Iceland Packing Tips: What to Wear on Your Trip

I had some preconceived notions about what Iceland was like before arriving. The fear of bitter cold air, getting lost in a blizzard, and waterfalls with a significant spray zone made it particularly challenging to figure out what clothing and how many outfits we needed to bring. Luckily, we’ve done the hard part – and by “hard’ I mean stressed ourselves out and overpacked – so that you can skip the headache and do it right the first time. Here are our Iceland packing tips based on two previous trips to the island of fire and ice. 

What to Pack When Visiting Iceland

Britt and I were both completely surprised by the reality of the required attire versus what most online publications recommend. For our first visit, we followed the most common Iceland packing tips, purchasing waterproof and insulated clothing. We even bought new cold-rated winter coats to stave off the promised bitter cold waiting to frostbite any exposed flesh. However…this was (mostly) all exaggerated and unnecessary.

The truth of determining what to pack when visiting Iceland depends on quite a few factors. From our experience, the weather was much milder than we expected, and we definitely overpacked for our first visit in October. Our second visit was much colder in December, finally experiencing the aforementioned bite of bitterness in the air, which is documented in the pictures of my Santa-level-rosy cheeks. Yet, even then, I was pretty comfortable in my second-hand puffer coat (not rated), sweater, and jeans with a set of inexpensive base layers underneath. 

Along with the season, there are two main elements that seem to impact how far you need to dive into the winter weather wear: moisture and location. The presence of rain or snow will make you feel colder and also miserable if you’re not in waterproof protection. The area of the island you’re exploring, on the other hand, determines the level of exposure to the elements you’ll experience. For instance, exploring a glacial cave or hiking in snow to a geyser likely requires head-to-toe winter gear, but if you’re opting to stick around the city or only dip your toes in some hot springs, then a more relaxed fit may be all you need. Additionally, the weather is known to change quickly, which can further complicate the packing situation.

ICELAND PACKING TIPS: Find the right outfits by checking the weather forecast beforehand, reading reviews from other travelers for your chosen events and time of year, and asking people on social media or travel forums. 

Iceland Packing Tips: Must-Have Items

The “perfect” Iceland packing tips list may not exist, but there are some items that seem to be universally useful for first-time visitors to Iceland, including:

• Wool socks 
• Lined beanie
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket or coat (depending on the season) 
• Base layer top and bottom set

On top of what clothes you pack, how you bring them can impact your trip. Word of advice: Pack light! Skip the oversized rollie bag suitcase as it’s incredibly inconvenient to drag around. Instead, opt for a light travel backpack or small wheeled suitcase for ease of movement. This tip extends to all of your sapphic travels: the less you bring, the more energy and space you have to enjoy yourself!

What did you end up packing? Any things you would change? Let us know by dropping a dm or comment on social! We’d love to hear from you.