The ultimate packing list for Iceland
Essential clothing and gear for an adventure in the land of fire and ice - where the daily forecast often includes rain, high winds and temperature drops
After I began researching what to pack for Iceland in September, and apparently most of the year around, I realized we need quite a few items and carry-on bags may not be enough. Iceland’s weather can be fairly intense throughout the year, switching from sunny skies to rain or snow Throughout the day. I’ve narrowed down the list of items to pack for a 10 day trip in the fall to the essentials, but not excluding all items that will ensure our comfort for the duration of the trip and for any type of weather we may face.
We plan to visit many waterfalls and beaches, which means that we need protection from water even if it isn’t raining. Heavy flowing waterfalls tend to spray a lot of water even if you’re not standing nearby, and Iceland‘s winds will surely bring the moisture your way if we are in viewing distance. Much of our adventure will also include hiking to various destinations. Somedays we may be up early in the morning or out at dusk, and we’ll definitely be out after dark at least one or two nights to view the aurora borealis. Taking all of this into account, below is a detailed list of items to pack for Iceland for both adults and for children.
The Ultimate Iceland Essentials Packing List
Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal pants and undershirt, wall or synthetic wicking material. Do not choose cotton as it retains moisture and can make you quite cold.
Waterproof, rain, pants, and rain jackets. These need to be completely waterproof otherwise you will have damp clothes underneath.
Wool or fleece sweaters. Wool or fleece also help to wick moisture away and they dry rather quickly. Do not opt for cotton because it will stay soaking wet if you encounter any water.
Hiking pants. 2 to 3 pairs should be enough.
Warm socks for each day of your trip.
A hiking backpack with a water bladder. I like to use a water bladder versus a water bottle because all of us can drink from the tube attached to the backpack at any time versus having to stop, open up the backpack and take out the water bottle. The water bladder can also hold more water than most large water bottles making it more convenient and requiring less stops to fill up.
Gloves or handwarmers
Hats. Again these should be made of wicking material. I recommend fleece or wool.
Scarf, or a cowl. I like to crochet with natural fibres, making them fairly waterproof and out of wicking material. Keeping you warm and dry if the cow is large enough, it can also be pulled up over the head as hat while still covering the neck
Bathing suits. Most towns in Iceland have pools and some have hot Springs so a bathing suit is a must
Optional items:
Tripod. If you’re intro photography, I would recommend bringing a mini tripod for photos, especially if you want to do slower exposures of things like the aurora borealis. I’ll tripod can also be helpful even if you’re taking photos with your phone, to take photos of you and your loved ones or friends in front of points of interest of selfies.
Waterproof backpack cover. This can be helpful if you’re worried about items inside getting wet. Even spray from a waterfall soak a bag pretty quickly. A rain cover to put over top can be helpful on days when you don’t need it
Outlet adapter. Many places have USB ports but for any other items you may need to plug in, an adapter can be useful.
Quick dry towels. These can be found at almost any outdoor store or online. They tend to be quite compact and thin, and are made of quick drying material. Many of the hot springs and pools do not provide towels so this option is helpful.
Looking for more Iceland Travel content? Check out these articles:
How to decide which way to travel Ring Road in Iceland with kids (or without!)
The Land of Fire and Ice: must-see locations in Iceland including a puffin island and Arctic Henge
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