If you book a Thrifty car rental in Iceland from Keflavík International Airport (KEF), you will use the airport’s Car Rental Shuttle to reach the Thrifty rental location.
After collecting your luggage at Keflavík Airport, leave the terminal and follow the signs for the Car Rental Shuttle. The shuttle takes you to the nearby car rental area, where Thrifty Car Rental Iceland is located at Flugvellir 11, 230 Reykjanesbær.
For Thrifty, get off at Stop #3.
The shuttle operates approximately every 15 minutes, and you do not need to reserve it separately.
Thrifty Keflavík Airport Car Rental: Quick Facts
| Information | Thrifty Car Rental Iceland |
|---|---|
| Airport | Keflavík International Airport (KEF) |
| Rental location | Flugvellir 11, 230 Reykjanesbær |
| Pickup method | Keflavík Airport Car Rental Shuttle |
| Thrifty shuttle stop | Stop #3 |
| Shuttle frequency | Approximately every 15 minutes |
| Shuttle reservation required? | No |
| Rental desk inside terminal? | No |
| Return location | Flugvellir 11, 230 Reykjanesbær |
| Shuttle back to airport? | Yes |
| Rental options | Economy cars, larger cars, SUVs and 4x4s |
If you’re searching for an Iceland airport car rental, choosing Keflavík Airport allows you to collect your vehicle shortly after arriving in the country and start your Iceland road trip without first travelling into Reykjavík.
How to Pick Up a Thrifty Rental Car at Keflavík Airport
The Iceland car rental shuttle process at Keflavík Airport is straightforward.
1. Arrive at Keflavík International Airport
Most international visitors arriving in Iceland land at Keflavík International Airport, commonly known by its airport code KEF.
After landing, follow the normal airport arrival process, including passport control when applicable.
2. Collect Your Luggage
Collect your checked luggage from baggage claim and continue through customs into the main arrivals area.
You do not need to look for a Thrifty rental desk inside the arrivals hall.
3. Exit the Airport Terminal
Leave the arrivals terminal through the main exit doors.
Once outside, turn left.
4. Follow the Signs for the Car Rental Shuttle
Continue along the pedestrian walkway outside Keflavík Airport.
Head towards the first covered walkway/tunnel on your right and continue straight until you reach the second covered walkway/tunnel on your left.
From here, follow the airport signs marked Car Rental Shuttle.
5. Take the Keflavík Airport Car Rental Shuttle
Wait at the designated shuttle area for the next Car Rental Shuttle.
The Keflavík Airport car rental shuttle operates approximately every 15 minutes.
There is no need to contact Thrifty for a private transfer or reserve the shuttle in advance.
6. Get Off at Stop #3
Thrifty customers should get off at Stop #3.
The shuttle will take you from the Keflavík Airport terminal to the nearby rental car area.
7. Find Thrifty Car Rental Iceland
Thrifty is located at:
Thrifty Car Rental Iceland
Flugvellir 11
230 Reykjanesbær
Iceland
Thrifty is located in the same building as Hertz, Dollar and Firefly Car Rental.
8. Complete Your Rental Car Pickup
Go to the Thrifty counter and have your rental documents ready.
Once the rental agreement has been completed, you will receive your keys and can collect your Iceland rental car.
Then your Iceland road trip can begin.
Keflavík Airport Car Rental Pickup at a Glance
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Land at Keflavík Airport (KEF) |
| 2 | Collect your luggage |
| 3 | Pass through customs |
| 4 | Exit the main arrivals doors |
| 5 | Turn left |
| 6 | Follow signs for the Car Rental Shuttle |
| 7 | Take the shuttle to the rental car area |
| 8 | Get off at Stop #3 |
| 9 | Enter the Thrifty rental location |
| 10 | Complete your rental agreement and collect your car |
In short: If you have booked a Keflavík Airport car rental with Thrifty, you don’t collect your vehicle from inside the terminal. Follow the Car Rental Shuttle signs, take the shuttle to Stop #3 and collect your car from Thrifty at Flugvellir 11.
Where Is Thrifty Car Rental at Keflavík Airport?
The Thrifty Car Rental Iceland location serving Keflavík Airport is at:
Flugvellir 11, 230 Reykjanesbær, Iceland
The office is located close to Keflavík International Airport and is connected to the terminal by the airport’s Car Rental Shuttle.
This setup allows travellers to pick up an Iceland rental car shortly after arriving at KEF without needing to travel into Reykjavík first.
If you’re comparing Iceland airport car rental options, always check where the actual rental desk and vehicle collection area are located before arriving. Different rental companies can have different pickup procedures.
Is the Thrifty Car Rental Desk Inside Keflavík Airport?
No. The Thrifty rental location is not inside the Keflavík Airport arrivals hall.
Instead, customers use the airport’s Car Rental Shuttle to travel from the passenger terminal to the nearby car rental area.
