Iceland Packing List: What to Bring for Iceland

Iceland’s weather is the defining variable in packing. The golden rule: pack as if it could rain, blow, and be cold at any point, regardless of the month. Even in July, an afternoon on Reynisfjara beach or walking to a glacier can be cold, wet, and windy.

The Non-Negotiables (All Seasons)

Waterproof jacket: Fully waterproof (seam-sealed), not just water-resistant. A hood is essential. This is the single most important item.

Waterproof trousers: Often overlooked. For hiking, waterfalls (you’ll walk close to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss), and black sand beaches, waterproof trousers are as important as the jacket.

Warm mid-layer: A fleece or down jacket. You’ll wear this under your waterproof most days.

Waterproof hiking boots: With ankle support. Iceland’s terrain — lava rock, wet grass, black sand — requires proper footwear.

Hat and gloves: Even in summer on exposed coastal areas or glacier visits.

Clothing Layers

Base layers (2–3 sets): Moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetic. Cotton dries slowly and becomes cold when wet — avoid.

Mid-layers (2): Fleece or insulated jacket. One lightweight, one warmer.

Waterproof outer layer (jacket and trousers): As above.

Casual wear for evenings: Jeans or smart casual are fine for Reykjavík restaurants and bars. No need for formal clothing.

Hiking socks: Merino wool hiking socks (3 pairs). Durable, warm when wet, quick-drying.

Footwear:

• Waterproof hiking boots (primary)
• Comfortable shoes for Reykjavík city walking
• Sandals or flip-flops for geothermal pools (some have wooden decks)

Summer-Specific

Eye mask: Absolutely essential June–July. Iceland doesn’t get dark in summer. Most hotels have blackout curtains but the mask is insurance.

Sunscreen: UV levels are higher than you’d expect, particularly on white glaciers and reflective water.

Light layers: Temperatures can reach 15–20°C in Reykjavík in July — you’ll want lighter options for warmer days.

Winter-Specific

Thermal base layers: Heavyweight merino wool or synthetic thermal leggings and top.

Down jacket: A proper cold-weather down or synthetic fill jacket for temperatures below -5°C.

Thermal hat, balaclava, buff: For wind chill.

Microspikes or crampons: For icy paths in towns and on coastal walks. Lightweight microspikes (approximately ISK 3,500–5,500 at Icelandic outdoor shops) are worth buying on arrival.

Waterproof over-trousers: More important in winter when snow and slush are on the ground.

Activities and Gear

For glacier walks: Operators provide crampons and helmets. Bring your waterproof outer layers and proper hiking boots.

For swimming pools and geothermal spas: Swimsuit and towel (or rent at the spa for approximately ISK 800).

For hiking (Laugavegur/Þórsmörk): Add a sleeping bag (rated to -5°C minimum), trekking poles, a headtorch, and emergency snacks.

For photography: UV/polarising filter, spare batteries (cold drains them), a dry bag for the camera.

What Not to Bring

• Heavy formal clothes (unnecessary)
• Flip-flops as main footwear (inadequate for any outdoor activity)
• Cotton-dominant hiking clothes (slow-drying and cold when wet)
• Too many outfits — Iceland’s outdoor culture is casual, and laundry facilities are available at most hostels and campsite blocks

What to Buy on Arrival

Icelandic wool jumper (lopapeysa): The traditional Icelandic wool sweater is genuinely warm and a worthwhile purchase. Ull shops and the Handknitting Association shop on Skólavörðustígur sell authentic ones from approximately ISK 20,000–40,000.

Microspikes: For winter visits — buy at Icelandic outdoor shops (66°North, Útilíf) rather than bringing heavy crampons from home.