Introduction
I assume since you’ve opened this travel guide that you’re thinking of packing your life into a campervan and heading off into the wild wonderland that is Iceland. Excellent choice if I do say so myself. But before you focus on the important things like creating what can only be described as a ‘mutually acceptable’ Spotify playlist and plan your first hot spring stop, there’s a big question that needs answering: when is the best time to camp in Iceland? (Spoiler: that’s where this guide comes in handy!)
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each season offers its own unique magic, madness, and weather-induced personality disorder. Whether you’re here for puffins or the Northern Lights, budget travel or empty roads, I’ll help you find the perfect time to pitch up.
Why Camping in Iceland Is Special
Camping in Iceland isn’t just a budget-friendly way to see the country, it’s the best way. It’s freedom on four wheels, your bed beside a towering glacier (or at least a troll looking mountain), as well as your morning coffee with a fjord view without the need for a VR headset.
And let’s face it, the hotels here don’t exactly come cheap or offer the same midnight sun or Northern Lights experience from your pillow. With over 200 registered campsites across the country, vanlife in Iceland means going where you want, when you want, and waking up with volcanoes in your wing mirror (some a little more active than the others).
Camping in Iceland by Season
Iceland’s seasons aren’t just about the temperature, they shape everything from what wildlife you’ll see to which roads are open and what kind of clothing and gadgets you’ll need. Whether you’re dreaming of endless daylight, colourful autumns, snowy serenity or a springtime burst of life, understanding what each season offers can help you plan the perfect campervan adventure.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is Iceland’s prime camping season, offering near-endless daylight, mild weather, and access to every corner of the island, from Vestrahorn mountain and Viking village to remote Highland trails. If you’re looking for freedom, flexibility, and the best shot at sunshine, this is the season that delivers.
Why Summer Is the Peak Camping Season
This is Iceland’s high season and for good reason. Campsites are open, the Highlands are finally accessible, and the long days mean you can explore well into the night without ever needing a torch (though, I’ll level with you, I am currently writing this in a summer snowstorm…so things can change in Iceland!)
With 24-hour daylight in June, you’ll never feel rushed, and popular hiking trails like Laugavegur become accessible. If you want freedom and flexibility with maximum road access and the best shot at dry, clear weather, this is your moment.
Pros: Midnight Sun, Open Campsites, Puffins & Festivals
With nearly 24 hours of daylight, you’ve got all the time in the world to see the sights, make a detour, and soak in a hot spring until your fingers wrinkle. Summer brings puffins galore, colourful lupine fields, and lively local festivals that give you a real taste of Icelandic culture.
You’ll also enjoy full access to Iceland’s Highland interior, which is a rugged region only reachable for a few months of the year. It offers the chance to drive late into the night with no worry about losing light, giving more time for exploring and insomnia. It’s a season that lets you stretch every day to the max and keeps more or less every location accessible. So, if you came here for dark skies at this time of year, I’d try and get a return flight….or head to Perlan’s Northern Lights exhibition.
Cons: Crowds and Higher Prices
It’s popular for a reason, which means prices of everything from campsites, to even hotdogs at the petrol station are at their peak. Some popular sites get busy, so a bit of pre-booking goes a long way.
Although I would say it’s only really at peak times of the day that attractions can be more crowded than you might like (myself included). For instance, the long daylight hours give you the option to visit points of interest a little later or earlier than most other people (assuming they are not all reading this guide), so you can plan a little outside the box to be as anti-social as possible!
Weather & Temperatures
Expect daytime temperatures around 10 to 15°C (sometimes warmer in a heatwave, and peculiarly often warmest in the North-Eastern region). And, while it rarely rains for days, showers can appear out of nowhere (sometimes even under assumed blue skies while driving…no idea on that one). Nights are cool but usually comfortable with the right clothing (ahem, next section).
What to Pack for Summer Camping
Bring layers for warmth and adaptability, a high-quality rain jacket for sudden downpours, and a sleep mask to handle the endless daylight (believe me, after a few days of endless light and you’ll be craving some dark downtime). A reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated at altitude and on hikes, insect repellent is a must (especially in areas like Mývatn which is often swarming with midges). Lastly, don’t skip swimwear, you never know when you’ll stumble across a hot spring or geothermal pool that you’ll crave a dip in.
