Why renting a car in Iceland is a top question

One of the most frequently asked questions by travelers planning a trip to Iceland is: Do I need to rent a car? The short answer? Yes. If you want the best experience, a rental car is the key to unlocking Iceland’s beauty on your own terms and with full flexibility.

But not all car rental experiences are created equal. At Zero Car Rental, we’ve redefined the process to make it easier, faster, and stress-free—so you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics.

Why is renting a car in Iceland so important?

Iceland’s landscapes are vast, wild, and often remote. Public transport is limited, and tours can be restrictive. Renting a car means you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you want, and reach breathtaking locations that buses don’t go to.

Some key reasons travelers ask about renting a car in Iceland:

• Public transport doesn’t reach most attractions – The famous Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and highland roads are inaccessible without your own vehicle.
• Tours are expensive and inflexible – Group tours follow strict schedules, limiting your ability to explore freely.
• Weather and daylight hours vary – Iceland’s changing conditions mean having flexibility is a huge advantage.
• Unique road trips require personal transport – Driving the Ring Road, exploring the Westfjords, or venturing into the Highlands is only possible with your own rental car. Make sure to have a safe journey in Iceland

What makes Zero Car Rental different?

Car rental should be simple. Yet many companies overcomplicate things with long wait times, hidden fees, and confusing insurance policies. That’s where Zero Car Rental stands out.

We do things differently:

• Zero waiting at KEF Airport – No counter, no paperwork, no lines. Pick up your keys from a secure keybox at Keflavik Airport and start driving immediately.
• Full Flexibility - You can not only collect your car from KEF airport, we also service from Downtown Reykjavik!
• Zero hassle – Our rental process is designed to be straightforward: what you book is what you get, no surprises.
• Zero hidden fees – Full insurance with zero excess, unlimited mileage, and no security deposit required. The price you see is the price you pay.
• Zero uncertainty – 24/7 roadside assistance and easy online booking mean you’re never left in the dark.

Booking your car: Why it pays to plan ahead

A common mistake travelers make is assuming they can rent a car last minute. Demand for rental cars in Iceland is high, especially in peak seasons. Booking in advance not only guarantees the best price but also ensures you get the vehicle that suits your trip.

With Zero Car Rental, you don’t have to worry about:

• Last-minute availability issues – We guarantee your car will be ready when you arrive.
• Complicated insurance options – Every rental includes full coverage with no excess and roadside assistance. Do not fret between different insurances, coverages, etc. We got you covered!
• Hidden costs – Unlike many companies, we don’t hit you with surprise add-ons.

What type of car do you need?

Many travelers wonder, Do I need a 4x4 in Iceland? The answer depends on your travel plans:

• Sticking to Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the Ring Road? A 2WD is perfect for paved roads and mild conditions.
• Visiting in winter or driving on gravel roads? A 4x4 gives you better control and safety.
• Planning a Highland adventure? You must have a 4x4—F-roads are off-limits to regular vehicles.

Seasonal driving is more complex in Iceland but it is a unique and very rewarding activity. Just take your time and plan accordingly. 

What to know before you drive

Driving in Iceland is different from most other places. To make the most of your rental, keep these key points in mind:

• Headlights must be on at all times, day or night.
• Weather changes fast – Always check road.is for the latest updates.
• Off-road driving is illegal – Protect Iceland’s fragile nature and avoid huge fines.
• Single-lane bridges and gravel roads require caution – Slow down and yield when necessary. You can read more on road signs and driving regulations in Iceland here.

Seasonal Considerations: Renting a car in summer vs. winter

Another frequent question is whether renting a car is different depending on the season. The answer? Absolutely.

• Summer (June – August): The easiest driving conditions, long daylight hours, and dry roads. But also the busiest season—book early!
• Winter (November – March): Snow, ice, and reduced daylight mean you need a 4x4 and studded tires. Check weather and road conditions daily.
• Spring & Fall (April – May, September – October): A mix of summer and winter conditions—prepare for anything.

Packing essentials for your Icelandic adventure

Having the right essentials makes all the difference when renting a car in Iceland. Here’s what you should always have:

• A GPS or download offline maps – Mobile service is unreliable in remote areas.
• Warm clothing and waterproof layers – Iceland’s weather can turn quickly.
• Snacks and water – Some stretches of road have no shops for miles - and you don't want to get hangry!
• PRO TIP - No need for bottled water - Iceland has some of the best water quality in the world, just use your favourite refillable bottle from any tap or faucet and help mother nature with one less plastic container.

Why choose Zero Car Rental for your Iceland journey?

The real question isn’t Should I rent a car in Iceland? but Why should I choose Zero?

Here’s why:

• Skip the rental counter – Your car is ready when you land in KEF Airport. Pick up your keys and go or choose from Reykjavik once you are already in Iceland.
• Full insurance included – No upsells, no surprises.
• No deposit required – Keep your budget flexible.
• Unlimited mileage – Drive as much as you want, stress-free.

Book your car rental in Iceland with Zero stress

Iceland is best explored on your own terms, and the right rental car makes all the difference. Skip the headaches and choose a rental company that puts convenience, transparency, and simplicity first.

Reserve your rental car Iceland with Zero today and experience Iceland the way it was meant to be enjoyed—zero stress, zero hassle, just drive.