Camping Card for Iceland: Everything You Need to Know
There are many ways that you can travel around Iceland, but going on a camping adventure is one of the best. If you do plan to go camping in Iceland, then getting a camping card for Iceland can be a total game changer.
These camping cards are a great way to save money and discover the best campsites wherever you go in the country. If you’re after Iceland travel tips for camping, then this is tip number one.
We’ll explore everything you need to know about camping cards and how they work in the guide below.
What is the Iceland Camping Card?
The Iceland Camping Card is a special pass that allows you to camp at about 40 campsites across Iceland. It covers up to two adults and four children (under 16 years old) and is valid for 28 nights.
Here are some of the key details about the Iceland Camping Card and how it works:
Access
Iceland has a large network of campsites, and you can use this card at most of them - helping you save money on your trip. This makes it a lot easier to find and book campsites, and keep your entire Iceland camping trip within budget.
The best way to discover campsites that work with the Iceland Camping Card is by downloading the app that comes with the card.
Validity
The card is valid for 28 days from the first day of use. This should be more than enough time for an extensive Iceland road trip or camping adventure.
To get the most value from the camping card, it’s best to purchase it for longer trips where you plan to camp for the majority of your journey.
Cost Efficiency
The great appeal of using a camping card in Iceland is that it’s a really cost-effective solution to planning a trip to Iceland.
Instead of paying per person, you pay per unit (motorhome, campervan, or car). This can save a lot, especially for families or groups.
It’s also a great way to budget for your trip, as you just pay a single price and can use this for all your camping accommodation.
Seasonal Use
The camping card can only be used during the main camping season, which ends on September 15th. This is not only the best time to go camping in Iceland, but it's also generally considered the best time to visit Iceland.
If you plan to travel in the winter, the card won't be available. However, winter camping in Iceland can be very difficult due to the harsh weather - we wouldn't recommend it for most visitors.
Purchase and Pickup
You can buy the camping card for Iceland online and have it shipped to you, or pick it up at several locations in Iceland, including Reykjavík and near Keflavík Airport. It’s easy to get your hold of when you start your adventure in Iceland.
Using the Iceland Camping Card can make your camping trip in Iceland a lot more straightforward to manage and more affordable.
How Much is a Camping Card for Iceland?
The 2024 Iceland Camping Card costs €179. It’s only available through the official camping card website, so be sure to check there for the most up-to-date price.
This one-time payment covers 28 nights of camping at selected sites across Iceland during the peak season. If you have more than two adults camping, the extra person will need their own card or will have to pay separately for the night at the campsite.
The cost of the camping card is non-refundable, and the company is not responsible if some campsites are closed or under maintenance.
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How Do I Get an Iceland Camping Card?
The easiest way to get a camping card for Iceland is to buy it online by visiting the official Iceland Camping Card website. When you buy the card electronically, you can choose to have it shipped to your address or you can pick it up in Iceland.
If you choose shipping, it usually takes about 10 days for international delivery, though it might take longer for some countries.
You can pick up the card at several locations in Iceland:
In Reykjavík, visit the office at Ármúli 36, 2nd floor, which is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
At the Grindavík Camping Site, located at Austurvegur 26 near Keflavík Airport. It’s open every day from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
At the Akranes Camping Site, found at Kalmansvík. It’s open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Seyðisfjörður Camping Site, located at Ránargata 5. It’s open every day from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
These are all convenient locations for the start of any Iceland camping trip. The easiest solution is often to choose one of these campsites as your base for the first night, and simply pick up your card as you check in.
Camping Card Iceland App
If you choose to purchase an Iceland Camping Card, then we highly recommend downloading the app too.
The app helps you locate and access the various campsites covered by the Iceland Camping Card. It provides up-to-date information about each campsite, including their facilities, opening times, and any special notices.
You can easily navigate through the map to find campsites near your current location or planned route. This makes it a great tool if you’re planning a spontaneous adventure through Iceland and want to discover campsites wherever you end up.
To use the app, download it from your device's app store. Just search for "Iceland Camping Card”.
Where Can I Go Camping With a Camping Card in Iceland?
With the Iceland Camping Card, you can camp at about 40 campsites all around Iceland. While the specific campsites that participate sometimes change, here are some of the main regions you’ll want to visit on your Iceland camping trip.
Reykjavík Area
Most trips to Iceland start at Reykjavík, so chances are, you’ll want to find a campsite around here at the beginning and end of your trip.
There are various campsites in and around the capital city, making it easy to explore Reykjavík while enjoying the convenience of nearby camping facilities. You could choose to stay near the city or venture about an hour or two outside of the city for a more secluded campsite.
Golden Circle
Most people who visit Iceland focus their trip on the Golden Circle. This is a popular tourist route that includes some of the country’s best attractions - like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
As it's such a popular route, there are many campsites along the Golden Circle. You should have a good range of campsites to choose from if you want to stay around here.
South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland is known for its stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers. It’s beautiful, and you’ll definitely want to stop here on your camping adventure.
Campsites in this area include places near Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Vik. There should be plenty of options available here for Iceland Camping Card holders.
East Fjords
Explore the beautiful fjords and small fishing villages in the east of Iceland. This is a unique and charming area of the country.
There are plenty of scenic campsites in this region that cater to all kinds of campers.
North Iceland
Getting to the far north of Iceland can be quite a journey, but it’s well worth it with the amazing sights you can discover here.
You can visit the vibrant town of Akureyri, the stunning Goðafoss waterfall, and the unique landscapes of Mývatn. There are plenty of amazing natural sights around here, and you can do some great Iceland hiking in this region too.
Various campsites exist in this area, offering a perfect base for exploring northern Iceland.
Westfjords
This remote and rugged region offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife. If you want a truly unforgettable Icelandic nature experience, then we’d recommend venturing to the west of the country.
There are campsites located in some of the most picturesque areas here. While you set up your home base in a campsite, you can also experience the true magic of the area with a guided tour in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve or an exciting kayaking tour of the Icelandic coast.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Known as "Iceland in Miniature" for its diverse landscapes, the peninsula has several campsites that allow you to explore its beauty.
If your Iceland itinerary is only a few days, then visiting this peninsula can be a great idea. This is because you’ll get to experience a wide range of natural sights and landscapes all within close distance of each other.
Conclusion
Getting a camping card in Iceland can be a great way to save money and make planning your camping trip a lot easier. This works whether you choose to camp in a tent or plan to stay in a van.
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