Driving through Iceland is a breathtaking experience, with landscapes ranging from glaciers and fjords to black sand beaches and volcanic plains. But while the views are unforgettable, the roads can be unpredictable. Although many main routes are paved and in good condition, rural roads are often narrow, gravelly, or twist through mountain passes. Sudden shifts in weather, like fog, rain, wind, or even snow, can make driving conditions more difficult in an instant.
If you’re travelling with children in Iceland, using the correct car seat is not optional; it’s the law. These rules are strictly enforced to keep young passengers safe. By understanding the regulations ahead of time, you can avoid fines, reduce stress, and focus on enjoying your journey. Here’s what families need to know before driving in Iceland.
If you're planning to drive in Iceland, it's crucial to understand the country's child car seat laws. These rules are designed to keep children safe and are based on their height and weight, not just age. Failing to follow them could lead to fines and, more importantly, put your child at serious risk in the event of an accident.
Icelandic law states that any child shorter than 135 centimetres must travel in a suitable child car seat. This applies regardless of age. Standard seat belts are built for adult bodies, and if worn by a child without a proper booster or car seat, they can cause severe injuries in a crash. The correct car seat ensures the belt fits and protects the child’s head, neck, and torso in the event of sudden impact.
Infants and toddlers weighing up to 13 kilograms must be secured in a rear-facing car seat. This position is considered the safest for young children because it protects their still-developing neck and spine. Rear-facing seats are designed to distribute the force of a crash more evenly across a baby's body, reducing the risk of serious injury.
Children under 150 cm cannot sit in the front seat if the airbag is active, as airbags are designed for adults and can cause serious injury to a child. If a child must sit in front, the airbag must be turned off, and the child must use a suitable restraint.
All vehicle occupants, adults and children, must wear seat belts at all times. This rule is enforced, whether you're driving through central Reykjavík or along remote mountain roads. Police regularly carry out seat belt checks, and failure to comply can result in fines. More importantly, proper seat belt use is a critical part of keeping everyone in the vehicle safe.
Before you travel, you’ll need to select a child seat that matches your child’s current height and weight. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of seats required at various stages:
Infant seats are for babies up to 13 kg and must be installed rear-facing. They protect the head and neck by absorbing impact forces and should be fastened with a seat belt or ISOFIX. Many include detachable carriers for easy transfer.
For children who weigh between 9 and 18 kilograms, a toddler seat is the next step. These seats can be installed either rear-facing or forward-facing. Rear-facing remains the safer choice for as long as your child fits the seat’s specifications. Toddler seats come with a five-point harness to keep the child secure and are often adjustable to provide comfort during longer drives.
When a child exceeds 18 kilograms but is still under 135 centimetres tall, a booster seat becomes necessary. Booster seats elevate your child so the vehicle’s seat belt fits properly across the shoulder and lap, rather than the neck or stomach. Both high-back and backless booster seats are acceptable, though high-back models offer more support, especially on winding roads. Booster seats are essential for ensuring seat belts work as intended. Whatever type of seat you use, it’s important to base your choice on your child’s physical size, not just their age. Proper fit is critical for the seat to function effectively.
Travelling families often make avoidable mistakes when renting car seats in Iceland. Being aware of these common issues can help keep your child safe and your trip stress-free.
Driving in Iceland comes with its own set of challenges and quirks. Knowing what to expect will help you stay safe and avoid surprises.
Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable. Sunshine can quickly give way to snow, fog, or strong winds, especially in the highlands or mountainous areas. Always check the local weather and road conditions before setting out to stay informed and travel safely.
While Ring Road (Route 1) is paved and accessible year-round, many interior roads are gravel and narrow. These “F-roads” may be closed during winter and require four-wheel-drive vehicles. Drive slowly on gravel roads to avoid losing traction or damaging your tyres.
Sheep roam freely across much of the countryside and often wander onto roads. Slow down when approaching blind corners or hill crests, and always keep a lookout for animals near the roadside.
In Iceland, all traffic drives on the right-hand side, and overtaking is done on the left. Familiarise yourself with local road signs, which may differ from those in your home country.
For more detailed tips, check out Avoid Common Road Trip Mistakes in Iceland with These Traveller Do’s and Don’ts.
In addition to a car seat, several other items can make travelling with children more comfortable in Iceland:
When you’re ready to hit the road in Iceland, choosing the right rental company can make a big difference, especially when travelling with children. Renting a car with Final Rentals offers a dependable, family-friendly service that makes car hire simple, safe, and stress-free. Here are a few key reasons why families trust Final Rentals:
Choosing Final Rentals means you can focus on enjoying Iceland with your family, while we help take care of the details. For more helpful tips on driving in Iceland, check out What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road in Iceland.
When you’re ready to rent a car in Iceland, choose Final Rentals for a smooth, safe, and stress-free experience. We’ll help you start your Icelandic adventure with confidence, knowing that every member of your family is travelling comfortably and securely.
