Iceland Packing List: What to Pack for Every Season
Looking for the ultimate Iceland packing list? This year-round guide has you covered with essentials, seasonal add-ons, and gear recommendations you can trust.
In Iceland, the weather can flip from sunshine to rain, wind, or snow in a matter of minutes. Which is why locals say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.”
What you pack and wear really does matter. Stick with waterproof and windproof layers over fashion, pack for the activities you’ve planned (not just the forecast), and use the local tips inside to save space, save money, and stay comfortable on your trip.
Must-Have Items for Iceland
✔️ Best Warm Jacket: KUIU
✔️ Best Camp Shoes: Indoor/Outdoor Slippers
✔️ Best Waterproof Stuff Sack: 10L Dry Bag
Year-Round Iceland Packing List Essentials
No matter when you visit, packing for Iceland starts with layers. The weather is famously unpredictable, so it’s best to come prepared for anything.
An example of layering: a breathable base to keep you dry, a warm mid-layer for insulation, and a waterproof, windproof shell for protection.
Choosing the right materials, like merino wool and quick-dry synthetics, makes all the difference in staying comfortable through Iceland’s ever-changing conditions.
Here’s the must-have Iceland packing list to help you prepare:
Clothing
- Merino base layers (tops/bottoms) — 1–2 sets
- Mid-layers (fleece or wool sweater) — 1–2
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic) — 1
- Waterproof Rain jacket (breathable) — 1
- Waterproof pants — 1 pair (or packable rain pants)
- Swimsuit
- Pajamas
- Quick-dry shirts & hiking pants — 2–3 each
- Undergarments & warm socks (3–5 pairs)
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots (broken-in) — 1 pair + hiking socks
- Camp shoes
- Sandals for after hikes/hot pools
Clothing Accessories
Bags & organization
- 30–35L daypack (with a rain cover)
- Packing compression cubes
- Waterproof stuff sack
- Compact travel dirty laundry bag
- Carry-on suitcase
- Carry-on duffle bag
Toilteries
Tech & documents
- Camera + tripod
- Power bank (cold drains batteries)
- Universal Travel Adapter (Type F/European plugs)
- Printed itinerary, insurance info
- Reusable water bottle and reusable shopping bag
- Kindle
What to Pack by Season in Iceland
✅ Iceland Summer Packing List (June–August)
Average Summer Temperatures: 45-60°F (1-16°C)
Average Summer Rainfall: ~2-3 inches per month
- Light but warm layers (fleece, light windbreaker)
- Lightweight waterproof pants
- Sleep mask + earplugs (midnight sun)
- Casual city layers for Reykjavik cafes & museums
✅ Iceland Fall Packing List (September–October)
Average Fall Temperatures:: 40-50°F (4-10°C)
Average Fall Rainfall: ~3 inches per month
- Early-winter gear readiness (warmer base layers)
- Waterproof insulated gloves, hat, scarf
- Sturdy, warmer socks (wool)
- Plan for shorter daylight hours
✅ Iceland Winter Packing List (November–March)
Average Winter Temperatures: 24-40°F (-4-4°C)
Average Summer Rainfall: ~2-3 inches per month
- Heavy insulated parka or thick down jacket
- Thermal base layers (2 sets for multi-day trips)
- Insulated, waterproof pants or snow pants
- Crampons/microspikes + gaiters (or rent)
- Trekking poles
- Waterproof gloves + liner gloves, beanie, neck gaiter
- Headlamp and spare batteries (long nights)
- Extra camera batteries & insulated battery case
Special-Purpose Packing Checklists
- For Photographers: Camera body suggestions, wide-angle lens, sturdy tripod, remote shutter, extra batteries
- For Families / Travelling with Kids: Diaper/food tips, layers for kids, safety considerations
- For Camper Van / Road Trippers: Kitchenware, inverter, extra fuel, tire chains in winter (check what rental companies include in their van rentals)
- For Glacier Hikes & Ice Caving: Sturdy boots, crampons, insulated layers (often included by guides)
What Not to Pack for Iceland
Here are a few smart space-savers and things to skip when packing for Iceland:
✖️ Cotton clothing: It gets damp, stays damp, and will make you cold. Go for wool or quick-dry fabrics instead.
✖️ Bulky one-off outfits: Pack versatile layers you can rewear and mix instead of items you’ll wear once.
✖️ Heels or dress shoes: Opt for sturdy shoes that are both comfortable and keep your feet warm.
✖️Umbrella: When it rains, it’s typically windy, which is not ideal for an umbrella. A waterproof jacket is your best bet.
Local Tips & Money-Saving Packing Hacks
- Buy snacks & groceries at Bonus / Kronan in Reykjavík before long drives to save money. (These stores also have gluten-free options!)
- Tap water is safe. Bring a reusable water bottle!
- Renting bulky gear (crampons, insulated suits) in Reykjavík is often cheaper than checked-bag fees (and easier).
FAQ: What to Pack for Iceland
💡 What do I wear while visiting hot springs in Iceland?
A swimsuit, a quick-dry towel, and sandals for walking around the pools. A waterproof phone case is handy if you want photos without the stress.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget a hair tie; some lagoons have minerals that can be tough on your hair.
💡 What if I forget something?
No need to stress! Reykjavík has plenty of grocery stores and outdoor shops, plus boutiques with Iceland-inspired and locally made gear. You’ll be able to find whatever you need once you arrive.
Iceland Packing List Wrapped Up
From city breaks to camper van adventures and family trips, this packing guide works for any kind of Iceland journey. Pack for the activities you’ve planned, bring waterproof layers and sturdy boots, and rent the bulky stuff once you’re here so you can travel lighter and enjoy the trip.
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
