8 Essential Campervan Items for an Iceland Ring Road Trip

Picture driving along a desolate stretch of Route 1, flanked by black sand beaches on one side and towering glaciers on the other, when a sudden horizontal rainstorm slams into your campervan. While the freedom of exploring Iceland’s Ring Road is unmatched, the harsh subarctic environment quickly exposes any weaknesses in gear choices. Securing the right self-reliance equipment transforms what could be a cold, stressful ordeal into a comfortable, seamless road trip of a lifetime.

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Preparing for Iceland’s Unpredictable Ring Road Weather

Iceland’s weather is notoriously fickle, often cycling through rain, intense wind, sunshine, and even sleet within a single afternoon. When traveling by campervan, the vehicle serves as a bedroom, kitchen, and sanctuary, meaning the boundary between the interior and the harsh elements outside is incredibly thin. Preparing for this environment requires a shift from standard road-tripping logic to a backcountry mindset where thermal efficiency and moisture management are paramount.

High winds are a frequent hazard on the Ring Road, sometimes reaching speeds capable of ripping car doors right off their hinges. Campers must learn to always park facing into the wind and hold door handles with both hands when exiting the vehicle. Because wet clothing dries slowly inside a confined van, keeping moisture outside is a continuous battle that requires highly functional, fast-drying gear.

Additionally, summer temperatures hovering between 40°F and 55°F feel much colder when combined with high humidity and constant coastal winds. Relying solely on the vehicle’s built-in heater is a common rookie mistake that can drain the auxiliary battery overnight. True comfort relies on an integrated system of warm layers, reliable sleep gear, and efficient moisture control.

Down Sleeping Bag – Marmot Never Summer

A high-quality sleeping bag is the single most important line of defense against cold nights on the Ring Road. While most rental vans come with basic duvets or thin blankets, these often fall short when coastal winds drop the interior cabin temperature down to freezing. A dedicated cold-weather bag ensures a deep, restorative sleep, which is critical when driving long hours on unfamiliar, winding roads.

The Marmot Never Summer down sleeping bag stands out as the ideal companion for Icelandic van camping due to its high-loft insulation and robust construction. Rated down to 0°F (-18°C), this bag provides a generous buffer of warmth that easily handles damp, chilly nights in northern campsites. The down is treated with Down Defender water-resistant technology, which prevents the feathers from clumping and losing loft when exposed to the high condensation levels common inside a vehicle.

• Temperature Rating: 0°F / -18°C
• Fill Type: 650-fill-power duck down with Down Defender
• Weight: 3 lbs 3.5 oz (regular size)
• Shell Material: 20d 100% Nylon Mini Ripstop

Because down bags are highly compressible, this model easily packs down into a compact stuff sack, leaving valuable cabinet space free inside the van. However, users must remember to air the bag out during sunny driving stretches to prevent moisture from building up over multi-day trips. This bag is perfect for travelers who run cold and want guaranteed night-time warmth, though it may be overkill for those renting larger, fully heated motorhomes.

Portable Power Station – Goal Zero Yeti 200X

Modern adventure travel requires keeping multiple electronic devices—such as phones, cameras, and navigation units—charged and ready to perform. Relying solely on the van’s starter battery to charge gear while parked is a recipe for a dead engine in a remote fjord. A portable power station acts as an independent energy reservoir, ensuring your essential communication and navigation tools remain online without risking your vehicle’s mobility.

The Goal Zero Yeti 200X strikes the perfect balance between power capacity and physical size for life inside a compact campervan. Delivering 187 watt-hours of lithium power, this lightweight unit features high-speed Power Delivery ports that charge laptops and phones significantly faster than standard USB outlets. The robust, impact-resistant build fits easily under a passenger seat or in a glove box, keeping the living area uncluttered.

