Step 1: Match The Car To The Roads

Most travelers drive the Ring Road and nearby day trips. These routes are mostly paved and easy in good weather. A small car can handle them well in summer.

Gravel is common once you leave the main routes. A mid-size car or small SUV feels steadier and gives more comfort.

F-roads are the Highlands roads. They can be rocky and rough, and some have river crossings. A true 4x4 is the safe pick and often required.

Step 2: Choose For The Season

Weather in Iceland can change fast. Renting for the month you travel is the smart move.

Summer Driving

From May to September, roads are clearer and days are long. An economy or compact car works well for paved routes.

Wind can still be strong in open areas. If you plan long highway days, a mid-size car can feel more stable.

Winter Driving

From October to April, expect ice, snow, and short daylight. AWD or a 4x4 gives better grip and more control.

Check the tires before you confirm the booking. Many rentals fit winter tires in the cold season. MyCar, for example, uses studded winter tires in the legal winter period.

Step 3: Pick The Right Size For Your Group

A car can have enough seats and still feel too small. Bags, coats, and boots take space fast. Choose room you can live with.

Family Trips

Families need space for comfort and calm. A compact SUV works well for many Ring Road trips.

For five people with large suitcases, go bigger. A larger SUV or a minivan keeps bags out of the cabin. It also makes long drives easier.

Solo Trips

Solo travel in summer can stay cheap and simple. An economy car is easy to park and fine for paved routes. If you will drive lots of gravel, one size up feels smoother.

Solo travel in winter should focus on safety. A small SUV or 4x4 gives better grip and more confidence. That control matters when conditions change fast.

Adventure Trips

Adventure plans often include gravel, steep climbs, and remote areas. A true 4x4 fits this style best, especially for Highlands routes. It also gives more clearance on uneven ground.

Be careful with rivers. Many rentals do not cover water crossing damage. If a crossing looks risky, turn around and pick another route.

Step 4: Choose The Car Type That Fits

Economy and compact cars suit cities and paved day trips. They are best for summer travel with light luggage.

Mid-size cars and wagons add stability in wind. They also carry luggage better than small hatchbacks. They are a great “one car for everything” choice for the Ring Road.

SUVs add comfort on gravel and in bad weather. They feel safer when wind and rain hit hard. Confirm AWD or 4x4 if you travel in winter.

True 4x4 vehicles are for F-roads and tough routes. They handle rough tracks and loose surfaces. If the plan is “adventure first,” do not downgrade.

Step 5: Pay For The Extras That Protect You

Start with protection that matches your roads. Gravel can crack glass and chip paint. Gravel and windshield cover can save money on repair costs.

Most rentals include basic cover like collision damage and third-party cover. Still, every plan has limits and rules. Read the key points before you decline any coverage.

Comfort extras should come last. A Wi-Fi router can help if your phone plan is weak. If you skip it, download offline maps and keep a charger ready.

Step 6: Use Simple Driving Habits

Slow down on gravel and keep distance from other cars. This lowers stone hits and gives time to react. Avoid sharp turns on loose roads.

Treat wind like a hazard. Hold doors with two hands and open them slowly. A sudden gust can slam a door and cause damage.

Plan fuel stops outside towns. Stations can be far apart in rural areas. Many rentals use full-to-full rules, so refill before drop-off.

Why Many Travelers Pick MyCar

A good rental company saves time when plans change. Fast support matters when flights shift or weather delays your drive. Clear rules also prevent surprises.

MyCar highlights no insurance deposit and unlimited mileage, plus a focus on newer, low-mileage vehicles. Their fleet ranges from small cars like the Toyota Aygo to tough 4x4 options like the Land Cruiser Mountain Edition. Pick-up points near Keflavík Airport and in Reykjavík can make arrival and return easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need A 4x4 For The Ring Road?

In summer, most travelers do not. The Ring Road is mostly paved and easy to drive. In winter, a 4x4 can still be a smart safety choice.

Can A Small Car Handle Gravel Roads?

Yes, if you drive slow and stay alert. Many gravel roads are fine in good weather. A taller car just feels smoother and more comfortable.

What Is Best For A Family Of Five?

A larger SUV or a minivan is the easiest fit. It gives room for luggage and keeps the cabin calmer. A compact SUV can work if bags stay light.

When Should You Book The Car?

Book early for summer and peak weeks. Automatics and 4x4s sell out first. Early booking also helps you get the exact size you need.