UPDATED ON May, 19 2026
Planning a road trip in Iceland? Renting a car in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore Ireland’s lush landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns at your own pace. But with Ireland’s unique road conditions that present special difficulties, including severe weather, gravel F-roads, and isolated locations where help may be far away, car rental insurance is essential to ensure your Icelandic adventure remains stress-free and that you are protected against potential unexpected costs. This essential and comprehensive guide addresses common concerns, such as Iceland’s unique road and weather conditions, and explains the types of car rental insurance required and recommended for Iceland to help you make informed choices on protecting yourself and your rental vehicle.
Compare and Buy Iceland Rental Car Insurance
Get Started| Warranty | What does it cover? | How much does it cover? |
|---|---|---|
| Damage due to collision or theft | Reimbursement of the deductible applied by the rental company as a result of accidental damage caused to the vehicle, including tires, windshield, underbody and other parts | $ 2,500 - $ 4,500 |
| Improper Fuel Use Charges | Tank emptying costs and vehicle towing, when the wrong fuel is refueled into the vehicle by mistake. | $ 500 |
| Loss or theft of keys | In the replacement of lost or stolen keys, including lock and locksmith costs. | $ 500 |
| Towing charges | Covers the tow truck of the rented car in the event of a breakdown or accident. | $ 500 |
| Vehicle return charges | If as a result of an accident or illness with hospitalization you cannot return the vehicle. | $ 250 |
| Personnal belongings | In case your baggage, personal belongings or valuables are taken, permanently lost or unintentionally damaged during your trip | $ 500 |
| Hotel expensses | If You are unable to use your rental vehicle as a result of it being stolen or damaged | $ 150 |
I bought a year long policy for peace of mind when renting a car in Spain. I had to make a claim which was handled smoothly. Customer service was helpful throughout. Would definitely use them again.
We compared and analyzed Super Collision Damage Waiver costs for a 7-day rental of a standard car class (July 1st – July 8th). The rental car insurance rates listed here are subject to change by the car rental companies without notice. For the most up-to-date pricing information, we encourage you to request a free online quote prior to booking. Our car hire excess insurance for rental vehicles in Iceland offers the same coverage at a 70% lower cost!
| Car Rental Company | Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) + Theft Protection (TP) | Wind & Gravel Protection | Avg. Super Collision Damage Waiver Cost at Counter* | Avg. Insurance Deductible at Counter | Avg. Cost for Rental Car Excess Insurance with CarInsuRent | Cost of Deductible with Zero-Excess from CarInsuRent |
| Avis | Included at the rental price | US$ 21.87 | US$ 1,580 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD | |
| Budget | Included at the rental price | US$ 23.00 | US$ 21.50 | US$ 1,400 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
| Enterprise | Included at the rental price | US$ 18.94 | US$ 48.31 | US$ 4,050 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
| Europcar | Included at the rental price | US$ 31.59 | US$ 3,645 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD | |
| Hertz | Included at the rental price | US$ 38.86 | US$ 1,960 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD | |
| Lotus Car Rental | Included at the rental price | US$ 33.62 | US$ 52.25 | US$ 1,215 | US$ 16.66 per day or US$ 350.00 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
*Prices are based on the USD/ISK exchange rate known on 15/5/26.

Enterprise Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026

Enterprise Iceland Sand and Ash Protection – July 2026
The two fundamental types of insurance offered when renting a car in Iceland are Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third-Party Liability (TPL). In essence, TPL is a mandatory requirement by Icelandic law, covering any damage that you may cause to another person, vehicle, or property, and is usually included at no extra cost with your rental car. CDW, on the other hand, protects you against significant financial losses if the rental car incurs damage during your period of use, excluding specific types of damage such as water, undercarriage, tires, and wind damage, among others.
Many drivers assume that rental car damage in Iceland usually happens due to reckless driving or due to severe weather or gravel F-roads. Real claims data shows a very different reality.
According to the our Rental Car Insurance Claims Report 2025, more than 58% of rental car damage claims are not caused by the renter at all. The most common scenarios include parked vehicle damage, hit-and-run incidents, damage caused by other drivers, and minor scrapes discovered only at vehicle return.
These findings are reinforced by our Latest Trends in Rental Car Damage Claims analysis, which highlights several patterns highly relevant to Iceland:
A significant share of claims occur while the vehicle is legally parked, especially in city centers and hotel parking areas.