• Capacity: 187 Wh (14.4V, up to 13Ah)
• Inverter: 120W continuous, 200W surge
• Ports: USB-A, USB-C PD (60W), 12V car port, 120V AC outlet
• Weight: 5 lbs

To get the most out of the Yeti 200X, charge it from the van’s 12V cigarette lighter outlet while driving during the day, which takes about four hours. This unit is designed for low-to-medium-drain devices and will not power heavy appliances like hair dryers or coffee makers. It is an exceptional choice for photographers and digital-mapping users, but larger groups with heavy power needs may want to step up to a higher-capacity unit.

Travel Mug – Yeti Rambler 20 oz Tumbler

Sipping a hot beverage while watching the mist rise over a glacial lagoon is a quintessential Icelandic experience. However, the relentless subarctic wind will turn an ordinary cup of coffee stone-cold in under two minutes. A premium double-wall vacuum-insulated travel mug keeps drinks hot for hours, allowing for slow sipping during long stretches of scenic driving.

The Yeti Rambler 20 oz Tumbler is the benchmark for road trip durability and thermal retention. Constructed from kitchen-grade 18/8 stainless steel, it resists dents from accidental drops on gravel parking lots and will not transfer flavors between morning coffee and evening soup. The MagSlider Lid uses magnets to provide a smooth sliding barrier that prevents heat from escaping while keeping splashes contained on bumpy gravel roads.

• Material: 18/8 kitchen-grade stainless steel
• Insulation: Double-wall vacuum insulation
• Lid Type: MagSlider Lid (splash-resistant)
• Dishwasher Safe: Yes

While the MagSlider lid is excellent at stopping splashes, it is not completely leakproof; throwing a full mug into a backpack will result in spills. It is sized perfectly to fit into standard campervan cup holders, which are often narrower than North American vehicle cup holders. This tumbler is an indispensable tool for solo travelers and couples who value hot drinks on the go, but it is not meant to replace a sealed, leakproof thermos bottle.

Power Inverter – Bestek 300W Power Inverter

Most rental campervans in Iceland do not feature built-in household AC outlets, leaving travelers with only standard 12V round cigarette sockets. A power inverter is necessary to convert the direct current (DC) from the vehicle’s battery into the alternating current (AC) required by standard wall chargers. Without one, charging camera batteries, drone controllers, or older laptops is practically impossible on the road.

The Bestek 300W Power Inverter is a compact and highly reliable device that plugs directly into any standard 12V vehicle outlet. It features dual 110V AC outlets and two smart USB charging ports, allowing multiple devices to charge simultaneously. Built with a smart cooling fan that runs quietly to prevent overheating, its rugged aluminum housing protects the interior circuitry during rough drives over unpaved washboard roads.

• Output Power: 300W continuous (350W max)
• Input Voltage: 12V DC / Output Voltage: 110V~120V AC
• Output Ports: 2 AC outlets, 2 USB ports (2.4A per port)
• Safety Features: Low-voltage shutdown, short-circuit protection

Travelers must only use this inverter while the vehicle’s engine is running to avoid draining the starter battery. Because it outputs a modified sine wave, it is perfect for standard consumer electronics, though highly sensitive medical equipment or high-wattage heating elements should not be plugged into it. This is a must-have, budget-friendly tool for tech-heavy road trippers, but purely analog travelers can bypass it.

Pack Towel – PackTowl Personal Quick-Dry Towel

Soaking in geothermal pools and hot springs is a fundamental part of the Ring Road experience, occurring almost daily for active travelers. Standard cotton towels are a disaster in a campervan because they absorb massive amounts of water and take days to dry in a cold, humid cabin. A high-performance microfiber towel dries almost instantly, preventing the damp, musty odor that can quickly ruin a small living space.

The PackTowl Personal Quick-Dry Towel is engineered from a soft polyester-nylon blend that absorbs up to four times its weight in water. It dries a staggering 70% faster than comparable cotton towels and wicks moisture away from the skin with a gentle, non-scratchy texture. It also features a Polygiene odor control treatment that prevents the growth of mold and mildew, keeping the towel fresh through multiple uses between laundry stops.