This is why it is important to follow the Car Rental Shuttle signs rather than waiting inside the arrivals hall for a Thrifty representative.
The shuttle takes you directly to the rental area where you can complete your Keflavík Airport car rental pickup.
Do You Need to Book the Keflavík Airport Car Rental Shuttle?
No. You do not need to make a separate reservation for the Car Rental Shuttle.
Your Thrifty car rental Iceland reservation is for your vehicle. Once you arrive at Keflavík Airport, simply follow the signs to the Car Rental Shuttle and wait for the next departure.
The shuttle operates approximately every 15 minutes.
What Do You Need to Pick Up a Rental Car in Iceland?
Having your documents ready before reaching the rental desk can help speed up your pickup.
For your Thrifty Iceland car rental, bring:
| What to bring | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Driver’s licence | Valid licence held for at least one year |
| Payment card | Bring the required card in the main driver’s name |
| Booking confirmation | Digital or printed confirmation/reservation number |
| Identification | Passport or valid ID |
Requirements can vary depending on the vehicle category and booking, so check the conditions attached to your reservation before travelling.
How Long Does the Car Rental Shuttle Take at Keflavík Airport?
The Thrifty rental location is only a short distance from Keflavík Airport, so the actual shuttle journey takes just a few minutes.
However, your total rental car Iceland pickup time will also depend on:
- How quickly you collect your luggage
- Passport control and customs
- Walking time from arrivals to the shuttle
- How long you wait for the next shuttle
- How busy the rental desk is
- Completing your rental agreement
During busy travel periods, several international flights can arrive around the same time, so it is worth allowing some extra time for your Iceland car rental pickup.
Can You Walk From Keflavik Airport to Thrifty?
The Thrifty location is close to the airport, but customers should use the designated Iceland car rental shuttle for pickup.
Following the airport’s shuttle system is particularly useful when travelling with luggage, children or several people.
Simply follow the Car Rental Shuttle signs after leaving the terminal and get off at Stop #3.
Why Rent a Car at Keflavík Airport?
For many travellers, arranging a Keflavík Airport car rental is one of the most convenient ways to start an Iceland road trip.
Instead of travelling from KEF into Reykjavík and collecting a vehicle later, you can pick up your rental shortly after landing and begin your journey directly from the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Benefits of renting a car at Keflavík Airport
| Benefit | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Start driving after arrival | No need to travel into Reykjavík before collecting a car |
| Travel independently | Plan your own stops, routes and schedule |
| Explore beyond Reykjavík | Reach destinations that are difficult to visit using public transport |
| Large choice of vehicles | Choose a car according to your group, budget and route |
| Convenient for road trips | KEF is well positioned for beginning a longer Iceland drive |
| Easy airport return | Return the car near KEF before your flight home |
If you plan to rent a car in Iceland, think about your entire route before choosing a vehicle rather than simply selecting the cheapest option.
A small 2WD can work well for many summer trips on Iceland’s main roads, while a 4×4 may be more suitable for winter travel or more demanding routes.
A 4×4 is legally required if your itinerary includes Iceland’s Highland F-roads.
Where Can You Drive After Picking Up Your Iceland Rental Car?
Once you have collected your rental car in Iceland, several popular road trip routes are accessible from the Keflavík area.
| Destination/Route | Why visit |
|---|---|
| Reykjavík | Iceland’s capital and a common first stop |
| Reykjanes Peninsula | Explore the region surrounding Keflavík Airport |
| Golden Circle | One of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes |
| South Coast | Waterfalls, black sand beaches and glaciers |
| Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Mountains, coastline and small towns |
| Ring Road | The main route for a longer road trip around Iceland |
Your choice of Iceland rental car should depend on the season, road conditions and places you plan to visit.
What Should You Check Before Driving Away?
Before leaving the Thrifty rental location, spend a few minutes getting familiar with your vehicle.
Check the car for any existing damage and make sure this corresponds with your rental information. Taking photos before departure can also provide a useful personal record of the vehicle’s condition.
You should also know how to operate:
- Headlights
- Windscreen wipers
- Heating and window demisters
- Fuel cap or charging port
- Parking brake
- Navigation or infotainment system, if required
Remember that headlights must be used while driving in Iceland.
Before longer journeys, check the latest road and weather conditions, particularly during autumn and winter.
How to Return Your Thrifty Rental Car at Keflavík Airport
Returning your Iceland rental car is essentially the pickup process in reverse.
Drive your Thrifty vehicle back to:
Flugvellir 11
230 Reykjanesbær
Iceland
After completing your rental car return, take the Car Rental Shuttle back to the Keflavík Airport passenger terminal.
