Clothing

What to Pack for Iceland: A Simple, No-Nonsense Guide

Even though there are already plenty of articles on this topic, I keep seeing people stress over what to pack for a trip to Iceland. Chances are, the overwhelming amount of information out there is doing more harm than good, creating more confusion than clarity. So, I’ve put together a simplified, point-by-point guide. Let’s get into it.

Layering is Key In Iceland, you dress in layers. That’s because the weather can change dramatically in a matter of minutes—or just a few kilometers. You might drive through heavy snow, then hit sunshine, then rain, then sunshine again, then hail… so you need to be able to add or remove layers as needed. But what exactly are we talking about when we say “layers”? Let’s break it down.

0. The Basics

Regular underwear, t-shirts, and socks.

This should go without saying, but let’s be thorough.

1. Thermal Base Layers (Top & Bottom)

A must for colder seasons.

2. Hiking Pants (Preferably Fleece-Lined in Winter)

You can also pack a pair of jeans or something dressier for evenings at the hotel or a restaurant.

3. Sweaters or Warm Tops

Three to four should be enough for a week. You don’t sweat much in Iceland, especially in winter.

4. A Winter Parka (or a Lighter Down Jacket in Summer)

High-quality Gore-Tex parkas (warm and waterproof) can cost over €1000. If you opt for a cheaper, non-waterproof coat, bring a poncho or rain cover to wear over it. Do not underestimate the importance of staying dry. Icelandic weather is unpredictable, and no two years are the same—one winter might be +10°C, and the next, the same date could be -15°C. That’s why layering is crucial.

5. Rain Jacket & Waterproof Overpants

Do not skip these. In Iceland, getting wet is a given, and umbrellas are useless against the wind. Keep them handy and put them on when needed.

6. Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots

Walking is essential to truly experience Iceland, and you’ll frequently encounter rain, mud, snow, and ice. Bring waterproof, high-ankle hiking boots.

7. Comfortable, Lightweight Gore-Tex Shoes

For good weather or for when you don’t want to be stuck wearing heavy boots all day—even at dinner. Still, opt for waterproof shoes because “good weather” doesn’t mean you won’t step in water.

8. Hat, Neck Warmer, & Gloves

A warm hat is non-negotiable. Avoid bulky scarves—they just get in the way and make it impossible to zip your coat up to your chin. A neck warmer or a headband you can pull down around your neck works much better. As for gloves, mittens are the warmest option since they trap heat better than standard gloves, which separate your fingers and let them freeze individually.

You’ll be adjusting your layers constantly—sometimes you won’t need thermal underwear, other times you’ll prefer thermals and a sweater but no parka, or maybe just a sweater and parka without the thermals. In summer, you might be fine with just a long-sleeve or even a t-shirt. Everyone’s tolerance for cold is different.

Always bring spares. If your clothes get soaked, it can take two days for them to dry—especially when it’s rainy and humid!