Chasing the Northern Lights on a Budget:
Why Cozy Campers Offer the Best Iceland Adventure
If you have always dreamed of seeing the northern lights but do not want to break the bank, budget camper rentals from Cozy Campers could be the smartest way. Exploring Iceland in a camper not only saves pennies but also increases your odds of seeing the famous Northern Lights. Cozy Campers brings together affordability and the freedom to get off the main tourist routes. Getting off the typical tourist routes means you can dodge light pollution, and maybe even find a viewing spot all to yourself.
Traveling by campervan allows you to slip away and explore on your own terms. It’s affordable, as there is no need to pay those steep hotel prices. Having the flexibility to chase clear skies is a huge plus, as the aurora borealis can be unpredictable, as well as the Icelandic weather.
Campervans at Cozy Campers also have practical options such as sky roofs, so you don’t even have to leave the warmth of your van if you are lucky enough to see the lights.
Chasing the Northern Lights on a Budget
With wise planning and the right vehicle, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to explore Iceland’s Aurora Borealis. When planning to see the lights, it’s important to take into consideration factors such as location and timing. However, that is half the battle, as Iceland’s weather can be unforgiving.
Why Campers are Ideal for Hunting the Aurora Lights
Renting a camper really hits the sweet spot for the perfect mix of cost and convenience, especially when looking for the famous lights. You can skip pricey hotels and sleep right under the stars where all the action is. Campers also offer heating, making sure you stay cosy when on your search.
The real magic of traveling in Iceland by camper is the flexibility. You can follow aurora forecasts on the fly, without being tied to a rigid plan. There is no need to pay for tours that can be really expensive, or worry when the weather decides to turn – you are your own boss! Places like Vatnajökull National Park, the Golden Circle, or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are perfect spots to park up with the best chance of catching the lights.
Timing your trip
To give you the best chance of spotting the Northern Lights, aim to visit Iceland from late September through to mid-April. The peak season is usually from October to March. For the best chance of seeing the lights, clear dark nights are key. Keep an eye on the moon phase, and also picking a time around the new moon helps a lot too.
In late autumn and winter, Iceland has longer nights, therefore giving you more hours to search the sky. If you are thinking of visiting Iceland in the summer months, be aware that seeing the Northern Lights in these months is not possible. You’ll want to avoid those months if purely seeing the lights is your goal, as Iceland barely gets dark in those months.
The Top Locations to see the Northern Lights
The main rules for choosing a location to spot the lights are to look for dark, scenic spots that are away from city lights. Þingvellir National Park is really a classic and really popular. With lots of history and clear skies, it may be the perfect spot. The Reykjanes Peninsula and the outskirts of Reykjavík are also great options if you want to stay close to the city but still get some darkness.
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are the favorite spots to go if you are looking for epic scenery and low light pollution. If you are particularly looking for dramatic backdrops, coastal areas such as Reynisfjara black sand beach and the cliffs near Vík will be sure to leave you impressed.
Dealing with Weather Conditions and Light Pollution
As I mentioned previously, Icelandic weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Strong winds and clouds can roll in fast, making the hunt for Aurora a gamble. It is definitely always worth keeping a close eye on local weather and Aurora forecasts to give yourself the best chance. Remember, dry, clear nights are your golden ticket.
Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, creates a lot of light pollution, which can be a problem. Heading out to rural spots or national parks is the way to go. Higher ground and shielded areas also help. I recommend renting a camper van, so you can just pick up and move if the weather or light situation changes.