Renting Camping Gear in Iceland – A Complete Guide
Iceland has become one of Europe's most sought-after travel destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year with its waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, geothermal hot springs, and endless landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. While the country offers unforgettable experiences, it is also famous for something else—its high prices.
Accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities can quickly consume a travel budget. That's why more and more travelers are discovering that renting camping gear in Iceland is one of the smartest ways to experience the country while significantly reducing travel costs.
Camping gives visitors something that hotels simply cannot offer: complete freedom. Instead of planning every day around hotel reservations, you can follow the weather, spend longer at your favorite locations, chase the midnight sun during summer, or wake up next to breathtaking mountains and waterfalls.
Whether you're planning a week-long Ring Road adventure or exploring the famous Golden Circle, renting camping gear allows you to experience Iceland on your own terms while saving hundreds—or even thousands—of euros.
In this guide, we'll explain why renting camping gear in Iceland is worth it, compare camping costs with hotel prices, show real examples of potential savings, explain what camping equipment you actually need, and help you decide whether renting or buying gear makes more sense.
Why Is Iceland Perfect for Camping?
Unlike many countries where camping is only practical in remote wilderness areas, Iceland has developed an extensive network of campgrounds spread throughout the entire country.
You'll find campsites near:
- Reykjavik
- The Golden Circle
- South Coast attractions
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- East Fjords
- North Iceland
- Lake Mývatn
- Westfjords
- Highlands (during summer)
Many campsites include facilities such as:
- Hot showers
- Toilets
- Kitchens
- Electricity
- Common dining areas
Because distances between attractions are often long, camping also saves valuable driving time. Instead of returning to a hotel hours away, you stay closer to the places you want to visit.
Read our article about the best campsites near Reykjavík.
Why Renting Camping Gear in Iceland Makes More Sense Than Buying It
Many travelers initially consider purchasing cheap camping equipment after landing in Iceland.
On paper, this might sound like a good idea.
In reality, it usually isn't.
Buying camping equipment means:
- Spending time shopping
- Paying Iceland's high retail prices
- Carrying bulky gear throughout your trip
- Finding somewhere to dispose of or donate equipment before departure
Instead, renting camping gear in Iceland gives you everything you need immediately after arrival.
Benefits include:
- No luggage fees for tents or sleeping bags
- Professional outdoor equipment
- Clean and sanitized gear
- Easy pickup and return
- No waste
- No storage problems
For travelers flying internationally, renting is almost always the simpler and more economical option.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent Camping Gear in Iceland?
One of the biggest advantages of renting is predictable pricing.
As an example:
A complete camping kit for one week typically costs around €350.
A complete camping kit typically includes everything needed for a comfortable camping trip in Iceland. Most packages come with a quality tent, warm sleeping bags, and insulated sleeping mats to ensure a good night's rest. You'll also receive camping chairs and a folding table for added comfort at the campsite, along with a portable stove, gas canister, and a full set of cooking equipment. Kitchen essentials usually include pots and pans, plates, cups, cutlery, and various cooking utensils, allowing you to prepare meals just as you would at home. With all the essential gear included in one package, travelers can arrive in Iceland without worrying about bringing bulky camping equipment in their luggage.
Instead of purchasing all of these items separately, everything is ready when you arrive.
For couples or families, the savings become even greater because many items are shared.
Car Camping Kits – The Most Popular Option
Not everyone needs a full camping setup.
Many visitors already rent a camper-friendly vehicle or simply want cooking equipment without carrying a tent.
One of the most popular options is the car camping kit.
As an example, a car camping kit costs approximately €100 for one week.
A car camping kit typically includes a camping stove, gas canister, cookware, plates, bowls, cups, cutlery, and other kitchen essentials needed to prepare meals on the road. It's an excellent option for travelers staying in campervans or vehicles equipped for overnight stays, helping reduce restaurant expenses throughout the trip.
Hotel Costs vs Camping Costs in Iceland
|
Hotel Trip (7 Days for 2 People) |
Camping Trip (7 Days for 2 People) |
|---|---|
|
Hotel accommodation: €1,540 |
Campgrounds: €280 +Camping gear rental: €350 |
|
Restaurant meals: €700 |
Meals: €250 |
|
Total: €2,240 |
Total: €880 |
Total Savings
Hotel trip: €2,240
Camping trip: €880
Potential savings: €1,360
That's enough money to:
- Visit multiple geothermal spas
- Join glacier hikes
- Go whale watching
- Book ice cave tours
- Extend your Iceland vacation
Camping doesn't just lower costs—it allows travelers to spend more on unforgettable experiences.
