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Budget Self-Drive Tours in Iceland: Tips for an Affordable Road Trip
Budget self-drive tours in Iceland are a fantastic way to explore the country while keeping costs low. These tours give you the freedom to discover Iceland’s stunning landscapes at your own pace, without breaking the bank.
To make your journey even easier, each of our budget self-drive packages includes carefully curated affordable accommodations. We've handpicked the best budget-friendly options in each location to save you the hassle of searching and to ensure you always know where the cheapest and most convenient places to stay are.
When you book a self-drive tour with us, you’ll also gain access to the exclusive Guide to Iceland VIP Club. This membership unlocks discounts and perks that help you save even more money on your trip, from dining and activities to other travel services. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a cost-effective, seamless, and unforgettable adventure in Iceland.
Choose the Right Self-Drive Tour Package
Budget self-drive tours include essentials like car rental, accommodations, and a detailed itinerary. Look for packages that offer fuel-efficient vehicles and accommodations such as guesthouses or campsites to save money. Two of the most popular budget self-drive tours to consider are:
- 8-Day Self-Drive Tour: Circle of Iceland on a Budget: This tour covers Iceland’s iconic Ring Road, allowing you to explore highlights like the Golden Circle, glacier lagoons, and black sand beaches—all at a budget-friendly pace.
- 8-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour: Slow Pace in the West & South: Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed journey, this tour lets you enjoy Iceland’s stunning landscapes at a slower pace, with stops in the Westfjords and South Coast.
These packages combine affordability and convenience, making them ideal for travelers looking to explore Iceland independently.
Maximize Free Natural Attractions
One of the best things about Iceland is that many of its natural wonders are free to visit. Budget self-drive tours often highlight breathtaking spots like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and Þingvellir National Park. These iconic locations offer unforgettable experiences without requiring an entry fee, making them perfect for travelers on a budget.
Save on Food While Traveling
Cooking your own meals during a self-drive tour can save a significant amount of money. Stop by grocery stores like Bónus or Krónan to stock up on supplies before hitting the road. Pack snacks for long drives and take advantage of accommodations with kitchen facilities.
Plan Fuel Costs Wisely
Fuel can be one of the higher expenses on a self-drive tour, so plan your routes carefully. Choose a fuel-efficient vehicle or electric vehicle as part of your budget self-drive tour package, and refuel in towns where prices are usually lower.
Travel Off-Peak for Lower Prices
Traveling in Iceland’s shoulder seasons, like spring or autumn, can offer significant savings on self-drive tour packages. These seasons not only have fewer tourists but also lower prices for accommodations and car rentals, making it easier to stick to your budget.
By choosing a budget self-drive tour, taking advantage of Iceland’s free attractions, and planning your expenses carefully, you can enjoy an incredible Icelandic adventure without overspending. Start your journey by scrolling up and browsing the top-rated budget self-drive tours in Iceland to suit your budget and needs!
Frequently asked questions
What is the best self-drive tour in Iceland?
For those with more time, the 8-Day Self-Drive Tour: Circle of Iceland on a Budget explores the entire Ring Road, including Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Eastfjords, and Akureyri.
Alternatively, the 8-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour: Slow Pace in the West & South allows for a more relaxed journey, focusing on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, and South Coast.
These tours combine unbeatable routes with excellent value, ensuring an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
What is the cost of a self-drive tour in Iceland for 5 days?
What are the best routes for a budget self-drive tour in Iceland?
The Ring Road self-drive road trip route: Perfect for a full Icelandic experience, this 10-day tour covers major highlights, including Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Akureyri, and the Eastfjords.
The Golden Circle and south coast route: Ideal for a 5-day trip, this route features waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches, plus a chance to see the northern lights in winter.
West and South Iceland route: This 8-day summer tour focuses on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, South Coast, and Vatnajökull National Park.
Budget-friendly East Coast and Golden Circle tour: An 8-day journey offering iconic destinations like the Golden Circle and Eastfjords at an affordable price. These routes are tailored for different trip lengths and budgets, ensuring a memorable Icelandic adventure for every traveler.
What sightseeing activities are the included in budget self-drive tours?
Additionally, you can choose to add extra sightseeing activities to your itinerary. It’s also possible to add additional tours and activities such as glacier hiking, ice cave and volcano caving tours. These tours can be added during the booking process, or at any time by contacting the Guide to Iceland team on info@guidetoiceland.is.
Can I start a budget self-drive tour in Iceland from Reykjavik?
Please note that most self-drive tours in Iceland start at Keflavik airport which makes it convenient for travelers wanting to pick up their car right when they land.
What type of accommodation is included for a budget self-drive tour in Iceland?
Do budget self drive tours include transfer to and from the airport?
Can I upgrade the car for budget self drive tours in Iceland?
Can I change the route if I book a budget self drive tour?
Are meals included in my budget self-drive tour in Iceland?
Are bed sheets included? Do I need a sleeping bag?
Do budget self-drive tours run throughout the year?
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