Best Campsites in Summer
Skaftafell Campsite for glacier views and access to awesome and relatively easy hiking trails within the national park, Þakgil Campsite tucked between mossy canyons with a cave dining area and mountain scenery, and Hellissandur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for midnight sun ocean views and a laid-back village vibe.
In truth, most campsites around the country are equally well-situated, equipped, and filled with like-minded travellers. The best tip, however, is to call ahead on route to make sure there is space at the Inn.
Autumn (September to October)
As the leaves turn fiery red and gold, Iceland reveals a quieter, more introspective side. Autumn camping is perfect for those seeking stunning landscapes without the summer crowds, and with a little luck, the first glimpses of the Northern Lights.
As a personal preference, this is the time of year I recommend the most. The sun plays ball to allow you to sleep easily, the Northern Lights are often popping against the darkening blue skies of twilight, and crucially, the weather is actually pretty good. For a balance of all things, I think autumn might just take the edge.
Why Autumn Offers a Unique Camping Experience
Autumn is a bit of a hidden gem. The colours explode, the tourists numbers drop substantially, and if almost always, the aurora makes its debut. It’s a more reflective time to camp, perfect for those who like their landscapes dramatic and their roads emptier (less campsite guitars at this time also).
Pros: Northern Lights, Fewer Tourists, Autumn Colours
Golden hillsides, fiery red moss, and yes, for the third time, the first sightings of the Northern Lights if the skies are clear, what’s not to love? There’s a peacefulness to autumn camping that makes it feel like Iceland is all yours. Wildlife sightings tend to increase as migration patterns shift, and crisp air and quieter campsites create the perfect atmosphere for slow mornings and scenic hikes without the summertime hustle.
Cons: Rain, Wind, Closing Campsites
As beautiful as it is, autumn weather can at times be unpredictable. Some campsites begin to shut in late September, and the wind can be fierce, even strong enough to rattle your campervan or collapse a tent if you’re not prepared. But Icelandic weather is a fickle friend or foe. We can have storms at the peak of summer, the depths of winter, or anywhere in between. You really just have to hope you get lucky, and roll with the punches as they come, which is all part of an Icelandic adventure.
Always check which campsite facilities are still open, and have a backup plan in case your first-choice site has closed for the season. When in doubt, our team can help you out.
Weather & Temperatures
Temperatures range from 0 to 10°C. Rain is more frequent and winds are stronger, especially along the coasts of the country, where gusts can be relentless. Nights are noticeably chillier and often damp, so having a warm sleeping bag and dry gear is essential for a comfortable night under the stars. And, at the end of the day, even if the wind is making the campervan a’rocking, the Northern Lights distraction may come a’knocking (I hope this expression catches on).
What to Pack for Autumn Camping
Warm thermals, a proper sleeping bag, waterproof boots, and a windproof outer layer are essential. Gloves, a beanie/woolly hat, and thick socks will also make cold nights far more bearable. A small brush for cleaning muddy gear doesn’t go amiss either, especially after soggy hikes or parking up on damp ground. Coming prepared is essential to enjoying Iceland to it’s fullest.
Best Campsites in Autumn
Ásbyrgi in the north for epic canyon hikes and dramatic horseshoe-shaped cliffs, Húsavík for world-class whale watching, Northern Lights vistas, and a charming harbour town feel, and Egilsstaðir for easy access to geothermal hot tubs, supermarkets, and as a handy base for exploring the wild Eastfjords. These are at least some of my favourites, but in reality it really depends on your itinerary of choice.
Winter (November to Early March)
If you’re the kind of traveller who thrives on adventure and doesn’t mind trading comfort for unforgettable moments (and the odd frozen limb), winter camping in Iceland might just be your thing. While it’s cold, dark, and often snow-covered, it’s also a time of silent landscapes, glowing skies, and true solitude on the road.
Can You Camp in Iceland in Winter?
You absolutely can, and I’d say it’s often a lot more memorable because, after all, how many of your friends camp in winter anywhere? Winter camping in Iceland isn’t for the faint of heart, but with the right campervan, travel necessities, and mindset, it’s an incredible experience like no other. Expect challenges like snow-covered roads, freezing temperatures, and limited daylight. But also expect surreal beauty, maximum solitude (an introvert’s paradise), and the chance to witness the aurora in absolute silence, miles from the nearest town.
