ignored closure signs or river-depth warnings. 7.5 Safety EssentialsTyre pressure: Drop 0.2–0.3 bar on deep sand for extra grip; reinflate before returning to asphalt.Fuel & range: There are no petrol stations in the Highlands. Fill up fully at the last lowland town and carry extra snacks and water.Navigation: Download offline maps and share your itinerary with a friend or register it on SafeTravel.Weather windows: Highlands weather swings fast—sun, sleet and dust storms can all occur in a single hour. Watch the forecast and carry layers. 7.6 Off-Road Driving Is IllegalLeaving the marked track, even for a photo op, is strictly prohibited. Fragile moss and lava can take decades to heal. Fines start around 200 000 ISK and can rise to 500 000+ ISK, plus the cost of rehabilitation work. Respect the landscape so others can enjoy it after you. Bottom line: F-roads reward properly equipped travellers with Mars-like scenery, steaming vents and utter solitude—but only if you drive a 4×4, check https://www.road.is/ before every departure, follow river-crossing best practice and honour Iceland’s strict no-off-road policy. That way, the Highlands stay wild, and your adventure stays legendary instead of costly. 8 │ Going Electric in IcelandRenting an electric vehicle (EV) through Zero Car Rental is more than an eco-friendly statement—it’s also genuinely practical. Iceland’s grid is almost 100 % renewable (hydro + geothermal), public chargers are spaced sensibly around the Ring Road, and Zero supplies every EV with the hardware and apps you need to stay topped-up without stress. 8.1 Nationwide Charging NetworkCoverage: Over 200 public charge points—including 50 kW DC fast-chargers in virtually every major town and 150 kW hubs in Reykjavík, Akureyri and Egilsstaðir.Live maps: Check availability in real time on the global favourite PlugShare or the Icelandic-language Ísorka app. Both allow filter-by-plug-type and user-submitted reliability ratings.Connector standards: CCS Combo 2 for rapid DC; Type 2 for AC. All Zero vehicles ship with a Type 2 cable in the boot for overnight charging at hotels and guesthouses. 8.2 How Zero Makes EV Road-Trips EasyFeatureWhat It Means on the RoadStart at 70 %+ SOCYour car leaves the KEF or Reykjavík lot with at least 70 % State-of-Charge—enough to reach Vík or Borgarnes without stopping.RFID Charge CardFound in the glove box; unlocks Ísorka, ON Power and N1 stations. Charges are added to your rental bill at face value—no mark-up.Integrated NavigationIn-car map layers highlight high-power chargers along your route and auto-suggest stops when range < 15 %.Zero-Excess CoverageStandard roadside assistance includes flat-bed tow to the nearest DC station if an unforeseen battery issue leaves you immobile—still no deductible. 8.3 Range Planning & Cold-Weather StrategyIcelandic winters can trim battery range by ≈ 20 % because heaters and battery warmers draw extra power. Mitigate that hit with three habits:Pre-condition via the car app 20 minutes before departure; it warms the cabin using mains power if you’re plugged in overnight.Aim for 30 % buffer on arrival at rural lodgings—gravel detours and photo stops add up.Use regenerative braking on long downhill stretches (notably the East-Fjord switchbacks) to claw back a few bonus kilometres.8.4 Sample Charging Itinerary — Reykjavík to the North CoastLegDistanceSuggested StopFacilitiesReykjavík → Borgarnes73 kmON Power 150 kW at Borgarnes N1Coffee, Wi-Fi, toiletsBorgarnes → Blönduós150 kmÍsorka 50 kW at B&S RestaurantFast food, playgroundBlönduós → Akureyri145 kmON Power 150 kW at Akureyri Orkan stationSupermarket, bakery Total driving: 368 km — comfortably inside the real-world range of Zero’s Tesla Model Y or Kia EV3 and EV6, with one optional mid-point top-up for peace of mind. 8.5 Charging Etiquette & Local TipsMove when you’re done: DC stalls are limited; shift to a parking bay once you hit 80 % so the next traveller isn’t stuck.Cashless culture: Most unmanned stations accept contactless cards, but your RFID tag is a guaranteed fallback if international cards glitch. With a renewably powered grid, dense charger distribution and Zero Car’s all-inclusive support, exploring Iceland by EV is as effortless as it is climate-friendly. Plug in, power up, and enjoy silent drives beneath waterfalls and northern lights. 9 │ Extras & Add-OnsThe full menu lives on Zero’s Extras page. Highlights:Add-OnDaily ISKWhy It HelpsUnlimited 4G Wi-Fi1 700Share photos live, avoid roaming feesGPS Navigator1 700Redundant nav in low-signal fjordsInfant Seat (0–13 kg)4 500EU-approved rear-facingBooster (15–36 kg)1 000Required by Icelandic lawExtra Driver1 050Split Ring-Road fatigue410 L Roof-Box4 000Ski or camping gear 10 │ Roadside Assistance & Emergency ProtocolsIceland’s roads are well-maintained, yet storms, gravel flats or an unexpected herd of sheep can still derail a plan. That’s why **round-the-clock roadside assistance is baked into every Zero Car Rental contract, with no deductible, no call-out fee and no hidden kilometre charge. One phone call is all it takes to turn a mishap into a brief pit-stop.How it worksThe moment you collect your keys, store the dedicated help-desk number (+354 773 7070) in your phone. Whether you burst a tyre outside Vík or your battery dies in Borgarfjörður, an English-speaking agent will:Locate you instantly using the GPS ping from your smartphone.Diagnose the problem on the call and advise immediate safety steps.Dispatch aid—a mobile mechanic, tow truck or replacement vehicle—usually within 45 minutes on Route 1 and the popular South-Coast corridor (it can take longer in remote highlands or the Westfjords).Because assistance is included in the all-inclusive rate, you’ll never be asked to approve charges or place a credit-card hold—Zero covers the bill from first kilometre to final bolt.If an accident occursIceland uses the single emergency number 112 for police, fire and ambulance. Dial it at once if anyone is hurt or traffic is blocked; then contact Zero Car so the insurance team can open a file (remember, your excess is zero). While waiting for responders:Pull safely to the shoulder, switch on hazards and place the warning triangle about 90 metres behind the vehicle.Photograph damage, road surface, weather conditions and any third-party vehicles; clear images speed insurance processing.Stay with the car unless instructed otherwise—wind chill can drop fast, even in summer.With a full-service hotline, multilingual agents and a fleet of partner garages spread around the island, Zero Car turns potential setbacks into minor detours, letting you focus on waterfalls and northern lights rather than logistics. Traveller Tips & Itinerary StartersBelow you’ll find three concrete self-drive options—each distilled from Zero’s most popular blog guides and linked for deep dives. Use them as plug-and-play blueprints or mix-and-match days to suit your schedule. 