The name “Iceland” alone can send chills through you as you think about its proximity to the Arctic Circle. You may be wondering, “Is Iceland always cold?” especially if you’re planning on camping, and the answer may surprise you. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may be pleasantly surprised by the temperatures. So, is Iceland hot or cold? Read on to find out!
Is Iceland Really as Cold as People Think?
Your first thoughts when planning a trip to Iceland are likely something along the lines of “How cold does it get in Iceland?” Those who have never visited before are likely to expect cold temperatures year-round or at least freezing temperatures during the winter. Knowing what to expect can help you pack appropriately and plan accordingly. But how cold is Iceland, really?
Why Iceland Isn’t as Freezing as the Name Suggests
Although Iceland brushes against the Arctic Circle, it may not be as cold as you would expect. There are several reasons for this. The Atlantic Ocean has a stabilizing effect on the climate. Winters are cold, but not to the extremes found in other places, especially at the same latitude. The summers are cool, but relatively pleasant.
Microclimates throughout the country also mean differing weather by location. The coastal areas tend to be milder, while the highland areas and glaciers are often colder. Iceland may rarely feel “warm,” but it isn’t quite as cold as most people would expect. This means you can travel around the country, even in a camper van, any time of the year if you prepare accordingly.
How the Gulf Stream Influences the Climate
The Gulf Stream brings warm water from the tropics toward Iceland, keeping the island warmer than you would expect, even during the winter. Although it is still cold in comparison to warmer locations, there are also numerous places that get colder than Iceland during winter. So, is it cold in Iceland? Yes, but not as cold as other countries would get at the same latitude.
Seasonal Temperatures in Iceland
Now that we’ve answered the question, “Is Iceland cold or hot?” now it’s time to explore, “Is it always cold in Iceland?” The short answer to this question is that while it’s cool in Iceland most of the year, it isn’t necessarily as cold as you may think, particularly given its location. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can vary significantly from year to year.
According to the old Norse calendar, there were really only two seasons in Iceland: winter and summer. Today, the weather tends to be similar, but modern Icelanders recognize the four seasons like everywhere else in the world. The following will break down what you can expect in each season to help you pack appropriately.
Winter (December to February)
Although temperatures are considered mild, winter is the coldest time of the year in Iceland. The average temperatures range between -2 and 4 °C (28-39 °F) in the coastal areas. Winters tend to be wet and windy, which means wind chills can be expected, making it feel colder. Snow and ice are also common in the winter, with heavier snow totals expected in the northern part of the country.
Spring (March to May)
As spring approaches, the days are getting longer and the temperature is slowly rising. Early spring is still chilly, with temperatures around 1-4 °C (34-39 °F) and rising to an average of 6-9 °C (43-48 °F) as the season progresses toward summer.
Spring in Iceland sees the plants gradually change to green, starting with a gradual thaw of the winter’s snow cover and progressing to the beautiful blooms of flowers, all while having the opportunity to see the northern lights with lower crowds. There is less snow falling, but it can still be quite windy. You will need to consider wind chill when dressing for a trip to Iceland during the spring.
Summer (June to August)
The summer is the most popular time to visit Iceland, with temperatures that are still considered cool by most people’s standards. The average summer temperatures in Iceland typically range between 7 and 15 °C (45-59 °F).
Icelandic summers can give you various weather conditions, including patchy rain and windy conditions. In early summer, some areas of the north and east can still get a little snow. However, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful green landscapes everywhere you go.
Autumn (September to November)
Once the “warm” season is over, the temperatures begin to decline during the autumn as winter approaches. In Iceland, you can expect the average temperatures to be between 5 and 11 °C (41-52 °F) in September, 2-8 °C (36-46 °F) in October, and down to 0-5 °C (32-41 °F) in November.
As autumn progresses, the weather often gets wetter and windier, making the air feel much colder than it really is. During this time of year, the daylight hours are also rapidly reducing, which means more careful planning is required for your trip. However, you will experience the fall color changes in the foliage all over the country, giving you a colorful perspective. The northern lights also begin to appear again.
Why Consider the Shoulder Months
The shoulder seasons of spring and summer have many advantages for visitors hoping to camp in Iceland. Prices are lower for everything from airfare to camper van rentals and campsites, with more availability. There are fewer crowds as more people visit around the holidays or during the summer season. Although you will need to plan carefully around campgrounds that are open all year, the costs are generally lower.
In addition to lower costs, the shoulder seasons offer better weather conditions than visiting in the winter. You will have more daylight hours than in the winter months, with enough dark hours to enjoy the northern lights, giving you a perfect balance. You have a reduced risk of poor weather conditions and road closures, so you can do more without worrying about delays.
Weather Conditions That Affect Camper Travel
Camping is a major activity for locals and visitors during the summer, but it is still possible to rent a camper van in Iceland during other parts of the year if you prepare properly. You may need to plan around campground closures and plot your overnight stays carefully, but as long as you follow weather warnings and road conditions, you can enjoy a camping trip any time of the year.
