The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Iceland by Car

Have you seen the Instagram photos of road trips around Iceland and felt that wave of all familiar longing for a place we haven’t been? Well, we’re your friendly neighborhood Icelandic car rental team, and we are here to help make that dream of Iceland solo travel a reality.

Whether this is your first time traveling alone or you have long reached the level of a solo travel aficionado, this article will help you plan the most epic Iceland solo trip that is not only safe but also memorable. 

Why Iceland Is Ideal for a Solo Road Trip

There are many reasons why Iceland is a top pick when it comes to solo travel. We dive into the nitty-gritty of it and the biggest concerns of most solo travelers:

Is Iceland Safe for Solo Travelers and Solo Female Travelers?

Whenever it comes to solo travel, the most common question we hear is: “Is Iceland safe to travel alone?” The answer: A big resounding yes!

Iceland is (officially!) the safest country to travel to, especially as a female solo traveler. In fact, Iceland has taken the top spot as the safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index for 17 consecutive years! It can’t get much better than that!

But what is it that makes Iceland so safe? There are many reasons, but the most significant factors include:

• Happy People – Iceland has an incredibly high standard of living, but we also pay our people a fair wage, so they are able to keep up with the standard of living. This makes for a nation of happy people, enjoying high-quality goods and services. If you’re happy and don’t lack much, you’ll do your best to uphold the status quo. If it ain’t broke, don’t break it, right? Living a high-quality life as an Icelander also means that a life of crime would be a significant downgrade.
• Social Cohesion – Since each individual on the island is taken care of, we also try to look out for and take care of each other. That’s why you’ll always find a friendly Icelander willing to assist if you ever need advice or a helping hand. It’s this social cohesion that makes harming others in any way, shape, or form almost unimaginable.
• Gender Equality – Iceland is proud of the fact that we place such emphasis on gender equality, to which our female presidents can attest. Equal rights, equal pay, and equal opportunities – these all contribute to our social cohesion and happiness.
• Geography – Iceland is a strictly controlled island. There are only so many ways you can get on and off the island – and we’ll know all about it. So, our geographical location is also not very conducive to a life of crime (not if you don’t want to get caught, anyway).

You can clearly see why the country is an ideal solo travel destination. And if you are a woman traveling on your own, you are unlikely to find a country that will leave you feeling more comfortable traveling around alone.

Reykjavik solo travel is a great place to start, as the city is safe to walk around in even late at night, and carrying your suitcases will not make you a target. You can rest assured that the most “dangerous” aspect of solo travel in Iceland is losing track of time while visiting one of our incredible attractions.

When it comes to walking down the streets or socializing, fortunately, Iceland has no culture of catcalling, and personal space is generally well respected. One aspect that can feel like a cultural shock, however, is the directness of Icelanders (both men and women).

If you ever feel uncomfortable while out for a drink, rest assured that you can always count on the bartender to help you out. Icelanders strongly disapprove of sexist behavior, and you can expect to feel safe throughout your visit.

Still, while a solo trip to Iceland is safe, that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down completely. You’ll always find opportunists wherever you go in the world, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry, right? However, most of your awareness will go towards your surroundings and Mother Nature.

The Icelandic weather can be challenging, and you can experience everything from sudden weather changes and storms to blizzards and winds of 35+ kilometers an hour, depending on the season. This is why you should always check the road conditions on the Umferdin website and weather on the Vedur website before you head out for the day to ensure safety.

The Benefits of Renting a Car When Traveling Alone

Renting a car is the one thing that can transform your Iceland vacation from being just another tourist trip where you’re visiting a few highlights to it being a truly immersive experience, discovering all the beauty and excitement that solo travel through the incredible Icelandic landscape has to offer. Here’s why:

