What to Pack for Iceland: The Complete Seasonal Packing List

Packing for Iceland is not about bringing everything. It is about bringing the right things. The weather changes fast, layering is non-negotiable, and one good waterproof jacket will serve you better than a suitcase full of fashionable coats. If you are unsure about when to visit, check our month-by-month guide first.

The Non-Negotiable Core (Every Season)

These items belong in your bag regardless of when you visit:

• Waterproof outer layer: A proper rain jacket with sealed seams. Gore-Tex or similar. This is your single most important item
• Waterproof trousers: For waterfalls, glacier hikes, and sideways rain
• Waterproof hiking boots: Ankle-height minimum, broken in before you arrive. Essential for Iceland's best trails
• Thermal base layers: Merino wool is ideal. Two sets minimum
• Fleece or wool mid-layer: Your insulation layer
• Warm hat and gloves: Even in summer, evenings get cold
• Buff or neck gaiter: Wind protection for your face and neck
• Sunglasses: Essential for glacier glare and snow reflection
• Swimsuit: You will visit a hot spring. Everyone does
• Daypack: For hikes and day trips
• Reusable water bottle: Iceland's tap water is pristine

Winter (November to February)

Add to the core list:

• Down jacket or heavy insulated layer: For standing around waiting for northern lights
• Hand warmers and toe warmers: Disposable ones work well
• Balaclava or ski mask: For extreme wind chill
• Crampons or ice grips: Slip-on models for icy pavements and trails. Read our winter driving guide too
• Head torch: Essential for dark mornings and aurora hunting
• Extra thermal layers: Temperatures can drop to -15°C in the north

Spring (March to May)

Add to the core list:

• Lighter insulating layer: Temperatures are milder but still unpredictable
• Packable down jacket: For layering flexibility
• Gaiters: Useful for muddy trails during the thaw
• Camera with extra batteries: Cold drains batteries fast and the light is spectacular. See our photography guide

Summer (June to August)

Adjust the core list:

• Lighter rain jacket: Still waterproof, but you can drop the heavy insulation
• Long-sleeve sun protection: The midnight sun means long UV exposure
• Eye mask for sleeping: It does not get dark. At all
• Mosquito repellent: For the Myvatn area specifically
• Shorts: Yes, really. Some July days hit 15 to 20°C
• Sandals or camp shoes: For hot pot visits and campsite evenings

Autumn (September to October)

Add to the core list:

• Mid-weight insulating layer: Temperatures cool but rarely freezing
• Headlamp: Days shorten rapidly
• Waterproof backpack cover: Autumn storms bring heavy rain

What NOT to Pack

• Jeans: They get wet, stay wet, and take forever to dry
• Cotton anything: It loses all insulating properties when damp
• Umbrella: The wind will destroy it within minutes
• High heels or fashion shoes: The terrain will destroy them faster than the umbrella
• Too many clothes: Laundry facilities are available at most accommodations

Luggage Tips

Most domestic flights and some tour vehicles have strict weight limits. A single large backpack or duffel (60 to 70 litres) plus a daypack is the ideal setup. Hard-shell suitcases are fine for Reykjavik-based trips but impractical for road trips where you are in and out of the car constantly. For a full budget breakdown including gear costs, check our planning guide.