Damage often involves mirrors, bumpers, wheels, and underbody components, parts that are frequently excluded or limited under standard rental agreements.
Many renters only discover the damage at drop-off, when the rental company charges the full repair cost upfront.
Without adequate insurance, you may be held responsible for any damage to your rental car, which can result in unexpected and significant expenses. This is particularly important in Iceland, where rental agreements typically include high excess amounts, even when Collision Damage Waiver is included. Without standalone rental car insurance, renters may be left covering thousands of euros for damage they did not cause.
This guide aims to demystify the often confusing world of rental car insurance, breaking down what you need, how it works, and most importantly, whether you really need it.

4WD car travel off road in Landmannalaugar Iceland
Yet, Iceland’s unique landscapes present additional risks not typically covered by basic insurance plans. This is where additional insurance coverage options such as Gravel Protection and Sand and Ash Protection come into play, potentially lowering your self-risk amount or providing coverage for specific risks such as loose gravel or volcanic ash damage.
While it may be tempting to opt for the most comprehensive coverage available, the key to making the right decision lies in understanding your specific needs, the nature of your trip, and your risk tolerance. That’s why it’s vital to carefully study the car rental’s terms and conditions to understand what each insurance option covers and excludes. Stay with us as we delve deeper into the specifics of car rental insurance in Iceland, giving you the knowledge to make informed decisions and ensure peace of mind as you embark on your Icelandic adventure.
When renting a car in Iceland, having rental car insurance is of utmost importance. This insurance coverage provides protection and peace of mind during your travels, safeguarding you from potential financial liabilities and unexpected expenses. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of car rental insurance in Iceland:
Before renting a car in Iceland, carefully review the terms and conditions of the car rental insurance policy. Understand the coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and any additional fees that may apply. Consider your personal circumstances, the value of the rental vehicle, and your risk tolerance to determine the level of coverage you require.
Remember that rental car insurance is typically optional but highly recommended. While it adds to the overall cost of renting a car, the protection and security it provides are well worth the investment. By opting for car rental insurance in Iceland, you can explore the country with confidence, knowing that you are adequately covered in case of unexpected events on the road.
In the picturesque country of Iceland, renting a car is a popular way for tourists to explore the land of ice and fire. Understanding the ins and outs of car rental insurance in the country is crucial to ensure a stress-free journey.
When renting a car in Iceland, two basic types of insurance are usually offered: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third Party Liability (TPL).
Third-Party Liability insurance, a legal requirement in Iceland, typically covers any damage that you might cause to another person, vehicle, or property while driving the rental car. It also extends to passengers in your car in case they suffer damage or injuries. Normally, this is included in your rental package at no extra cost.
The Collision Damage Waiver, on the other hand, refers to the car rental company waiving its right to hold you fully liable for damages to the rental car. Instead, you are left with a set self-risk amount that you are liable for. This self-risk amount can vary greatly between car rental companies but usually hovers around 2,000 EUR. A Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) can be availed to substantially lower this self-risk amount. However, it’s essential to remember that the CDW often does not cover the vehicle for certain types of damage, such as water damage, undercarriage, tires, headlights, windscreen, wind damage to doors, and damage caused by negligence.
In addition to these basic coverages, optional insurances like the Super Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Gravel Protection, Sand and Ash Protection, Undercarriage/Chassis Insurance, Tire Insurance, Window Insurance, Door Insurance, Water Insurance, Animal Encounter Insurance, and Towing Insurance can also be considered based on your individual needs.
Gravel Protection is a form of rental car insurance in Iceland that provides coverage for damages resulting from gravel and similar materials impacting the rental vehicle. Given the prevalence of gravel roads throughout the country, this type of insurance can be critical for those planning to rent a car and travel within Iceland.
The potential for damage is not limited to driving directly on gravel roads. Rocks or gravel can get lodged in the tires of other vehicles that have been on such roads, and once these vehicles are back on paved roads, those stones can be flung out, potentially hitting your vehicle. Depending on the size of the rock and the speed of the vehicles, this can cause significant damage, particularly to the windshield.
The Gravel Protection insurance typically covers damage to the body of the rental car, the headlights, and the front windshield. If you plan to drive on F-Roads, narrow gravel roads accessible only with a jeep or 4×4, it is highly recommended to have Gravel Protection Insurance. It is important to note, though, that while Gravel Protection Insurance would still apply on F-Roads, there is generally no insurance coverage when crossing rivers.
