The Ultimate Iceland Packing List

What’s the Weather Like in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is famously unpredictable, and it’s constantly changing. We often say, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes,” and we aren’t kidding. Knowing what to expect regarding climate is crucial to making the list of things that should be in your suitcase. And some others that are not necessary.

While temperatures aren’t as extreme as some might think, you can experience rain, snow, and sunshine all in one day. Let’s break it down season by season.

Winter (November to March)

Winters in Iceland are long and cold but perhaps not as harsh as you might expect. Temperatures in Reykjavik range from -1°C (30°F) to 4°C (39°F), but it can feel much colder because of the wind. Snow is common, especially in the north and the central Highlands, and the days are very short, with only 4-5 hours of daylight in December and January.

Spring (April and May)

Spring in Iceland is a transitional season where snow begins to melt, but the weather is still unpredictable. At the beginning of April, it might still be cold, but the temperatures start increasing as the weeks go by. They range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). At the same time, the daylight hours also grow longer, offering more time to explore. It rains frequently.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular season to visit Iceland, with long days (almost 24 hours of daylight by the end of June) and milder temperatures, going from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Despite the relatively warm weather, rain and wind are still common. The best way to adapt is to dress in layers with waterproof clothing.

Autumn (September and October)

Autumn in Iceland sees cooler temperatures and the return of shorter days. Temperatures hover between 0°C and 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and the landscape begins to transform with vibrant autumn colors. Rain and wind are frequent, and the first snowy days can be expected by the end of October.

What to pack for your trip to Iceland

When preparing our bags for a trip, what takes most of our time is clothing. And it’s normal, as you should consider carefully what to wear when coming to Iceland. But clothing is not all you need to think about.

Clothing for Your Trip to Iceland

The key to dressing for Iceland is layering. Since the weather can change quickly, you’ll want to be able to add or remove layers to adapt to those changes.

Base layer

Your base layer is the foundation of your outfit and is critical for regulating body temperature. Thermal clothes are a good option, as they heat your body while wicking moisture.

Mid layer

Mid-layers provide warmth by trapping body heat, and these are easy to adjust depending on how cold it gets. Fleece or wool are both great options, as they provide insulation. Fleece is lightweight and quick to dry, while wool offers warmth without adding bulk. In colder seasons, you can add an extra synthetic jacket for extra warmth. These jackets are great because they’re warm but packable, so you can stuff them into a daypack when not needed.

Outer layer

The outer layer is your protection against Iceland’s elements – wind, rain, and snow. Your best ally would be a waterproof and windproof jacket. It’s essential for all seasons. Consider also bringing waterproof pants, especially if you’re visiting in autumn or winter or if you plan to do outdoor activities like hiking near waterfalls or glaciers. A big bulky coat is not necessary unless you’re going to the coldest areas. By layering properly, you can deal with the weather and its constant changes.

Accessories

• Hats, gloves, and scarves: You’ll need warm accessories like wool or fleece hats, gloves, and scarves in winter. Even in summer, the wind can be chilly, so a lightweight hat and gloves are worth packing.
• Swimsuit: Iceland is home to numerous geothermal pools and hot springs, which are a must-visit regardless of the season.
• Warm socks: Merino wool or thermal socks are crucial for keeping your feet warm and dry, especially if you are going hiking.
• Casual clothing: Icelanders dress casually, so there’s no need for formal wear, even in the nicer dining spots. There’s no need to bring formal clothes unless you have a social event that requires it.
• Sunglasses: There are a lot of daylight hours in summer, so they can come in handy. In winter, the sun's reflection on ice and snow can harm your eyes.

Footwear

• Waterproof Hiking Boots: A sturdy pair of waterproof hiking boots is necessary in Iceland, regardless of the season. The terrain is rugged, and trails can be muddy, icy, or wet. Make sure you break your boots in before your trip to avoid blisters.
• Winter Boots: In winter, insulated boots with good traction are essential, especially if you plan to explore icy areas.
• Comfortable casual shoes: Bring a pair of comfortable shoes for exploring the cities or to change on your way back to your accommodation after a day of exploring. Your shoes can be wet and/or muddy, so it’s better to travel comfortably.

Toiletries

Though many basic toiletries can be purchased in Iceland, it's better to pack only your essentials, those items you can’t live without. Whether you bring them or buy them here, here are some things that are worth considering.

