Traveling to Iceland in the off-season can be a great way to save money and enjoy a more quiet experience. If you’re considering driving in Iceland in February with a camper rental in Iceland, it’s essential to be prepared for the journey. As you will be visiting in the midst of winter, you will need to have winter driving experience and be ready to remain flexible throughout the trip.
February in Iceland can be snowy, icy, and windy, with severe storms that can leave you restricted to one area for a day or two. By preparing for your trip and understanding what you can expect, you can ensure you have a fantastic trip, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
The Unique Experience of Winter Camper Travel in Iceland
Winter camping in Iceland isn’t an experience for everyone. However, if you’re looking for an adventure and have winter driving experience, a campervan trip can be the perfect way to see the country. While fewer campgrounds are open in the winter, you still get the advantage of being a little more flexible with your travel plans while traveling in a camper.
A winter camper trip in Iceland gives you more flexibility and allows you to take the comfort of your accommodations everywhere you go. You will be able to enjoy the breathtaking winter landscapes from a different perspective than taking a tour or driving yourself and staying in hotels and guesthouses. There’s nothing better than waking up to the solitude of a wintry landscape.
February Weather and Road Conditions in Iceland
Once you have selected February for your winter campervan experience in Iceland, you will need to know how to check weather and road conditions daily. The conditions in Iceland can change rapidly, and severe storms are common in February, making it vital to keep a close eye on the conditions so you can change your travel plans as necessary.
February weather can be volatile with severe storms that can delay your travel plans, but with proper planning and flexibility, renting a campervan in Iceland this time of year can still be an adventure of a lifetime.
What to Expect for Weather
The temperatures in Iceland in February generally hover right around freezing with a range of -3 to 3°C (26 to 34°F), with wind chills a bit lower. Precipitation is also common during this month, usually in the form of snow, which means you will likely need plenty of layers and a windproof, waterproof outer layer to stay warm and dry. The Reykjavik area and south see less snow than the north and east.
Daylight hours in February can vary significantly between the beginning and end of the month. In the beginning, you will generally see sunrise around 10 am and sunset shortly after 5 pm. The end of the month extends daytime to sunrise around 8:30 am and sunset around 6:45 pm.
Road Maintenance and Accessibility
The main roads around Iceland, including the Ring Road and other paved roads throughout the country, are well maintained in February. However, it’s important to note that the F-roads will not be open, and some other popular routes may be closed. Checking road conditions will help you see where you can go and which areas will be off-limits during your trip.
Driving in Iceland in February requires you to maintain flexibility and understand that there are some sights you may not be able to check off on your itinerary. If there is severe weather in parts of the country, you can expect roads to close, possibly keeping you in a location for longer than expected.
How to Choose the Right Camper for Winter Travel
Not all campers are equipped to handle the harsh winter weather in Iceland, particularly in February. When booking your campervan, you will need to look for one that has appropriate heating, insulation, and other features that will keep you comfortable and safe throughout your trip. You also want plenty of space in case you are stuck in one place for a day.
Essential Camper Features for Cold Weather
The camper you rent for driving in Iceland in February must be properly equipped to keep out the cold and ensure you have a safe camping experience. A winter campervan should be well insulated and come with a heater you can safely operate throughout the night without draining the camper battery. These features will ensure you have a comfortable sleeping environment.
In addition to insulation and a heater, make sure the campervan you rent is outfitted with winter tires to give it a better grip on icy or snowy roads. A 4x4 can also be beneficial in the winter months.
Recommended Camper Models for Winter Journeys
The Renault Trafic or Renault Master is a good choice for your winter camper journey in Iceland. These campers can accommodate three and four passengers, respectively, giving you plenty of space during your trip. They include automatic heaters and are insulated to keep you warm during the cold winter nights.
The VW Transporter is another great winter option with room for up to five passengers, making it an ideal choice for families. With an automatic heating system and studded winter tires, you can feel confident that your winter journey will be safe and comfortable.
If you want a 4x4 option for driving in Iceland in February, the Mercedes Marco Polo accommodates up to four passengers. This model also features an automatic heater and is well-equipped to handle the winter weather conditions in Iceland.
Getting Ready for Your Winter Camper Trip
Now that you have secured your winter campervan rental, it’s time to start planning and preparing for your trip. Traveling to Iceland in winter requires packing appropriate gear and planning an itinerary with a backup to ensure you can make changes along the way if weather impedes your journey.
Packing Checklist for Winter Camper Travel
As with any time of year, you will need to pack layers, including base layers, short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, wool socks, and pants or leggings. You will also need swimming gear, sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, and windproof, waterproof outer layers. It’s beneficial to have a hat and gloves to wear as needed.
In addition to your typical Iceland packing list, visiting in February requires a bit more preparation. A headlamp or flashlight is beneficial due to the reduced daylight. You should also bring crampons and a first aid kit to maintain safety. Put together an emergency kit to bring along, including blankets, water, non-perishable food, and chargers for your electronics.
Understanding Icelandic Road Signs and Regulations
Beyond the winter conditions, driving on Icelandic roads is relatively straightforward. Many of the road signs you encounter will be similar to those you see at home. Icelanders drive on the right side of the road, and many of the roadways are narrow roads with one lane traveling in either direction. You may encounter some one-way bridges and tunnels in certain areas, so be aware.
