Winter Driving
- Use studded or winter tires mandatory Nov-Apr
- Keep speed low on icy roads (30-50 km/h)
- Increase following distance to 4-5 seconds
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
Safety & Travel Tips
Expert guidance and local knowledge for safe and enjoyable travels in Iceland
Tip of the Day
The last river before Landmannalaugar is deceptively dangerous and claims many vehicles every year. Parking is available before the crossing, and the walk to Landmannalaugar takes only 5 minutes. Don't risk it — park and walk.
Weather-Related Tips
Strong Winds
- Hold car doors firmly when opening
- Reduce speed in high wind areas
- Watch for sudden gusts near mountains
- Park the car with the front facing the wind
Midnight Sun & Darkness
- Wear sunglasses even at midnight in summer
- Use blackout curtains for sleep
- Drive with headlights on 24/7
- Take breaks to avoid fatigue
Essential Safety Tips
Emergency Number
+354 5224499 hertz emergency, 112 Police
You can also send us an email to emergency@hertz.is
Share Location
Use safetravel.is check-in system
Keep Charged
Always have phone battery backup
Download Maps
Offline maps for no-signal areas
Driving Best Practices
Before You Drive
Inspect vehicle for damage and tire pressure- Plan route and identify fuel stops
Check weather forecast and road conditions
Document pre-existing vehicle damage
During Your Drive
Take breaks every 2 hours to rest
Stay hydrated and keep snacks available
Respect wildlife - stop if sheep on road
Avoid driving at night in winter conditions
Local Insider Tips
Kilometer charge - road tax
Iceland introduced a new road usage tax for all vehicles.
Volcanos
The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced recent volcanic eruptions, and activity can continue with little warning.
Trucks and blinkers
You will encounter Trucks on your journey around Iceland
Single-Lane Bridges
Yield to traffic already on the bridge. Pull over at designated passing places.
Respect Protected Areas
Stay on marked paths and designated parking areas to protect Iceland's fragile nature.
Pack Extra Layers
Weather can change dramatically in minutes. Always have warm clothing, even in summer.
Quick Reference Guide
Do's
- Fill up gas tank regularly
- Drive with headlights always on
- Use Signals to allow faster traffic to overtake
- Check weather before departure
- Respect speed limits
Don'ts
- Don't drive off-road
- Don't stop on main roads for photos
- Don't underestimate distances
- Don't ignore road closure signs
- Don't drive tired
Important Apps
- 112 Iceland - Emergency app
- Vedur.is - Weather forecasts
- Road.is - Road conditions
- Safetravel.is - Travel plans
- Gas.is - Fuel prices