Considering the unique conditions of Iceland’s roads and landscapes, opting for such coverage can be a wise choice to avoid unexpected costs related to potential damage. As with any insurance decision, it’s important to weigh the cost of the insurance against the potential risk and your own comfort with that risk.

Gravel roads can puncture or severely wear out tires
Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) is a specific type of insurance coverage that protects rental cars from potential damage caused by volcanic ash and sand in Iceland. It was created due to the volcanic eruptions that have left loose ash and fine sand in certain areas of Iceland, such as from the Eyjafjallajökull eruption. As the wind blows, it may cause the ash and sand to whirl up and cause damage to vehicles, especially to their paintwork, windows, lights, plastics, chromes, and wheels.
This type of damage is not covered under regular Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) policies from Icelandic insurance companies, necessitating the need for a separate protection. This optional coverage is highly recommended for travelers planning to drive in Iceland, especially during the Sand & Ash period, typically in February, March, and April[2]. During this time, thawed snow and insufficiently grown grass fail to hold the sand in place, resulting in its dispersion onto roads, causing potential vehicle damage.
In the event of a sandstorm, travelers are advised to change plans and wait out the storm to avoid damage. If damage occurs, without the SAAP, the vehicle might need to be spray painted again, incurring a considerable sum.
SAAP insurance can be purchased through your car hire company and typically has a deductible of 50,000 IKR for all rental cars in the fleet. CarInsuRent Car Hire Excess Insurance for Iceland include SAAP and GP with zero deductible.
It’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of the car rental insurance policy, including coverage details, exclusions, deductibles, and any limitations. Take note of any restrictions on off-road driving or certain types of vehicles, as violating these terms may invalidate your insurance coverage.
Additionally, consider any existing insurance coverage you may have, such as personal auto insurance or travel insurance, as they might provide overlapping coverage for certain aspects of car rental insurance.
To make an informed decision, compare insurance options from different rental companies, considering factors such as coverage benefits, costs, and customer reviews. Understanding the coverage available and selecting the appropriate options based on your needs will ensure that you are adequately protected during your rental period in Iceland.
Remember, car rental insurance is not mandatory in Iceland, but it is highly recommended to protect yourself and your financial interests. By securing the right car rental insurance, you can enjoy your journey through Iceland with confidence and peace of mind.
River Crossing Protection is specialized coverage designed for one of Iceland’s most notorious driving hazards: unbridged river crossings. Many of Iceland’s highland routes, particularly F-roads, require drivers to ford rivers where bridges don’t exist.
Standard rental car insurance, including CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), typically excludes water damage. If you attempt a river crossing without RCP and water damages the engine, electronics, or interior, you could face repair bills ranging from €5,000 to €25,000 or more.
Lotus Car Rental provides River Crossing Protection as an optional add-on for vehicles rated for F-road driving (typically 4×4 vehicles). This coverage specifically protects against:
Important Note: RCP does not give you permission to cross any river recklessly. Coverage applies when crossing approved river fords on designated F-roads, and drivers are expected to exercise reasonable caution and judgment.
F-roads (Fjallvegur) are mountain roads in Iceland’s interior highlands, marked with an “F” prefix (like F35 or F208). These unpaved routes feature:
By Icelandic law, only 4×4 vehicles are permitted on F-roads, and they’re typically closed from September/October through June/July depending on conditions. It is recommended that you make sure that your rental covers driving on F-roads.
Iceland’s sheep, horses, and occasionally reindeer roam freely, especially in rural areas. Animal collisions are surprisingly common, particularly during:
Lotus Car Rental’s comprehensive insurance packages typically include coverage for animal-related incidents through their Super CDW (SCDW) or Full Protection options:
Coverage includes:

Lotus Car Rental Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026
Rental car insurance cost in Iceland can vary depending on several factors, including the provider, rental location, the duration of the rental, the type of coverage selected, and any additional options or add-ons chosen. Deductible cost in Iceland range from €1,250 to €3,950. The cost of SCDW with zero excess can range from $19 to $45 USD per day. If you wish to include Gravel and Ash protections, you need to pay additional US$ 21 to US$ 32.50. This coverage can be replaced with CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance for Iceland, costing between $15.00 per day* to $350.00 for an annual policy with a zero excess charge. Not sure if annual coverage is right for you? Compare daily vs annual car hire excess insurance to find the best option for your travel needs.