Cooking Your Own Meals Saves Hundreds of Euros
Dining out in Iceland is expensive.
Typical prices include:
- Burger: €18–25
- Pizza: €20–30
- Fish dinner: €30–45
- Coffee: €5–7
- Breakfast: €18–25
Now imagine paying these prices three times every day for an entire week.
With rented camping equipment, cooking becomes easy.
Many travelers shop at supermarkets such as Bónus, Krónan, or Nettó before beginning their road trip.
Simple meals like pasta, soup, sandwiches, eggs, or rice dishes can significantly reduce food expenses while giving you the flexibility to eat whenever and wherever you like.
Camping Gives You More Freedom
Hotels require schedules.
Camping offers flexibility.
If you discover a hidden waterfall, you can stay longer.
If the weather changes, you can simply adjust your route.
This flexibility is one of the biggest reasons experienced Iceland travelers choose camping.
What Is Usually Included When Renting Camping Gear in Iceland?
Most full camping packages include:
Sleeping Equipment
- Tent
- Sleeping bags
- Sleeping mats
Cooking Equipment
- Gas Stove
- Pot and pan
- Plates
- Bowls
- Cups
- Cutlery
- Knife
- Chopping board
Camping Furniture
Is Camping Comfortable in Iceland?
Many first-time visitors worry that Iceland is too cold for camping.
In reality, thousands of people camp across Iceland every summer.
Modern camping gear is designed for Icelandic conditions.
Quality sleeping bags and insulated sleeping mats provide warmth even when temperatures drop overnight.
Many campgrounds also include:
- Heated indoor kitchens
- Shower facilities
- Electricity
Camping today is far more comfortable than many people imagine.
Best Time for Camping in Iceland
The camping season generally runs from late May until September.
June, July, and August offer:
- Mild temperatures
- Long daylight hours
- Open Highland roads
- Fully operating campgrounds
September remains a popular month because:
- Fewer tourists
- Autumn colors
- Chance of seeing the Northern Lights
Outside summer, many campgrounds close, making hotels or campervans with winter facilities more practical.
Tips Before Renting Camping Gear in Iceland
To make the most of your trip:
- Reserve equipment early during peak summer.
- Choose gear suitable for Iceland's weather.
- Check exactly what's included.
- Pack layered clothing.
- Bring waterproof outerwear.
- Plan grocery stops before entering remote regions.
- Download offline maps.
- Respect campground rules.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Good preparation makes camping safer, easier, and far more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renting Camping Gear in Iceland
Yes. For many travelers, camping is significantly cheaper. A one-week camping trip with rented equipment and campground fees can cost hundreds of euros less than staying in hotels, especially for couples, families, and groups.
A complete camping kit for one week typically costs around €350, while many travelers choose a car camping kit for approximately €100 per week if they already have suitable sleeping arrangements.
No. Renting allows you to travel with lighter luggage while receiving quality equipment upon arrival in Iceland.
Yes. Most camping kits include a stove, gas, cookware, plates, cutlery, and essential kitchen equipment, making it easy to prepare meals throughout your road trip.
Yes, provided you camp in designated campgrounds, monitor weather conditions, and use equipment appropriate for Iceland's climate. Following local guidelines and checking forecasts before traveling helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Whether your goal is saving money, enjoying greater freedom, or experiencing Iceland's extraordinary landscapes more closely, renting camping gear in Iceland is one of the smartest choices available.
Compared with hotel accommodation, camping can reduce travel costs by well over a thousand euros during a one-week trip while giving you the flexibility to explore the country at your own pace. A full camping kit for around €350 per week offers excellent value, and for those who only need cooking essentials, a car camping kit for approximately €100 per week is an affordable way to cut food expenses dramatically.
Instead of spending most of your budget on hotel rooms and restaurant meals, you'll have more money available for glacier hikes, whale watching, geothermal lagoons, ice caves, and other unforgettable adventures that make Iceland so special.
If you're planning a road trip around the Land of Fire and Ice, renting camping gear in Iceland is more than just a budget-friendly option—it's a practical, flexible, and memorable way to experience everything this remarkable country has to offer.