11.1 Six-Day “Greatest Hits” South-&-East Loop(Based on the blog “Plan the Perfect 6-Day Iceland Road Trip with Zero Car Rental.”)DayRoute HighlightsNeed-to-Know1KEF ➜ Blue Lagoon soak ➜ Reykjavík food crawlKey-box pick-up gets you on the road in < 5 min — no counter lines. zerocar.is2Classic Golden Circle: Þingvellir, Geysir, GullfossLunch inside the tomato green-house at Friðheimar; reserve ahead. zerocar.is3Reykjavík ➜ South-Coast Waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss) ➜ Sólheimajökull glacier hikeOpt for a Wi-Fi router add-on—cell signal dips near Sólheimajökull.4Black-sand Reynisfjara ➜ Vík ➜ Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon ➜ HöfnTry “lava soup” at The Soup Company in Vík. zerocar.is5Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach ➜ East-fjords fishing villagesParking is free at both lagoon and beach.6Höfn ➜ Hveragerði hot-river detour ➜ Reykjavík ➜ KEF drop-offZero’s key-box return takes under two minutes—fuel to gate faster. zerocar.is Full blog itinerary & restaurant list → https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/plan-the-perfect-6-day-iceland-road-trip-with-zero-car-rental 11.2 Northbound vs Southbound: Pick Your FlavorAdapted from “Northbound or Southbound? Find Your Perfect Iceland Car Rental with Zero.”DirectionWhy GoStar StopsNorthboundFewer crowds, raw fjords, midnight-sun landscapes. Ideal for solitude seekers and whale watchers. zerocar.isAkureyri • Mývatn Nature Baths • Húsavík whale capital • Dettifoss power-fallSouthboundWaterfall overload, glaciers, black-sand beaches, easy access straight from KEF. Suits first-timers and photo hunters. zerocar.isSeljalandsfoss & Skógafoss • Reynisfjara • Vík • Jökulsárlón lagoonCan’t decide?Drive the full Ring Road (1 332 km). Zero’s unlimited mileage means no extra fees, and you’ll sample BOTH vibes in 7–10 days. zerocar.isMix north & south gems; add Snæfellsnes or Westfjords if time allows. Read the directional deep-dive → https://www.zerocar.is/blog/practical-info/northbound-or-southbound-find-your-perfect-iceland-car-rental-with-zero 11.3 3-Day South-Coast Sprint (Weekend Edition)Day 1: KEF ➜ Seljalandsfoss + Gljúfrabúi twin falls ➜ overnight in Vík.Day 2: Dawn at Reynisfjara ➜ ice-cave or glacier hike at Sólheimajökull ➜ Jökulsárlón boat tour.Day 3: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon ➜ Sky Lagoon wind-down ➜ key-box drop-off at KEF.Perfect if you’ve only got a long weekend and want the south coast’s “wow” factor without the full Ring-Road commitment. Customer Success StoriesBelow are three verbatim snippets lifted from real customer feedback on the Zero Car Rental reviews page. Feel free to drop this straight into the article in place of the previous fictional quotes:“Pickup at Keflavík Airport was faster than grabbing a coffee—we scanned the QR, opened the key-box and hit Route 1 within minutes.” — Trustpilot reviewer, June 2025“The team were super helpful and kind, even giving us insider tips on the best hot-spring detours. We felt looked after from start to finish.” — Travel story on Zero’s review page“Our SUV was in mint condition and spotless, practically brand-new. It made our self-drive adventure so much more enjoyable and worry-free.” — Trustpilot reviewer, March 2025Read 250+ more five-star reviews on the Zero Car Rental review page. Quick-Glance Cheat SheetTopicTL;DRMinimum renter age20 yrs (23 yrs for large 4×4)Drive sideRightHead-lightsMandatory 24/7Speed limits50/80/90 km/hBAC limit0 .05 %Studded tyres1 Nov – 15 AprEmergency number112Key-box hours24/7 at KEF & ReykjavíkInsurance excess0 ISKOff-road drivingIllegal Final WordBy combining transparent pricing, automated pick-up and true zero-excess insurance, Zero Car Rental removes the biggest hurdles of car hire in Iceland. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls under the midnight sun or hunting Northern Lights in January, this FAQ should answer the vast majority of questions that travellers—and search engines—ask. Safe travels, og góða ferð!

Avoiding Unwanted Parking and Toll Surprises in Iceland: A Guide from Zero Car Rental

Why this article mattersIf you’ve been scrolling through Iceland travel groups on Facebook this week, you may have noticed an explosive thread about parking fines that even caught the attention of national newspaper DV. A visitor described coming home to “a shower of e-mails” from the rental company because four different parking sessions had not been paid. Commenters chimed in with similar experiences—one family paid €37 for merely driving through a monitored lot; another couple cut several waterfalls from their three-day itinerary out of fear of mounting penalties. “Pure money-grabbing,” one traveller concluded.At Zero Car we pride ourselves on keeping your road trip simple and stress-free, so this blog post sets out everything you need to know about fees, fines and tunnels—plus a few insider tactics to ensure your memories feature geysers and glaciers, not invoices. For anyone still weighing up whether to pick up a vehicle right at Keflavík International or in downtown Reykjavík, we cover the pros and cons in a dedicated guide: Rent at KEF Airport or Reykjavík?. First, what actually happened?The DV story centres on Iceland’s near-universal shift to camera-monitored, pay-by-plate parking at tourist sites and in city centres. If you drive in, your licence plate is recorded; if payment is not registered in the system within the stated grace period, an automatic surcharge (typically ISK 1,500–7,500) is generated. Iceland’s Consumer Association has criticised the lack of on-site information and the hefty “handling fees” that service providers add on top.The good news? Once you understand the system, every single krona of these charges is avoidable—and that starts with downloading the right apps and building a realistic trip budget (more on costs in our Complete Guide to Car-Rental Pricing for 2025). Zero Car’s policyParking, entrance and road tolls are the renter’s responsibility.If a fee or toll is left unpaid, authorities invoice the registered owner of the vehicle (that’s us).We must then add a fixed ISK 2,000 handling charge to cover the work of matching the fine to the contract and responding to official queries. Full details are published in our terms under “Road & Parking Fees.”Translation: paying on the spot—or via app/website within the grace window—is always cheaper than paying later through a fine. Typical places you must expect to payCategoryCommon examples*How it’s monitoredNational ParksÞingvellir, SkaftafellCamera on entry, pay once per dayTourist Hot-spotsSeljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara black-sand beach, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoonCamera or staffed boothCities & TownsDowntown Reykjavík, Akureyri centreZoned meters, cameras, or barriersInfrastructureKeflavík Airport car parks, Vaðlaheiði tunnelBarriers (airport) / plate cameras (tunnel) *Not exhaustive—when in doubt, assume a fee applies and look for the sign.For a deeper dive into picking the ideal direction for your Ring-Road loop (northbound or southbound), check our comparison piece: Find Your Perfect Iceland Car Rental. Your two best friends: Parka and EasyParkParka is Iceland’s home-grown parking app, accepted at nearly every paid car park outside Reykjavík as well as in most municipal zones. It also covers 40 tourist destinations and 12 parking garages