The difference between campers and motorhomes

A Campervan vs a motorhome in Iceland isn’t just a size issue. It’s a question of how you want to move, eat, sleep, and deal with Iceland’s moody weather and narrow roads. One’s nimble and bare-bones. The other’s a rolling apartment with baggage. 

Literally and logistically. If you’re mapping out a road trip, this guide breaks down what matters: space, comfort, price, driving stress, and which one actually fits the kind of trip you’re planning. 

We’re not here to rank vehicles by stars. We’re here to show you what works, what doesn’t, and what too many blogs won’t say out loud.

Understanding the Difference Between a Campervan and a Motorhome

When you rent a campervan in Iceland, you’re deciding how you’ll sleep, cook, and survive the wind. The difference between campervan and motorhome setups is bigger than most think. Let’s get into it.

What is a Campervan in Iceland?

A campervan in Iceland is a stripped-down van made for people who want movement over comfort. Most seat and sleep between one and four. You’ll get a basic bed, a tiny kitchen with a gas stove, and maybe a diesel heater if you’re lucky. 

These aren’t built for lounging. They’re built to move, park, and crash. Sizes range from around 4.5 to 6 meters long (15 to 20 feet), with tight interiors that demand you travel light. Icelandic rentals don’t pretend these are RVs. They’re for the kind of traveler who’d rather chase views than waste time inside.

What is a Motorhome (RV) in Iceland?

A motorhome in Iceland is the top tier of Icelandic road trip vehicle options if comfort ranks higher than flexibility. These are self-contained rigs, usually 6 to 7.5 meters long (20 to 25 feet), built with European efficiency in mind. You get a real bathroom, a kitchenette with a stove and fridge, heating, and a place to sit that isn’t your bed. 

Unlike the oversized RVs common in North America, Icelandic motorhomes are smaller and more compact, but still not nimble. They work best on paved roads with wide turns and steady stops. Don’t expect to take one into the Highlands.

Why the Terms Differ in the US vs Europe

Americans call everything an RV. Slap a mattress in the back of a truck? RV. Tow a mansion behind your pickup? Still an RV. It stands for ‘recreational vehicle,’ which covers just about anything with wheels and a bed. In Europe, and Iceland especially, we like our definitions straight. 

A campervan is a compact van with the bare essentials. A motorhome is larger, self-contained, and has a toilet that doesn’t involve squatting in the wind. Why the split? Roads here are narrow, fuel is expensive, and nobody’s parking a 12-meter bus outside a waterfall. 

The camper vs RV confusion starts when Americans show up expecting a rolling hotel suite, then look personally offended when handed a van that doesn’t come with granite countertops.

Campervans in Iceland: Features, Pros, and Limitations

So what does a campervan actually offer once you’re on the road? Let’s look at what you’re really signing up for in the campervan vs motorhome debate.

Key Features of Icelandic Campervans

Campervans in Iceland are built to get the job done so you can eat, sleep, and hit the road in a practical way. Here’s what you usually get:

• Layout options - Pop-top or fixed-roof, no nonsense inside
• Sleeping setup - Bed platform and not much else, but it works
• Kitchen gear - Gas stove, fridge, and just enough gear to avoid cold sandwiches
• Heating - Webasto or parking heater
• Power - 12V battery, maybe 230V if the campsite’s fancy
• Storage - Under the bed or stuffed in the back, take your pick
• Extras - GPS, USB ports, Wi-Fi if you’re lucky, backup cam if the gods allow

Advantages of Renting a Campervan

Selecting a campervan in Iceland gives you options that bigger rigs can’t match. The difference between campervan and motorhome travel shows up fast once you're off the main road. Here’s why:

• Easy to drive - Handles narrow and gravel roads without the stress
• Fuel efficient - Smaller engine means fewer fuel stops and less money burned
• Park anywhere - Fits into tight spots at attractions and in Reykjavik
• Flexible travel - No check-ins, no schedules, no one telling you when to leave
• Ideal for two - Great for solo trips or couples who don’t need a moving palace

Limitations to Consider Before Booking

Campervans in Iceland do come with some trade-offs. If comfort is your priority, read this first before locking one in.