Pros: Northern Lights, Snowy Landscapes
The famous bucket list item of the aurora borealis dancing above your campervan, frozen waterfalls glistening in the moonlight, and the kind of profound peace that only comes when the world is blanketed in snow and silence (unless you’re in ‘The Shining’ that is). Iceland is a true winter wonderland and even if you’ve travelled to our shores in the summer, you’ll want to see how nature fung shui’s the island in winter with blankets of snow and ice.
Also, if you’ve come to see the Northern Lights, in winter, if the skies are clear I usually see this wonder most nights on an evening walk in Reykjavík, which is way more spectacular on the road. But, it can be fickle and unpredictable, so don’t make your decision to visit Iceland purely on nature’s greatest show – there is far more to come and check out!
Cons: Extreme Cold, Limited Daylight, Closed Roads
You’ll have just 4 to 7 hours of daylight, with the sun rising late and setting early. All Highland and many Westfjords roads are shut off for several months from snowfall, and many campsites close during winter. Snowstorms, icy roads, and rapidly changing conditions can disrupt plans at a moment’s notice, making flexibility and preparedness absolutely essential for any winter camper adventure.
Safety Considerations & Alternatives (Campervans)
We usually recommend you rent a 4×4 campervan designed for winter travel, but for most of the country, it’s a ‘nice to have’ but not essential (I regularly travel around Iceland all year round in a 2WD car, if it helps quash the nerves). Use the SafeTravel app, check vedur.is daily, and avoid risky roads with the real-time updates from road.is. Some travellers opt to combine camper trips with hotel stays, which can usually be booked ad-hoc given the slowdown in tourists during the season.
What to Pack for Winter Camping
Heavy-duty thermals, insulated boots, a cosy sleeping bag, a reliable headlamp, a sturdy snow brush for clearing windshields, and extra food supplies in case you get stuck for a day or two. Bring multiple chargers and spare batteries as cold drains power fast (very annoying when you’re out snapping with a DSLR camera), and staying connected is crucial for safety.
Best Campsites for Winter (Open Year-Round Options)
Reykjavík Campsite, Skógafoss campsite near some of the best waterfalls in the country (Seljlandsfoss, Skógafoss, Kvernusfoss), and Akureyri’s Hamrar site are all open year-round, featuring heated facilities, reliable access to cleared winter roads, and essential amenities such as hot showers, electricity hookups, and onsite Wi-Fi. These sites provide safe and comfortable bases for winter campers looking to explore Iceland’s snowy landscapes while staying connected and warm.
Spring (Late March to May)
The joke in Iceland is that Spring lasts….about…a day (in reality it does I exist, I promise). Spring is when Iceland shakes off its icy sleep. Snow melts into rushing waterfalls, tiny flowers brave the thaw, and the land starts to bloom again. It’s a shoulder season with unexpected beauty and (you guessed it) fewer crowds, fresh air, and just enough daylight to make the most of every road trip stop.
Why Spring Is an Underrated Time to Camp
Spring might just be Iceland’s best-kept secret. Waterfalls thunder louder than ever as the snow melts, prices are kinder on your wallet, and the puffins make their delightful return to the coastal cliffs, ready to introduce a few more little Pufflings to the world. If you don’t mind the occasional wet day or unpredictable weather, you’ll experience the first hints of summer’s magic, all while avoiding the crowds that come later.
Pros: Cheaper Prices, Waterfalls in Full Force, Puffin Arrival
In short, life is restored to the country. The waterfalls break through the ice to show their full breadth and might, more obviously like a caterpillar into a butterfly. You have a balance of more daylight, warming temperatures, and the Northern Lights at night (if you can keep stay up long enough). And, if you’re on a tight budget, Spring basically isn’t summer, and with that, there are decent savings.
Cons: Unpredictable Weather, Some Campsites Still Closed
Spring weather in Iceland is famously unpredictable, you might enjoy bright sunshine one moment and find yourself caught in sleet or hail the next. This volatility means it’s wise to prepare for all conditions. Additionally, many campsites, particularly those in remote locations or higher elevations, remain closed during early spring, so plan your stops accordingly to avoid surprises.