Keflavík Airport Car Rental Return Process
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Drive back to Thrifty at Flugvellir 11 |
| 2 | Follow the rental return instructions |
| 3 | Remove your luggage and belongings |
| 4 | Complete the vehicle return |
| 5 | Go to the Car Rental Shuttle stop |
| 6 | Take the shuttle back to Keflavík Airport |
| 7 | Continue to airline check-in and security |
Always allow additional time before your flight for the rental return and shuttle journey.
Should You Rent a Car in Iceland?
If you want to explore beyond Reykjavík and travel independently, choosing to rent a car in Iceland can give you considerably more flexibility.
An Iceland car rental allows you to decide when you leave, where you stop and how long you spend at each destination.
However, the right vehicle depends on your itinerary.
Which rental car should you choose in Iceland?
| Trip | Suggested vehicle type |
|---|---|
| Reykjavík and short summer trips | Small/economy 2WD |
| Golden Circle in summer | 2WD or 4×4 |
| South Coast in summer | 2WD or 4×4 |
| Ring Road | Comfortable 2WD or 4×4 depending on season |
| Winter road trip | 4×4 recommended |
| Highland F-roads | 4×4 required |
Before booking a car rental in Iceland, consider the time of year, number of passengers, luggage space and the roads included in your itinerary.
FAQ About Keflavik Airport Car Rental and the Car Rental Shuttle
- How does the car rental shuttle work at Keflavik Airport?
After collecting your luggage, exit the Keflavik Airport arrivals terminal and follow the signs for the Car Rental Shuttle. The shuttle transports passengers from the terminal to the nearby rental car area. Thrifty Car Rental Iceland customers should get off at Stop #3 and collect their vehicle from the Thrifty office at Flugvellir 11.
- Where do I pick up my Thrifty car rental in Iceland?
If your booking is for Keflavik Airport, you pick up your Thrifty rental car at Flugvellir 11, 230 Reykjanesbær. Take the Car Rental Shuttle from Keflavik Airport and get off at Stop #3.
- Is Thrifty Car Rental inside Keflavik Airport?
No. Thrifty’s Keflavik Airport location is in the nearby car rental area rather than inside the passenger terminal. Customers use the Keflavik Airport Car Rental Shuttle to reach the Thrifty office.
- Is the Keflavik Airport car rental shuttle free?
Yes. The airport Car Rental Shuttle transports rental car customers between the terminal and car rental area. Thrifty customers do not need to book a separate transfer with Thrifty to use the pickup process.
- Do I need to reserve the Iceland car rental shuttle?
No. You do not need to reserve the Keflavik Airport Car Rental Shuttle in advance. Follow the Car Rental Shuttle signs after arriving at KEF and wait for the next shuttle.
- How often does the Keflavik Airport Car Rental Shuttle run?
The Car Rental Shuttle operates approximately every 15 minutes.
- Which shuttle stop is Thrifty at Keflavik Airport?
Thrifty Car Rental Iceland customers should get off at Stop #3.
- How far is Thrifty from Keflavik Airport?
Thrifty is located at Flugvellir 11 in Reykjanesbær, close to Keflavik International Airport. The rental area is only a short shuttle journey from the passenger terminal.
- Can I rent a car directly from Keflavik Airport?
Yes. You can arrange a Keflavik Airport car rental and collect your vehicle shortly after arriving. With Thrifty Iceland, take the airport Car Rental Shuttle to the nearby rental location at Flugvellir 11.
- What is the best place to rent a car in Iceland after flying into KEF?
For travellers who want to begin driving immediately after their international flight, renting near Keflavik Airport is a convenient option. It avoids travelling into Reykjavik solely to collect a rental vehicle.
- Do I need a 4×4 rental car in Iceland?
Not for every Iceland trip. A 2WD is suitable for many popular routes during good summer conditions. A 4×4 is recommended for many winter trips and is legally required on Iceland’s designated F-roads.
- Can I return my Thrifty Iceland rental car at Keflavik Airport?
Yes. Return your Thrifty rental car to the Thrifty location at Flugvellir 11. After returning the vehicle, take the Car Rental Shuttle back to the Keflavik Airport terminal.
- Is it better to rent a car at Keflavik Airport or Reykjavik?
If you want a rental car for most or all of your Iceland trip, picking it up near Keflavik Airport can be more convenient because you can start driving shortly after arrival. If you plan to spend several days in Reykjavik without a car first, collecting a rental in Reykjavik later may make more sense.
Start Your Iceland Road Trip With Thrifty
If you’re looking for car rental in Iceland after arriving at Keflavík Airport, Thrifty makes the pickup process straightforward.
Book your Thrifty Car Rental Iceland vehicle online, arrive at Keflavík Airport, collect your luggage and follow the signs for the Iceland Car Rental Shuttle.
Take the shuttle to Stop #3, collect your vehicle from Thrifty at Flugvellir 11 and start your Iceland road trip.
Whether you need an economy car for a shorter trip or an affordable 4×4 for a longer adventure, choosing the right rental car in Iceland gives you the freedom to explore the country on your own schedule.