• Moisturizer and Lip Balm: Iceland’s air can be very dry, especially in winter. A good moisturizer and a lip balm are essential for protecting your skin and lips from chapping.
• Sunscreen: In summer, although it’s not hot, the exposure to UV rays can be high. In winter, even if the sun is low, its reflection on ice or snow can burn your skin.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: This shouldn’t be an issue if you’re staying in a hotel, but other types of accommodations, like apartments or cabins, don’t always include them, so bring your own just in case.
• Basic Toiletries: Don’t forget the basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and any other personal hygiene items. While these can be purchased locally, they can be more expensive in Iceland.

Health and Medications

As we were saying with the toiletries, regular medications can be purchased in Iceland, so avoid the extra weight and use of space of bringing them. Only your personal prescription medications, as you might not be able to find them in Iceland.

It’s a good idea to take with you a few basic items on excursions, whether you bring them or you buy them here. A small first-aid kit can be a good idea. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister plasters, and any other medical supplies you might need, especially if you’re hiking in remote areas.

If you're planning on taking boat tours or long drives, seasickness or motion sickness medication can come in handy.

Electronics

• Camera: If you’re passionate about photography, Iceland is full of places you’ll want to take with you. Bring a good photo camera to capture Iceland’s epic scenery. Don’t forget extra batteries and extra memory cards to store all your photos.
• Smartphone: If you don’t have a camera, nowadays phones take really good pictures. They also can be a GPS device, essential for navigation.
• Portable power bank: A portable charger is a great idea if you’re going to spend the day exploring the country. You don’t want to run out of battery in case there’s an emergency, or you’re not sure which path to follow.
• Adapter: Iceland uses the European standard plug (Type C/F), the one with two rounded prongs. Bring an adapter if you come from a place with a different system.

Other Essential Items

• Reusable water bottle: Iceland has some of the purest tap water in the world, and you can drink it straight from natural springs. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and avoid using single-use plastics.
• Backpack: A lightweight, waterproof backpack is useful for carrying your camera, snacks, extra layers, snacks, and water bottle while exploring.
• Travel Towel: Very useful if you’re going to visit one of the multiple geothermal baths or hot springs in the country. And we’re pretty sure you’ll do. Much better if it’s a quick-drying towel.

What to Pack for Iceland Month by Month

Having a general knowledge of what to pack for a trip to Iceland, regardless of the time of the year, is great, but knowing how to wear and what to bring in each specific month can be even more useful.

January

January in Iceland is all about short days, snow, and cold nights. Clothes-wise, you’ll want to stay warm and cozy, so go for layers. Snow and icy winds mean a solid winter jacket, and thermal layers will keep you comfortable.

What to Bring:

• Thick winter jacket
• Warm thermal layers
• Waterproof snow boots
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Headlamp for those dark mornings and evenings

February

February is still winter wonderland time, with a little more daylight than January. The cold sticks around, though, so pack layers that keep you warm without feeling bulky.

What to Bring:

• Winter coat with good insulation
• Fleece or wool layers for extra warmth
• Waterproof, insulated boots
• Snow pants if you’re planning to explore outside
• Warm gloves, thick socks, and some hand warmers

March

March starts to give a hint of spring with longer days, but it’s still pretty chilly. Expect rain, snow, and some wind, so pack layers you can adjust as the weather changes.

What to Bring:

• Down jacket with a waterproof shell
• Fleece or wool layers for extra warmth
• Waterproof shoes with grip for icy spots
• Beanie, gloves, and warm socks
• Sunglasses for sunny days on snow

April

April’s weather can’t make up its mind – sunny one minute, rainy or snowy the next. When packing, take layers that can handle all kinds of weather will help keep you comfortable.

What to Bring:

• Windproof jacket that’s rain-friendly
• Warm sweater or mid-layer
• Waterproof shoes or boots
• Light gloves and a scarf
• Small umbrella for those surprise showers

May

May brings a bit more spring, but there’s still a chill in the air. You’ll want to layer up to handle rain, wind, and the occasional sunny break, especially if you’re exploring the outdoors.

What to Bring:

• Rain jacket or poncho
• Cozy fleece for layering
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Light gloves and a hat
• Binoculars if you’re into birdwatching

June

June means the start of summer! The midnight sun brings long days, but Iceland’s June weather still loves a surprise. Remember this when packing, and bring layers and a rain jacket to stay comfy.

