Traveling with kids is challenging enough without worrying about Iceland's car seat laws. And let's face it; nothing ruins a road trip faster than realizing your car seat doesn't meet Iceland's strict regulations only once you have landed and did not do proper research in advance. Did you know that US car seats aren't legal under Iceland's car seat laws?
Most people don't, and it could cost you a hefty fine or even void your rental car insurance. Feeling a little overwhelmed? You're not alone, but don't stress. We've sorted through the legal jargon, so you don't have to. In this guide, you'll get the facts you need to travel safely and confidently.
Type of Baby Seats for Your Car Rental
When renting a camper in Iceland, understanding the type of baby seat you'll need is crucial. Here's the lowdown on the four types of baby seats usually available from rental companies:
Rear-Facing Infant Seats
Rear-facing infant seats are designed for newborns and babies up to about 2 years old. This is the safest option for protecting your baby's head, neck, and spine in a crash because they face the back of the car.
Most models come with a detachable base that stays in the car, making it easy to move a sleeping baby without waking them. They can be installed using either the car's seatbelt or the ISOFIX system, which is common in Icelandic rental cars. These seats always go in the back seat, never in front of an active airbag.
Forward-Facing Toddler Seats
Once your child outgrows the rear-facing seat, the next step is a forward-facing toddler seat. These are designed for children who weigh between 9-18 kg (20-40 lbs). They come with a 5-point harness system that keeps your child safe and secure, no matter how wiggly they get.
You can install them using either the seatbelt or ISOFIX system. For added stability, most forward-facing seats use a top tether, which is also compatible with most rental cars in Iceland.
Booster Seats
Booster seats are for bigger kids who've outgrown their forward-facing seats but aren't yet big enough for the car's seatbelt alone. These seats raise your child up so the seatbelt fits properly across their chest and lap, not their neck or stomach. There are two types:
High-Back Boosters: Provide head and neck support, which is especially useful for long road trips.
Backless Boosters: These are for older kids who no longer need head support but still need a boost to fit the seatbelt properly.
These seats don't have their own harness. They use the car's seatbelt to secure your child. Booster seats are widely available from rental companies in Iceland.
Convertible Seats
Convertible seats are the most versatile option because they grow with your child. These seats can start as rear-facing for infants and then convert to forward-facing as your child gets bigger. Some models even turn into booster seats, making them a one-seat solution from birth to early childhood.
They have higher weight and height limits than infant-only seats, so they last longer. Convertible seats come with a 5-point harness system and can be installed using the seatbelt or ISOFIX system. Just follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation and adjustment.
Availability in Iceland
Most rental companies in Iceland offer all of these types of baby seats, but availability can vary. It's a good idea to book in advance and confirm the type of seat you need.
To ensure you get the right one for your little traveler, check our extras page and book your preferred seat today! If you prefer to bring your own, make sure it's compatible with Icelandic cars, especially if it uses ISOFIX.
Baby Seat Regulations According to Age and Kg
Iceland doesn't play around when it comes to child safety. The rules are strict, and the fines are no joke. Here's what you need to know about Iceland's car seat regulations, broken down by age and weight.
Infants (0-2 years)
For infants from birth up to 13 kg (29 lbs), rear-facing seats are mandatory. This isn't just about safety; it's the law. In Iceland, rear-facing seats must be used until at least 15 months old. However, safety experts recommend keeping them rear-facing until age 3, even if they exceed 13 kg. These seats must always go in the back seat. It is illegal and unsafe to put them in the front seat if there's an active airbag.
Toddlers (2-4 years)
Once your child outgrows the rear-facing seat, they can transition to a forward-facing car seat. These are required by law for kids weighing between 9-18 kg (20-40 lbs). Under Icelandic law, children must remain rear-facing until at least 15 months old, but it's safer to keep them rear-facing as long as possible. Forward-facing seats must be installed in the back seat.
Children (4-10 years)
Booster seats are mandatory for kids weighing 15 kg (33 lbs) up to 36 kg (80 lbs). In Iceland, children must use a car seat or booster until they reach 135 cm (4'5") in height. Boosters elevate your child so the seatbelt fits properly across their chest and lap, not their neck or stomach. Icelandic law states that children under 135 cm cannot sit in the front seat if there's an active airbag. No exceptions.
Legal Exceptions and Special Considerations
Under Icelandic Law, if your child outgrows a high-back booster, they must switch to a backless booster until they reach 135 cm in height.
Children under 135 cm are not allowed to sit in the front seat with an active airbag. This rule is strictly enforced in Iceland.
No child can use a booster seat if they weigh less than 18 kg (40 lbs). If they are under the weight limit, they must be in a forward-facing seat with a harness.
Children must be at least 135 cm tall before using only a seatbelt without a booster.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Breaking Iceland's car seat laws comes with serious consequences. A fine for not using the correct child safety equipment in a car is ISK 30,000 ($250). The same penalty applies to the driver if a child over 135 cm (4'5") but under 15 years of age does not use the seat belt.
What Child Seat Should I Use in Iceland?
With Iceland's rugged terrain and long road trips, getting the right seat makes all the difference. Here's what you need to know to keep your child safe and comfortable during your Icelandic adventure.
Factors to Consider - Child's Age, Weight, and Height
0-13 kg (0-2 years): Rear-facing infant seat.
9-18 kg (1-4 years): Forward-facing child seat.
15-36 kg (4-12 years): Booster seat.
Above 135 cm (4'5 "): Regular seatbelt, but only if it fits properly.
Recommendations for Different Scenarios
Short Urban Trips
Lightweight and Portable: If you're just driving around Reykjavik, go for something that's easy to install and remove.
Convertible Seats: These are great for flexibility as they can adapt as your child grows.
Long Rural Road Trips
Extra Padding and Support: Choose a seat with extra padding and adjustable features. It's a long way around the Ring Road and comfort matters.
Multiple Recline Positions: If you want your child to nap comfortably, a reclining seat is a good option.
F-Road Adventures
Strong Side-Impact Protection: Iceland's F-Roads are no joke. Make sure the seat offers serious protection.
Tight Security: The seat should be tightly secured to minimize movement on bumpy roads.
FAQs About Iceland's Car Seat Laws
Do the rental cars in Iceland have baby seats?
Yes, most rental companies in Iceland offer baby seats, but availability varies. It's best to reserve in advance to ensure the right type and size.
Is a car seat mandatory in Iceland?
Yes, Icelandic law requires children under 135 cm (4'5") to use an appropriate car seat. Fines apply for non-compliance, and safety standards are strictly enforced.
What age is not allowed to sit in the front seat?
Children under 135 cm (4'5") cannot sit in the front seat if there is an active airbag. This rule is strictly enforced for safety reasons.
Can I use my own car seat from home in Iceland?
Only if it meets European safety standards. US-approved car seats are not legal in Iceland due to different safety regulations and requirements.
How much does it cost to rent a baby seat in Iceland?
Renting a baby seat in Iceland costs around $28 per day, but prices vary by rental company. It's cheaper for short trips than bringing your own.
Understanding Baby Seat Regulations in Iceland
Iceland's car seat laws aren't just guidelines. They're non-negotiable. But who says safety can't be fun? When you rent a campervan in Iceland, you're not just getting wheels. You're getting the ultimate family adventure.
Imagine the freedom to explore at your own pace, pull over for breathtaking views, or take a snack break whenever the kids get hungry. No rigid schedules, no cramped car seats, just pure exploration and family memories waiting to be made. Got questions? We're here 24/7.
Call us at +354 539-0605 or email us at info@campervanreykjavik.com. Start your Icelandic adventure the fun way.