Iceland Packing List

A woman in a white sweater stands near a glacier and icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland, under clear skies.

What Should You Pack for Iceland?

Iceland’s unpredictable weather means layering is essential. In the warmer months, bring lightweight, moisture-wicking layers like long sleeve shirts and fleece jackets for comfort during activities. For cooler days, pack a warm sweater or jacket, especially for outdoor adventures. A waterproof rain jacket and waterproof pants are must-haves due to the frequent rain and wind, no matter the time of year. During winter, you’ll need a heavy coat, scarf, hat, and gloves to stay warm, particularly when exploring Iceland’s northern regions. Don’t forget comfortable, waterproof boots for hikes and city walks.

Make sure you’re prepared to: Visit the Blue Lagoon, explore Reykjavik’s vibrant city life, and hike along the stunning Golden Circle.

What to Wear in Iceland

Iceland’s style is practical and casual. For outdoor exploration, women can wear durable leggings or hiking pants, paired with long sleeve shirts and waterproof jackets. For city exploration in Reykjavik, smart-casual outfits like jeans, sweaters, and boots work well. Icelandic culture places importance on comfort, so focus on warmth and practicality when dressing. When visiting rural areas or natural sites like waterfalls, warm layers and waterproof gear are essential. In the evenings, Reykjavik’s nightlife is laid-back, so casual, cozy outfits are perfect for dining out or enjoying the local scene.

*Note: This article contains affiliate links based on my own experiences, first-hand testing, and extensive research, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Spring
35 – 50°F
(2 – 10°C )

Summer
50 – 60°F
(10 – 15°C )

Fall
35 – 50°F
(2 – 10°C )

Winter
25 – 35°F
(-4 – 2°C )

Spring: Cool and rainy, especially in the coastal regions

Summer: Mild with frequent rain and wind

Fall: Cool and rainy

Winter: Cold with snow and wind, especially in the north

Spring
4 inches of rain

Summer
3 inches of rain

Fall
4 inches of rain

Winter
5 inches of rain

Tops & Layers

1. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for layering during outdoor activities like hiking along the Golden Circle or visiting the Blue Lagoon.

2. Fleece Jacket: Essential for warmth and comfort when exploring cold regions like the highlands or glaciers.

3. Rain Jacket: A must-have for staying dry in Iceland’s unpredictable weather, especially near waterfalls or on coastal hikes.

4. Casual Jacket: Great for Reykjavik’s milder days or evening outings around the city.

5. Waterproof Jacket: Vital for outdoor activities like whale watching or visiting Iceland’s waterfalls, where spray and rain are common.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Durable, waterproof pants are perfect for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and outdoor adventures like glacier tours.

2. Leggings: Great for layering or casual wear when walking around Reykjavik or visiting natural attractions like Geysir.

3. Jeans: Suitable for casual city exploration or relaxing in Reykjavik’s cafes and restaurants.

4. Skirt: A long skirt with leggings works well for modest, stylish wear during city sightseeing.

5. Jumpsuit: Perfect for evenings out in Reykjavik, combining comfort with style.

6. Tights: A great layering option for added warmth when paired with skirts or dresses on cooler days.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Boots: Waterproof hiking boots are essential for trekking across Iceland’s rugged terrain, particularly during hikes and glacier tours.

2. Sandals: Useful for walking around geothermal areas or visiting places like the Blue Lagoon.

3. Swimsuit: A must for relaxing in geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon or the hot springs in Reykjavik.

4. Sunglasses: Important for eye protection from the glare of Iceland’s snow or bright summer sun.

5. Hat: A warm hat is crucial for keeping warm during outdoor activities, especially in colder regions.

6. Scarf: A warm scarf is a great accessory for layering and staying warm in windy and cold weather.

7. Gloves: Warm, insulated gloves are a must for outdoor activities like hiking, especially during colder months.

8. Flip Flops: Handy for walking around geothermal pools or while relaxing at the Blue Lagoon.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips between Reykjavik and other towns like Akureyri.

2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring natural attractions like Skogafoss or Thingvellir National Park.