* Price is calculated based on 10 days of rental.

Europcar Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026
Avis Wind & Gravel Protection (WDW) lowers your financial liability in case of damages to the car caused by the forces of nature, such as sand, ash, wind or gravel. This also includes damages to the front windscreen. The cost of Avis Wind & Gravel Protection is US$ 29.00/day. Other providers may offer Gravel Protection for EUR 13.55/day and SAAP for EUR 13.55/day.

Avis Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026
Rental Company Insurance vs. CarInsuRent: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | CarInsuRent | Rental Company Insurance |
| Cost per Day | From € 0.50* – € 15.30 | € 15- € 35 |
| Covers Windscreen Damage? | ✅ Yes | ❌ Often Not Covered |
| Covers Tires & Undercarriage? | ✅ Yes | ❌ Often Not Covered |
| Annual Policy Available? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Claim Process | Online, quick approval | Slow, requires rental company assessment |
*When purchasing an Annual Policy
Real example: Renting a car for 7 days from Budget in Iceland:
Rental companies mark up insurance by 200–400% because:
Pro tip: Always buy rental car insurance online before arriving at the rental counter. You’ll lock in the lowest rate and avoid the upsell pressure.
Key takeaway: Opting for CarInsuRent can save you up to 70% on car rental excess insurance costs.
Keep in mind that alternative rental car excess insurance options may be available, such as purchasing insurance through a third-party provider or relying on coverage provided by your personal auto insurance or credit card benefits. Comparing the costs and coverage details of different insurance options can help you make a cost-effective choice that meets your requirements while staying within your budget. CarInsuRent car rental excess insurance for Iceland starts from as low as $15.00 per day* to $350.00 for an annual car hire excess insurance policy. Our Iceland policy covers the excess on damage and theft up to €2,500 and provide full protection that Includes single vehicle damage, roof and undercarriage damage, auto glass and widescreen damage, towing expenses, misfuelling, loss of car key, tire damage, SAAP and Gravel Protection. We cover multiple drivers between the ages of 21 and 84 years.
Ultimately, it is essential to balance the cost of car rental insurance with the level of coverage and protection it provides. By evaluating your needs, comparing insurance options, and considering your budget, you can select the most suitable car rental insurance for your trip to Iceland.
I wholeheartedly recommend CarInsuRent. Their response time was exceptionally prompt. They requested standard documentation and photos of the damage, and I received payment directly to my PayPal account almost immediately.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Iceland Car Rental Insurance
Get StartedThe choice between daily and annual car hire excess insurance depends on your rental frequency.
Example scenarios (Budget in Iceland):
| Scenario | Days Rented | Daily Cost | Total Cost | CarInsuRent Cost | Savings |
| 1 trip × 3 days | 3 days | US$ 44.00 | US$ 132.00 | US$ 60.00 (daily coverage) | US$ 72.00 |
| 1 trip × 7 days | 7 days | US$ 44.00 | US$ 308.00 | US$ 112.50 (daily coverage) | US$ 264 |
| 2 trips × 7 days | 14 days | US$ 44.00 | US$ 616.00 | US$ 200.00 (daily coverage) | US$ 416.00 |
| 1 trip × 21 days | 21 days | US$ 44.00 | US$ 924.00 | US$ 350.00 (annual coverage) | US$ 574.00 |
Choose Annual Insurance if:
Choose Daily Insurance if:
Key Considerations: Standalone excess insurance from CarInsuRent is much cheaper than purchasing coverage directly from rental companies. Our annual policies typically offer better value for travelers who hate extra paperwork and rent cars regularly throughout the year.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance in Iceland
Get StartedWhen collecting your rental car at Keflavik Airport, you’ll encounter insurance options at the counter. Here’s what you need to know:
CarInsuRent offer a package that reduces the deductible to zero for maximum peace of mind.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance in Iceland
Get Started1) Golden Circle, South Coast, Reykjavik in Summer At minimum: CDW + TPL (mandatory anyway) + Gravel Protection. Consider CarInsuRent excess waiver to lower your deductible. Sand/ash protection is less critical in summer.
2) Ring Road or All-Year-Round Trip CDW + TPL + Gravel Protection + Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) + Consider CarInsuRent excess waiver to eliminate or reduce the deductible + consider window and tire insurance, especially in winter when road conditions are more unpredictable.
