Score your drive
What the score means
- 0–25 — Normal winter conditions. Studded tires, sensible pace, drive on.
- 26–50 — Caution. Pull over if visibility drops. Avoid exposed coast.
- 51–75 — High risk. Consider waiting a day. If driving, only with experience and supplies.
- 76–100 — Don't drive. Roads close, search and rescue will struggle to find you.
FAQ
Are studded tires worth the rental fee?
Yes, almost always. They cut stopping distance on ice by 30–50%. Most rentals include them in winter packages (typically ISK 1,500–3,000/day).
What's the #1 mistake tourists make?
Driving at the same speed as summer. Iceland's roads look the same in winter, but black ice and crosswinds change everything. Halve your speed if it's your first time.
What should be in the car?
Warm clothes (not just a coat), water, snacks, a charged phone, a paper map, and a small shovel. If you stop on a remote road in a blizzard, your car is your shelter. Stay with it.