8 Essential Gear Items for Renting a Campervan in Iceland

Pulling over alongside the dramatic cliffs of Iceland’s South Coast in a campervan is the ultimate way to experience the Land of Fire and Ice on your own terms. Yet, the reality of unpredictable North Atlantic weather and tight living quarters can quickly turn a dream road trip into a damp, chilly ordeal without the right preparation. Packing a few highly specialized gear items ensures your rolling home remains a comfortable, warm, and highly functional sanctuary throughout your entire journey.

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Why Iceland’s Ring Road Demands Specialized Gear

Iceland’s Ring Road is legendary for serving up four seasons of weather in a single afternoon. Fierce winds, relentless horizontal drizzle, and sudden temperature drops are the norm, rather than the exception, even during the peak summer months. Standard vacation wear and basic camping gear simply cannot cope with these rapid transitions, meaning your comfort hinges entirely on specialized, high-performing equipment.

A campervan acts as your bedroom, kitchen, and living room all at once, exposing any flaws in your gear choices immediately. When the wind is howling at 40 knots outside, you cannot simply step out to dry your gear or stretch your legs. Every piece of equipment brought into this tight space must serve a clear purpose, dry quickly, and perform reliably under pressure to keep the interior livable.

Maximizing Your Limited Campervan Storage Space

Space inside a campervan is a premium commodity that vanishes the moment two suitcases are popped open. The key to maintaining sanity and order is treating the van like a sailboat cabin, where everything has a dedicated, secure home. Soft-sided duffels are infinitely superior to hard-sided rolling luggage because they can be compressed and stuffed into odd-shaped storage benches or under-bed compartments.

Organizing gear into color-coded packing cubes or small dry bags prevents the daily chaos of digging through piles of clothes in the dark. Keeping daily-use items like headlamps, charging cords, and toiletries in easily accessible overhead bins saves time and limits frustration during late-night camp setups. Prioritize multi-functional gear that packs down small, ensuring your living space remains an open, relaxing environment rather than an obstacle course.

Sleeping Bag – Western Mountaineering Alpinlite

A high-quality sleeping bag is your primary defense against the damp, biting chill that seeps through campervan walls overnight. While rental vans often come with thin duvets, they rarely offer the draft protection and insulation needed when temperatures hover near freezing. Having a dedicated, high-loft sleeping bag ensures a restorative night of sleep, allowing your body to recover after long days of driving and hiking.

The Western Mountaineering Alpinlite is a premier choice for this environment, boasting an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio that keeps you comfortable when temperatures plummet. * Temperature Rating: 20°F (-7°C) * Insulation: 850-plus fill power goose down * Weight: 1 lb 15 oz (for the 6-foot model) * Shoulder Girth: 64 inches, offering a wider, more relaxed cut than standard mummy bags

This bag features a full-length zipper with a draft tube to prevent cold spots, along with an insulated collar that seals in body heat. The generous shoulder dimensions are highly beneficial for side sleepers or those who dislike restrictive, ultra-narrow mummy bags.

Down sleeping bags require careful handling to prevent them from absorbing interior campervan condensation, which can clump the feathers and reduce warmth. It is crucial to air the bag out on the van seats during dry driving stretches to maintain its incredible loft and insulation properties. Additionally, storing it loosely in the provided cotton storage sack while traveling—rather than leaving it compressed—preserves the down’s long-term performance.

This bag is perfect for active travelers who prioritize uncompromising warmth, comfort, and packability, especially those who plan to use it for future backpacking trips. However, it is a significant financial investment that may be overkill for travelers who only camp in heated vans during mid-summer and prefer cheap, bulky synthetic blankets.

Portable Power Bank – Anker 737 Power Bank

Keeping your phones, cameras, and GPS devices charged is vital for navigating Iceland’s remote routes and capturing its stunning landscapes. While campervans feature 12V ports and USB outlets, these often run off the vehicle’s starter battery, creating a constant risk of draining your ride. A dedicated, high-capacity portable power bank bridges the gap, allowing you to charge electronics overnight without running the van’s engine.