3) Highlands with Simpler F-roads (e.g. F35, F347, F208 north) CDW + TPL + Gravel Protection + Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) + tire + window (undercarriage is a nice bonus here). Gravel protection is an absolute must here. No river crossing insurance needed if you’re sticking to roads without serious river crossings. Consider CarInsuRent excess waiver to eliminate or reduce the deductible.
4) Highlands with More Difficult F-roads (river crossings) This is where you need to go with the best insurance you can get. It is highly recommended to purchse CarInsuRent excess waiver to eliminate or reduce the deductible.
When renting a car in Iceland, having the best car hire excess insurance offers several important benefits that can provide peace of mind and financial protection throughout your journey. Here are some key benefits of having car rental insurance for Iceland:
Having car rental insurance in Iceland is highly recommended to protect yourself and your financial interests. It ensures that you can enjoy your trip with confidence, knowing that you are adequately covered in case of unexpected events on the road. Before selecting car rental insurance, carefully review the policy terms, coverage details, and any limitations or exclusions. By understanding the benefits of car rental insurance and selecting the right coverage, you can have a worry-free and enjoyable experience while exploring the stunning landscapes of Iceland.

Budget Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026
See How Much You Can Save on Your Iceland Rental Car Insurance
Get StartedWhen renting a car, Iceland car rental excess insurance is an optional add-on that can help reduce the excess amount that you would be liable for in the event of damage or theft of the rental car. Car rental companies charge for excess insurance by offering a CDW insurance, which will reduce the renter’s financial liability in the event of an accident, and/or a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the rental car in case of damage or theft. The cost of CDW and LDW can vary significantly from one rental company to another and can depend on the type of vehicle, the location, and the duration of the rental.
On the other hand, third-party providers like CarInsuRent offer excess cover insurance, which is usually more affordable and comprehensive than CDW or LDW offered by rental companies. The excess cover insurance from CarInsuRent will provide you with coverage for the excess amount that you are liable to pay in case of damage or theft of the rental car, and it can be purchased separately from the car rental agreement. Excess cover insurance can be purchased at any time before the rental period and it can be customized to fit your needs, which can be a more flexible option than the insurance offered by rental companies.

Hertz Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental July 2026
Accidents happen – even to the most careful drivers. Follow these steps if you experience an incident with your rental vehicle:
👉 Being prepared can make all the difference in handling rental car accidents smoothly.
👉 For further advice, we encourage you to read our detailed guide to Handling a Rental Car Accident Efficiently.
If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car in Germany, there are certain steps you should follow to file a claim.
Transparency and responsiveness are foundational principles of CarInsuRent’s claims process. All claims are assessed strictly in accordance with clearly defined policy terms that are publicly available to customers prior to purchase. Claim outcomes, whether approvals or declines, are accompanied by written explanations referencing the applicable policy provisions and documentation requirements.
In line with this commitment to transparency, CarInsuRent publishes aggregated claims statistics and trend analysis, available in our Annual Claims Report.
In conclusion, car rental insurance for Iceland is a crucial aspect to consider when renting a vehicle for your journey. It offers essential protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you are financially covered in case of accidents, damages, theft, or liability issues. Here are some final thoughts and recommendations to keep in mind:
By following these recommendations, you can select the right car rental insurance for your needs and enjoy a worry-free and protected rental experience in Iceland. Remember, the right insurance coverage not only provides financial security but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique experiences that Iceland has to offer.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Iceland Rental Car Insurance
Get StartedYes, additional insurance beyond basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is strongly recommended for Iceland. Basic CDW has high excess amounts (€1,000-€3,500) and excludes damage from gravel, sand/ash, F-roads, and undercarriage. it is advisable to add CarInsuRent car hire excess coverage to reduce excess to zero. Our policies include specialized protections like gravel and sand/ash coverage for Iceland’s unique driving conditions.
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is basic coverage included with rentals but leaves you liable for excess amounts (€1,000-€3,500) for damages. SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) reduces or eliminates this excess, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket for covered damages. For Iceland’s challenging driving conditions with gravel roads and volcanic debris, CarInsuRent car hire excess coverage provides essential financial protection.
F-roads (marked with “F” prefix like F35, F208) are highland mountain routes requiring 4×4 vehicles and special insurance. These unpaved roads cross rivers, volcanic terrain, and remote areas where standard insurance doesn’t apply. F-road insurance is mandatory for legal highland driving and covers damage from river crossings, rough terrain, and isolation-related incidents that basic coverage excludes.
