Essential gear for F-road adventures in Iceland
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in Iceland’s pristine wilderness, then the country’s F-roads are likely to be the way you access it. But these rough and challenging mountain roads shouldn’t be underestimated. If you’re planning a road trip that incorporates one or more of them, you’ll need to make some special preparations that will keep you safe. Before you set off on this incredible adventure, let’s take a look at some of the essential gear you’re going to need.
A 4x4 vehicle
On roads as uneven and potholed as Iceland’s F-roads, you need a vehicle that’s up to the task. That means a 4x4 is non-negotiable. You’ll benefit from having a larger vehicle as these tend to have higher ground clearance as well as the power needed to pull you slowly out of the water when you attempt to ford one of the many rivers. For the most challenging crossings, consider opting for a vehicle with a snorkel. Remember water damage is never covered by rental car insurance policies, so proceed cautiously and turn back if necessary.
If you’re new to Iceland’s F-roads, consider starting with the best F-roads for beginners, as some routes offer a more relaxed experience for those not yet comfortable with the rougher terrain.
A full tank of fuel plus a spare can
There are no petrol stations in the Icelandic Highlands so you’re going to need to ensure you don’t run out of fuel. In practice, this means you’ll need to fill to full as late as possible on your way in. It’s also wise to carry additional fuel so that you can top up if needed. Keep a close eye on the fuel gauge and never take chances – this is not a place you’d want to break down.
Spare tire and the knowledge about how to change it
If the terrain is uneven and there are lots of loose, sharp stones kicking around then there’s a higher than average chance you’ll get a puncture. Make sure you have checked the spare tire when you picked up the vehicle and also be clear about how you’d change the tire if you did get a flat. It’s often hard to get a mobile phone signal so you’ll often have to rely on yourself to get out of trouble when driving Iceland’s F-roads.
Appropriate clothing including warm layers, rainproof outer layers, and suitable footwear
Though you’ll be in the car a lot of the time, you will need to get out from time to time for various reasons. Firstly, you’ll want to do some sightseeing – perhaps some hiking – and also you’ll need to get out to inspect the site of a potential water crossing before attempting it. Make sure what you are wearing in these cases is going to keep you warm and dry. Pay attention to your footwear, and make sure what you are wearing is equally suited to driving as it is outdoor activities – or be prepared to change your boots as you go along.
Water and snacks
Packing plenty of water to keep you hydrated and also a variety of snacks is another must for anyone planning to drive Iceland’s mountain roads. There are very few places in the Highlands region where you can purchase items to eat or drink – Landmannalaugar is one exception. If you don’t take your own, you could be driving for some time before you can find somewhere to stop.
A phone – and also offline maps
Though you’ll need to carry your mobile phone as you drive the F-roads, be prepared for a lack of signal in many places. However, 112, the Icelandic emergency number, should be possible, so store that in your phone in case of emergency. It’s also a good idea to keep the phone charged up so you can download some detailed maps ahead of your trip and access them offline. It is possible to buy maps at some petrol stations, but check that they have sufficient detail for the area in which you intend to travel to be useful.