The Anker 737 Power Bank delivers massive capacity and fast charging capabilities in a rugged, portable package. * Capacity: 24,000 mAh * Max Output: 140W ultra-powerful two-way charging * Ports: Two USB-C ports, one USB-A port * Smart Display: Shows remaining battery percentage, input/output power, and recharge time

Equipped with Power Delivery 3.1, this unit can rapidly charge a demanding laptop, tablet, or multiple smartphones simultaneously. The smart digital display is a standout feature, clearly showing the remaining battery percentage and real-time power metrics so you never have to guess how much juice is left.

Keep in mind that extremely cold temperatures can temporarily reduce the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. To maximize performance, store this power bank in an insulated pocket or inside your sleeping bag during freezing nights rather than leaving it on the cold van dashboard. Remember to bring a high-wattage wall charger (at least 65W) to recharge the power bank quickly at campsites or cafes, as standard USB ports will take all day to top it up.

This unit is ideal for tech-heavy travelers, photographers, and remote workers who need to keep multiple high-drain devices powered up on the move. It is not the right choice for minimalist travelers who only need to charge a single phone once or twice, as its substantial 1.4-pound weight makes it less practical for lightweight hiking.

Pack Towel – PackTowl Personal Quick-Dry Towel

Whether you are soaking in a remote geothermal hot spring or rinsing off at a campsite shower, a high-quality towel is a daily necessity. Standard cotton towels are a disaster in a campervan because they take days to dry in damp conditions, quickly turning musty and smelling foul. A specialized pack towel dries in minutes, keeping your living space clean and odor-free.

The PackTowl Personal Quick-Dry Towel is crafted from a remarkably soft polyester and nylon microfiber blend that feels great against the skin. * Absorbency: Absorbs up to four times its weight in water * Drying Speed: Dries nearly 70% faster than comparable cotton towels * Odor Control: Treated with Polygiene silver-ion technology to stay fresh longer * Sizes Available: Face, Hand, Body, and XXL

It remains fresh through multiple uses, while the integrated hang loop makes it easy to drape over a headrest or van grab handle while driving. It packs down to a fraction of the size of a standard bath towel, leaving valuable storage space open for other gear.

Microfiber towels require a slight adjustment in how you dry off, as they work best when patted against the skin rather than rubbed vigorously. To keep the towel performing at its best, wash it without fabric softeners, which can coat the fibers and reduce their water-absorbing capabilities. Opt for the “Body” or “XXL” size to ensure full coverage and comfort when walking to and from public campsite facilities.

This towel is a must-have for hot spring enthusiasts and budget campers who want to avoid paying rental fees at public pools and natural springs. It is not suitable for those who absolutely demand the plush, heavy feel of a traditional luxury bath towel and do not mind the hassle of finding dry-cleaning or laundry facilities along the road.

Coffee Maker – AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

Starting a misty, cold Icelandic morning with a hot cup of quality coffee is one of the simple joys of van life. While gas station coffee is readily available along the Ring Road, it is expensive and often lacks the rich flavor needed to kickstart a long driving day. Having a compact, reliable brewing system inside your van lets you enjoy premium coffee anywhere you decide to park.

The AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press is engineered specifically for travel, nesting all its components inside its own drinking cup. * Brewing Style: Rapid, total-immersion plunger system * Capacity: Yields up to three shots of espresso-style concentrate or a single large cup of coffee * Includes: 15 oz drinking mug, lid, scoop, stirrer, and filter holder * Material: Durable, BPA-free plastic construction

This system delivers smooth, rich, low-acidity coffee in about one minute flat. The durable construction is virtually indestructible, meaning you do not have to worry about glass carafes shattering on bumpy, unpaved gravel roads.

The cleanup process is incredibly simple; a firm push of the plunger ejects a dry, compressed “puck” of coffee grounds directly into a trash bin, requiring only a quick rinse of the rubber seal. It is best to pack a supply of paper filters or invest in a reusable metal filter before departing, as finding replacements in rural Icelandic supermarkets can be challenging. Ensure you have a reliable way to boil water, such as a compact canister stove, to complete your mobile brewing setup.

