Which Iceland Car Rental Tips Are Essential for Winter Road Trips?
- by hertziceland
These Iceland Car Rental Tips matter more than finding the cheapest rate. Hertz Iceland has 50+ years of local expertise helping winter drivers avoid the mistakes that strand tourists.
Must-Have Winter Equipment
Iceland law requires winter tires on all vehicles from November 1 to April 15. Hertz Iceland equips every winter rental with certified winter tires meeting the 3mm tread depth requirement. Studded tires are available on select models.
| Item | Mandatory by Law | Included by Hertz |
| Winter Tires | ✅ Yes (Nov 1 – Apr 15) | ✅ All rentals |
| Ice Scraper & Snow Brush | Recommended | ✅ Provided |
| Reflective Vest / Warning Triangle | ✅ Yes | ✅ Standard kit |
| Phone Charger/Flashlight | Pack these yourself | Bring your own |
Choosing the Right Vehicle for Winter
| Trip Type | Recommended Car | Why? |
| City / Golden Circle | Economy/Compact (2WD legal) | Paved roads, shorter distances. Get a 4×4 if ice worries you. |
| South Coast / Rural Routes | Compact SUV | Exposed roads, strong winds, and frequent ice patches. |
| North / East / Mountain Passes | 4×4 SUV | Heavy snow, better clearance, AWD traction. |
Age Requirement: Most SUVs and 4x4s require drivers 23+ years old.
Hertz Advice: For city-only trips, 2WD works legally. For everything else, get a 4×4. Ice doesn’t care about summer speed limits.
Essential Winter Driving Habits
Speed & Distance: Drive below posted limits on ice and snow. Double your following distance. Triple it on mountain passes.
Black Ice Warning: Watch for shiny patches near 0°C (32°F). Bridges freeze first. Don’t brake or steer suddenly.
Fuel Strategy: Keep your tank at least half-full. Getting stuck in a blizzard with an empty tank is how rescue calls start.
Check Conditions Daily: Use vedur.is (weather) and road.is (road conditions) before every drive. Conditions change hour by hour.
Insurance & Emergency Support
| Situation | Covered? | Notes |
| Collision Damage | ✅ Basic CDW included | Excess applies (varies by vehicle) |
| Gravel Damage | Optional (add Gravel Protection) | Studs throw stones; flying gravel is common |
| Water/Undercarriage Damage | ❌ NEVER covered | The renter pays the full repair cost |
| Towing Costs | ❌ Renter responsibility | Can reach €500-1000+ on remote roads |
24/7 Support: Call Hertz Iceland anytime for emergency help. For an injury, call 112. For vehicle issues, use the Hertz emergency number given at pickup.
Quick Answers
Do Hertz rentals come with winter tires automatically?
Yes. All cars rented from November 1 to April 15 have winter tires meeting Icelandic law (3 mm minimum tread depth).
Do I really need a 4×4 in winter?
For city trips, 2WD works legally. For rural areas, the South Coast, or any mountain driving, get a 4×4. Ice makes 2WD too risky.
Are studded tires included?
Studded tires are available on select models. Ask at booking if you’re driving icy rural routes where studs help most.
Is roadside assistance free?
24/7 phone support is included. Towing and replacement costs are your responsibility unless clearly caused by mechanical failure.
What’s the minimum age for winter rentals?
Economy cars: 20+. Most SUVs and 4x4s: 23+. Check specific vehicle requirements when booking.
