By Katrin Andreeva
Camperstory submission October 2024
When we first started planning our trip to Iceland, we wanted something beyond the usual travel experience—something that offered the freedom to explore on our own terms. After some research and recommendations, we decided to rent a campervan. The Renault Trafic 3 was the perfect little home for our 5-day trip. Looking back now, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions we made. Iceland is a country that begs to be explored freely, and having a campervan gave us the flexibility to do just that.
From the moment we hit the road, we realized that Iceland isn’t just about hitting a few tourist spots. It’s about finding hidden gems, embracing the unpredictable weather, and letting your adventure unfold naturally. Driving ourselves meant we could stop wherever and whenever we wanted. We had a rough list of places to visit, but the real magic came from the unexpected stops—random waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and quiet spots where we could just take in the beauty around us.
Choose your own adventure
One of the first things that stood out was the sheer freedom of having a campervan. There’s nothing quite like waking up surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, or even near a glacier. We didn’t have to worry about hotel check-ins or being tied down to a rigid schedule. Every day was a new adventure, and we could just drive in any direction that called to us.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, I would 100% recommend getting a van. Not only does it allow you to explore Iceland’s true beauty at your own pace, but it also makes camping an absolute breeze. The campsites here are well-maintained, easy to find, and located in some of the most stunning areas. Whether you’re by a volcanic landscape or nestled in a quiet town, there’s always a good spot nearby. It’s all part of Iceland’s charm—where nature, convenience, and adventure merge seamlessly.
Everchanging weather
A word to the wise: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. One minute you’re basking in the sunshine, and the next, you’re pulling on an extra layer to brace yourself against a sudden gust of wind or drizzle. Dressing warm is essential, and layering is your best friend. Being open-minded and embracing whatever weather comes your way will only enhance your experience. After all, there’s something magical about seeing a glacier while it’s snowing or a waterfall framed by a dramatic, stormy sky.
And speaking of magic—the northern lights! One of the highlights of our trip was watching the auroras dance across the sky. A great tip we learned early on: download the Aurora app. It was a game-changer for tracking where and when the lights would be most visible, and it ensured we didn’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Our adventures
Our journey started with one of Iceland’s most famous routes—the Golden Circle. On day one, we explored Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall. Each stop was incredible in its own right, but the true beauty was in the landscape that connected them. There’s a reason this route is so popular, and seeing it in person was breathtaking.
That night, we camped in Reykjavík. There’s something comforting about being in the capital after a long day of exploring. On day two, we took the time to walk around the city, soaking in its quirky charm. Reykjavík has a vibe that’s both vibrant and laid-back. Our afternoon was spent unwinding at the Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa with the perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury. As the sun set, we headed to Vík for the night. A quick tip: driving at night can be tricky as some roads are quite dark, so it’s worth planning your drives during daylight hours when possible.
Ponies and hikes
On day three, we experienced something unforgettable—horse riding on the black sand beaches of Vík. Icelandic horses are small, sturdy, and incredibly friendly. Riding along the coastline with waves crashing beside us was a surreal experience. Afterward, we visited the iconic church perched on top of a hill in Vík, which offered panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape.
That afternoon, we set off for Skaftafell, with waterfalls accompanying us along the way. Camping there felt like staying in the heart of nature, with glacier-capped mountains all around us. The next morning, we woke up early to catch the sunrise, which painted the sky a vibrant pink. It was one of those moments that feels like it’s straight out of a dream. I cannot recommend enough to wake up for the sunrise if the sky is clear—it’s well worth the early alarm.
Later that day, we hiked a glacier. There’s something incredibly humbling about walking on ice that’s thousands of years old. The experience was thrilling, serene, and a little bit challenging, but it’s something everyone should try at least once. The glacier hike was, without a doubt, a highlight of our trip.
Last day 🙁
As all good things must come to an end, so did our adventure. On the last day, we made the journey back to Keflavik but not before making a final stop at the Blue Lagoon. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our trip. Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by volcanic landscapes felt like the ultimate Icelandic experience.
Campervan all the way
Overall, this trip was nothing short of amazing. Iceland is a place of natural wonder, from its glaciers and black sand beaches to its volcanoes and geothermal springs. Every corner of the country has something new and breathtaking to offer, and we were lucky to see so much of it from the comfort of our campervan. It gave us the chance to experience the country in an authentic, flexible, and adventurous way.
If you’re considering a trip to Iceland, do yourself a favor and rent a campervan. The freedom, the scenery, and the sense of adventure are unbeatable. And don’t forget—stay warm, be open to what nature throws your way, and be ready to experience the raw beauty of Iceland firsthand.
Who knows, you might just fall in love with the country the way we did.
#VANcation #camperstories