This coffee maker is perfect for solo travelers or couples who appreciate a rich, customized brew and want an easy, mess-free cleanup process. It is less suited for larger families or groups who want to brew a large pot of coffee all at once, as the AeroPress Go is strictly designed for single-serve extractions.

Headlamp – Black Diamond Storm 500-R Headlamp

While Iceland’s summer features the famous midnight sun, spring, autumn, and winter trips bring intense, prolonged darkness. Navigating rocky campsite paths, searching for items in the back of the van, or checking vehicle fluids in the dark requires reliable hands-free lighting. A dependable headlamp is far safer and more practical than relying on a smartphone flashlight, which quickly drains your phone’s battery.

The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Headlamp offers a powerful, customizable beam housed in a rugged, fully sealed body. * Brightness: Max output of 500 lumens * Battery: Integrated 2400 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery * Waterproof Rating: IP67 (dustproof and waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) * Lighting Modes: Proximity, distance, dimming, strobe, and RGB night-vision

It can be conveniently charged via a micro-USB port directly from your van’s outlets. The multi-faceted optical lens design provides varied lighting modes, including proximity and distance modes, dimming, strobe, and red, green, and blue night-vision options.

This headlamp utilizes a digital lock feature that prevents it from accidentally turning on and draining its battery while buried inside your duffel bag. Users should take a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the two-button interface, which controls the brightness levels and color cycles, before heading out into the dark. If you are traveling during the peak of summer, you may only need this for reading inside the van, but for shoulder-season Northern Lights hunting, it is an indispensable safety tool.

This rechargeable headlamp is ideal for shoulder-season travelers, hikers, and photographers who need reliable, high-performance lighting in harsh, wet conditions. It may be unnecessary for mid-summer travelers who will experience near-constant daylight and only require a basic, low-power light source for reading.

Camp Booties – Feathered Friends Down Booties

After a long day of hiking through damp lava fields and driving along the coast, slipping out of stiff, wet hiking boots is pure bliss. However, the floors of campervans can get incredibly cold, and walking around in damp socks is a quick way to catch a chill. Cozy camp footwear provides instant warmth and comfort, turning the interior of your van into a welcoming cabin.

The Feathered Friends Down Booties are a versatile, two-part system designed to keep cold feet warm in the most demanding climates. * Insulation: 800-fill power goose down * Shell Material: Water-resistant, breathable Pertex Shield fabric * Sole: Durable, slip-resistant cordura sole with a foam footbed * Weight: 9.3 oz per pair

The removable outer shell is highly practical, featuring a drawcord closure at the ankle that locks in heat and prevents cold drafts from sneaking in, while the foam insole provides a cushioned barrier against cold floors.

Since these booties are stuffed with high-loft down, they should not be worn in heavy rain or deep puddles, as wet down loses its ability to insulate. The removable nature of the outer shell is highly practical, allowing you to wear just the soft, clean inner booties inside your sleeping bag on freezing nights. They pack down to the size of a couple of apples, making them incredibly easy to slip into any corner of your luggage.

These booties are perfect for travelers who run cold, appreciate luxurious warmth, and want a versatile indoor-outdoor slipper for cool evenings. They are not necessary for those who plan to travel exclusively in mid-summer with a robust van heating system and prefer simple wool socks.

Multi-Tool – Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool

Campervans are mobile homes, and like any home, minor mechanical issues, stubborn packaging, or loose screws are bound to happen on the road. From opening canned food to tightening loose cabinet hinges or cutting gear repair tape, a versatile tool saves countless trips to find assistance. Having a compact workshop in your pocket gives you self-reliance when traveling through remote areas far from the nearest town.

The Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool is widely regarded as the benchmark for multi-tool design, packing essential tools into a compact, stainless steel body. * Tools Included: 17 distinct implements, including pliers, wire cutters, knives, saws, and scissors * Blade Steel: 420HC stainless steel * Weight: 8.5 oz * Operation: Outside-accessible blades can be opened with one hand

Key features include all-locking blades, spring-action scissors, durable wire cutters, a wood/metal file, and a highly functional bit driver. The key highlight is that all four of its primary outside-accessible blades can be opened easily with one hand, allowing you to keep your other hand free to hold gear steady.