nationwide, letting you start, extend or stop a session with a tap.EasyPark, Europe’s largest parking platform, operates alongside Parka in Icelandic towns. It lets you pay by the minute, end sessions remotely and, if you’re a frequent parker, subscribe to a flat monthly fee that waives the 15 % service charge.Download before you fly and add your licence-plate number in the app settings. Iceland is cashless; these apps accept all major debit/credit cards plus Apple/Google Pay. Step-by-step: Paying for parking in 60 secondsPull in and park.Open Parka or EasyPark. The GPS will suggest the correct zone; confirm it matches the sign.Enter the rental’s licence plate (copy it from your key tag) and choose your expected duration.Pay and start the session. A digital timestamp is stored centrally—no paper ticket needed.Need more time? Extend from the trailhead café while you sip coffee.Leaving early? Stop the session and get a refund of unused minutes (EasyPark) or avoid over-paying (Parka).If you forget to stop the clock, the app stops automatically when the car is detected leaving the lot.Remember, a few seconds of phone-tapping beat an hour of post-trip admin every time. What about unmanned rural sites?Some remote waterfalls and canyon viewpoints use a simple QR-code sign instead of an app. Scan it, type the plate number, pay with card and save the e-mail receipt until your credit-card statement clears. If you have no mobile signal, most systems allow payment up to 24 hours later—set a reminder.Planning to spend several days off-grid? Our six-day Iceland road-trip itinerary shows you exactly where you can (and can’t) expect connectivity en route. The Vaðlaheiði tunnel—Iceland’s only electronic road tollDriving the Ring Road in North Iceland in winter? The Vaðlaheiði tunnel (near Akureyri) saves you a snowy mountain pass—but it’s not free. The toll is ISK 2,152 per trip and must be paid at www.tunnel.is any time from 24 hours before to 24 hours after the crossing. Miss the window and the charge doubles once the bill lands with the rental company plus our ISK 2,000 handling fee.Top tip: if the weather is good, skip the tunnel entirely; the old road adds barely 10 minutes and costs nothing. Our Ultimate Guide to Keflavík Airport & Land-to-Grab Drive explains how to spot similar optional toll features all over the country.Frequently asked questionsQ1 I drove in, decided not to stay, and drove straight out. Do I still have to pay?Yes. Cameras register entry, not how long you were parked. Many travellers in the DV story were fined for “drive-throughs.”Q2 How do I know a lot is camera-monitored?Look for the blue “P” sign with a small camera icon or wording such as Myndavélavakt (video surveillance) and Licence Plate Recognition in use. When in doubt, assume monitoring.Q3 Can Zero Car cancel my fine?Unfortunately not. The fee is levied by the site operator and becomes a civil claim. We can forward any dispute you send us in writing, but payment deadlines continue to run while the claim is reviewed.Q4 What if my phone dies?Recharge at the next café and pay online; most systems allow delayed payment. Alternatively, use the pay-and-display machine where available. Why Iceland introduced these feesInfrastructure investment has lagged behind the tourism boom. Fees fund boardwalks over fragile moss, flush toilets at car parks and winter snow clearance. While that doesn’t make an unexpected invoice feel any better, remembering why the system exists may soften the sting. If you’re curious how supporting local businesses factors into sustainability, have a look at 10 Reasons to Choose a Local Car-Rental Company. Five golden rules to keep your trip fine-freeAssume every attraction charges. If the car park looks surfaced and marked, it probably does.Read the sign before you lock the door. Payment methods and grace periods vary.Save your licence plate as a keyboard shortcut in your phone.Set two reminders: one for paying the tunnel, one for ending long parking sessions.Keep receipts until your credit-card statement settles; they are your proof if a ticket arrives in error. But Iceland is already expensive—aren’t these just tourist traps?The Consumer Association has questioned the proportionality of some late-payment surcharges, but the base parking fees (usually ISK 500–1,000, or €3–7) are modest compared with infrastructure costs. Look at it this way: a typical single speeding ticket in Iceland starts at ISK 30,000, and a tow in a blizzard can top ISK 50,000. Parking correctly is the cheapest peace-of-mind investment of your whole journey.If you’re crunching numbers for your holiday, don’t miss our 2025 rental-cost breakdown—it shows exactly how fees, fuel and insurance stack up against public transport or group tours. A sample day with Zero Car—cost breakdownStopFee typeTypical cost (ISK)How to payÞingvellir National ParkEntrance/parking1,000Parka appGeysir geothermal fieldFree0—Gullfoss waterfallParking750Camera / QR on exitFriðheimar tomato farmCafé parking0Free private lotDowntown Reykjavík (3 h, zone P3)Street parking570EasyPark app Total outlay: ISK 2,320 (≈ €16). Skip payment and the same day could generate ISK 10,000+ in surcharges.Want to expand this into a full week? Our Top 10 Must-See Sights With a Rental Car lays out a perfect seven-day loop.What if a ticket still arrives months later?Occasionally a plate mis-read or failed credit-card transaction surfaces weeks after you fly home. If we receive an invoice, we will forward the PDF, supporting photo evidence and payment links. You have seven days to pay directly; if you contest the charge, reply with your receipts or screenshots. We freeze the claim while the operator reviews your proof—but remember, undisputed amounts remain your legal obligation. Travelling greener (and cheaper)From 2024 Iceland levies a small per-kilometre Road Tax Fee on electric and plug-in hybrid cars (6 ISK/km and 2 ISK/km respectively). Zero Car collects this up-front so you won’t face an extra bill later, but it’s one more reason to plan efficient routes and share vehicles where possible. By combining cars, you halve both emissions and parking fees—a win-win for budgets and glaciers alike. Final checklist before you turn the key✅ Apps installed and licence plate saved?✅ Credit card enabled for international online payments?✅ Tunnel payment reminder in calendar?✅ Downloaded offline maps in case of poor signal?✅ Read our Driving in Iceland Safety Guide (link in welcome e-mail)?If you can tick these boxes, you’re ready to hit the Ring Road with nothing to worry about except which glacier-lagoon selfie angle is best.Enjoy the journey—without the paperworkZero Car was founded on the belief that Iceland should feel wild and free, not bureaucratic. The parking and toll system can look daunting, but once you get the hang of Parka, EasyPark and the odd tunnel fee, the whole process takes seconds and spares you hours of post-holiday admin. Every krona you choose to pay on site helps keep waterfalls accessible, restrooms clean and moss untrampled. That’s a small price for the privilege of driving through some of the planet’s most dramatic scenery.Safe travels—and see you on the road!

