Finding Wellness in the Wild: My Iceland Adventure in a Camper Van
Jess in a GoCamper van reading a book
After three incredible trips to Iceland, I decided it was time to take my exploration to the next level. This time, I wanted to see more than just the usual spots in the southeast, where I'd previously only made it as far as Vik. On my fourth visit, I was determined to explore the entire island. How? With my trusted companions: a camper van from GoCamper, a Manduka Shala travel yoga mat, my Wilde Open Journal, and a focus on deepening my wellness practices.
Why I Chose a Camper Van (Again)
Let me tell you, renting a camper van in Iceland is hands down the best way to experience this breathtaking country. Iceland is full of hidden gems, winding roads, and landscapes that seem to shift with every turn. The camper van allowed me to travel at my own pace, stop whenever something caught my eye, and—best of all—skip the hassle of constantly unpacking at hotels.
reflections of iceberg on camper van
mountain view from inside of camper van
camper van on bridge at Kolugljúfur canyon
With a camper, the whole island is your playground. You wake up to glacial views, drive through volcanic landscapes, and sleep under the northern lights. Iceland is wild, rugged, and unpredictable, and the flexibility of a camper van gave me the freedom to fully immerse myself in it. Plus, it’s way easier to find peaceful, quiet spots to roll out my yoga mat and commune with nature.
Wellness on the Road: My Go-To Practices
This trip wasn’t just about seeing more of Iceland—it was about grounding myself, finding moments of peace, and reconnecting with my body and mind. Here are a few of the wellness practices that kept me balanced on the road:
Movement: Thanks to Manduka, I had the Shala travel yoga mat with me—perfect for practicing yoga on the go. I’d find a scenic spot, roll it out, and move through some flows. The mat is super lightweight, making it easy to carry, and it felt like the perfect companion to ground myself wherever I was.
Meditation: Iceland’s landscape practically invites stillness. Whether I was sitting by a waterfall or watching the sunset, I’d take a few minutes to just sit and breathe. Meditation became my way of processing the wild beauty around me.
Journaling: The Wilde Open Journal was my companion for capturing every thought, feeling, and moment. Traveling alone (or even with friends) can stir up a lot of emotions, especially when you're on the move for days. Journaling helped me unpack these thoughts and stay connected to myself. It was my way of creating a “home” wherever I was.
Thermal Pools: You can't talk about wellness in Iceland without mentioning the thermal pools! I made stops at Vök Baths, Mývatn Nature Baths, and Sky Lagoon—all places where you can soak in hot water while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. It’s like nature’s version of a spa, and trust me, after hours of driving, nothing feels better than slipping into a thermal bath.
Jess journaling in the back of a camper van
Jess in Vok Baths thermal pool while sun is setting behind a hill
Exploring the Island: From Vik to the North
In my previous trips, the furthest I’d gone was Vik, a stunning spot in the southeast. But this time, I was determined to see it all—from the south coast to the north and everything in between. The highlights?
East Fjords: I had never ventured out this far before, and the remote beauty of the fjords blew me away. The roads wind along cliffs, offering incredible views and the most peaceful spots to just stop and take it all in.
Mývatn: Home to the Mývatn Nature Baths, this area is like stepping onto another planet. Between the geothermal activity and alien-like landscapes, it was the perfect spot to stretch out on my mat and let the energy of the earth move through me.
The North: Driving through the north was like discovering a hidden treasure. It’s less touristy but full of majestic views, mountains, and waterfalls. I even made it to Vök Baths, another one of Iceland’s thermal gems.
Jess taking selfie at Stuðlagil canyon
Jess walking bridge at Hengifoss, Iceland
Photo of Stuðlagil canyon
Why Wellness and Travel Go Hand-in-Hand
For me, traveling is more than just seeing new places—it’s about grounding myself and finding peace in unfamiliar surroundings. Whether it was moving my body with yoga, soaking in thermal pools, or sitting in stillness, this trip was all about recharging.
Jess wearing Outdoor Research Helium Down Jacket while sitting on Manduka Shala Yoga Mat
Choosing a camper van made it easier to balance travel and wellness. I could pause anywhere, roll out my mat, meditate by a waterfall, and make a nourishing meal whenever I wanted. It wasn’t just a road trip; it was a journey of self-care and reconnection.
mountain view from inside of the camper van
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about heading to Iceland, I can’t recommend traveling by camper van enough. It gives you the freedom to explore the island on your own terms, with wellness practices easily fitting into your daily rhythm. Pack light, bring your yoga mat, and embrace the wild beauty of Iceland. You won’t regret it.
Jess wearing yellow Outdoor Research in iPhone frame
Iceland will always be a special place for me, not just for its beauty but for the way it allows me to fully immerse myself in my wellness journey. Ready to see the world and care for yourself while you do it? Iceland, a camper van, and a little mindfulness might just be what you need.