• No built-in bathroom - You’ll need to use campground or public facilities
• Low ceiling height - Most models don’t let you stand fully upright
• Limited winter insulation - Not all vans are built for sub-zero nights
• Tiny cooking space - Prepping meals outside is often your only option
• Cramped in bad weather - Rain and wind make that small space feel smaller
• Minimal privacy - No doors between you and your travel buddy

Motorhomes in Iceland: Features, Pros, and Limitations

If you’re leaning toward space and comfort, a motorhome might win the camper vs RV debate for your trip. Let’s look at what these rigs actually offer before you decide to get one in Iceland.

Key Features of Icelandic Motorhomes (RVs)

Motorhomes in Iceland are built for travelers who want full comfort without relying on campsites for every basic need. Here’s what you get:

• Full standing height - Move around without crouching or crawling
• Bathroom onboard - Toilet and shower built in for actual convenience
• Complete kitchen - Stove, sink, fridge, and enough space to cook properly
• Larger water and waste tanks - Fewer stops to fill or empty anything
• Separate living space - Dining and seating area that doesn’t double as a bed
• Self-sufficiency - Built to go longer without needing outside facilities

Advantages of Renting a Motorhome

Motorhomes aren’t for everyone. But if you want to stay dry, stretch out, and skip the daily facility hunt, this is where they shine.

• More space - Best choice for families or anyone who hates cramped quarters
• Comfort in bad weather - Eat, sleep, and cook without stepping outside
• Dedicated zones - Clear separation between sleeping, dining, and relaxing
• Privacy - Doors, walls, and actual breathing room
• Extended travel - No need to rely on campsites for every basic need

Limitations to Consider Before Booking

Motorhomes offer comfort, but they don’t come without baggage. If you’re still weighing up campervan vs motorhome, these are the trade-offs worth knowing:

• Hard to handle - Tight towns and narrow rural roads can be a pain
• Fuel hungry - Bigger size means higher fuel costs per mile
• Restricted routes - Too large for many F-roads and legally banned from some
• Pricey campsites - Extra fees for power hookups and waste disposal

Key Differences Between Campervans and Motorhomes in Iceland

Choosing between a campervan and a motorhome is easy. Once you see how they stack up where it counts. Here’s how the two compare on size, comfort, access, and cost so you can book the one that actually fits your trip.

Size and Maneuverability

The space you gain in a motorhome can quickly turn into stress behind the wheel. Here’s how camper vs motorhome stacks up where it counts.

• Turning radius - Motorhomes average 21 meters (69 ft). Campervans handle tighter corners with ease
• City driving - Campervans squeeze through Reykjavik and village streets. Motorhomes often feel oversized
• Parking - Campervans slip into roadside spots. Motorhomes require serious scouting
• Road fit - Campervans handle narrow bridges and gravel roads better
• Driving ease - Campervans feel like a car. Motorhomes need focus, patience, and a bit of nerve

Comfort and Living Space

Comfort levels vary wildly across Iceland’s road trip vehicle options. Here’s how campervan vs motorhome compares once you’re stuck inside for the night.

• Standing room - Motorhomes let you stand and walk freely. Campervans keep you hunched or seated
• Seating and cooking - Motorhomes have proper dining areas and full kitchens. Campervans make you multitask in cramped setups
• Storm survival - Motorhomes give you space to breathe when the weather locks you in. Campervans get claustrophobic fast
• Sleep quality - Motorhomes offer bigger mattresses, better insulation, and more stable interior temperatures

4x4 Access and F-Road Restrictions

Not every vehicle is welcome in Iceland’s Highlands. If you plan to go on the F-roads, read this before booking a 4x4 camper in Iceland:

• Campervan access - Some models come as 4x4, usually mid-size or modified vans
• Motorhome limits - Most are too large, too low, and flat-out banned from F-roads by law
• Legal requirements - F-roads require a true 4x4 with proper clearance. No exceptions or excuses
• Highlands reality - Campervans with 4x4 can handle it. Motorhomes can’t. End of story

Parking and Campsite Considerations

The campervan vs motorhome gap shows up fast when it comes to parking your van in Iceland. The island’s roads and overnight spots are not built with massive vehicles in mind.