Temperature vs. Wind Chill Inside a Camper
The actual air temperature in Iceland rarely goes below the freezing mark, even in the winter months. However, the wind is a common feature of the country’s climate, making temperatures feel much colder than they are. Therefore, it is important to choose a camper van that is well-insulated. Proper insulation will help keep conditions more comfortable inside the camper.
Many camper vans in Iceland also come equipped with heaters that can be safely run all night without draining the camper battery. This heater is useful throughout the year, but it is vital when camping in the winter. However, you may need to crack some windows to prevent moisture from building up inside the camper.
Road Closures and Weather-Dependent Access
Another important consideration when planning your camper van trip in Iceland, especially during the winter or other colder months, is road closures and which areas can be accessed. For instance, if you’re most interested in seeing the highlands, you’ll need to visit in the summer. If the northern lights or ice caves are a priority, winter is best.
No matter when you choose to visit, it is vital to monitor weather and road conditions on Icelandic websites. These websites are updated in real time and will show you the current road conditions and closures, as well as current and future weather warnings you should be aware of when planning your day. Summer has fewer weather warnings and closed roads, making it a good time to travel if you’re limited on time.
What to Expect When Sleeping in a Van Year-Round
No matter what time of year you are renting a camper van, you should know what to expect when sleeping in it, depending on the season’s weather conditions. Here’s what you should know about sleeping in a camper van at various times of the year:
- Winter: In the winter, you should rent a camper van with insulation and a heater to ensure you stay warm. Without one, you will likely be uncomfortably cold. An insulated sleeping bag and thermal layers can also help you stay warm during the winter.
- Spring: While spring temperatures are warming up, it can still be chilly overnight. Many people find it more comfortable to rent a camper van with a heater to ward off the cold nights. A good sleeping bag and extra blankets can help you adjust throughout the night.
- Summer: With the “warmer” summer months, you can stay comfortable in any type of camper van. Light bedding will help keep you from overheating. Cracking the windows can also help regulate the inside temperatures and moisture. You may even need an eye mask to block the nearly 24 hours of daylight.
- Autumn: As the weather cools, the need for an insulated camper van with a heater increases. The later into autumn you get, the more bedding you will need to keep you comfortable at night. Don’t forget to plan around weather warnings.
You may have heard that camping in summer is the only right answer, but the truth is that camping is possible all year round if you take the right steps. In fact, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are great times to camp, saving you money and allowing you to enjoy the sights with lower crowds.
Warmest vs. Coldest Places in Iceland
Now that you know how cold Iceland gets, you may be wondering which areas of the country are the warmest and coldest. While there are never any guarantees when it comes to Icelandic weather, being aware of where to go when you’re looking for warmer conditions and which areas experience the coldest conditions can be valuable to your planning process.
Southern Coast and Reykjavík Area
If you’re looking for the warmest areas, especially in the winter months, sticking to Reykjavík and the South Coast is your best bet. These areas of the country experience milder winters, making them the perfect place to stay in a camper van, no matter the time of year. However, it is important to note that the north and east often experience the warmest temperatures in the summer.
The Icelandic Highlands and North Iceland
If you’re seeking out the coldest parts of Iceland, the Highlands and northern Iceland are the places to go. While access to the highlands is closed during the winter months, northern Iceland has the coldest temperatures. If you’re worried about being too cold in a camper van, it’s best to stick to the South Coast instead.
How to Prepare for the Cold in a Camper Van
Once you make the decision to rent a camper van in Iceland for your trip, you will need to know how to prepare for the cold. Packing appropriately will ensure you stay warm, regardless of the weather outside, allowing you to enjoy your trip to its fullest. Here’s how to prepare for the cold weather you may encounter.
What to Pack for Each Season
Beyond the usual layers to keep you comfortable in the ever-changing weather Iceland experiences year-round, here are specific things you should pack for your camper van trip in each season:
- Winter: A four-season sleeping bag and thicker blankets are a necessity when camping in the winter. A heated blanket can also be useful. Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers, including thermal under layers and wool socks, to keep yourself warm all night long.
- Spring: A sleeping bag down to 0 °C is typically necessary during this time of year. Nights can still be cold, which means you are more likely to need warm layers to sleep comfortably in your camper van.
- Summer: It can be useful to have a couple of blankets to help you manage your comfort at night. In the summer, one addition you may need is a face mask to help you sleep in the endless daylight hours.
- Autumn: A good sleeping bag and at least one extra blanket are essential to sleeping comfort during a time of year when temperatures are dropping. Warm sleeping layers are needed again.
In general, packing for the coldest weather is necessary for any trips from September through May. You should also pack for wind and rain year-round and be prepared to wear layers throughout the day, allowing you to take layers off when you’re warm and put them back on when it’s colder.
For your camper van, you should consider renting or buying some extra blankets in case the nights are colder than expected. It is also advisable to bring magnetic hooks and a rope to hang any wet clothing from the day to help them dry overnight. Investing in a good waterproof outer layer and a warm under layer can help you stay dry and warm throughout your journey, especially in the variable weather conditions of the shoulder seasons.
Heating Options and Insulation Tips
Camper vans in Iceland often come with heaters included, so you can be sure you will stay warm, no matter how cold it gets outside. Some of these heaters run off a battery, which is separate from the vehicle’s operating battery. Others may use other types of fuel, such as propane or diesel. Ask your rental agency which options are available.