Keep in mind that multi-tools must be packed in your checked luggage rather than your carry-on bag to comply with airport security regulations. To keep the tools moving smoothly in Iceland’s damp, salty coastal air, wipe the metal down occasionally with a light coat of multi-purpose oil to prevent surface corrosion. Familiarizing yourself with how the locking mechanism releases will ensure safe, confident operation during quick roadside repairs.

This multi-tool is perfect for self-reliant travelers and DIY enthusiasts who want to be prepared for minor gear repairs, food prep, and unexpected adjustments on the road. It is not recommended for those who plan to stay strictly in full-service hotels or who prefer to call roadside assistance for even the smallest adjustments.

Sleep Mask – Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

Experiencing the midnight sun is one of Iceland’s most magical summer attractions, but 24 hours of daylight can wreak havoc on your sleep cycle. Campervan curtains are rarely fully light-blocking, and thin fabric panels often let a glowing twilight seep in throughout the night. A high-quality sleep mask is an absolute necessity to trick your brain into falling asleep and staying asleep.

The Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask is designed to provide complete darkness without sacrificing comfort. * Material: 100% organic mulberry silk on both sides * Strap: Adjustable, elastic head strap with a flat plastic slider * Design: Contoured nose baffle to minimize light leaks * Weight: Less than 1 oz

This mask is made from top-quality 19 momme natural mulberry silk on both sides, making it incredibly soft, cool, and breathable against sensitive facial skin. It features a smart nose baffle design that prevents light from leaking in around the nostrils, creating a near-total blackout experience even under bright midday sun.

Because the mask is made from delicate natural silk, it should be washed by hand with mild soap and laid flat to dry to maintain its soft texture and elasticity. It packs down to nothing, making it easy to keep in your overhead van bin or your jacket pocket for quick naps during long driving shifts. Make sure to adjust the slide buckle so the mask sits snug but comfortable, preventing it from sliding off your face as you toss and turn on camp mattresses.

This sleep mask is an essential purchase for summer travelers, light sleepers, and anyone sensitive to shifting light patterns during the night. It is less vital for deep sleepers who can rest easily in bright rooms, or for those traveling during the short, dark days of winter.

How to Manage Campervan Condensation and Dampness

When two people sleep inside a small, sealed campervan, the moisture from their breath quickly condenses on cold windows and metal walls. Left unmanaged, this condensation can drip onto sleeping bags, clothes, and electronic gear, creating a damp, cold environment that is incredibly difficult to dry out. The primary defense against this moisture build-up is maintaining consistent ventilation, even when the outdoor temperatures are chilly.

Always crack the roof vent or a side window slightly at night to allow fresh, dry air to circulate and carry the dampness outside. Avoid hanging wet rain jackets or muddy hiking boots inside the main cabin; instead, utilize the van’s drying racks or keep damp gear in sealed dry bags until you can dry them at a campsite. During dry, sunny driving stretches, turn on the vehicle’s heater and air conditioning to help pull moisture out of the cabin air.

Renting Versus Packing Your Gear for Iceland

Deciding whether to pack your own gear or rent it upon arrival in Reykjavik is a critical logistical choice that impacts both your budget and comfort. Packing your own high-end gear, like sleeping bags and multi-tools, ensures you are using reliable, familiar equipment that fits you perfectly. However, checked baggage fees for bulky winter gear can quickly add up, and flying with items like camping stoves requires careful cleaning to comply with airline safety standards.

Renting gear locally in Iceland offers ultimate convenience and saves valuable luggage space, but rental gear can be well-worn and expensive over a multi-day trip. A hybrid approach is often the smartest strategy: pack personal, high-performance items like sleeping bags, down booties, and headlamps, while renting bulky items like coolers, camp chairs, and gas canisters locally. This balance keeps your luggage manageable while guaranteeing you have top-tier comfort items when the Icelandic weather tests your limits.

Preparing for an Icelandic campervan adventure is all about embracing self-reliance and respecting the raw power of the elements. By selecting gear that is compact, highly functional, and designed to handle damp conditions, you transform a potentially rugged road trip into a seamless, cozy exploration. Pack smart, keep your living space organized, and let the untamed beauty of the Ring Road unfold before you.