• Space needs - Campervans fit into tight spots. Motorhomes need longer, wider bays
• Power demands - Motorhomes rely on 230V hookups. Campervans get by on 12V or nothing
• Roadside flexibility - Campervans can pull over for views. Motorhomes usually can't without causing problems
• Campsite access - Smaller vans grab better spots. Bigger rigs need early check-ins and more planning
• Peak season risk - Fewer large bays means a greater chance of getting turned away

Cost Comparison: Rental Rates, Fuel, and Extras

Iceland isn’t cheap, and your vehicle choice will decide how fast your money disappears. Here’s how RV vs camper costs in Iceland compare when you’re looking at the numbers.

• Rental rates - Campervans run around $80–$115 off-season, $140–$200 peak. Motorhomes start near $230 and climb fast
• Fuel burn - Campervans use 8-12 L/100 km. Motorhomes go through 14-18 L/100 km
• Insurance fees - Add $40-$50 per day, depending on coverage
• Campsite costs - Expect $12-$24 per night for electricity hookups
• Other extras - Gas canisters, waste dumping, extra drivers all add up

Which Vehicle is Best for Your Iceland Road Trip?

Still not sure what Icelandic road trip vehicle options best suit your needs? Let’s break it down by route, group size, and travel style. We’ll show you exactly which vehicles from our camper and motorhome fleet make the most sense for each one. Here’s what works where, and why.

Best Option for the Ring Road

The Ring Road is smooth, paved, and open year-round, but it stretches over 1,322 km (822 mi) of unpredictable weather and long hauls. Both vans and motorhomes can handle it. The real question is comfort vs cost. 

On a tighter budget? Go for the Fiat Doblo Maxi or Renault Kangoo Plus. Want more breathing room without going full beast mode? The Renault Trafic Plus strikes a balance. Planning a long haul and want to stay sane? 

The Weinsberg 2.3 has room to stretch. The Fiat Benivan B160 gets you comfort without dragging a house behind you.

Best Option for the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is short, busy, and paved all the way. It’s about 230 km (143 mi) of back-to-back attractions, crowded parking lots, and tourist buses doing synchronized arrivals. 

You don’t need 4x4 or high clearance here, just something you can park without swearing at a tour guide. The Fiat Doblo Maxi and Renault Kangoo Maxi are no-brainers if you want to move fast and slip into spots the tour groups can’t block. 

Want more headroom or to sleep three? Try the Fiat Scudo or Renault Trafic Plus. Still chasing comfort? The Weinsberg 2.3 motorhome gives you space, privacy, and a kitchen that won’t make you cry. 

Best Option for the Highlands

The Highlands are no joke. F-roads are rough, unpaved, river-crossed, and legally off-limits to anything without 4x4 and proper clearance. That rules out motorhomes completely. 

If you want to head into Landmannalaugar, Askja, or Kerlingarfjöll, you need something built for it. The Dacia Duster 4x4 Roof Tent gets you in without blowing your budget. The Jeep Renegade 4xe Roof Tent adds a bit more comfort with an automatic transmission. 

Want more room and actual camper features? Go for the Mercedes Campstar 4x4 or the Toyota Hilux 4x4 Camper if you're serious about Highland nights. Anything else? Stay on the Ring.

Couples, Families, and Adventure Travelers: Who Should Choose What?

Not everyone travels the same way. Some want space, some want speed, some just want to avoid killing each other in a cramped van. Here’s how to pick what works for your setup.

• Couples - The Fiat Doblo Maxi or Renault Kangoo Plus keeps it simple and affordable. If you want more space to breathe (and less chance of a breakup), the Renault Trafic Plus or Fiat Scudo adds comfort without overkill
• Families - You need room. The Renault Master Plus (5 seats, 5 beds) or Weinsberg 2.0 650 DG gets everyone a place to sit, sleep, and not fight over fridge space
• Adventure travelers - Hitting the Highlands? Dacia Duster 4x4 Roof Tent keeps it light. Want more gear room and off-road power? Go for the Toyota Hilux 4x4 Camper or Mercedes Campstar 4x4

Practical Tips for Renting a Campervan or Motorhome in Iceland

Once you’ve picked your ride, don’t screw it up with rookie mistakes. Here’s what you need to know beforehand, from licenses to campsite logistics to winter survival. Pay attention now so you don’t pay for it later.