• Freedom: Traveling to Iceland solo and road-tripping around by car means you don’t have to stick to others’ schedules or rely on transport. Instead, you can have complete freedom to go where you want to go and when you want to go there.
• Privacy: Nothing can beat having the privacy of your own car during a trip. Not only can you live your best road trip life and sing at the top of your lungs without worrying about permanent injury to someone’s eardrums, but quick outfit changes along the way are also no problem.
• Flexibility: Want to make a quick stop at an interesting site you spotted along the way? With your own car, you can. From chasing the Northern Lights to heading to more remote locations, the possibilities are endless with your own transport.
• Comfort: Depending on the style of solo travel you want to do, your car can turn into your mobile “basecamp” where everything you need on your travels can be within arm’s reach. Extra layers, snacks, an emergency kit, etc. – all can make your road trip as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Driving vs. Guided Tours – Why Going Solo in a Car Wins

Guided tours are an excellent way to solo travel in Reykjavik, but for the ultimate Iceland adventure, having your own car is a must. Here’s why:

You’ll have total control over your time and itinerary.

The perfect Iceland solo travel itinerary? One that is not rigid and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Want to spend two hours extra by the waterfalls or go and soak in a hot spring you’ve only just found out about? With your own transport, you can!

You’ll have access to our hidden gems.

While Reykjavik and other cities are very developed with plenty of public transport options, many travel-worthy spots in Iceland, located in more remote regions, can’t be reached without a car.

You don’t need to share personal space with others.

A perk of guided group tours can be the social aspect of it. However, there inevitably comes a time when you get tired of sharing your personal space with others, and you won’t always get along with everyone on the tour. Having your own ride sidesteps having to navigate these no-escape social interactions.

How to Plan Your Solo Trip to Iceland

We give you all the info you need to plan your solo trip to Iceland:

Best Times to Visit Iceland Alone

Iceland is a year-round destination, but each season brings with it its own unique sights and experiences, with its own pros and cons when it comes to solo traveling. Check when the best times for your dream road trip will be:

Summer (June–August)

In summer, our weather is the best you’ll ever find it, driving conditions are pristine, and it’s the ideal time for a road trip with all roads in Iceland being open. This is also the perfect time for those with jam-packed trip itineraries to take advantage of the long hours of daylight to explore all of Iceland’s incredible sights and attractions.

If you plan on visiting between 20 and 22 June, you’ll also get to experience our magnificent Midnight Sun, which will essentially give you a 24-hour day.

Winter (December–March)

Iceland turns into a winter wonderland with a landscape draped in a blanket of snow, frost dazzling all around, and waterfalls seemingly frozen in time. This is also the time to spot the Northern Lights. With fewer tourists around, your solo trip to Iceland will make you feel as if the whole island is yours.

However, there’s good reason for this. The weather has taken a turn for the worse, and snow and ice are the order of the day. As you can imagine, driving during this season can be pretty challenging, and roads such as our F-roads are kept closed throughout. This means that a road trip will require some extra planning and preparation.

Shoulder seasons (April, May, September, and October)

This will be some of the most cost-effective and quiet times to road trip around the island. But you also need to keep in mind that these months can either be an intro to summer or winter, so you’ll need to come prepared for the road conditions associated with that season.

Most of the roads affected by annual road closures will also close from mid-September and only reopen from around mid-May, so plan your road trip accordingly.

Where to Go on a Solo Road Trip in Iceland

Traveling to Iceland alone gives you the option of trying several different iconic classic solo travel Iceland routes, so take your pick:

• The Ring Road (aka Route 1): A round trip around the entire island where you see all the “must-see” sights.
• The Golden Circle: A great Reykjavik solo travel option as you head out on this short loop road from the capital city. With many incredible attractions and activities along the way, this makes for the perfect day outing (ideal for those with limited time on the island).
• The South Coast Way: Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers, need we say more?
• The Westfjords Way: Adventure seekers and those seeking solitude will love this remote and rugged route.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Snæfellsnes is also known as “mini Iceland” since the region can give you a small taste of everything the island has to offer. This is yet another great option for those with limited time on the island.

How Long Should You Stay? Itinerary Lengths Explained

• 3–5 days: Best to stay in Reykjavik, drive the Golden Circle, and hit the South Coast for some highlights.
• 7–10 days: Enough time to complete the Ring Road or take the time to explore the South and West of the island in more depth.
• 2+ weeks: More than enough time to visit the Highlands, the Westfjords, and enjoy visiting different sights on your way there and back.

