Do I need a credit card with a PIN?

Yes. Most gas pumps in Iceland are unmanned and will not accept credit cards without a 4-digit PIN. Set this up with your bank before leaving.

Can I drive the Ring Road in winter?

It is possible, but not recommended for inexperienced drivers. You need significant winter driving experience, a robust 4x4, and flexible plans for when roads inevitably close due to blizzards.

Planning Your Iceland Ring Road Trip

To comfortably drive the 828-mile Ring Road (Route 1), allow at least 7 to 10 days to account for weather delays and sightseeing. Stick to a counter-clockwise route to prioritize the South Coast waterfalls and glaciers first, finishing with the more remote landscapes of the North.

Rent a 4x4 vehicle. Even if you stick to the Ring Road, Icelandic weather is volatile. A 4x4 offers stability in high winds and is essential if you decide to take even short detours onto gravel 'F-roads'.
Book accommodations in advance. Outside of Reykjavik, guesthouses are small and sell out months ahead. Use map-based booking sites to ensure your lodging is actually on or near Route 1, rather than deep in the highlands.
Use the 'SafeTravel' app. Download the official SafeTravel.is app. It provides real-time alerts on road closures, wind speeds, and avalanche warnings, which are critical for safe navigation.
Map your fuel stops. In the East Fjords, gas stations can be 50 miles apart. Never let your tank drop below 50% capacity.

Do I need a credit card with a PIN?: Yes. Most gas pumps in Iceland are unmanned and will not accept credit cards without a 4-digit PIN. Set this up with your bank before leaving.
Can I drive the Ring Road in winter?: It is possible, but not recommended for inexperienced drivers. You need significant winter driving experience, a robust 4x4, and flexible plans for when roads inevitably close due to blizzards.