What to pack for Iceland | The ultimate Iceland packing list | Downloadable checklist included
Friday, 23rd August 2024
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Your Iceland itinerary is probably full to the brim of activities, so there’s a lot you’ll need to prepare. And that’s before throwing the fickle weather conditions into the mix!
Luckily, we’ve put together a guide so you know what to pack for Iceland, no matter which season you’re travelling in.
Our Iceland packing list essentials
The beauty of Iceland is that you can visit all year round and have an amazing trip. Here are our essentials for every trip to Iceland, regardless of the weather.
Waterproof hiking boots
Whatever the season you’re travelling in, hiking boots will be your best friend when visiting Iceland! They’ll support your feet when hiking the icy paths in the winter and keep your feet dry from waterfall splash in the summer months.
Don’t forget blister plasters, too!
Waterproof hiking shoes
Although we recommend packing waterproof hiking boots, waterproof shoes are the next best thing. Look for sturdy shoes that can brave all elements while keeping your feet toasty and dry.
Swimwear
Whether you’re visiting the blue lagoon, taking a dip in the natural hot springs, scuba diving or embracing Iceland’s iconic swimming pool culture, swimwear is a must!
If you have a couple of swimming activities, pack extra bathing suits to avoid being sopping wet the next day.
Quick dry towel
Another swimming essential is a quick dry towel. These are perfect for travelling (especially if you’re visiting multiple locations during your trip to Iceland) as they’re lightweight and easy to transport.
Alternatively, we’d recommend bringing two towels; one for swimming and one for after showering just in case one doesn’t dry in time.
Some local pools charge you to hire a towel so bringing your own is a good way to save money, too.
Rain jacket
A waterproof rain jacket will add an extra layer of warmth but it will also come in handy when getting up close and personal with waterfalls too!
Waterproof pants
Our advice would be to save your favourite pair of jeans for the evenings at the hotel and opt for waterproof pants or hiking trousers when you visit Iceland instead. Hiking trousers will protect you from the wind chill and rain and are easy to clean.
A camera
Sometimes camera phones don’t do Iceland’s spectacular scenery justice so you might want to bring a camera to capture your favourite moments. If you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, you’ll be grateful for the extra-quality snaps.
Don’t forget your camera gear like an extra memory card and spare batteries, too.
Camera Equipment
Don’t forget to bring extra camera gear to get the best possible snaps of Iceland. From the stunning hiking trails to the northern lights, here’s the camera gear we recommend adding to your Iceland packing list:
- Different lenses
- A tripod
- Filters
- Cable release or intervalometer remote
- Rain sleeves
- Cleaning equipment
Day backpack
A waterproof day backpack is essential for carrying your field equipment, snacks, notebook and other daily essentials. We recommend a rucksack over a shoulder bag to keep your hands free while exploring.
Toiletries
This one might seem like a no-brainer but you may want to switch up some of your toiletries to suit the Icelandic conditions. Here are some of our must-haves:
- Antihistamines
- Blister plasters
- Pain killers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Travel sickness medicine
- SPF moisturiser
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Conditioner to protect your hair from the sulphur in the Blue Lagoon
Plug adapter
Iceland uses the standard euro plug socket with two rounded prongs. You can use ‘C’ or ‘F’ adapters which are usually called Northern Europe adapters.
Reusable water bottle
With all the adventures you’ll be going on in Iceland, you’ll want to stay hydrated on the go. The tap water is safe (and delicious!) to drink so don’t forget your reusable water bottle when you visit Iceland.
Hiking trousers
Waterproof pants are a must for any trip to Iceland. They’ll not only keep you dry if the heavens open, but they’ll protect you against Iceland’s gusts! Look for hiking trousers that are waterproof, easy to move in and dry quickly.
Tech gear
There are lots of gadgets designed to enhance your exploring and here are some of our top picks in tech gear to pack for Iceland:
- GoPro
- Portable solar charger or power bank
- GPS watch
- Day backpack
- Binoculars
Snacks
When you visit Iceland, your itinerary is likely to be jam-packed. From horse riding to hiking trails, keep energy levels high by bringing some snacks for between meals.