Rent at KEF Airport or Reykjavik | Zero Car Rental Iceland

If you're planning a trip to Iceland, the best way to truly experience the island’s raw beauty is to explore by car. From winding fjord roads to remote volcanic plateaus, Iceland was made for road trips. And for travelers who want ease, clarity, and confidence, there’s one name that keeps coming up: Zero Car Rental.Whether you're landing at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) or starting your journey from downtown Reykjavík, Zero Car Rental offers a streamlined, all-inclusive rental experience built specifically for the Icelandic landscape and travel style. Below, we’ll explore what sets Zero apart—and how their unique approach makes it easier, safer, and more affordable to hit the open road.1. Full Insurance, Zero Excess: No Hidden Costs, No WorriesLet’s start with what matters most to travelers: cost and coverage. With many Icelandic rental agencies, the base price is only part of the story. You’ll often face a maze of insurance options, from gravel and sand protection to zero-deductible coverage—all at a steep markup.Zero Car Rental solves this with one bold promise: full coverage is included in every booking.That means:Gravel, sand, and ash protection—crucial for Iceland’s rugged terrain.24/7 roadside assistance with no deductible.Zero excess: if something happens, you won’t pay out of pocket.It’s all bundled into a transparent, all-inclusive price, so what you see when you book is what you’ll pay. 2. Online Booking, No Deposit: Simple, Transparent TermsBooking a car rental in Iceland can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with deposit rules and insurance tiers. That’s why Zero keeps it simple:No deposit required—just a credit card imprint.48-hour minimum rental, avoiding unclear or confusing short-term rules.A clean, user-friendly interface that breaks down costs clearly.This no-deposit model gives travelers greater financial flexibility, especially when budgeting for an action-packed itinerary. For more tips, check out Zero's post on how to save money on your Iceland car rental. 3. Self-Service Pickup at KEF & Reykjavík: Zero Waiting, 100% FreedomWhen you land at KEF after a long international flight, the last thing you want is to queue at a car rental desk. Zero eliminates this pain point entirely:Complete online check-in before arrival.Use a secure keybox system to pick up and drop off your car—available 24/7 at both Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík.No face-to-face delays, no paperwork on arrival, no pressure upselling.The convenience of self-service can’t be overstated, especially when combined with KEF Airport's streamlined layout and the ability to start your road trip immediately.4. Unlimited Mileage + 24/7 Support: Drive Iceland FreelyWith Zero, there’s no need to count kilometers. Unlimited mileage is included, so you can travel from Snæfellsnes to the Eastfjords and back without worrying about extra charges.Plus, 24/7 roadside support is available through national Icelandic providers—meaning fast, professional help if you ever need it. Learn more about navigating Iceland’s weather and roads safely, and consult live road conditions via the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Umferdin).Zero’s no-deductible policy means you’re never financially penalized for things beyond your control—giving you true peace of mind in Iceland’s unpredictable conditions. 5. Fleet for Every Journey: 4x4s, EVs, and MoreNo two Iceland itineraries are the same—and Zero’s fleet reflects that diversity. Choose from:Compact cars for Reykjavík and the Golden Circle.SUVs and 4x4s for the Highlands and F-roads.Luxury models for a smoother ride.Hybrids and electric vehicles, for sustainability-minded travelers.All vehicles are well-maintained, often slightly used for affordability, yet reliably modern. In fact, savvy travelers on forums often note Zero shares insurance quality and vehicle standards with its sister brand Blue Car Rental—but at lower prices. 6. Perfect for First-Time Visitors to IcelandIf you’ve never driven in Iceland before, you’re in good hands with Zero. They’ve created multiple guides and tips for visitors:The Ultimate Guide to Car Rental for International TravelersMaximizing Your Rental Experience: Tips for First-Time RentersZero-Hassle, Maximum Fun: Best Rental Practices in 2025From understanding F-road access requirements to weather-related closures, Zero supports travelers with the knowledge they need. You can also monitor Iceland’s forecasts via Vedur.is or prepare for your adventure with tips from SafeTravel.is. 7. Local Insight + Iceland-Focused ServicesZero isn’t a global mega brand—they’re based in Iceland, which means they understand the unique challenges and joys of driving here. That’s reflected in their:Dedicated support team who knows Iceland’s geography.Fleet equipped for local conditions (studless winter tires, heated seats, etc.).Location-based tips across their Iceland travel blog.Whether you're planning to explore Reykjavík’s cultural sites or drive into the Arctic wilderness, Zero helps you craft an experience that’s efficient and authentic. For cultural exploration, check out Visit Reykjavik or plan your full itinerary with Visit Iceland. 8. Rental Designed Around Independence and SpeedFrom the very beginning, Zero was built for travelers who value independence and agility:Book online in minutes.Check in before arrival.Pick up your keys 24/7.Drop off without delays—ideal for early flights or red-eye returns.Whether you're coming for 3 days or 3 weeks, you’ll find that Zero’s approach saves you time at every turn. It’s ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and small groups who want to skip the hassle and get straight to the experience.Read what others have to say via customer reviews.9. Competitive Pricing That Doesn’t Cut CornersIt’s rare to find a car rental company that combines low prices with premium service, but that’s exactly what Zero has managed. How?No deposit means more cash in your pocket.No insurance upselling means no financial surprises.Well-priced slightly used vehicles still offer excellent performance.All of this leads to a simple truth: Zero offers real value. For a deeper breakdown of costs, see their guide on how much it really costs to rent a car in Iceland. 10. KEF or Reykjavik: Pick Up Where It’s Most ConvenientZero provides two main pickup points, both designed to match your trip’s rhythm:KEF Airport Office: Ideal for immediate arrival pickups—available 24/7 via keyboxDowntown Reykjavík: Great for those starting their road trip a few days into the trip or flying into Reykjavík Domestic Airport. - This flexibility lets you build the rental into your itinerary—not the other way around. Whether you land at midnight or leave at dawn, you won’t waste time waiting on staff or standing in lines.For the ultimate arrival experience, see Zero’s KEF driving guide. Final Thoughts: Why Choose Zero Car Rental Iceland?At the end of the day, Zero Car Rental offers something many companies promise but few deliver: real freedom. With all-inclusive pricing, full insurance, 24/7 support, and seamless self-service, it’s the ideal solution for travelers who want to hit the road and just focus on the adventure.In summary, Zero offers:✅ Full coverage with zero excess✅ Transparent, all-in pricing—no surprises✅ No deposit required✅ Online check-in + 24/7 keybox access✅ Unlimited mileage & roadside support✅ A fleet suited to Iceland’s conditions✅ KEF & Reykjavík pickup flexibility✅ Top-rated support and value 

2025’s Best Car Rental Iceland: 10 Reasons to Choose a Local Company

