What to pack for Iceland
Pack for wind and rain in every season. A waterproof shell, warm mid-layers and boots with grip cover 90% of Iceland in any month.
The core list, all year
- Fully waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood that stays up.
- Waterproof over-trousers — the single most under-packed item.
- Wool or fleece mid-layers; wool base layers rather than cotton.
- Waterproof boots with real tread; trail shoes are fine in summer.
- Hat, gloves and a buff or scarf, even in July.
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel — every town has a geothermal pool.
- Refillable water bottle; the tap water is excellent.
- Sunglasses, and an eye mask for the midnight sun.
Summer (June–August)
Highs are typically 10–15°C and it barely gets dark. Add light hiking layers, insect repellent or a head net for Mývatn's midges, and an eye mask for sleeping. You still need the waterproof shell.
Shoulder season (April–May, September–October)
Expect anything from mild sun to sleet. Add a warmer insulated layer and micro-spikes for icy paths around waterfalls. This is the best value season for rooms — see Iceland month by month.
Winter (November–March)
- Insulated waterproof boots and micro-spikes or crampons for ice.
- Proper down or synthetic insulated jacket under or over the shell.
- Thermal base layers, thick wool socks, waterproof gloves.
- Head torch — useful for aurora watching and dark car parks.
- Tripod and spare batteries if you plan to photograph the northern lights.
Read northern lights tonight before you head out.
Leave at home
Umbrellas (the wind destroys them), bottled water, heavy cotton clothing, formal wear, and large amounts of cash. European two-pin plugs work throughout Iceland at 230V.