Travel trail­ers

Tips for a Safer Camping Trip

There is little more enjoyable than camping in the Icelandic countryside. Those who travel with a caravan—whether a tent trailer, folding caravan, or motorhome—can follow the sun almost anywhere in the country and settle at a campsite on short notice.

But when setting off, safety should always come first. Here are some useful tips to help you travel safely with your caravan.

Do not drive in strong winds

Avoid driving with a caravan in strong winds. If sustained wind speeds reach 15–19 m/s, gusts can become dangerous and may even push the caravan off the road.

Is your caravan due for inspection?

The inspection month for caravans is May. Make sure your caravan is inspected and in good condition before starting your trip.

Use a safety cable or chain

Always use a safety cable or chain between the car and the caravan. In rare cases, the coupling may come loose or fail to lock properly, which could cause the caravan to detach from the tow hitch while driving.

Be mindful of the load in your caravan

Load your caravan evenly and make sure it is not overloaded. Gas cylinders, bicycles, awnings, and other luggage can quickly add significant weight. Also check your vehicle’s towing capacity and the total weight of the caravan—this information can be found in the registration documents of both vehicles.

Gas use

In most camping trips, cooking is done with gas. Make sure a gas detector is installed and placed low to the floor, as propane is heavier than air and will first accumulate near the floor in the event of a leak. Good ventilation is essential when using gas. Ensure gas cylinders are kept upright and turned off after use.

Fire safety first

A fire extinguisher, fire blanket, and a working smoke detector are essential safety equipment in a caravan. In general, always be careful with open flames in nature, as even a small spark can quickly turn into a large wildfire.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!