The Camping Card: Everything You Need to Know About Camping in Iceland
Planning a trip to Iceland and considering camping? Have you heard of the Camping Card? With its many advantages, this Icelandic camping card will help you save money and time. Here's everything you need to know about the Camping Card.
Planning a trip to Iceland and considering camping? Have you heard of the Camping Card? With its many advantages, this Icelandic camping card will help you save money and time. Here's everything you need to know about the Camping Card.
What is the Camping Card?
The Concept
The Camping Card is THE card to get if you're planning to camp in Iceland. It grants access to over 30 campsites spread throughout the country and listed on the official website. It's valid for a family of up to 2 adults and 4 children under 16 years old.
The Camping Card is valid for 28 nights. Since 28 nights equal 28 units, each night counts as one unit for all family members. Additionally, one night for two adults and up to 4 children counts as one unit. Note that cardholders are permitted to stay 4 consecutive days in each campsite.
Regarding types of camping accommodations, the Camping Card covers all campsites accepting tents, caravans, motorhomes and other vehicles equipped with roof tents.
The Advantages
The Camping Card offers numerous advantages. Not only does it help you save money, but it also saves considerable time. Since you won't have to spend hours searching for accommodation, you can choose from all listed campsites across the island in advance or even at the last minute (except in unforeseen circumstances such as a full or weather-closed campsite).
But that's not all! The Camping Card is not just practical; it's also advantageous as it provides access to several types of discounts at Olís and ÓB service stations:
12 ISK per liter (note that discounts are not available at ÓB gas stations that offer their lowest price),
10% discount on food and beverages,
15% discount on automotive products,
15% discount on camping gas,
Coffee for only 65 ISK.
Furthermore, all Camping Card holders can also enjoy 5% off vehicle rentals from KuKu Campers and Gocampers.
How to Use the Camping Card
How It Works
As mentioned earlier, the Camping Card provides access to 28 nights of camping. Functioning like a prepaid credit card, the card comes loaded with 28 crowns. Each crown equals one night per family.
Upon arrival at the campsite, cardholders must present the Camping Card along with valid identification (passport, driver's license, etc.). Equipped with a magnetic stripe, each night is deducted as you go.
List of Icelandic Campsites
The Camping Card provides access to around thirty campsites distributed throughout the country, from north to south, passing through east and west, including the West Fjords. You'll find accommodation options close to all must-see sites of Iceland's Golden Circle and beyond.
You'll find the complete list of listed campsites on the official Camping Card website: utilegukortid.is
Camping Card Validity Dates
Most Icelandic campsites close during winter. That's why the Camping Card isn't usable year-round. It's valid from May (typically May 1st to May 15th) and expires on September 15th each year.
Note: some campsites may close earlier. For this reason, it's best to check the closing dates of your chosen campsites.
How Much Does the Camping Card Cost?
The Camping Card costs €179*. You should also plan for the accommodation tax (government tax) for each campsite. Budget 333 ISK (around €2.30) per night.
Good to know: some facilities (such as laundry machines, showers or electricity) aren't always included. These services must be paid separately at certain campsites.
*Prices are subject to change.
Where to Buy the Camping Card
You have two options for purchasing the Camping Card.
You can order it online from the official website and have it sent to your address. International shipping typically takes around 10 days, though we recommend allowing more time.
You can purchase it directly on-site from an authorized reseller. For example, you'll find them at OLÍS gas stations, at some information centers, or at car rental agencies. Discover the complete list of resellers on utilegukortid.is.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Camping Card is valid for all types of camping accommodations: tents, caravans, motorhomes and vehicles equipped with roof tents at partner campsites.
The Camping Card covers 28 nights for a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children under 16 years old. Each night per family counts as 1 unit deducted from the card.
Yes, but your stay is limited to 4 consecutive nights at the same campsite. Beyond that, you'll need to change campsites or pay for additional nights outside the card.
The Camping Card costs €179. Add to this a government accommodation tax of approximately 333 ISK (around €2.30) per night at each campsite. Some facilities like showers or laundry machines may be charged separately.
The Camping Card is valid from early May (typically May 1st) until September 15th each year. Outside this period, most Icelandic campsites are closed. Check specific dates for each campsite before planning your itinerary.
You can purchase the Camping Card online at utilegukortid.is (delivery in approximately 10 days internationally) or directly in Iceland at OLÍS gas stations, some tourist information centers and car rental agencies.
