22/09/2026
Who’s road tripping around Iceland this October? 🙋🏼♀️🙋🏾♂️🙋🏽
Here’s what to know before you hit the road 👇🏼
🌡️ Weather:
Expect 1-8°C (34-46°F), with rainy, sunny, and windy days all possible. You might catch snow on the mountaintops.
🌞 Daylight:
You’ll have 8-11 hours of daylight to work with.
🛣️ Road Conditions:
Paved main roads are in fairly good condition. Gravel roads tend to be bumpy, and most F-roads into the Highlands are closed for the season. Check road.is before you set off.
🚙 What to Rent:
A small car can still handle the Ring Road in October if you stick to paved roads. A 4x4 gives you more comfort and space, plus extra confidence if you run into icy or snowy patches.
🗺️ Where to Go:
The Ring Road (10+ days), North Iceland (6+ days), South/Southeast Iceland (5+ days), West Iceland and Snæfellsnes (2+ days), or the Reykjanes Peninsula (1 day) are all solid options this month.
🧳 Packing:
Pack a windproof and waterproof shell, wool base and mid layers, thick socks, a beanie, two pairs of gloves, a neck gaiter, waterproof hiking boots with microspikes, and sunglasses for driving.
☔ Safety:
Check the forecast at vedur.is, road conditions at road.is, and safetravel.is for any other updates before you drive.
Find more driving tips on carrental.is 💜