What to do if your rental gets sandblasted near Vík: documentation, photos, and next steps

Stay Calm and Document Everything

Discovering that your rental car has been sandblasted by the fierce winds near Vík can be unsettling. First, take a deep breath and stay positive. Iceland’s weather is part of the adventure—your rental company and insurance have handled worse.

Immediate Steps

• Pull over safely and turn off the engine.
• Check for visible damage: windshield chips, paint scratches, headlight cracks.
• Note the location, date, and approximate time in your phone or notebook.

Capture Clear, Detailed Photos

Quality documentation speeds up any claim. Use your smartphone or camera to:

• Photograph each angle of the vehicle, focusing on damaged spots.
• Include wide shots that show the landscape—this helps prove sandstorm conditions.
• Snap the rental agreement and insurance card if allowed.

Notify Your Rental Company Promptly

Whether you rented at Keflavík Airport or Reykjavík, call your rental agency immediately. Be ready to:

• Provide your booking reference and driver’s license details.
• Describe the damage and share your photos via email or their app.
• Ask about roadside assistance or replacement vehicle options.

Insurance and Next Steps

Most car rentals in Iceland include basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver). You may have added Super CDW or Sand & Ash Protection:

• Review your policy to see if sand damage is covered.
• File a claim by following the insurer’s online procedure.
• Keep all receipts if you need a rental extension, towing, or repairs.

Regroup and Relax at Hvítá Inn

After the paperwork, unwind at a comfortable base. We recommend Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, just off Route 1 near Borgarnes. This charming hotel gives you:

• Cozy rooms with fjord views.
• Easy access to Reykholt hot springs and Deildartunguhver.
• Delicious breakfast to recharge before continuing your journey.

Book your stay at Ourhotels.is and enjoy peace of mind knowing your next night is secured.

Packing and Planning Tips

Sandstorms are most common in spring and early summer. When visiting between April and June:

• Pack microfiber cloths, window-cleaning spray, and protective covers.
• Bring sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes during wind gusts.
• Include a small first-aid kit and emergency snacks in your vehicle.

How Long to Stay

Plan 2–3 nights along the South Coast to soak in black sand beaches, waterfalls and lava fields—and to handle any surprises. If your car needs repair or replacement, you’ll have extra time to:

• Explore Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Dyrhólaey.
• Journey back north to Borgarnes for a restorative stay at Hvítá Inn.

Book Your Iceland Adventure

Running into a sandblast? It’s all part of the story you’ll tell. With Ourhotels.is, you’re never far from comfort—from Ísafjörður in the Westfjords to Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður. Secure your room today, focus on the northern lights, and let us help you make your next day in Iceland unforgettable.