What to Bring:

• Light waterproof jacket for rain
• Layered options like a fleece or hoodie
• Good walking shoes or waterproof sneakers
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for all that daylight
• Light scarf for any breezy evenings

July

July is the warmest month in Iceland, but you’ll still want layers since it cools down in the evenings. A light rain jacket will cover you in case of showers.

What to Bring:

• Light rain jacket or windbreaker
• Breathable clothes you can layer up
• Comfy hiking shoes
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Light sweater or fleece for cooler nights

August

August feels like late summer, but nights start cooling off. Layering is key since the weather can change throughout the day, especially if you’re out on a hike.

What to Bring:

• Light, comfy rain jacket
• Layered pieces like a hoodie or fleece
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Small backpack for snacks and extra layers
• Insect repellent for areas with more greenery

September

September kicks off fall with cooler days and more rain. The scenery gets stunning with autumn colors, so you’ll want warm layers and waterproof stuff to stay comfortable.

What to Bring:

• Waterproof jacket with some insulation
• Fleece or sweater for layering
• Beanie and gloves for chillier mornings
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Compact umbrella for rainy spells

October

October is crisp and cool, and the days get shorter. The key is to pack layers you can easily adjust, along with warm and waterproof essentials to prepare you for any weather.

What to Bring:

• Insulated jacket that’s rain-friendly
• Thermal base layers
• Boots with good traction
• Warm hat and gloves
• Power bank for longer nights outside

November

November feels like winter’s almost here. Frosty mornings, shorter days, and even snow mean you’ll need heavier layers and waterproof gear to keep warm and dry.

What to Bring:

• Heavy winter coat
• Thermal socks and gloves
• Waterproof, insulated boots
• Warm scarf and hat
• Thermos for hot drinks

December

December means full-on winter with snow and holiday lights. It’s cold, so bring layers that keep you warm and dry. Perfect for bundling up if you’re chasing the Northern Lights!

What to Bring:

• Warm parka or winter coat
• Waterproof gloves with thermal liners
• Traction cleats for icy paths
• Beanie, scarf, and layers underneath
• Hand warmers if you get chilly

What Not to Pack for a Trip to Iceland

With the proper planning, there’s no need to bring too many things that can take up weight and space, so it’s important to leave non-essential or impractical items at home. Here, you have some items that might seem necessary but will be impractical during your trip.

• Umbrellas: Iceland is known for its strong winds, especially in coastal areas. Umbrellas won’t stand a chance against them and will likely break. The best way to keep yourself dry is a good waterproof jacket.
• Formal clothes: Iceland’s culture is relaxed, even in restaurants and bars. There’s no need for formal outfits or high heels, even if you're planning to dine at upscale restaurants in Reykjavik.
• Unnecessary Valuables: Leave expensive jewelry, excessive cash, or other valuables at home. Iceland is quite safe, and you can pay by card everywhere. Losing or damaging these items can add unnecessary stress to your trip.

Travel Tips

• Rent a car: The best way to move around Iceland is by car. This way, you can get to every corner of the country at your own pace. If you’re going to travel in winter, consider a 4x4 vehicle. The roads, particularly in rural areas, can be icy and snow-covered, and a 4x4 will give you more control and safety on these surfaces.
• Plan for changing weather: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable and can shift quickly. It’s essential to stay flexible with your itinerary and always check the weather forecast regularly. The Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website provides reliable information.
• Check the road status: Some roads in Iceland can be closed at certain moments, especially in winter or when the weather is adverse. It’s recommended to check their status before setting out. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration is a valuable source.
• Be flexible: The weather and the roads can affect your journey. Have a backup plan in case the place you’re going to visit is difficult to get to, or the weather affects the planned activities.
• Gas stations and services: While all major cities have all kinds of fuel stations and shops, these can be few and far between, especially in more remote areas. Always top off your tank when you come across a fuel station. Running out of gas can be dangerous and a major setback.
• Respect nature: Iceland’s environment is fragile, and it’s everyone’s duty to look after it. Stick to marked paths and follow local guidelines to preserve its beauty. Avoid disturbing wildlife, and take all your trash with you.

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Conclusion

Packing for Iceland requires careful consideration. The weather here is a factor that will play a major role in your trip, so it’s essential to bring everything you need to adapt to it. Most of the things you’ll want to see and do here are outdoors, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. You don’t need to bring too many things, just be smart and be ready to adapt.

A trip to Iceland is an unforgettable experience that deserves to be enjoyed in the best way possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Pack to Iceland