What to pack for Iceland in the summer
If you’re going to Iceland in the summer months, you’ll see picturesque landscapes and erupting geysers. Don’t forget to take our essentials from the following packing list to make the most of your Iceland trip:
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a must when visiting Iceland in the summer, especially if you’re going glacier hiking as the ice magnifies the sun’s glare.
Cool clothing
Even though it’s summer, you’ll still need a few shirts or t shirts to wear under jumpers as a base layer. You won’t need anything as warm as thermals but it’s good to have layers as the weather conditions can still be unpredictable.
SPF
Even if the sun is behind the clouds, the harmful UV rays can still peep through. We recommend packing sun protection when travelling to Iceland all year round but especially in the summer.
Sleep mask
A sleep mask might be the only way to get a good night’s kip during Iceland’s midnight sun (and you’ll need plenty of rest before a day full of activities!)
Waterproof jacket
Protect yourself against downpours with a lightweight waterproof jacket. These are perfect on drizzly days or if you’re heading to a waterfall and don’t want to get your clothes damp.
What to pack for Iceland in the winter
Autumn/ Winter is a popular time to head to Iceland. It’s less touristy, there’s spectacular scenery and, thanks to fewer daylight hours, you’ll have a higher chance of seeing the northern lights.
In the winter months, you’ll need to be prepared for colder and wetter conditions. Although this won’t stop you from having an amazing trip, it’s best to be prepared by packing the right things.
Here’s what to add to your Iceland packing list when visiting between October and March.
Warm clothing
This may seem obvious, but in winter the temperatures in Iceland are an average of 0°C. We recommend taking layers, wool jumpers, thermals and even thermal undergarments to keep you toasty.
Long sleeve shirts and Long sleeve base layer
Layers are important in Iceland. Not only are the weather conditions unpredictable and you may need to quickly add or remove a layer, but if you’re heading to multiple activities in one day, you’ll likely need a mixture of clothing.
Thermal leggings
Thermal leggings are great alone or as a base layer underneath waterproof pants to keep your legs warm on those colder days!
Warm jacket
Even on warmer days in the Autumn, the Icelandic winds can make you chilly. Pack a warm jacket or Gillet to wear by itself or layer underneath your rain jacket.
Wool socks
Wool socks are an Iceland essential. Not only will they keep your feet warm but they’re great to wear underneath your hiking boots for extra cushioning.
Pack multiple pairs just in case you get damp feet!
Snow boots
Snow boots or quilted rain boots aren’t essential but are a good option for activities that don’t involve intense hiking shoes.
Thermal underwear
Thermal underwear is a great way to keep warm, especially in the colder months.
What to pack for Iceland in your carry on bag
Now you’ve packed your suitcase, it’s time to fill your carry on bag! Here’s what should be on your packing list for your cabin bag:
Passport
Passport. Okay, it may seem obvious but we couldn’t not mention it!
Make sure that your passport is in date ahead of your trip. New UK laws state that your passport needs to be valid for 6 months. If your passport expires while you’re travelling, you can’t return home without an emergency travel document.
EHIC (The European Health Insurance) Card
Even if you have travel insurance, we recommend packing your EHIC card. The card is available to all UK residents and allows you to receive treatment from public hospitals in all European Economic Area countries.
Pop this in your hand luggage so it’s easy to access or in case anything happens to your hold luggage.
Plug-in headphones
If you’re travelling with Icelandair, you’ll need plug-in headphones to connect to the in-flight entertainment. Unfortunately, their screens won’t allow you to connect your Bluetooth or wireless headphones. Avoid paying for headphones on the plane by bringing your own.
Entertainment
If you’re heading to Iceland with a large group, students or young children, bring something to keep them busy on the flight. Things like travel games, puzzles, iPods and books will make the plane journey fly by!
Hiking boots
If you want to explore Iceland as soon as you land, we recommend packing your hiking boots or waterproof shoes in your carry on so that you can get to them easily.
Download a shareable FREE copy of our Iceland packing list!