License and Insurance Requirements

License and insurance rules are simple until you miss the fine print. Here’s what actually matters before you grab the keys.

• License type - A Category B license (standard EU/UK/US/AU passenger vehicle license) is valid for driving anything up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs)
• Vehicle type coverage - Works for both campervans and motorhomes, no extra endorsements needed
• License age - You must have held your license for at least 12 months
• International Driving Permit (IDP) - Not required but highly recommended, especially if your license is not in Latin script
• Minimum age - Usually 20 for campervans, 23 to 25 for motorhomes, depending on the rental company
• Included insurance - Most rentals include basic CDW and Theft Protection
• Recommended add-ons insurance - Always add Gravel Protection and Sand and Ash Coverage. Iceland will throw both at you eventually
• High-risk areas - Roof, underbody, and wind damage are often not covered unless you get full protection

Campsites, Facilities, and Services

Campsites in Iceland don’t all offer the same services, but most give you just enough to get by. If you expect more than the basics, check twice before pulling in. Here’s what to know:

• Standard facilities - Most campsites have toilets, hot showers, a kitchen or sink area, and 230V electricity hookups
• Price difference - Motorhomes usually pay more, especially if you need power and waste disposal. Expect around $15-$25 per person, plus $10-$20 for hookups
• Waste rules - Only vehicles with waste tanks can dump, and only at official stations. No field dumps.
• Peak season warning - Campsites near major stops fill fast from June to August. Book ahead or show up early if you’re driving anything large

Seasonal Considerations: Summer vs Winter Travel

Summer and winter in Iceland offer two completely different road trip experiences. One gives you freedom and sunlight. The other tests your gear, patience, and planning. Here’s how they stack up.

Road access

• Summer: Ring Road and most routes open
• Winter: F-roads closed, inland passes risky, wind warnings common

Daylight hours

• Summer: Up to 24 hours
• Winter: As little as 4 hours in December

Vehicle needs

• Summer: Any van works, from the Fiat Doblo Maxi to the Renault Kangoo
• Winter: Go insulated. Use the Mercedes Campstar 4x4, Renault Trafic Plus, or Fiat Scudo

Heating and insulation

• Summer: Not essential but nice to have
• Winter: Webasto heating is mandatory. Don’t rely on battery-powered options

Campsite availability

• Summer: Most sites open
• Winter: Limited availability, some services shut

Daily planning

• Check vedur.is for weather and umferdin.is for closures. In winter, check both twice a day. 

Campervan vs Motorhome: Quick Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a campervan cheaper than a motorhome in Iceland?

Yes. Lower rental rates, better fuel economy, and smaller campsite fees. You’ll still pay for insurance and electricity, but overall, campervans burn less cash per day.

Can I drive a motorhome with a regular driver’s license?

If your license covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg, you’re good. No special certification needed. Most companies want you to be over 23, sometimes 25, and licensed for at least a year.

Are motorhomes allowed on F-roads?

No. Too big, too low, and legally banned. If you want to go to the Highlands, get a 4x4 camper like the Dacia Duster or Toyota Hilux instead.

Is it possible to camp in winter with a campervan?

Yes, if your van has Webasto heating and decent insulation. Not all do. Avoid older or summer-only builds unless you like frozen toes and miserable mornings.

The Campervan vs Motorhome Debate Ends With Your Priorities

The campervan vs motorhome decision comes down to how you travel. Campervans are for nimble, flexible trips with fewer moving parts. Motorhomes suit longer stays, families, and travelers who want comfort above all. Don’t choose based on looks or Instagram photos. 

Choose based on your route, your group, and how much planning you’re willing to do. Iceland rewards those who prepare and punishes those who wing it. Pick the vehicle that works, not the one that looks good in the parking lot. 

Still unsure? Give us a call on +354 539 0629. We treat our customers like family, and we’re always happy to help.