Ring Road - "Hybrid" Campervan/Hotel Planning (where to camp vs hotel)

Hi All,

We're planning on visiting in September this year and doing the Ring Road - Planning on spending 10 days on the road (10 day campervan rental) - then a few nights in Reykjavik before/after.

We've been to Iceland once in 2017 (4 days on a "layover") and LOVED it and knew we wanted to return - we spent a few nights in Reykjavik and did the South Coast and Golden Circle tours and of course Blue Lagoon. We planned to return in 2020 and then you-know-what happened...

We plan on renting a campervan, but are looking to plan something of a "Hybrid" camper/hotel (or airbnb) type itinerary, and everything I've searched for seemed to be either one or the other.

Ideally we'd alternate between a couple nights in the campervan then a night in a hotel/airbnb to mix it up - That being said, does anyone have any thought or opinions on where we should potentially camp vs hotel it? I'm assuming it'll be based on where the cities/stops are (eg. the "bigger" towns probably have more hotel availability vs smaller ones?) - but does anyone have any opinions on potential campsites that are "not to be missed" or areas/towns where it may be nicer to stay in a hotel accommodation (maybe where campsites are less-than desirable)?

I know people recommend booking things ASAP, so just looking to get some opinions before so I can start booking.

Also, is it necessary to book a 4x4 in September (if we don't plan on going into the highlands)? Or would a 2-wheel drive van be okay for when venturing a little off the Ring Road for certain sites/attractions (not "F Roads") - I understand nobody can predict what the weather will be like, but again just want to get things booked ASAP so need to know which I should go with...

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