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Your Solo Iceland Trip

Choosing the right rental car is crucial for a successful solo trip. Consider the following when making your decision:

Small Cars vs. 4x4 – What’s Best for Solo Travelers?

That’s the million-dollar question! But, not to worry, we are here to advise you and ensure that you end up with the right wheels for your adventure. Check out our easy-to-reference comparison table below:

Vehicle Type	Ideal For	Pros	Cons
Small Car (2WD)	Cities, Paved main routes, such as the South Coast Way, Golden Circle, and the Ring Road. It’s a great option for those planning on visiting the island during the warmer months of the year and those looking for a budget-friendly solution. A compact car is also best for solo travel since you don’t need much space.	Affordable and reliable.  Easy to maneuver and park. Fuel-efficient.	Can’t be taken on F-roads (Highlands). Not a good option in winter conditions.
4x4/SUV	Adventure seekers, winter travel, F-roads (Highlands).	Remote areas become accessible. Great for our rough-and-tough roads and roads impacted by weather conditions such as ice and snow.	More expensive with higher fuel costs. A bigger size can be tough to navigate in cities and parking spots.

Important Rental Tips (Insurance, Mileage, Fuel, Credit Card Holds)

If this is your first time renting a car in Iceland, the following tips and advice can be helpful:

Have Your Insurance Sorted!

Gravel roads and changes in the weather conditions mean that your insurance can help save the day! Law dictates that every rental comes with third-party liability coverage, which usually includes a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).

However, what we would recommend is paying extra to add Gravel Protection if you’ll be exploring the “roads less traveled,” and if you are visiting the South Coast, Sand and Ash Protection is definitely the way to go. If you’ll be driving our rough-and-tough roads, we also suggest that you get Tire Protection for further peace of mind.

Getting the Most Out of Your Mileage

Most rental cars in Iceland have unlimited mileage, giving you the freedom to roam as much as you like without having to fear any extra charges. But keep in mind that your rental car will most likely be running on diesel or gas, which require a bit of planning and a refueling budget.

While you won’t have any problems finding gas stations in our bigger cities or along our main roads and routes, the further remote you go, the scarcer they become. If you plan to venture into the countryside and more remote regions, it’s essential to pre-plan your refuels to avoid getting stranded on the side of the road. Always make sure to keep your tank half full, and whenever you see a station, take a moment to fill up.

Ensure You Have the Right Credit Card

Most rental companies will request that you put a hold deposit on your credit card for your rental car. Most gas stations will also require payment via credit card. BUT these credit card payments can only be made if you have a credit card with a chip and a PIN.

So, please chat to your bank to ensure you have the right credit card before landing here on the island. And as for the rental car hold, don’t worry, once your trip has finished, the amount held will be released back to your account, as long as the car is returned in good condition.

Where to Pick Up & Drop Off Your Rental Car

There are a few places that tend to be the go-to spots for pick-ups and drop-offs here on the island. These are:

Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik International Airport is where most solo trips to Iceland start. It is easiest to pick up your car as soon as you land, giving you the perfect vehicle for moving around from the get-go. To pick up your rental, you’ll need to catch a shuttle just outside the arrivals entrance since the rental lots are a short drive from the airport. You’ll be doing the same process only in reverse when dropping off the vehicle at the end of your trip.

Reykjavik

If you’re heading to Reykjavik for solo travel upon landing at Keflavik, you can also arrange car pick-up and drop-off in the city center. Many who first wish to explore the capital choose this option since you won’t need a vehicle to explore Reykjavik, so you can pick up your rental once you’re ready to head out and explore the rest of the island.

***Please note that if you’re not planning on doing a round trip, you can also arrange a drop-off at a different location. Just have a chat with your rental agent.

Solo Iceland Itineraries by Car

Don’t have the faintest idea of where to start with planning your solo Iceland trip itinerary? Then why not use ours? You can simply follow these itineraries as is or customize them to suit your needs and preferences better:

5-Day Solo Travel Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Travel from Keflavik and spend the day exploring the capital city of Reykjavik.

