You’re Going To Iceland (And I’m So Jealous)!
I spent five days in Iceland with Under30Experiences and have not stopped talking about it since. Seriously, the Icelandic Tourism Board should give me a commission for the number of people I excitedly sent there! The Land of Fire and Ice is the most magical place I’ve ever visited. It has everything: volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, black sand beaches, and waterfalls. Then add that Reykjavik is an adorable town, the people are so kind, public transport is easy to navigate, and it’s one of the safest destinations for solo female travelers, and I don’t think Iceland can be beat.
I could easily get carried away in this travel blog by telling you how much I love Iceland, but I’ll try to stay focused on the task at hand: packing. However, if you do need more convincing to visit Iceland, check out my other article, 8 Reasons to Take an Iceland Group Trip.
After encouraging so many people to go to Iceland, I’ve also helped many of them pack. From my friend who spent an entire summer there to my parents who cruised around the island, I’ve packed a lot of suitcases. Now, I’m excited to help you pack yours with my ultimate Iceland packing list!
What We’ll Cover In This Iceland Packing Guide
- Essential Iceland Packing List: A Comprehensive Guide
- What To Pack For A Summer Trip To Iceland
- What To Pack For A Winter Trip To Iceland
- Pro Tips When Packing For Iceland
- Sustainable Packing Tips For Iceland
- FAQs About Packing For Iceland
Essential Iceland Packing List
Clothing
If there’s one thing you take away from this guide, let it be layers! Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and layering is the key to staying warm and dry.
Year round, you’ll need:
See the seasonal sections below for specific recommendations
- Base Layers (see the seasonal sections below for recommendations on each thermal base layer)
- Mid Layers
- Waterproof Outer Layer
- Waterproof Rain Jacket
- Water-resistant or Waterproof Pants
- Bathing Suit: Don’t forget this for the geothermal pools like Laugarvatn Fontana, Sky Lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon.
- Pajamas
- Waterproof Gloves
- Hat & Scarf: Even in summer, the wind can be very strong and you’ll be happy to have your hands and ears covered.
Iceland is generally a casual country, and locals dress for warmth and comfort. You’ll see everyone walking around Reykjavik in their hiking boots and wool sweaters, making layers a good option for staying comfortable.
Did you know Iceland has more sheep than people and that the sheep influence fashion? They use the sheep’s wool to create their iconic Icelandic sweaters, hats, and gloves. The sheep’s wool has a coarse, water-resistant outer layer (tog) and soft, insulating inner layer (þel), making the products highly effective at keeping warmth in and protecting against the elements. There are some great shops in Reykjavik if you’re interested in bringing home a colorful sweater, but be warned they can be a pricey souvenir. A lot of travelers opt for the classic knit puffin hat instead.
Footwear for Iceland
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Essential for exploring wet, rocky terrain, and offering good ankle support.
- Optional Duck Boots: A second pair of waterproof walking shoes is great for alternating.
- Wool Hiking Socks: Keep your feet warm, dry, and blister-free while hiking.
- Fluffy Socks: Perfect for cozying up at the accommodation.
Gear & Accessories
- Day Pack: Two of my favorites are the L.L. Bean Stowaway Pack for light hiking or the Gregory Maya 20 for longer trails. Either would work well for the U30X trip.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Icelandic water is fresh and delicious! Don’t take my word for it, try it yourself on your day four glacier walk. As the glacier slowly melts, it releases pristine water that is safe to drink.
- Toiletries
- Small First Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, fever reducer, motion sickness tablets
- Adapter/Converter: Iceland uses the European plug type C & F
What To Pack For A Summer Trip To Iceland
Thanks to the midnight sun, late spring through summer is an amazing time to visit Iceland. With nearly 24 hours of daylight, you’ll have long, adventure-packed days. This trip will take the ferry to Vestmannaeyjar Island and hike to the top of Eldfell Volcano. There will also be time to explore the town, visit the volcano museum, and look at the beluga whales in the sanctuary.
Average Summer Temperatures In Iceland:
- April: 35-45°F (1-8°C)
- May: 40-50°F (4-10°C)
- June: 45-55°F (8-13°C)
- July: 45-60°F (8-16°C)
- August: 45-60°F (1-16°C)
Even with milder temperatures, Iceland’s weather can be wild. One minute you’re hiking in a T-shirt, and the next, you’ll need a fleece and rain jacket. Whether it’s wind at the top of a volcano or mist at the foot of a waterfall, you’ll be happy to have layers.
