What Should I Pack For Iceland?

If You’re Traveling to Iceland, Read This First!

Traveling to Iceland soon and wondering, “What should I pack for Iceland?” This comprehensive Iceland packing list is tailored for both summer and winter trips. Iceland’s weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly, making proper packing crucial to ensuring a comfortable experience. Whether you’re planning a South Coast tour or exploring the Golden Circle, here’s everything you need to know to stay warm, dry, and well-prepared.

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Essential Iceland Packing List (At a Glance)

• Walking boots: High ankle support, thick sole, and deep tread.
• Thermal base layer: Ideal for both winter and summer.
• No jeans: Choose quick-dry and breathable fabrics.
• Walking socks: Medium thickness for summer / thick socks for winter.
• Spare socks: Always have an extra pair.
• Woolen hat: Preferably with a removable bobble.
• Balaclava / Snood: For extra warmth.
• Gloves: Windproof and waterproof.
• Swimwear: Don’t miss out on Iceland’s hot springs.
• Travel towel: Lightweight and compact.
• Sunglasses: Essential for glare protection.
• Sun lotion: Even in cold weather, UV exposure is high.
• Camera: Capture the beauty of Iceland.
• Layers: Multiple layers are key for comfort.
• Rain jacket / Rain pants: Waterproof and windproof outer layers.
• Small backpack: To carry snacks, layers, and essentials.
• Water bottle: Iceland has some of the freshest water in the world.
• Travel adapter: Euro two-pin plug.
• Passport and boarding passes: Don’t leave home without them!

Packing wisely for Iceland can make or break your trip, as the weather can shift dramatically in just minutes. Imagine starting your South Coast Tour at a sunny glacier lagoon with clear skies, only for the temperature to drop by 10 degrees as you walk along the rocky path, followed by heavy rain at the glacier outlet. Glaciers create their own microclimates, making the weather highly unpredictable—even in summer, you may experience snow or hail during a glacier tour. Proper packing is essential to stay comfortable and enjoy your Icelandic adventure!

In-Depth Iceland Packing Guide: Summer and Winter

Footwear for Iceland

Walking Boots:
Regardless of the season, sturdy walking boots are essential. Iceland’s rugged volcanic terrain demands good ankle support and thick soles. If you’re planning to hike or explore glaciers, opt for a high-cut boot to attach crampons for ice stability.

Pro Tip: Trainers are great for city walks, but for all other adventures, boots are a must! Choose durable soles to avoid feeling every rock and sharp edge underfoot.

Recommended Features:

• High ankle support.
• Waterproof material.
• Deep tread pattern.

Layering for Iceland’s Unpredictable Weather

Iceland’s weather can shift dramatically—from sunny skies to rain and snow in a matter of minutes. The best strategy is layering:

1. Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking thermal base layer. Avoid cotton; it traps moisture and chills you. Opt for bamboo or merino wool for warmth and comfort.
2. Mid Layer: Choose a thin insulating layer like a fleece or down jacket. This layer should trap heat without adding bulk.
3. Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants are essential to shield against the elements.

Pro Tip: Always carry an extra set of layers in a waterproof bag. Even summer days can turn cold quickly near glaciers.

Choosing the Best Socks for Iceland

Proper walking or hiking socks are essential for keeping your feet warm and comfortable, especially during those chilly winter nights when you’re out chasing the northern lights. Invest in high-quality socks that will withstand Iceland’s rugged conditions. As a guide, I personally own around 10 pairs of hiking socks in various thicknesses, but you don’t need that many—just a few pairs of thick socks for winter evenings and medium-weight ones for daytime activities will do.

Pro Tip: Always carry an extra pair in your bag, stored in a zip-lock bag to keep them dry. Whether you’re crossing rivers, dealing with sudden downpours, or accidentally stepping into a waterfall while trying to snap the perfect picture, having a dry pair of socks can make all the difference. Trust me—you’ll be glad you packed them!

Accessories for Staying Warm and Dry

Gloves, Hats, and Scarves: Are all essential items to pack for your adventures in Iceland. It does not matter if it’s summer or winter. I personally am a little short of hair and prefer a balaclava, it’s a snug fit and just one item to keep you warm. But if you prefer to be fashionable then go for a hat and scarf. If you anticipate wearing a helmet, then choosing a hat without a bobble may be a good idea.

• Always bring a windproof pair of gloves.
• A woolen hat or a snug-fit balaclava is recommended.
• A snood or scarf adds extra warmth around your neck and face.