No, US auto insurance policies don’t provide coverage in Iceland. International driving requires local insurance that meets Iceland’s specific requirements including volcanic ash damage, gravel protection, and F-road coverage. Your US policy won’t cover Iceland’s unique driving hazards like sand storms, river crossings, or highland terrain damage.
SAAP is most critical February through April during volcanic ash season, though recommended year-round. Iceland’s active volcanism creates sand and ash storms that damage windshields, paint, and air filters. Winter storms can carry volcanic particles across the island, making SAAP essential for protecting against these expensive repairs during peak tourist season.
Gravel protection is essential for all roads outside Reykjavik city center. Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) has many gravel sections, and secondary roads are predominantly unpaved. Flying stones from other vehicles cause windshield chips, paint damage, and headlight cracks. Without gravel protection, these common damages cost €200-€800 per incident.
Only 4×4 vehicles with high clearance can legally access F-roads. 2WD cars are prohibited by law and insurance won’t cover damages if used illegally. Required features include 4×4 capability, minimum ground clearance, and specialized highland insurance. Rental companies verify F-road insurance before allowing highland vehicle rentals.
Comprehensive coverage (SCDW + Gravel + SAAP + Theft) typically costs €25-€45 per day through rental companies, or €8-€15 daily via CarInsuRent. For a 7-day trip, expect US$ 181 – US$ 294 for full protection. While expensive, this coverage prevents thousands in potential damage costs from Iceland’s unique driving hazards.
Contact your insurance provider immediately (24/7 hotlines available), photograph all damage from multiple angles, collect GPS coordinates of incident location, and get police reports for theft/vandalism. Document road conditions, weather, and any contributing factors. Don’t admit fault or sign documents in Icelandic without translation. Report within 24 hours for fastest claim processing.
Third-party insurance like CarInsuRent typically offers better value (60-70% savings) with identical coverage. Rental company insurance provides convenience with direct billing and immediate claim handling.
River Crossing Protection is specialized coverage designed for one of Iceland’s most notorious driving hazards: unbridged river crossings. Many of Iceland’s highland routes, particularly F-roads, require drivers to ford rivers where bridges don’t exist.
Does My Car Insurance Cover Rental Cars?
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I’ll be renting a Dacia Duster in Iceland in July. Just to confirm I understand correctly — the way this works is: I pay the rental company whatever excess they charge at the time of damage, and then I claim it back from CarInsuRent afterward? So I need to have the funds available on my credit card at the time of the incident? I just want to make sure there’s no option for CarInsuRent to pay the rental company directly.
You’ve understood the process exactly right. The flow is:
1. Damage occurs → the rental company charges you up to the excess amount listed in your rental agreement
2. You pay them directly (yes, you do need available funds on your card at that moment)
3. You file a claim with CarInsuRent with the supporting documents
4. CarInsuRent reimburses you after the claim is approved
CarInsuRent does not pay the rental company directly — reimbursement always goes back to you, the policyholder. This is standard for excess insurance policies globally.
One Iceland-specific tip worth knowing: Icelandic rental companies often pre-authorize a large security deposit on your card at pickup (sometimes €2,000–€3,000) in addition to the excess. That block is released when you return the car undamaged, but make sure your card has enough headroom for both the rental cost and that hold.
Enjoy the Duster — Iceland in July is spectacular!
That’s exactly right. You pay the rental company first, then submit your claim to us with the supporting documents, and we reimburse you directly. CarInsuRent does not pay rental companies directly, so yes – you’ll need available funds on your card at the time. For Iceland specifically, also make sure your card can absorb the pre-authorization hold (often €2,000+) that Icelandic rental companies place at pickup, separate from any damage charge.
Taking a trip to Iceland and will be renting a car. As this is my first time having primary rental car coverage under a credit card, I was wondering would damage resulting from sand, gravel, or bad weather be covered?
Welcome to one of the most important questions any first-time Iceland renter can ask — and the answer is going to save you significant money or stress.
The direct answer: almost certainly NO. Sand, gravel, and weather damage are specifically excluded from virtually every credit card rental CDW benefit.