If you’re planning to rent a car in Iceland in 2025, congratulations—you’re about to embark on one of the world’s most spectacular road trips. From the jaw-dropping waterfalls to black sand beaches and steaming geothermal areas, Iceland was made to be explored on four wheels. But before you book, one big decision can dramatically impact your experience: should you rent from a global brand… or go local?At Zero Car Rental, we believe the answer is clear. Here are 10 compelling reasons why choosing a local car rental company in Iceland isn’t just smart—it’s essential.1. Zero's KISS: Keep it Super Simple - with real help, real fastHere’s the truth: Iceland’s epic landscapes come with equally epic challenges. Sudden weather changes, gravel roads, and isolated stretches are all part of the adventure. That’s why you need support that’s local, responsive, and doesn’t make things complicated.At Zero Car Rental, we keep it super simple (KISS). If something goes wrong on the road, you call—we help. No paperwork. No confusing hotlines. No waiting to find out how much it’ll cost. Why? Because:Roadside assistance is included in every rentalThere’s zero deductible—meaning even if you need a tow or help starting your car, it won’t cost you a thingYou speak to real people based in Iceland, who know the roads and weather in real timeWith many global rental companies, you’ll find that “roadside assistance included” actually means “included… unless you use it.” They’ll often charge per incident—whether it’s for unlocking your doors, changing a tire, or getting towed. At Zero, our promise is in the name: zero stress, zero surprises. Whatever happens, we’ll be there—and you won’t be hit with extra fees for getting the help you need.Bonus tip: Before hitting the road, it’s smart to check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration at Umferdin.is. This official site provides real-time updates on road closures, driving conditions, and live webcam feeds across the country—perfect for planning a safe, stress-free route.2. Transparent pricing with no hidden feesMany international rental companies lure customers with flashy low prices, only to pile on fees later for essentials like insurance, roadside support, or even mileage.Local companies like Zero believe in clear, all-inclusive pricing. All our rentals come with full insurance and zero excess, unlimited mileage, and no security deposit—so you know exactly what you’re paying for, and what you’re not.Want to see how much you’ll save? Just use the search bar on our homepage to check live rental prices; what you see is exactly what you pay. 3. Full insurance with zero excess includedDriving in Iceland can be a dream, but unpredictable weather, narrow gravel roads, and roaming sheep mean insurance is non-negotiable. Many travellers don’t realize that big-name rental companies often include only the basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)—leaving you with a sky-high deductible in case of damage or multiple complex options that will turn your rental into a luxury affair.At Zero, we include full coverage with zero excess in every booking. That means no stress, no arguments, and no surprise charges on your credit card weeks after your trip ends.Learn more in our guide: Why renting a car in Iceland with Zero is the best decision 4. Seamless pickup from Keflavík AirportMany local rental companies offer faster, more efficient pickup options than traditional counters. Zero Car Rental leads the pack with our keybox pickup system at KEF Airport. You land, grab your luggage, get your code, and pick up your car—no lines, no waiting, no paperwork.Whether you're arriving late at night or during peak hours, our fully automated system means your rental process takes just minutes. It’s part of our promise to make car rental in Iceland a zero-stress experience.Explore how it works: Ultimate guide to Keflavík Airport: Land, Grab, Drive 5. Real reviews from real travellersLocal companies know the power of word-of-mouth. At Zero, we don’t rely on global brand reputation—we earn our trust every day, one customer at a time. That’s why we’re proud of our consistently 5-star reviews, many of which you can read directly on our website.Unlike aggregator sites filled with complaints and unresolved claims, we offer full transparency. What you see is what you get.6. Flexibility and personalizationBig companies are often rigid. Local companies? Agile. Need to tweak your pickup time, get advice about your itinerary, or upgrade to a 4x4 last minute? You’ll get a much better response from a team that’s actually in Iceland, understands local conditions, and can make decisions on the spot.That local flexibility makes all the difference, especially when traveling in Iceland, where weather and plans change fast.Safety reminder: Before heading into remote areas, visit SafeTravel.is, Iceland’s official source for alerts and emergency travel information. You can check weather warnings, submit your travel plan, and get safety tips tailored to the season and region you’re exploring.7. Better vehicles for Icelandic conditionsLet’s be honest: a tiny city hatchback isn’t going to cut it on a windy gravel road in the Westfjords. Local companies stock cars that are specifically suited to Icelandic conditions, from 4WD SUVs with studded tires in winter to fuel-efficient hybrids perfect for the Ring Road.Zero’s fleet is built for Iceland—whether you’re exploring the South Coast, chasing waterfalls in the North, or heading into the Highlands.Check out our guide: Car rental Iceland: The ultimate guide for international travellers 8. More sustainable, less corporateChoosing a local business is good for Iceland’s economy, plain and simple. You’re supporting a company that pays local taxes, employs local staff, and contributes to Icelandic communities—not one that funnels revenue to foreign shareholders.At Zero, we’re also working to reduce emissions by expanding our fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles, and by offering smarter logistics that reduce waste and idle emissions—without passing those costs onto customers.Driving tip: Iceland’s weather changes quickly—sometimes hourly. Always check Vedur.is, the official site of the Icelandic Meteorological Office, for accurate weather forecasts before setting out for the day. It’s an essential tool whether you’re heading to the Highlands or taking it easy around the Golden Circle.9. No-pressure, no-upsell experienceIf you’ve ever rented from a major international brand, you’ve probably endured the dreaded counter upsell—where the clerk tries to scare you into buying extra coverage or GPS you don’t need. At Zero, our entire model is based on minimalism and clarity.There are no extras, no confusing packages, and no pressure. Everything you need is already included in the price—zero hassle, maximum fun.Curious how we’re different? Read: Zero hassle, maximum fun: The best way to car rental Iceland in 2025 10. Better value for your moneyLast but not least, local doesn’t mean expensive. In fact, once you factor in the extras most international companies charge for—insurance, second drivers, roadside support, and mileage limits—you’ll often find local companies like Zero offer better value overall.Plus, many local companies (ours included!) offer discount codes and seasonal offers, especially for those who book early or pay upfront.Not sure what to expect? This guide breaks down everything: How much does it cost to rent a car in Iceland?Need travel inspiration? The official Visit Iceland site is packed with ideas and guides for every type of traveler. Combine their recommendations with Zero’s flexibility and you’ve got the perfect self-drive combo for 2025. 

