Sandstorms in Iceland

Sandstorms are not something people expect when coming to Iceland. However, they are pretty common and can cause severe damage to cars driving around Iceland. This can even happen on the ring road, road 1. The risks of sandstorms is greater in dry and windy weather but please be aware that the weather in Iceland changes very quickly.

A sandstormA sandstorm

Sandstorms can damage the paint on the car as well as glass, lights and numerous other parts of the car. The renter is liable to pay for the repair unless buying additional protection, Premium Protection Package. Sand and ash damage protection is included in the Premium protection package.

Average damage cost for those damages is 5.000-17.000 EUR. Make sure you are covered, either with your own insurance or buy one from us when you pick up the car.

We recommend that you stay away from areas known for risk of sandstorms in windy weather. If you see a storm ahead, turn around, find a place for the car and wait for the storm to pass. It is recommended that renters monitor the weather and road conditions each day.

A damaged vehicle which was hit by a sandstorm with paint severly damaged and window glass brokenA damaged vehicle which was hit by a sandstorm with paint severly damaged and window glass broken