In addition to the heater, there are a few insulation tips you can use to improve comfort. Bringing insulated window coverings can help keep heat inside the camper van. Placing mats or blankets on the floor can also improve insulation. A microfiber cloth to wipe down condensation can also be useful.
Staying Safe in Extreme Weather Events
Always check the weather and road conditions each morning before setting out. If there are road closures, poor road conditions, or weather warnings, be prepared to stay put for an extra night or change your travel direction. Always keep your fuel tank above a half tank to ensure you never run out.
When extreme weather occurs, such as high winds or storms, keep your speed low if you must drive. Otherwise, you should find a safe place to stop and wait out the storm. If you intend to spend the night in your camper van, be sure you choose a designated camping area. If you can’t get to one, you can ask permission from a business or land owner.
Don’t travel if there is limited or no visibility due to blowing snow, heavy rain, or high winds. These conditions can easily lead to serious accidents. Follow any guidance from the authorities, and stay inside the van as much as possible.
Common Weather Events in Iceland
The weather in Iceland is often unpredictable and can change quickly and often. There’s a reason Icelanders say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” Being prepared for just about anything will help keep you safe and comfortable throughout your trip. Here are some of the common weather events you may experience in Iceland:
Blizzards and Windstorms
The most common reasons for the weather warnings that are issued include blizzards and windstorms. Blizzards may not necessarily mean large cumulative amounts of snow, but it does usually mean whiteout conditions on the roads, snow drifts, and high winds that can be dangerous, especially for higher-sided vehicles like camper vans.
If there is a weather warning issued, it is best to either change your plans to get to an area that isn’t affected by the poor weather conditions or prepare to stay in place for an extra day. With a camper van, you have greater flexibility for adjusting your plans according to the weather conditions.
Ash and Sand Storms (And Insurance Advice)
Ash-producing volcanic eruptions aren’t exactly common in Iceland, but that doesn’t mean they can’t happen. Sandstorms are much more frequent, especially in areas of the south and north where there is nothing but volcanic sand for miles. In either instance, damage to your vehicle is likely if you ignore the warnings and drive through an affected area.
There’s a reason rental agencies sell sand and ash protection insurance when renting their vehicles. While some may say this type of insurance isn’t necessary, if an ash-producing eruption or sand storm occurs along your journey, you will be glad you had it. Volcanic ash and sand can quickly sandblast a vehicle, leaving the paint stripped, which is a costly repair without insurance.
Are Hurricanes or Earthquakes a Threat?
Hurricanes typically occur in tropical waters where the hot and cold meet and create significant turbulence in the atmosphere. However, this doesn’t mean that hurricanes don’t affect Iceland, at least indirectly. The remnants of hurricanes can cross over Iceland, creating high winds and rainy conditions that can lead to weather warnings. Take these warnings seriously.
Earthquakes, on the other hand, are a common occurrence in Iceland. In fact, there are numerous earthquakes every day, but many of them are too small to be felt. The larger earthquakes are much less frequent and generally have little effect on your travels. The best thing you can do is to avoid parking next to cliffs where rocks may fall during an earthquake.
Is Iceland Getting Colder or Warmer?
Global warming is a hot topic all over the world, and Iceland is no exception. Many people wonder whether Iceland is getting colder or warmer as the years go by. Although the term is “global warming,” it doesn’t necessarily mean that all parts of the world are getting warmer. So, which is it for Iceland?
Climate Change and the North Atlantic Current
The North Atlantic Current refers to the movement of water from the warmer Gulf Stream up into the colder waters surrounding Iceland, the UK, and the northern parts of Europe. The warm, salty water quickly cools and descends, creating the current pattern. With changes to the atmosphere due to global warming, changes are occurring.
The water temperature differences between the tropics and the poles are reducing, and the glaciers and ice caps are melting at faster rates. This has led to a dilution of the ocean’s saltwater and a slowing in the North Atlantic Current.
What Scientists Predict for Iceland’s Future
So, what does this mean for Iceland’s climate? Contrary to what the name implies, Iceland is more likely to experience harsher winters as a result of this change. With less warm water reaching the area to moderate the climate, Iceland is more likely to see temperature drops, rather than rises.
Scientists are predicting that a complete collapse of the exchange between the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic is unlikely to stop entirely. However, if the ice continues to melt, this exchange could continue to weaken over time. These changes can alter the climate, harm the fishing and farming industries, and negatively impact wildlife.
Don’t Fear the Cold — Embrace the Adventure
Is Iceland always cold? While it is certainly cooler than many other parts of the world during the summer, Iceland isn’t really as cold as you may expect, given its name. In fact, some stories claim Iceland was given its name to keep migrants away from the land, driving them toward the more appealing name of Greenland. However, this is only one story that may or may not be the true reason.
All in all, while camping in Icelandic winters can be more challenging, it is entirely possible to rent a camper van in Iceland for the winter months and stay comfortable. With proper planning and packing the right gear, you can enjoy a remarkable experience despite the winter weather conditions. It may not be quite as cold as you think!
