Picking up your rental car with Thrifty Iceland is simple and designed to get you on the road as quickly as possible.
Here’s our step-by-step guide:
Arriving at Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Most travellers will pick up their car after landing at Keflavík International Airport.
Once you’ve landed, follow these steps:
1. Go Through Arrivals
After landing, pass through passport control and collect your luggage. This usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on queues and arrival time.
2. Head Outside for the Free Shuttle Bus
Once you exit the arrivals hall, follow the signs for Car Rental Shuttle Bus.
The shuttle stop is located just outside the terminal building and is clearly signposted.
3. Take the Free Shuttle to the Rental Area

Hop on the free shuttle bus which runs every 15-minutes.
- The journey takes just a few minutes
- It will bring you to the nearby car rental area in Keflavík
- Thrifty Iceland is located in the same building as Hertz, Firefly and Dollar
This process is quick and straightforward, even if it’s your first time in Iceland.
4. Pick Up Your Car at the Desk
Once you arrive:
- Head to the Thrifty counter
- Present your booking confirmation
- Show your valid driver’s licence and credit card
After a short check-in process, you’ll receive your keys and directions to your car.
What You Need at Pickup
To make the process smooth, have the following ready:
- Valid driver’s licence (held for at least 1 year)
- Credit card in the main driver’s name
- Passport or valid ID
- Booking confirmation
Having these ready will help you get on the road faster.
After You Get Your Car
Once you’ve picked up your vehicle, you’re ready to start your Iceland road trip.
Before leaving the parking area, take a moment to:
- Check the car for any existing damage
- Take photos for your records
If you’re arriving in winter or planning longer drives, it’s also a good idea to check the vehicle has winter and/or studded tires, and road and weather conditions before you start.