Pro Tip: In Iceland’s high winds, knitted gloves may not suffice. Choose waterproof gloves with good insulation.

What to Pack for Iceland’s Hot Springs

Swimwear and travel towel: These items are something that I would usually have in my bag at all times, just in case! Bathing in Iceland is one of the main cultural activities you should defiantly not miss out on. The public swimming pools all have hotpots and jacuzzis to relax and catch up with your friends, they are an inexpensive choice for bathing. If you feel like treating yourself, you can visit one of Icelands spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky lagoon, both are set in beautiful locations near the city of reykjavik and world famous for a reason. I prefer to chase the natural bathing spots, which you will find all over Iceland if you look hard enough.

Other Essentials for your Iceland packing list

Sunglasses and sunscreen: May not seem important but here in Iceland we have 24 hours of sunlight in the summer. In the winter the sun is low in the sky and blinds those that will be driving, having sunglasses is a must.

Should I pack a camera for Iceland?

Camera: Iceland is a paradise for most photographers, it’s almost impossible to take a terrible picture. If you’re not planning on taking a camera, then all new smartphones are more than adequate to capture a few snaps for the photo album! Some of our favourite photos are below, if you want to know more about where they were taken you should email us at info@evtravel.is.

Layering: Why should you Layer your cloths in Iceland

Layers are one of the most important things to remember when dressing correctly in Iceland. What do I mean by layers… you should start with a base layer as described above, it should ideally be bamboo or marino wool. The thin layer should sit against the skin, to help wicking of sweat away from the skin and to keep heat close to the skin.

Next you will want a Mid-layer, something like a long sleeve jumper, it should be thin and not overly balky. Choose a comfortable layer that will insulate you rather than protect you from wind or rain. Try to avoid the mistake of wearing too many layers with a hood, just have your final layer with a hood.

Next Mid-layer … Depending on how cold or windy the weather is, will depend on how many layers you will need. In the winter I usually wear 4-5 layers, this will comprise of 3 Mid layers !!! One base layer and a waterproof/windproof shell. Try to layer with items of clothing that breathe well like wool, down feather and fleeces jackets so you don’t end up damp from sweat. I prefer to layer with thin clothing and remove them one by one as I get hot. This is better than having one really thick layer thats difficult to regulate your body heat.

Choosing the Best Rain Jacket and Trousers for Iceland: Stay Dry and Protected in Extreme Weather

Rain jacket and trousers: are the final outer shell of your layering, they should be windproof and waterproof. I find the only material that really works for an extended period of time in the rain is Gore-tex. If you are hiking in the highlands of Iceland for a full day or more, I would recommend spending little extra on a good waterproof, light weight outer shell. If you are just sight seeing then a cheep waterproof layer is ok. But you do find that you sweat with the cheaper options as they tend not to breathe as much.

The winds in Iceland can reach 30m/s or 67mph any time of the year, it’s normal to see high wind speeds in the winter and it’s less often in the summer. Forget about bringing an umbrella, they turn into lethal weapons in the wind. Just bring a jacket with a hood!!!

Essential Backpack Guide for Iceland: What to Pack for a Day of Adventure and Sightseeing

Backpack or bag: You will need a small bag to keep snacks in for the day. You can also keep your extra socks or waterproof clothing inside while you are not using them. Most tours in Iceland do not included lunch, it’s best to bring snacks with you. Service stations and stops around the sightseeing locations like the Golden Circle and South Coast of Iceland can be costly, it’s defiantly better to shop local when you are in the city. It also takes up valuable time stopping for lunch, most tour companies keep sight seeing stops short so don’t wast time. I prefer to eat at the beautiful locations like the black sand beach, having a sandwich or two with a view.

Why You Need a Reusable Water Bottle in Iceland: Enjoy the Purest Tap Water and Reduce Plastic Waste

Water bottle – It might seem like a strange thing to bring on you holiday, But here in Iceland you can drink the tap water. In fact the tap water is spring water and some of the finest water you will ever taste. So please don’t buy water from the shop, try to save on plastic waste and buy a reusable bottle. Seriously its the best tasting water I’ve ever had! Fill up anywhere around Iceland just like the locals :o)

Iceland Travel Adapter Guide: Stay Powered Up with the Right Plug for Your Devices

Travel adaptor: Will be required if you wish to charge you phones or cameras. You will need a two pin plug with round pins. If you forget to bring one don’t panic you can get one from the local store of service station. The plug or adapter is commonly known as a Type C or Type F Europlug.