Weather & Temperatures
Expect 0 to 10°C. Mornings are frosty, but days can feel warm in the sun. Rain and wind are common but usually pass quickly.
What to Pack for Spring Camping
Warm layers including thermal base layers and fleeces, waterproof and windproof outerwear, insulated gloves, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential. A sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures will help keep you cosy at night, and a thermos filled with hot drinks is invaluable for staying warm during outdoor adventures. However, the main thing to remember for all seasons is to pack in layers (listen to Shrek on this one).
Best Campsites in Spring
Þórsmörk (weather-permitting – this one is a bit of a gamble and very depends on timely conditions and you’ll need a 4X4 campervan to get there), with its lush valleys and dramatic hiking trails; Borgarfjörður Eystri, renowned for its early puffin colonies and vibrant birdlife; and Kirkjubær II, a convenient campsite offering easy access to the Ring Road and stunning views over the southern Icelandic countryside, positioned between the village of Vík and Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon and famous Diamond Beach.
Choosing the Best Time to Camp in Iceland For You
Not every camper is the same, and the ‘best time’ really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Some travellers chase waterfalls, some want clear skies and hot springs, and others just want to avoid the crowds and keep costs down. This section helps match your goals with the season that suits you best.
Based on Interests (Northern Lights, Puffins, Hiking, Waterfalls)
Whether you want to watch puffins clowning around on seaside cliffs, chase waterfalls pouring out their hearts, or catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, each season delivers something different as I hope I’ve illustrated above.
Puffins show up from May to August, with the best sightings in June and July. However, I’d say that most waterfalls are at their most stunning during spring melt, and hiking is most accessible in summer when trails are clear (if you want to visit the Icelandic Highlands for hiking, you can only do that in summer). For the aurora chasers, it’s all about the dark skies from late September through March, but actually, the equinoxes tend to produce the best shows (and statistically with clearer skies).
Based on Budget
Want to save some sweet sweet króna (I suggest not getting cash out by the way)? Camping is already one of the most cost-effective ways to see Iceland, but your budget can stretch even further depending on when you visit.
Summer is peak season and prices reflect that largely across the board, but majorly in accommodation. Travel in spring or autumn and you’ll find more deals, fewer crowds, and just as much beauty (or as I see it, the 8th wonder of the world – the shoulder seasons).
However, winter is usually cheaper again. But given the more extreme weather conditions from our arctic bipolar skies, you’ll want to be prepared for a little more planning, warmth, and daylight juggling.
Based on Comfort With Weather & Darkness
If your ideal trip involves t-shirts, flip-flops (bold move, my friend) and sunlight until midnight, summer’s your time.
But if you’re not fazed by cold toes and long dark mornings (and the payoff of seeing the Northern Lights is worth it), winter can be an amazing, quiet, and unique experience. And if you’re an astrophotographer (even just an amateur having fun), you won’t want to miss the opportunity of having your significant other moan at you while you line up your 500th shot of the Northern Lights each night (and, yes, I speak from a lot of experience here!)
Spring and autumn fall somewhere in between. They’re great if you want balance: decent daylight, cooler prices, and dramatic skies without the full-on extremes of the hot or cold months (let me rephrase here: cold or less cold).
What to Expect at Icelandic Campsites
Camping in Iceland is relatively straightforward, but it helps to know what kind of facilities and rules you’re signing up for. From clean, well-run campsites with all the mod cons to simple grassy fields in the middle of nowhere, there’s a range of camping experiences across the country. This section gives you the lay of the land so you know what to expect and how to be a good guest/traveller/amigo.
Facilities & Amenities
Campsites in Iceland vary, but almost all of them will have toilets, sinks, and access to showers. Some even have communal kitchens, laundry areas, WiFi, and indoor lounges, which can be a true blessing when the weather turns.
More remote campsites might be more basic, so it’s always worth checking in advance what’s on offer.
Booking vs. First-Come, First-Served
During summer, it’s smart to book ahead, especially in popular spots like along the south coast or near Mývatn. That said, many campsites still operate on a drop-in basis, which is ideal if you want to keep things spontaneous.
