Winter Driving Equipment in a Beast in Iceland:
Snow tires
Snow scraper
Small shovel
For a longer road trip, we also suggest considering:
Headlamp or flashlight (due to limited daylight in winter)
Keep extra warm clothing, blankets, and some food and drink in case you get stranded and have to wait for roads to be cleared or weather to calm down. Keep a cell phone with internet to check road conditions at https://umferdin.is/en before entering a new area.
Flexible Planning: Be prepared to adapt your plans, as weather and road conditions can change rapidly in winter and might necessitate changes to your itinerary.
Consider a 4x4 (AWD, All-Wheel Drive) Vehicle: If you plan to do a lot of driving during your winter trip, consider renting a 4x4 for better stability and comfort in winter conditions. However, be aware that some weather and road conditions can still be too extreme for a 4x4.
Impassable and Closed Roads: If a road is marked as impassable or closed, do not attempt to drive on it, regardless of the type of vehicle you have.
Wind Sensitivity: Storms are common in Iceland, and strong winds can affect your vehicle's stability and maneuverability.
Beware of Windy Car Doors: Be extra careful when opening and closing car doors in windy conditions. The wind can catch them and cause damage, so always keep a firm grip on your car door when getting in and out.
Accidents can still happen even to the best prepared driver. Inform yourself about the road and weather conditions and accept that sometimes conditions are not okay for travelling.