Ultimate Guide to Keflavik Airport: Land, Grab, Drive!

Welcome to Iceland! You’ve survived the in-flight fish option, watched three episodes of that Netflix show you only sort of like, and now you're touching down at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) with wide eyes and dreams of waterfalls. But before you conquer glaciers or soak in a geothermal tub with strangers, let’s talk logistics—because the smoother your arrival, the quicker you'll be on Icelandic roads with a steaming hot dog in hand.At Zero Car Rental, we believe the best way to start your Iceland adventure is simple: Land, Grab, Drive. Let us show you how to do exactly that—without the drama, the queues, or the mystery of "which insurance do I need if an elf scratches my bumper?" (Spoiler: We cover that.) Tips on car rentals, keybox pickups, and seamless travel experience upon landingLet’s start with the big question: "How do I get my car without battling a crowd of grumpy, jet-lagged tourists?"Here’s how you do it, the Zero way:1. Skip the counter, embrace the keyboxAt Zero Car Rental, there’s no desk, no line, and no bored staff trying to upsell you gravel insurance. Instead, we have a beautiful little invention called the keybox, waiting for you like a loyal Icelandic sheepdog.Your key is ready the moment you land. Just walk over to the Zero Car / Blue Car Rental shuttle, hop on (it’s free and runs often), and hop off at our delivery office—we’re the second stop. Look for the Zero sign (and maybe take a selfie, it’s kind of iconic). Your keybox code will have already been emailed to you. Punch it in. Boom. Car obtained. You’re now 12 minutes from the open road.2. No upsells. Ever.We don’t believe in surprises (unless it's the Northern Lights). Your booking includes full insurance with no excess, 24/7 roadside assistance, unlimited mileage, and no deposit required. The only thing we’ll ever try to convince you to do is drive safely.3. Fuel up, chill outBefore you leave the airport area, there are a few fuel stations close by. Grab a coffee, maybe a kleina (Iceland's version of a donut), and get your playlist ready. We recommend some Sigur Rós or Björk for that dramatic first drive.Pro tip: Always fill up before returning the car to avoid those awkward "you brought it back with fumes" conversations. Best restaurants and lounges at Keflavik AirportLet’s be honest: no one arrives in Iceland thinking "I can’t wait to hang out in the airport." But if you do find yourself with some time to kill at KEF before picking up your car or on the way out, it’s not a bad place to fuel your stomach.1. Joe & the Juice: For the health-conscious VikingYes, it's a chain. But it’s also the only place where you can get a kale smoothie while listening to Scandinavian electro-pop. Grab a sandwich and a juice, and pretend you’re in Copenhagen for a minute.2. Loksins Bar: For the traveler who earned a drink"Loksins" means "finally" in Icelandic. As in: "Finally, I made it through security and now I need a beer." Local craft brews and Icelandic schnapps? Don't mind if we do.3. Mathúss: The fancy food court you didn’t expectThis is where you go if you want to sample some Icelandic delicacies like lamb soup or smoked Arctic char, and then follow it up with a decent espresso. Pricey? Sure. Worth it? Also yes.4. Saga Lounge (if you’re fancy or just exhausted)Flying business class or have a lounge pass? Slide into the Saga Lounge for Icelandic skyr, soup, wine, and a shower that doesn’t smell like a locker room. Great views of the lava fields too. Navigating Keflavik Airport: essential services and amenitiesKEF isn’t a mega-hub, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in Nordic efficiency and geothermal charm. Here’s what you need to know.1. Customs & baggage claimCustoms is usually a breeze. Iceland is not in the EU, so you may get a few more questions if you’re bringing in suspicious amounts of cheese. But generally, it’s fast. Baggage claim is right after and the car rental shuttle pickup point is well-marked as you exit.2. Free Wi-Fi (because how else will you find your keybox code?)KEF offers fast and free Wi-Fi. No registration required. Just click, connect, and download that offline map you forgot about.3. SIM cards and currencyNeed a local SIM? If you are from Europe, do not fret! It is quite likely that you can used data the same as in your local country. Just double check with your phone operator before you leave.Pro tip: Most Icelanders pay for everything from parking to hot dogs using a card or mobile app. You’re more likely to need a charging cable than a fistful of krona.4. Luggage storagePlanning to explore Reykjavík before grabbing your car? Or have a few hours before your flight back home? KEF offers luggage storage near the arrivals area. Great for that "I want to go to the Blue Lagoon but don’t want to bring my suitcase into the hot spring" situation.5. Family amenitiesKEF is surprisingly family-friendly. There are play areas for kids, plenty of clean bathrooms with changing stations, and enough space to avoid major stroller collisions.6. Transportation options (besides us, obviously)Of course, we think renting a car is the best way to see Iceland (because it is). But just so you know:Airport buses like Flybus go to downtown Reykjavik.Taxis are available, but they’re eye-wateringly expensive.Public transport exists, but it’s not exactly tourist-friendly.Bonus section: Your Zero checklist before you hit the roadHere’s what to double-check before you blast off into Iceland’s dramatic landscape: Car key in hand? (From the keybox. No excuses.) Rental agreement in your email? (No paperwork, just digital peace of mind.) Insurance? (Already included. You’re welcome.) Map loaded or GPS ready? Snacks acquired? Bluetooth connected? Let the road trip playlist begin. Weather forecast checked? (Iceland is moody—prepare accordingly.) Headlights on? (They should be. Always.) Familiar with Icelandic road signs? (Hint: The sheep on the yellow sign is not just for decoration.) Know how to open the fuel cap? (You’d be surprised.) Picked up your duty-free? Alcohol is expensive in Iceland, so if you fancy a bottle of wine or your favorite spirits, buy them at the duty-free before you exit the arrivals hall—it’s tax-free and significantly cheaper.⚠️ Important: Iceland has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Please enjoy responsibly and never drink and drive. Your safety—and that of others—comes first.And just like that, you're ready. No queuing, no negotiating, no weird insurance forms in Comic Sans. Final thoughts: Iceland, with zero stressKeflavik Airport may be your entry point, but your journey truly begins when you pick up your car and start exploring. With Zero Car Rental, the experience is designed to be as easy, quick, and painless as possible. No long lines. No hidden fees. Just you, your fully insured ride, and an entire island of epic adventures waiting to be discovered.So when you land in Iceland, skip the drama. Land. Grab. Drive.Visit zerocar.is for your next rental and read more about our stress-free process here. If you're still wondering why people love us, our glowing reviews are right here.Happy driving, and don’t forget to wave at the sheep!