In spring and autumn, availability is rarely an issue. However, in winter, many campsites close, but the few that stay open are usually a lot quieter, which pending your preference can be a great or terrible thing!
Iceland Camping Card
If you’re planning a long trip, the Iceland Camping Card can save you money. It covers two adults and up to four kids for 28 nights at 40+ campsites. Do the maths based on your trip length, and it can be a very handy little card to have in your glovebox.
Rules & Etiquette for Camping in Nature
Rule number one: don’t wild camp. It’s not allowed in campervans or for anyone and can get you a massive fine, and complained a lot by the locals (news spreads quickly in a country of Iceland’s size).
Stick to registered campsites, respect quiet hours, clean up after yourself, and don’t block the views of others no matter how much you might like that waterfall or glacier. And no, banana peels aren’t “biodegradable in Iceland”, they’re still litter. Fortunately, Iceland seems to have a love affair with bins, so you’ll find the right recycling spot on every campsite, village, or town.
Road Trip Camping: Campervan Considerations
Taking a campervan around Iceland gives you the ultimate flexibility to explore the country on your own terms. But depending on the season, your route, and your personal preferences, there are some important things to keep in mind. This section breaks down what you need to consider, pack, and plan to make the most of your vanlife road trip.
What to Pack in a Campervan
Layers, waterproofs, and a decent eye mask are essentials (the latter is really only valuable in summer).
You’ll also want a sleeping bag suited to the season, cooking gear, a good head torch (unless you’re coming in summer), power banks, and offline maps. Also, I’d recommend whatever the season, that you bring swimwear for hot springs, local swimming pools, or even if you’re as mad as my other half and want to try sea swimming in our (not so) cosy seas.
Best Time of Year for a Ring Road Camping Trip
Summer is best if you want to do the full ring road loop without worrying about road closures. Late spring and early autumn also work if you don’t mind the odd detour. It’s also not a problem to do in Winter, but may the weather gods be forever in your favour. It’s not a huge deal, but you may have some days where travel is more difficult than the last. But, rest assured, in winter, your campervan will have winter tyres to keep your grip on the roads.
Weather & Safety Tips for Every Season
Iceland’s beauty is matched only by its unpredictability. One moment you’re basking in the sun beside a waterfall, the next you’re driving through sideways hail. Staying safe and comfortable means staying informed. In this section, I’ll walk you through how to stay ahead of the weather, dress smart, and use the best resources to plan your journey safely, no matter the season. After all, safety doesn’t take a holiday (I hope that sounded as heroic as intended).
How to Check Weather and Road Conditions
Bookmark vedur.is to stay on top of weather forecasts and road.is for, well, roads (this colour-coded map lets you know how slippery each section of the road system is in real-time, which is very handy if you’re a little unsure of what’s around the next bend or mountain pass). Iceland’s weather is ever-changing; sunny mornings can turn stormy by lunch, and a clear road can close in minutes.
Check both websites daily, especially in winter.
Important Safety Apps and Websites
As mentioned earlier, check out the SafeTravel app. You can leave your itinerary here so search and rescue know where you are in case of emergency, and get alerts for storms, road closures, and volcanic warnings in good time. After all, it’s always comforting to know if a mountain decides to wake up and blow some smoke nearby.
Layering for Changing Conditions
Icelandic weather demands layering like an onion, and I hope by writing this a billion times in this travel guide that it makes sense. Come as well-dressed and wardrobe-structured as Bear Grylls minus the weapons and questionable drink choices, of course.
Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a coat with a waterproof shell. Even in summer, bring warm gear to be one step ahead of the weather. This way you can take layers off if it’s too warm and vice versa if it’s cold and you’re trudging through the famous sideways rain we like to complain about on the daily.
Conclusion
Camping in Iceland isn’t just about saving a bit of cash or finding a cute place to sleep. It’s about total freedom, unforgettable landscapes, and stories you’ll be telling for years.
Whether you’re watching the sun never set in July or huddled under a blanket waiting for the aurora in January, Iceland’s wild beauty hits differently when you’re living the vanlife.
Just don’t forget your waterproofs and your sense of adventure. Now you’re ready to book your next campervan journey in Iceland and get on the road, whatever the season.
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