What standard credit card CDW covers:
1. Collision damage (hitting another vehicle, a wall, a bollard)
2. Theft of the rental vehicle
3. Vandalism in some cases
What it explicitly does NOT cover in Iceland’s context:
1. Gravel/stone damage (GP — Gravel Protection) — rocks thrown up from Iceland’s roads chip paint and crack windscreens constantly. This is among the most common damage claims in Iceland and is excluded from credit card coverage
2. Sand and ash damage (SAAP — Sand and Ash Protection) — unique to Iceland, fine volcanic particles strip paint and damage rubber seals. No credit card covers this
3. Single-vehicle accidents on F-roads — if you go off-road or cross a river, standard CDW (card or otherwise) is typically void entirely
4. Windscreen damage — often excluded separately from collision coverage on cards
What this means practically:
Your credit card primary CDW is still valuable for Iceland — it covers standard collision. But you will need additional Iceland-specific coverages that no credit card provides:
Your options:
1. Buy GP and SAAP from the rental company (you can’t avoid needing these — but shop around as prices vary significantly between companies)
2. CarInsuRent offer Iceland-compatible policies — our coverage explicitly includes gravel and sand protection!
Use your credit card CDW for collision, buy GP/SAAP separately — this is the most cost-efficient split.
Bottom line: Don’t assume your credit card covers you fully in Iceland. It’s one of the few destinations where the rental company’s add-ons aren’t just upsells — some of them are genuinely necessary for the environment. Research exactly which coverages your specific rental company requires before you arrive.
We did 12 days around the Ring Road in a Dacia Duster with kids in Summer 2025. Waze is extremely accurate and unless you go on F roads, most of the roads are easy and paved. My husband drove the whole thing on a manual, he was very excited 🙂
Just get the insurance so you’re covered.
Thanks for sharing this
Personally for Iceland I always recommend to people that they use the one provided by the rental company. Iceland car insurance is unique, as you mention and have been helping people learn for years. I think my main exception is for longer rentals where the cost difference is more significant and you do not need any very unique coverage like river crossing.
Thanks for sharing this
Pretty much all credit card policies for rental car insurance is not valid in Iceland- it has to do with the laws of this place and not the credit card’s end.
And while it does cover Iceland, if you go to Iceland, you just go ahead and get All The Insurance offered by the rental car company because it’s Iceland, something like 35% of rental vehicles are returned with fresh damage and it’s a case when you just want to turn in the keys, get back home and not worry about the paperwork for that.
Thank you for sharing this
I’m from the US, and I have two premium travel credit cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X), both of which offer very strong rental cars insurance. I’m coming to Iceland in the summer and planning to do the Ring Road up till Hofn/Eastern side for 5-6 days with a rental car, and hope to see all the top spots on the way.
Do I need to buy the additional coverage offered by the rental car company or is it ok to use the credit card insurance I already have? In the US I usually decline it because of that. Do the local companies offer something special that even the credit card don’t?
Great question, and a very common one for US travelers heading to Iceland! The short answer is: Iceland is different from the US, and your credit cards alone may leave you exposed.
Your CSR and Venture X cover the basics — collision and theft (CDW/LDW) — and yes, they’re strong cards. But Iceland has several coverages that credit cards never cover, regardless of how premium they are:
🪨 Gravel Protection (GP) — Iceland’s roads throw up rocks constantly. Windshield and paintwork damage from gravel is extremely common and almost certain on the Ring Road. Not covered by any credit card.
🌬️ Sand & Ash Protection (SAAP) — Unique to Iceland. Fine volcanic sand and ash can strip paint and damage seals. Not covered by credit cards.
💧 Water/River Crossing Protection — If you attempt any F-roads or water crossings, standard CDW is void anyway.
Bottom line: Don’t skip the gravel protection. Everything else is negotiable depending on your risk tolerance and route — but a week on the Ring Road without gravel cover is genuinely risky, and the repair bills will ruin an otherwise incredible trip.
Consider a specialist third-party insurer like CarInsuRent – we offer rental excess coverage that can be significantly cheaper than buying everything at the counter, and our policy documents clearly state what Iceland-specific coverages are included.
I came accross this while planning our trip to Iceland. Thanks for sharing this valuable information.
Thanks for breaking it down so clearly!
It’s good to know that Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third-Party Liability (TPL) are the basic insurance types included with most rentals.
For those of us using credit cards for rental coverage, it’s worth double-checking the terms since dealing with claims can be a hassle, especially in Iceland’s unique driving conditions.
Thank you for the auspicious writeup.
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