Zero Hassle, Maximum Fun: The Best Way to Car Rental Iceland in 2025

Introduction: So you want the keys to Iceland?Remember that moment you realised adulting involves filling in forms nobody reads? Renting a car abroad can feel the same, except the forms cost more than your flight and come with insurance clauses thicker than a saga manuscript. Zero Car Rental was founded by Reykjavík locals who asked, “What if we swapped dread for delight?” and then actually did it. The result is a booking journey that feels less like homework and more like unwrapping a surprise candy bar.In 2025 the stakes for experiencing Iceland on your own terms are higher than ever. Fresh funding for off‑grid chargers, newly mapped side roads, and northern lights that keep photobombing proposals mean the island is bursting with possibilities. Buses run, sure, but they don’t pause when you spot a shaggy Icelandic horse pulling its best shampoo‑model pose. Guided tours are fine if you enjoy someone else’s soundtrack. This post hands you everything you need to make car rental iceland less “yikes” and more “heck yes.” If you adore exhaustive comparisons, bookmark our in‑house deep‑dive on how to choose the perfect Iceland car rental company and come back after you finish giggling here.Iceland travel trends to watch in 2025First, Iceland is getting greener than a kale smoothie. Electric and hybrid cars are practically a patriotic duty, and Zero can help you map every charger so range anxiety is a myth you heard on the plane. Shoulder season is also having a glow‑up; April, May, September, and October now boast reasonable prices and photogenic lighting that turns puddles into art installations, so book early or risk driving the rental equivalent of a rubber duck.Micro‑itineraries are the final headline. In 2024 everyone treated the Ring Road like Mario Kart; in 2025 travellers are marinating in single regions, think a weekend chasing sagas on Snæfellsnes or a week perfecting hot‑pot hopping in the Westfjords. One‑way drop‑off options mean you can finish wherever your soul feels complete rather than backtracking out of obligation.Why a car beats everything elseA spontaneous rainbow arching over Seljalandsfoss doesn’t wait for buses. With your own ride you can brake safely, leap out, and capture the moment before it evaporates. Self‑drive multiplies your brag‑worthy photos and lets early birds reach Þingvellir before the dew dries while night owls chase auroras until 3 a.m. On cost, splitting fuel and rental often undercuts tour prices, particularly once you add the priceless luxury of controlling the playlist. If you still doubt the merits of car rental iceland, skim our irreverent breakdown of why renting a car in Iceland with Zero is the best decision.The Zero Car Rental difference: sassy editionHidden fees, those sneaky service‑charge goblins, were evicted years ago. What you see at checkout is exactly what your card gets charged, insurance, unlimited mileage, GPS, winter tyres, the whole shebang. Customer support is staffed by bilingual humans ready to translate road signs or sympathise when a sheep judges you. Tech still shines: pick‑up involves a digital key, no counter queues, and an optional selfie‑with‑vehicle because #memories. Location helps too: our Keflavík SmartHub sits a brisk 300‑metre trot from arrivals, proven by regular suitcase drag races.Feeling anxious about rookie blunders? Our survival manual, Don’t Be That Tourist: 8 Classic Car Rental Mistakes in Iceland and How to Dodge Them Like a Pro, will save you from starring in the next cautionary meme.Hassle‑free booking: a workflow you’ll actually enjoyBooking at zerocarrental.is feels like a choose‑your‑own‑adventure comic minus the lava pit endings. You enter dates and pick‑up spot, and a real‑time inventory of actual cars, not mythical upgrades, appears. Customisation is pure joy: child seats that meet Nordic safety standards? Done. Roof box for your weather‑related wardrobe? Easy. Select an EV and the interface predicts how wind speed might nibble at range and suggests coffee‑infused charging stops.Payment moves through Stripe’s carbon‑balanced gateway, so your money travels as responsibly as you do. Need to tweak dates? You can do so up to 24 hours before pick‑up. Mobile pre‑check invites you to snap your licence and grin for facial recognition; then you stroll past the counter, unlock your car with your phone, and blast a playlist before your fellow passengers spot baggage claim. Drop‑off mirrors the pick‑up swagger: open the app, photograph the odometer and each side of the vehicle, watch the software OK minor dust, and you’re free. Average surrender time: 90 seconds, including the pride pause.Sustainability and innovation: doing good with styleZero isn’t short for profit margin; it’s short for our patience with unnecessary emissions. We’re already 62 percent electric and racing toward eighty by 2027. Each vehicle wash recycles water, and retired tyres become playground mats because rubber deserves a second career. Hydrogen prototypes hit Reykjavík streets next summer, spot one, selfie required. Drive electric and earn Green Kilometre points; collect a thousand and we plant a birch in Ásbyrgi canyon with your name on a biodegradable plaque. Try getting that kind of legacy from your houseplant.Safety first: because weather has Zero chillIcelandic weather behaves like a hyper toddler: unpredictable, energetic, occasionally destructive. Zero combats chaos with over‑the‑air traction updates and storm alerts piped directly from SafeTravel.is to your dashboard, making you a low‑key meteorologist. Insurance is inclusive by design, gravel chips, wind‑yanked doors, and volcanic sand exfoliation are all covered. Before engine start you watch a three‑minute orientation explaining why sheep outrank cars and how to cross shallow rivers without reenacting a disaster film. For full nerd depth, our ultimate guide for international travelers delivers regulations with barista‑level charm.Ready, set, route: sample itineraries for 2025Before planning, feast your eyes on our photo‑stuffed countdown of the top 10 must‑see sights with car rental in Iceland to spark inspiration.The Northern Lights Long WeekendTouch down Thursday evening, commandeer a Tesla Model Y before your suitcase completes its carousel loop, and flee Reykjavík’s glow. Friday dawn belongs to Þingvellir, midday to Gullfoss, late afternoon to the Secret Lagoon, and midnight to dancing auroras near Hella. Saturday you’ll hike Sólheimajökull, wander Reynisfjara’s black sand, and recharge, literally, in Vík’s café