Iceland Packing List
What to pack for Iceland. Prepare for rapidly changing weather, Northern Lights viewing, and outdoor adventures.
Iceland's dramatic landscapes come with equally dramatic weather. The saying "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes" is true here. This packing list prepares you for everything from geysers to glaciers, waterfalls to Northern Lights.
🌡️ Climate & Weather
Iceland has mild winters (around 0°C) and cool summers (10-15°C) thanks to the Gulf Stream. However, wind and rain can make it feel much colder. Weather changes rapidly, so layers are essential year-round.
What to Pack for Iceland
🧥 Layering System
- Base layer (merino wool top and bottom)
- Mid layer (fleece or down jacket)
- Outer shell (waterproof, windproof jacket)
- Waterproof pants
- Warm hat covering ears
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Waterproof gloves
- Liner gloves for photos
🥾 Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots (essential!)
- Wool hiking socks (3-4 pairs)
- Gaiters for glaciers (optional)
- Comfortable shoes for towns
- Crampons (for glacier walks, can rent)
🌌 Northern Lights Gear
- Camera with manual settings
- Sturdy tripod
- Extra batteries (cold drains them)
- Hand and toe warmers
- Thermos for hot drinks
- Chair or blanket to sit on
🏔️ Outdoor Activities
- Daypack (waterproof or with cover)
- Swimsuit (for hot springs)
- Quick-dry towel
- Sunglasses (for glaciers)
- Sunscreen (yes, even in Iceland)
- Reusable water bottle
📱 Tech & Documents
- EU power adapter (Type C/F)
- Portable charger
- Waterproof phone case
- Offline maps downloaded
- Camera gear
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Credit cards (Iceland is nearly cashless)
🩹 Health & Safety
- Basic first aid kit
- Pain relievers
- Motion sickness pills (for boat tours)
- Lip balm (wind chaps lips)
- Moisturizer (dry air)
- Prescription medications
Packing by Season
Summer
Midnight sun means 24-hour daylight in June! Bring an eye mask for sleeping. Weather is milder but still pack layers. No Northern Lights visible.
Winter
Short days (4-5 hours of light). Best Northern Lights viewing September-March. Pack extreme cold gear and assume everything will get wet.
Shoulder
September-October and April-May offer a mix. Possible Northern Lights with longer days. Pack for all conditions.
🎌 Cultural Tips & Etiquette
- Credit cards work everywhere - Cash is rarely needed
- Tap water is excellent - Bring a reusable bottle and save money
- Hot water smells like sulfur - It's natural and safe, just different
- Stay on marked paths - Protect fragile ecosystems and your safety
- Check road conditions daily - Weather closes roads frequently (road.is)
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