A Few Highlights:

• Hallgrimskirkja
• The Old Harbor
• Laugavegur Shopping Street

Day 2

Explore the Golden Circle loop route.

A Few Highlights:

• Thingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and where you’ll find Iceland’s first parliament).
• Geysir Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss Waterfall

Day 3

Explore the South Coast by driving south along the coast via Route 1.

A Few Highlights:

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Solheimajökull Glacier (consider going on a guided hike here!)
• Have plenty of time? You might want to give the Westman Islands a go.

Day 4

Today will be filled with icy adventures before heading back to Reykjavik.

A Few Highlights:

• Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach

Day 5

Departing the Island.

A Few Highlights:

Schedule your flight in such a way that you still have time to visit any spots you missed the first day while exploring the capital city, and also allow some time to pop round for a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon on your way to Keflavik Airport.

7-Day Solo Travel Trip Itinerary

Follow the 5-day solo travel trip itinerary, but instead of heading back and departing on day 5, do the following:

Day 5

Explore the eastern region all the way to Egilsstadir.

A Few Highlights:

• Stokksnes Black Sand Beach
• Hengifoss Waterfall
• The Village of Seydisfjordur (be sure to walk the rainbow path up to the church)

Day 6

Explore the north up to the city of Akureyri.

A Few Highlights:

• Studlagil Canyon
• Dettifoss Waterfall
• Krafla Volcano

Day 7

Head back to the capital city. This will be a day trip, so please prepare to sleep over in Reykjavik before catching a flight the next day.

Reykjavík Solo Day Trips by Car

If you're not a fan of spending every day on the road, consider making the capital city your base and doing day trips from Reykjavik. You’ll find many gems within easy driving distance from here. This includes the following:

• The Blue Lagoon
• The Golden Circle Loop Road
• The South Coast Way Back-and-Forth
• Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula

Safety Tips for Driving Solo in Iceland

If this will be your first time solo traveling through Iceland, the following will ensure that you have a safe and memorable trip:

Weather, Roads, and F-Roads – What You Need to Know

As Iceland is famous for its unpredictable weather, it is best to prepare even if just a little bit before you set out for the day. The first step should always be to check the weather forecast on the Vedur website and look at the road conditions on the official Umferdin website.

Also, download the Safe Travel Iceland app, which sends out road and safety alerts. Google Maps can be highly reliable to stay on top of what’s happening around you, but we do recommend downloading offline maps of all the areas you are traveling to (just in case).

Major roads, such as Route 1, are very well-maintained, but if you are planning on heading onto our rural or F-roads, then you will need a 4x4. In fact, on the F-roads, which are only open during the summer, it is illegal to drive a 2-wheel drive vehicle.

If you have any doubts about your choice of rental car or the conditions of the roads on your route, you can check with local authorities or ask us; we will always be happy to assist and help you avoid turning your solo trip into a rescue mission!

Solo Winter Driving – Is It Safe?

Winter in Iceland can be dreamy, but the road conditions can come with their own set of challenges. Icy roads and snowstorms can make your trip a bit harder. For those visiting from November to March, we recommend sticking to a 4x4 with winter tires and staying on main roads.

Before you head out during the limited daylight hours, make sure to check the conditions and adapt your plans accordingly. It’s never a good idea to take on challenging road conditions in the dark. Ultimately, if you come prepared and drive with caution, solo winter driving can be perfectly safe. We Icelanders do it all the time!

What to Do in Case of Emergency

If you ever find yourself in an emergency, you can rest assured that help is nearby:

• The emergency number in Iceland is 112, and we recommend that you download the 112 Iceland app upon arrival on the island. This app can help you share your location with emergency services and allow you to get help even when you don’t have a mobile signal.
• Your rental agent will most likely offer 24/7 support, so whatever happens while you’re on the road, you can always reach out for assistance.
• If you're heading to remote areas as a solo traveler, consider giving your itinerary to someone who can check on you and ensure you're alright. This can include family and friends back home, the place you’re staying on the island as well as your rental agent.
• Finally, Icelanders are extremely helpful, so if you ever need assistance, you can just flag one of us locals down and we’ll be happy to assist.