Summer Packing Must-Haves:
- Base Layer: T-shirt, merino wool long sleeve top, tight-fitting athletic shirts
- Mid Layer: Fleece jacket, pullover, vest, sweatshirt
- Outer Layer: Waterproof rain jacket, windbreaker, lightweight packable down jacket — a great option for your outdoor adventures.
- Pants: Water-resistant hiking pants, leggings
- Sunglasses: Given the extended daylight hours in spring, it’s important to shield your eyes from the glare of the sun reflecting on the snow – it’s intense!
- Sunscreen
- Lightweight Gore-Tex Gloves
- Sleep Mask: Makes sleeping during the midnight sun easier.
- Optional Bug Spray: There are no mosquitoes in Iceland but during the warmer months, you may encounter midges, a biting fly they call a lúsmý near lakes and streams.
To give you some perspective, I went to Iceland during the last week of May and on the warmest day I wore leggings and a thermal long sleeve top. On the coldest, wettest day I wore leggings under hiking pants, a merino wool long sleeve shirt, a Patagonia pullover, a rain jacket, a hat, and mittens. Both days, I was totally comfortable thanks to the layers I had available.
What To Pack For A Winter Trip To Iceland
Fall and winter bring shorter days but also snow-covered landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Temperatures will be cold but if you spot the magical auroras dancing across the sky, it’ll be worth it! Plus after a day spent exploring the frozen tundra, you’ll be so ready to enjoy the Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal bath and sauna.
Average Winter Temperatures in Iceland:
- September: 40-50°F (4-10°C)
- October: 35-45°F (1-8°C)
- November: 30-40°F (-1-4°C)
- December: 25-35°F (-4 - -1°C)
- January: 25-35°F (-4 - -1°C)
- February: 25-40°F (-4-4°C)
- March: 30-45°F (-1-8°C)
Winter Packing Must-Haves:
- Base Layer: Thermals, merino wool long sleeve top, base layer pants or leggings
- Mid Layer: Wool sweater, thick fleece jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof down jacket
- Pants: Water-resistant hiking pants, fleece lined pants, snow pants
- Waterproof Winter Gloves
- Flashlight: Helpful for activities on long nights or simply walking back to your cabin after dinner.
- Optional Hand Warmers: You’ll be spending long periods outside in the cold weather.
Pro Tips When Packing for Iceland
- Prioritize wool or synthetic materials over cotton as they dry faster and have better insulation
- Layer strategically to easily adapt to changing weather conditions
- Avoid restrictive clothing so you have freedom of movement for all your outdoor activities
- Keep extra layers and dry socks on the bus for quick changes
Sustainable Packing For Iceland
Iceland is a leader in sustainable tourism, and U30X embraces this by staying in a nearly zero-waste accommodation and participating in a tree planting effort. More ways you can make your packing more sustainable are:
- Borrow gear instead of buying new. I borrowed my roommate’s Patagonia fleece.
- Repurpose items you already have. A grocery bag for muddy boots, a ziplock bag for your phone in the rain, a thick headband as a sleeping mask. I always wear leggings under my pants instead of buying fleece lined pants.
- Support sustainable brands. If you need to invest in some quality pieces to get through your trip, shop brands focused on sustainability like Patagonia, Cotopaxi, or Passenger.
FAQs About Packing For Iceland
Can I wear jeans in Iceland?
I don’t recommend jeans since they absorb moisture and dry slowly, which can be uncomfortable while hiking. Stick to water-resistant or waterproof hiking pants.
Do I need cash in Iceland?
It’s not necessary. Almost everywhere in Iceland accepts cards and Apple Pay. I would recommend exchanging some USD to Icelandic króna (ISK) upon arrival at Reykjavik airport so that you have cash to tip your wonderful guide at the end of your five-day trip. That was the only time I used cash though.
Should I bring an umbrella?
No! It’s too windy for an umbrella. Quality rain gear is much better.
What if I forget something?
You can pick up any essential item in Reykjavik on the first day of your trip, and you’ll also stop at a large grocery store throughout the trip to grab snacks and anything else you may have forgotten.
Do I need makeup?
Totally up to you! Most travelers, myself included, opt for a good quality moisturizer and lip balm to protect from the elements.
Now That Your Bags Are Packed…
You’re going to have the BEST time in Iceland. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking glaciers, or playing on the black sand beaches, this packing list has you prepared for the whole trip and any adventure that comes your way.
Check out U30X’s Iceland trip options. If you want to explore under the midnight sun, trek through incredible landscapes, or chase the Northern Lights, there’s a small-group itinerary waiting for you.
See you in Iceland!