• Material: 85% Polyester, 15% Nylon microfiber
• Absorbs: Up to 4 times its weight in water
• Dry Time: 70% faster than cotton
• Sizes Available: Face, Hand, Body, Beach

Selecting the “Body” or “Beach” size is recommended, as they offer enough coverage for changing discreetly in outdoor gravel parking lots near remote hot springs. To maintain its high absorption capabilities, avoid using fabric softeners when washing this towel, as they coat the microfibers. This towel is essential for anyone planning to visit pools like the Myvatn Nature Baths or remote hot rivers, while those staying strictly in hotels can skip it.

Backpacking Stove – MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove

While many rental vans include a built-in stove, these are often bulky, slow to heat, and restricted to the interior kitchen counter. A secondary, ultra-portable backpacking stove allows for cooking outdoors on picnic tables or heating water quickly at a windy trailhead. It serves as a vital backup system if the primary van propane supply fails or becomes difficult to refill in remote areas.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is legendary in the outdoor community for its reliability, micro-size, and impressive heat output. Weighing a mere 2.6 ounces, it boils a liter of water in under three and a half minutes even in breezy conditions, thanks to its specialized WindClip wind protection. The robust pot supports fold up incredibly small, allowing the entire stove to fit inside a standard camping mug along with its protective hard case.

• Weight: 2.6 oz / 73 g
• Boil Time: 1 liter of water in 3.5 minutes
• Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane canister
• Folded Dimensions: 2.0 x 2.0 x 3.0 inches

This stove requires threaded isobutane-propane canisters, which are widely available at gas stations and outdoor stores all along the Ring Road. Because it has no built-in piezo igniter, travelers must carry a reliable lighter or matches kept in a waterproof bag. It is an exceptional tool for hikers and coffee enthusiasts who want hot water anywhere, but it is not designed to support large, heavy frying pans or cook complex multi-course meals.

Sleep Mask – Tempur-Pedic contoured Sleep Mask

Under the midnight sun of an Icelandic summer, the sun barely dips below the horizon, resulting in up to 24 hours of daylight. This constant light completely disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Thin, standard van curtains rarely block out all the light, turning a contoured sleep mask into a critical health tool for maintaining energy levels.

The Tempur-Pedic contoured Sleep Mask stands out because it utilizes the brand’s signature TEMPUR material to mold perfectly to the unique contours of the face. Unlike flat, cheap airline masks that press directly against the eyelids, this mask features a structured, contoured shape that allows eyes to blink freely. This design ensures complete light blockage around the nose bridge while avoiding any uncomfortable pressure on the eyes or temples.

• Material: TEMPUR memory foam interior, soft fabric cover
• Strap Type: Adjustable Velcro strap
• Design: Contoured eye cavities for pressure-free fit
• Weight: 3.2 oz

Because the TEMPUR material is dense, the mask can feel slightly warm during rare hot spells, though this is rarely an issue in Iceland’s cool summer climate. The adjustable Velcro strap ensures a snug fit, but users with very small head sizes should test the fit to ensure a proper seal. This mask is an absolute necessity for summer travelers, though those visiting during the dark winter months of winter-aurora chasing will find it less critical.

Adventure Map – National Geographic Iceland Map

Relying entirely on digital GPS maps like Google Maps is a dangerous strategy in Iceland’s rugged interior and coastal fjords. Cellular service can drop unexpectedly in deep mountain passes, and digital routing often fails to convey the actual terrain difficulty or road types. A physical topographic map provides a high-level view of the landscape, helping travelers make informed route adjustments based on weather and road closures.

The National Geographic Iceland Adventure Map is the premier paper map for navigating the island’s challenging road networks. Printed on waterproof and tear-resistant material, it easily survives the damp interior of a van and rough handling in windy conditions. It clearly distinguishes between paved routes, gravel roads, and seasonal F-roads (4×4 only), while highlighting critical services like campsites, gas stations, and hot springs.