chargers. Sunday’s coastal detour via Krýsuvík’s bubbling mud pots lands you back at Zero’s drop‑off zone sooner than you can mispronounce Eyjafjallajökull.The Westfjords Wildlife CircuitIf tarmac feels too mainstream, a plug‑in hybrid SUV handles Westfjords gravel with swagger. Dynjandi waterfall greets you with seven cascading tiers, Ísafjörður offers puffin‑peppered kayaking, and Hólmavík’s Witchcraft Museum adds spooky bedtime stories. Seals wave at Hvítanes, Drangsnes hot pots steam under the Milky Way, and new chargers keep eco dreams alive at Europe’s outer edge.The Grand Iceland EpicFor bragging rights, embrace twelve days around the island plus Highland detours. Collect waterfalls along the south coast, cruise over Skeiðarársandur’s black plains to Jökulsárlón, then pivot into Eastfjords fishing hamlets where herring factories moonlight as boutique hotels. Up north, Húsavík whales splash hello before you soak in GeoSea’s naturally heated infinity pool. Akureyri cafés fuel the Kjölur route toward Hveravellir’s geothermal river bath. Finish strong on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s condensed wonders before surrendering the keys with hero‑level satisfaction.The Reykjanes Geothermal DashGot only a single spare day? Touch down before sunrise, snag a spry hybrid, and trace the lava‑scarred Reykjanes Peninsula where Iceland’s raw energy bubbles right next to the airport. Steam‑bathe your face at Gunnuhver’s thundering mud pools, feel Atlantic spray slam Reykjanestá lighthouse, and gaze into the neon‑green explosion crater of Grænavatn. Refuel with lobster soup in Grindavík’s cosy harbour, then drift in the mineral‑rich waters of the Sky Lagoon or the iconic Blue Lagoon. Loop back past the Bridge Between Continents to literally straddle two tectonic plates before cruising into Reykjavík for a well‑earned midnight cinnamon bun.The Eastfjords Photo RambleDedicate five leisurely days to fjord‑folded roads, mirror‑flat bays, and puffins posing like seasoned influencers. Begin in Egilsstaðir, trace Route 1 south through Berufjörður, and linger in pastel‑painted hamlets such as Seyðisfjörður with its rainbow‑brick main street. Evenings end in family‑run guesthouses where views stretch so wide you’ll forget about Wi‑Fi, and sunrise lighting turns every turnoff into a potential magazine cover.Insider wisdom that could save your tripBook at least ninety days ahead; summer 2024 sold out by March and 2025 is sprinting. Icelandic wind can slam doors like a Marvel character, so grip handles as though your deposit depends on it—it does. Rural fuel pumps are chip‑and‑PIN robots oblivious to Apple Pay, so bring a physical card. Layer clothing because June sometimes cosplays as November, and toss a swimsuit in the glove compartment because hot springs appear when you least expect them. Download the Veður and SafeTravel apps before you land; if either issues a weather or road alert, take it seriously—locals do. Remember that headlights are compulsory 24/7, even at high noon under the midnight sun, and speed cameras lurk in the prettiest valleys, so set cruise control if your right foot gets over‑excited. When sheep congregate on the asphalt, they bring zero spatial awareness; slow down and assume they own the right‑of‑way. Finally, treat F‑roads with the reverence you would give a dragon: they usually open mid‑June, legally require a 4×4, and close without apology when Mother Nature throws a tantrum. Any hatchback attempting them becomes our office cautionary meme.Real voices from the roadStill not convinced? Don’t take our word for it—scroll through more than 250 five‑star testimonials on our review hub and see what fellow travellers have to say. One Trustpilot guest raved that picking up their car at Keflavík Airport was “faster than getting a coffee,” while another loved that returning it was “seamless and took under five minutes.” Reviewers routinely describe our staff as “super helpful and kind,” note that their vehicles arrived “in mint condition,” and winter drivers celebrate the “studded tyres and snow brush that made us feel safe during a blizzard.” Real people on real itineraries keep repeating the same headline: Zero turns car rental iceland into the easiest—and friendliest—part of your adventure.”Frequently asked questionsDo I need any paperwork at pick‑up? No, online check‑in handles your driving licence and payment details before you even board the plane, so you can stride past the counter with empty hands.Which licences are accepted? Any licence written in Roman letters and held for at least one year is fine; if yours uses another script, bring an International Driving Permit.What is the minimum rental age? Drivers must be at least 20 for standard cars and 23 for large SUVs and passenger vans.Is a deposit frozen on my card? Zero. We take a digital imprint for security but never block funds.What is included in the price? All insurances (CDW, SCDW, TP, GP, SAAP and zero excess), unlimited kilometres, 24 % VAT and a roadside‑assistance waiver (with Zero deductible).Do you accept debit cards? Yes. Any 16‑digit debit or credit card works for both payment and guarantee.Are automatics guaranteed? If you book automatic you get automatic—no surprise stick shift.Do the cars have winter tyres? From 1 November to 15 April every vehicle leaves the lot on studded winter tyres at no extra cost.Where can I pick up or drop off? Keflavík International Airport (key boxes 24/7, staff 06:00–02:00) and Reykjavík City at Fiskislóð 22 in Grandi (key boxes 24/7, staff 08:00–18:00).Is roadside assistance really 24/7? Yes. Call +354 773 7070 anytime and we will troubleshoot any problems with our legendary customer service!What is the minimum rental period? Forty‑eight hours.Can I cancel my booking for free? Up to 24 hours before pick‑up you receive a full refund; cancellations within 24 hours or no‑shows incur the full rental charge.Need a roof box or 4G Wi‑Fi? Both are optional extras—reserve them during booking and they will be waiting for you.Still curious? Browse the full list on our FAQ page.Conclusion: your adventure starts nowIceland rewards the curious, the impulsive, and the slightly mischievous, and so do we. By stripping away hidden costs, arming you with planet‑friendly cars, and seasoning the process with tongue‑in‑cheek humour, Zero Car Rental turns the phrase car rental iceland from a search term into a love story. Ready to write your chapter? Hit Reserve Now on zerocarrental.is, leave bureaucracy in the dust, and we’ll meet you under the midnight sun with warmed seats and questionable jokes.