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Iceland campervan review

McRent: An Honest Review for Renters

Everything you need to know about renting a proper motorhome in Iceland — the space, the comfort, the onboard bathroom question, and the practical trade-offs of driving a larger vehicle.

Founded

2006

Fleet size

10,000+ across Europe

Pickup

Keflavik Airport, Reykjavik

Base

Headquartered in Germany (EU-wide fleet including Iceland)


Why McRent Stands Out

The difference between a campervan and a McRent motorhome is like the difference between a studio apartment and a one-bedroom. Motorhomes have distinct sleeping, cooking, and living areas. You can cook while someone else relaxes on the couch. Kids can sleep in a separate area from the adults. The onboard bathroom means no midnight walks to the campsite facilities.

This comfort comes with real trade-offs for Iceland specifically. Motorhomes are wider, longer, and heavier than campervans. Iceland has single-lane bridges, narrow roads in some areas, and wind conditions that affect larger vehicles more significantly. You need to be a confident driver and comfortable with the vehicle's size.

Onboard bathroom

Many McRent motorhomes include a bathroom with shower. In Iceland's cold, wet climate, this is a genuine comfort upgrade over relying on campsite facilities.

Separate living spaces

Distinct sleeping, kitchen, and living areas. The ability to cook, eat, and relax in different parts of the vehicle makes a real difference on longer trips.

Family-friendly

Enough space for families with children to live comfortably. Kids can play or nap while the driver takes a break. Multiple sleeping areas keep everyone sane.

European standards

Backed by McRent's EU-wide fleet operation with standardized maintenance, quality checks, and professional service processes.


Things to Know Before You Book

Driving a motorhome in Iceland

Iceland's roads are generally good for motorhomes on the main Ring Road and major routes. The challenges are specific: single-lane bridges require you to check for oncoming traffic, some parking areas at popular attractions are tight, and Iceland's famous wind can be physically felt in a larger vehicle.

If you're an experienced driver comfortable with larger vehicles, these aren't dealbreakers. If you've never driven anything bigger than a car, a motorhome in Iceland might be a stressful introduction. Consider your driving confidence honestly before booking.

No F-roads

Motorhomes are not permitted on F-roads. If your itinerary includes highland routes, you need a 4x4 campervan instead. McRent motorhomes are for paved roads and standard gravel roads only.

The bathroom question

An onboard bathroom changes the campervan experience fundamentally. No more rushing to campsite facilities in the rain at midnight. No more waiting in line. No more worrying about facilities at wild camping spots. For families with children, it's often the difference between an enjoyable trip and a challenging one.

The trade-off is that you need to manage waste tanks and water levels. Campsite service points handle this, and it's straightforward once you've done it once, but it's an extra responsibility.

Fuel & costs

Motorhomes use significantly more fuel than campervans. Expect roughly double the fuel consumption of a compact campervan. On Iceland's Ring Road (1,322 km), this difference adds up. Factor fuel costs into your budget comparison between a motorhome and a campervan.


The Fleet at a Glance

McRent's Iceland offerings are proper motorhomes, not converted vans. Each category represents a meaningful step up in size and living space.

Couples who want space

Compact Motorhome

The smallest McRent option, but still significantly larger than a campervan. Separate sleeping area, full kitchen, and a living space you can actually sit in. A good compromise between comfort and drivability.

Families

Family Motorhome

Multiple sleeping areas, a dining space that works for family meals, and enough room for kids to move around. Often includes an onboard bathroom. The practical family choice for a Ring Road trip.

Maximum comfort

Premium Motorhome

The most spacious and well-equipped option. Premium interiors, full bathroom with shower, quality appliances, and the most comfortable sleeping arrangements. The luxury way to tour Iceland.


What Reviewers Actually Say

4.2

Google · ~3,800 reviews

Across their European network. Iceland-specific feedback highlights the comfort of proper motorhomes — especially the onboard bathroom. Driving challenges on narrow roads and wind sensitivity are noted but not dealbreakers for most.

3.5

Trustpilot · ~650 reviews

More mixed, with complaints about fuel consumption, vehicle size on Iceland's roads, and the limitations of not being able to access F-roads. Families with children remain the most satisfied segment.

Google highlights

The onboard bathroom is the single most praised feature, with families and cold-weather travelers calling it a game-changer. The separate living spaces — being able to cook while someone relaxes, or kids sleeping in a different area — get consistently positive mentions. Overall comfort and the feeling of having a "real home on wheels" are common themes.

Trustpilot patterns

Vehicle size on Iceland's roads is the primary concern. Travelers report stress on single-lane bridges, difficulty parking at popular attractions, and being more affected by Iceland's wind. Fuel consumption is also mentioned — motorhomes use significantly more fuel than campervans, which adds up on the Ring Road. The inability to use F-roads limits itinerary options.

Reddit takeaways

Forum advice is clear: McRent motorhomes are best for confident drivers and families who need the space. If you're comfortable driving a large vehicle and your itinerary sticks to paved roads, the comfort upgrade is substantial. If you're a nervous driver or want highland access, a campervan is the better choice. The bathroom alone justifies the motorhome for many families with young children.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do McRent motorhomes have bathrooms?
Many models include an onboard bathroom with shower. Check the specific vehicle listing when booking, as bathroom availability varies by model and size category.
Can I drive a McRent motorhome on F-roads?
No. Motorhomes are not permitted on Iceland's F-roads. F-roads require 4x4 vehicles. McRent motorhomes are designed for paved roads and standard gravel roads only.
Is it hard to drive a motorhome in Iceland?
The main Ring Road and major routes are fine for motorhomes. Challenges include single-lane bridges, tight parking at some attractions, and wind on exposed coastal sections. If you're comfortable driving larger vehicles, it's manageable. First-time large-vehicle drivers should consider a campervan instead.

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