• Material: Waterproof, tear-resistant paper
• Scale: 1:465,000 (detailed topographic details)
• Map Features: Protected areas, historical sites, campgrounds, fuel stops
• Format: Folded map

While the map provides invaluable geographical context, it does not offer real-time updates on active volcanic hazards or sudden road washouts. Travelers must use this map in tandem with digital safety sites like road.is and safetravel.is before setting off each day. This map is an essential safety and planning tool for any self-guided driver, while those on pre-packaged bus tours will have less practical use for it.

Managing Condensation and Sleep Quality in Your Van

Sleeping in a confined space naturally produces a significant amount of moisture from breathing, which quickly condenses on the cold metal and glass surfaces of the campervan. If left unchecked, this moisture turns the interior into a damp, chilly microclimate, ruining insulation performance and causing damp bedding. Managing this cycle requires active ventilation, even when the outside temperatures are brisk.

The most effective way to combat condensation is to crack two opposing windows by just a half-inch to create a continuous cross-breeze. This subtle airflow pulls the warm, humid air out of the cabin before it can settle and liquefy on cold surfaces. Avoid the temptation to seal the van completely tight; doing so only accelerates moisture buildup and leaves you feeling colder by morning.

Additionally, wipe down the windshield and side windows with a microfiber cloth every morning before starting the vehicle. Keep wet gear, muddy boots, and damp towels in a designated plastic bin or hanging in the front cab away from your sleeping area. These simple habits keep the humidity down, protecting your electrical gear and dramatically improving your overall sleep quality.

How to Plan Your Ring Road Campsite Stops Safely

Wild camping is strictly illegal in Iceland to protect the country’s fragile volcanic soils and mosses. Campervans must park overnight at designated, registered campsites, which are scattered strategically along the entire length of the Ring Road. Planning these stops in advance prevents the fatigue-driven decision-making that often leads to parking in restricted or unsafe areas.

While summer campsites rarely require reservations, winter travel demands checking which sites remain open, as many close down after September. It is wise to group stops near towns with indoor facilities, especially during bouts of relentless rain or high winds. Always have a primary campsite and a backup option located about 30 miles further along your route in case of localized road delays.

Before settling in for the night, inspect the campsite terrain and position your van to minimize wind exposure. Avoid parking directly under steep cliffs where rockfalls can occur, or in low-lying grassy areas that can rapidly turn to mud during heavy downpours. Taking ten minutes to assess your immediate surroundings ensures a safe night and an easy departure the following morning.

Final Gear Checks Before Driving Out of Reykjavik

The transition from the relative comfort of Reykjavik to the isolation of the Ring Road is abrupt. Before leaving the capital city, execute a rigorous inspection of both your personal gear and the rental vehicle itself. Once you head east or north, specialized replacement gear becomes incredibly difficult to source, and prices climb dramatically.

Confirm that the vehicle’s spare tire is fully inflated, and locate the jack, wheel brace, and emergency reflective triangle. Test the camper’s auxiliary heater and water pump, and ensure the rental agency has provided the correct propane or butane canisters for your stove system. Doing these checks in the rental yard allows you to resolve issues immediately rather than hours away on a remote fjord.

Finally, secure all loose gear inside the living cabin using bungee cords or storage netting. Heavy items like iron skillets, water jugs, and camera bags must be stored low to the floor to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles on gravel roads. With a fully inspected vehicle and properly organized gear, you are ready to navigate Iceland’s legendary Ring Road with total confidence.

Successfully navigating the raw beauty of Iceland’s Ring Road comes down to preparation and the reliability of your gear choices. By packing items that manage cold, power, and moisture effectively, the unpredictable subarctic elements become part of the adventure rather than a source of stress. Armed with the right gear and safety knowledge, you can focus on the jaw-dropping vistas around every single bend.