3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is perfect for keeping essentials secure while sightseeing in Reykjavik or shopping in local markets.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layering: Pack layers for rapidly changing temperatures, especially when visiting outdoor locations like the Golden Circle or the South Coast.
  • Waterproof Gear: Bring waterproof jackets, pants, and boots, as Iceland’s weather is known for sudden rain and wind.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Waterproof hiking boots are a must for exploring Iceland’s diverse landscapes and hiking trails.
The vibrant green Northern Lights illuminate the night sky over snowy mountains and a reflective lake in Iceland.

Iceland Travel FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

June through September is the best time to visit Iceland, offering milder weather and long daylight hours for exploring the country’s beautiful landscapes. July’s also great because it provides optimal weather for hiking and visiting natural attractions like waterfalls and glaciers.

WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ICELAND?

Reykjavík Arts Festival (May): A multidisciplinary cultural festival featuring art, theater, and music—great for families, solo travelers, and culture lovers.

Iceland Airwaves (November): A popular music festival held in Reykjavík, showcasing local and international talent—perfect for music lovers and solo travelers.

Secret Solstice Festival (June): A music festival featuring international artists during the summer solstice—ideal for partygoers and young travelers.

National Day (June 17): Celebrating Iceland’s independence with parades, live music, and cultural events—great for families and cultural travelers.

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ICELAND?

Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and outdoor adventures. Start in Reykjavík, where you can visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, explore the Harpa Concert Hall, and stroll along the old harbor. One of my favorite places is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that offers relaxation in its warm waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes. For nature lovers, head to the Golden Circle to see the famous Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches along the South Coast.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ICELAND?

A 7-10 day trip is ideal to explore Iceland’s highlights, including Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. A shorter 5-day trip can give you a good overview of Reykjavík and a day trip to the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: Day 1: Explore Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja, stroll along the old harbor, and visit Harpa Concert Hall. Day 2: Take a day trip to the Blue Lagoon for relaxation and soak in the geothermal waters.

5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall on a Golden Circle tour. Day 4: Head to the South Coast and visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skogafoss, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Day 5: Explore the volcanic landscapes of Reykjanes Peninsula or take a glacier hike in the Vatnajökull National Park.

1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its volcanic peaks and Kirkjufell mountain. Day 7: Explore the Westfjords, a remote region known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and birdwatching opportunities.

10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, take a whale-watching tour from Húsavík, known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Day 9: Visit the Myvatn geothermal area, home to lava fields and natural hot springs. Day 10: Return to Reykjavík for shopping or relaxing before departure.

2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Day 12: Explore the Eastfjords, stopping at charming fishing villages and scenic fjords. Day 13: Head to the Highlands and take a 4×4 tour of Landmannalaugar, known for its colorful mountains and geothermal hot springs. Day 14: Return to Reykjavík for a final day of sightseeing or shopping before departure.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ICELAND?

2 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Sweater
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

5 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

1 Week

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

10 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

2 Weeks

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ICELAND?

Lightweight summer clothes: Iceland’s weather is cool year-round, so you won’t need light summer clothes.

High heels: Uneven terrain and outdoor activities make high heels impractical for this destination.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ICELAND ?

Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on the season, with higher prices during summer and festival periods.

Accommodation: $80-$200 per night, with options ranging from guesthouses to boutique hotels in Reykjavík and beyond.

Transportation: $30-$80 per day for car rentals, with options to explore the island’s rugged landscapes.

Meals: $40-$100 per day. Iceland’s restaurants are more expensive, but grocery stores and self-catering accommodations help cut down food costs.

Activities: $30-$150 depending on entrance fees, guided tours, and activities like glacier hiking or whale watching.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ICELAND? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are typically included in restaurant and hotel bills. However, if service is exceptional, it’s appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip. Tour guides and drivers may appreciate a small gratuity, such as $5-$10 per day.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ICELAND BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared with layers and waterproof gear.
  • Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK), and while credit cards are widely accepted, it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller businesses.
  • Driving: Roads can be narrow and gravelly, especially in rural areas, so rent a 4×4 vehicle if you plan to explore remote locations.
  • Natural Attractions: Be respectful of nature by sticking to marked trails and avoiding off-road driving, which can damage Iceland’s fragile ecosystem.

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