There may be some regulations that differ from what you are used to. Roundabouts have unique rules where the inner lane has the right-of-way. Those in the outer lane should yield to exiting vehicles from the inner lane as necessary. There is also no right turn on a red light. You should also never pull over randomly on the road as there is no shoulder. Wait for a designated pull-out or parking area.
Safety Tips for Driving in Winter Conditions
If you don’t already have winter driving experience, driving in Iceland in February isn’t advised. It’s not a good place to learn how to drive on snowy or icy roads when visibility may be minimal. However, if you have experience driving in winter conditions, you can safely navigate the country as long as you follow road and weather conditions.
Techniques for Navigating Snowy and Icy Roads
First and foremost, you should leave more time than you expect to allow for driving slower due to snowy and icy roads. The speed limits in Iceland are based on ideal road conditions. Snow, ice, and wind require slowing down. Pay attention to the reflective sticks. They are positioned every 50 meters and will show you the way if the road is difficult to see.
While driving, keep a safe distance from the car ahead so you have time to stop if needed and avoid sudden braking or other movements if possible. Keep your headlights on at all times to ensure visibility. Watch for black ice, particularly on bridges, and be careful on curves, roundabouts, and hills.
Utilizing Weather and Road Monitoring Tools
The most important thing to do when driving in Iceland in February is to pay close attention to the weather and road conditions. Weather in Iceland changes rapidly, so you will need to monitor the conditions regularly throughout the day to maintain safety.
Before you start your journey for the day, check the weather conditions on the Icelandic Met Office website. This website will give you an overview of the current and predicted weather and any upcoming weather warnings. Keep in mind that Icelandic weather can be challenging to predict, and the forecast is likely to change, so check often.
Road conditions are found on the Icelandic Road Administration website, which features a color-coded map that lets you know which roads are passable and which are not. The color indicates the condition of the road, and road temperature and wind speeds can also be found. Adhere to any road closures.
Finally, you should monitor the Safe Travel website. This website is packed with valuable information about staying safe in Iceland and will highlight any weather and other travel-related warnings. Check the site daily to stay updated on the latest conditions so you can adjust your plans if needed.
Creating Your Ideal Itinerary
Although it’s best to stay flexible with your itinerary when driving in Iceland in February, you will still want to create a loose itinerary to give you a general idea of where you want to go and which campgrounds will be open. You are required to stay in a campground, so you will need to know where you can stay during your trip.
Must-Visit Winter-Friendly Destinations
Not all tourist destinations are easy to reach in the winter months, but most of the sights on or near the Ring Road are accessible. Many visitors stick to the South Coast and Golden Circle during winter because these routes are well-maintained and easy to drive. Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another great route for a winter trip as long as the weather cooperates.
Winter is the perfect time to visit the ice caves. While Katla Ice Cave is open year-round, the famous blue ice caves you’ve likely seen in pictures are generally only accessible during the winter months for safety reasons. The northern lights are also prominent in the winter months, with plenty of darkness to give you the opportunity to view this natural phenomenon.
Which Campgrounds Are Open Year-Round?
Tjalda.is is the main website to view many of the campgrounds located throughout Iceland. On this website, you can filter campgrounds by which ones are open year-round, making it easy for you to map out your destinations.
The Reykjavík, Garðskagi, and Sandgerði campgrounds are open year-round and make good locations for your first and last night to keep you close to the airport. If you want to stay near the Golden Circle, the Úthlíð campground is an option. Selfoss, Hveragerði, Hellishólar, Skógafoss, and Skaftafell are available along the South Coast.
As you travel up the East Coast, you can stay at Djúpivogur, Fossárdalur, or Egilsstaðir. Several options are also open in the North, including Mánárbakki, Ártún, Hamrar in Akureyri, Bakkaflöt, Blönduós, and CJA Camping in Hjalli. In the West, your options include Tjaldsvæðið Illugastöðum, Grundarfjörður, Snorrastaðir, Tjaldsvæðið Djúpadal, and Búðardalur.
Advantages of Winter Camper Travel
Even though camping isn’t everyone’s first thought when planning a winter trip to Iceland, this type of travel has its advantages, even in February. Weighing the pros and cons can help you make the best decision for your trip.
Capturing the Northern Lights from Remote Locations
One of the top reasons people visit Iceland in the winter is to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. If you’re staying in hotels in the city or the towns around the country, you will have to contend with light pollution. While you can certainly still see the Northern Lights in these locations, you can get much better pictures away from the light pollution.
When you are camping in Iceland in February, you will be staying in more remote locations, optimizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. In addition, when you capture pictures of the phenomenon, you’ll have a beautiful backdrop like snowy mountains, pristine lakes, or impressive waterfalls.
Participating in Winter Festivals and Events
If you are visiting in February, there are also several festivals to enjoy. In early February, Reykjavik comes to life with the Winter Lights Festival. Thorrablot is also celebrated with many traditional Icelandic foods. The Food and Fun Festival also takes place this month.
Depending on where Easter falls, you may also be in Iceland during the beginning of the Lent celebrations. The Monday before Ash Wednesday is called Bolludagur, a day when Icelanders enjoy delicious cream buns from the bakery. The following day is Sprengidagur, a day when Icelanders eat salted meat and yellow bean soup until they “burst.”
Embrace Your Campervan Adventure in February with Preparedness
While driving in Iceland in February isn’t for everyone, it’s perfectly doable as long as you use caution and are prepared for everything Mother Nature can throw your way.
So choose your preferred four-wheeled companion, pack up all of your clothes and your sense of adventure, winter is coming!