Our chosen vehicle, a Dacia Duster 4×4 from Budget.is, awaited us at the airport upon arrival. It proved to be an almost brand-new vehicle in impeccable condition, boasting ample space for up to four people and four suitcases. Opting for a manual transmission, we were grateful for the decision, as the varied terrains in Iceland made it apparent that manual transmission was better suited to the conditions than an automatic. We had no complaints whatsoever, and our journey was off to a seamless and exciting start. Mid-flight, Anshu, after pursuing her Instagram reels, decided to catch some sleep, while I witnessed a spectacle I had always hoped for but never truly expected on a flight to Iceland—the Northern Lights. In a stroke of luck, the mesmerizing display occurred just two hours into our trip, as it was already midnight, and the cabin lights were dimmed. Fulfilling a dream, I captured the enchanting Aurora from the plane, taking countless photos and videos during the hour-long show. Satisfied and with a sense of fulfillment, I finally caught a few hours of rest, waking up to the realization that we were already descending into Reykjavik. The aerial view was a captivating tapestry of snow, black lava rocks, sea, and cities all at once. Touching down at around 8 am, we promptly headed to the Budget Car Rental window, easily located following airport signs.
The rental counters were bustling with fellow travelers, a testament to the popular choice of renting a vehicle in Iceland. The manual process involved a thorough explanation of road conditions, signs, and how to navigate Icelandic weather and wind. We strongly advise carefully reading the provided documents, as it’s easy to overlook critical information that could impact your vehicle and journey.
Opting out of additional insurance, confident that our credit card coverage sufficed for our road trip and given the diverse and potentially challenging terrains in Iceland, we decided not to take any chances and chose a 4×4 Dacia Duster 2023 in white. This robust and reliable vehicle would provide the necessary traction and control, ensuring a smooth and secure exploration of the Icelandic landscapes. A pro tip for all potential travelers is that a 4×4 vehicle is not mandatory if the conditions are clear and you’re sticking to designated highways. However, F-Roads, comprised of loose gravel, permit only 4×4 vehicles. Caution and good driving skills are crucial, as gravel can lead to tire slippage, necessitating firm control of the steering wheel.
Two Yellow Jackets 