Staying Connected & Social While Traveling Alone

Traveling solo doesn’t mean you should be lonely; staying connected around the island can be easy:

• Most hotels and coffee shops offer free Wi-Fi, perfect for working or staying connected with family and friends back home.
• Most hostels also host social events and even offer opportunities for solo travelers to band together for outings of mutual interest. Many hostels also have bulletin boards where guests can post lift requests, which means some company on the road and gas money.
• Joining a group excursion or tour is an excellent way to meet fellow travelers. Trips like Northern Lights hunting or hiking tours, for example, are especially known for their social atmosphere. Some tours can only be done with a guide (such as glacier hiking); these guides are usually local people that can provide great insights into Icelandic culture, so these tours are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the country while making friends at the same time.
• Joining a lunch or dining tour is one of the most enjoyable ways to meet people. You'll discover traditional Icelandic foods like skyr, hákarl (fermented shark), harðfiskur, or kjötsúpa while socializing with fellow travelers.
• Finally, for those who want to find friends while in Iceland, you can search Facebook groups like “Travel Buddies Iceland” and “Solo Travelers Iceland” to find people who are looking to share their trip with you. If that doesn’t work, Iceland’s hot springs and swimming pools tend to act as hubs for connecting people!

What to Pack for a Solo Iceland Road Trip

Below, we give some insight into essential items to include on your solo Iceland road trip:

Essentials for Driving and Comfort

• Driver’s license (and International Driving Permit if required)
• Credit card with chip and PIN for rentals and fuel
• Offline maps (cell service can be spotty in remote areas)
• Reusable water bottle (tap water is pure and free!)
• Snacks for long stretches between towns

Seasonal Packing Lists

For the Summer Months:

• Waterproof clothing and gear (this is not just to be prepared for rainy weather, but is invaluable when visiting our waterfalls with their powerful mist and spray)
• Clothes you can layer (to be prepared for all conditions, you need to ensure that you’ll always be able to take something off or put something on)
• Hiking boots (also preferably waterproof)
• Sleep mask (the additional daylight hours and the Midnight Sun can cause havoc on one’s sleeping patterns)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (summer is still summer, even in Iceland)

For the Winter Months:

• Insulated, waterproof outerwear (same reason as the summer months, but with the additional moistness of snow and ice to consider)
• Thermal layers (to further keep the cold at bay)
• Warm gloves, hat (we recommend a woolen beanie for both warmth and comfort), scarf
• Crampons for icy walks

Snacks, Power, and Entertainment on the Road

• Local snacks: Skyr, Icelandic chocolate, dried fish (for the brave ones)
• Car chargers and other portable chargers for phones and cameras
• Playlists and podcasts: A good road trip playlist or a podcast to keep you company while on the road

Things to bear in mind

• Iceland's currency is ISK (Icelandic krona) but credit card payment is widely use.
• If you come from the USA or UK, remember you need a travel adaptor. Iceland uses the standard European schuko plug type. Standard voltage is 230V.
• If you travel during the summertime, bring an eye mask, as the midnight sun can keep you up all night.

Sustainable Solo Travel in Iceland

There is nothing we Icelanders love more than sharing our island with visitors who want to appreciate its beauty. Still, ensuring that the island remains as beautiful as it is now for future generations is something we are passionate about.

Try to always stay within marked roads and parking lots. Remember that off-roading is illegal on the island and that moss, if damaged, can take decades to grow back again.

Recycling and throwing your trash away in the appropriate bins can help ensure you leave nature as you found it. If you are going on a road trip, opt for a fuel-efficient or hybrid car where possible. For example, we offer a range of eco-friendly options.

Finally, make sure to support local businesses and eco-certified accommodations to minimize your footprint on our environment.

Final Words from Your Friendly Icelandic Car Rental Friends

You’re officially ready for your solo trip to Iceland! Remember, Iceland is not only extremely safe, but it is a haven for adventure seekers who want to be enthralled by its incredible beauty. So don’t hesitate, grab your keys, prep your playlist, rent a car in Iceland, and hit the road to explore all that the Land of Fire and Ice has to offer.