What to wear in Iceland + summer and winter packing lists

I love Iceland. I’ve visited this incredible country several times, in different seasons and in completely different weather conditions. From bracing winter winds and icy waterfalls to surprisingly mild summer road trips under the midnight sun, one thing I’ve learned is that packing properly for Iceland can make or break your trip.

winding road in remote area of Iceland with grassland on each side and the vague outline of clouds in the distance — Iceland summer road trip

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Iceland’s weather changes constantly and often dramatically. If you’re not dressed for it, you’ll spend more time feeling cold and uncomfortable instead of immersing yourself in its stunning landscapes.

This guide covers exactly what to pack for Iceland, year-round, with seasonal tips, practical advice and the items I personally wore and relied on during my own trips.

Whether you’re planning a winter Northern Lights adventure or a summer road trip around the Ring Road, this guide well help you know exactly what to wear in Iceland ensuring you’ll be weather ready for any eventuality.

Contents

What should I pack for Iceland? (Quick answer)

If you’re wondering what to pack for Iceland, these are the absolute essentials:

Waterproof jacket (fully windproof and hooded)
Warm layers (thermals, fleece or wool jumpers)
Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal socks
Hat, gloves and neck warmer
Swimwear for thermal springs
Day backpack
Sunglasses and sunscreen
European plug adaptor.
Power Bank
Travel insurance

The key for what to wear in Iceland in any season is layers and waterproof outerwear.

Want a printable version?
Download my free Iceland packing checklists below

Summer packing list

Winter packing list

Why packing properly for Iceland matters

Woollen hats and gloves with Icelandic designs in Reykjavik

You’ll spend most of your time outdoors on your Iceland adventure, exploring waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes and black sand beaches. Even in Reykjavik, you’ll be outside far more than you expect.

Your packing choices will mainly depend on time of year that you’re visiting, weather conditions, the typle of activities planned and whether you’re staying in one base or taking to the Ring Road on a road trip.

Clearly, what you wear for chasing the Northern Lights on a freezing winter night will be completely different to what you wear for a dip in a natural hot spring in the summer. The only constant? You’ll need to be ready for anything.

Understanding Iceland’s weather

To say the weather is changeable is an understatement. There’s a saying in Iceland: If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes. It couldn’t be more accurate!

Even the Icelandic people won’t attempt to predict the weather so all I’m going to say is be prepared for anything. Except tropical sunshine.

Winter weather in Iceland (October to April)

Winter is cold, dark and incredibly atmospheric. Temperatures usually hover around -3°C, though it can drop lower in January and February.

Expect snow and icy rain, strong biting winds, short daylight hours, long dark nights and a wind chill that makes it feel colder than it is.

You might experience calm sunshine one moment and freezing rain the next. Without the right clothing, you’ll get cold and wet very quickly.

Summer weather in Iceland (May to August)

Þingvellir National Park, Iceland in August

Summer brings long daylight hours and the magical midnight sun. Temperatures average around 11°C, occasionally reaching 20°C.

However, summer weather is still unpredictable with sunshine one minute, rain and wind the next and sudden drops in temperature. Even in August, you’ll need layers and waterproofs.

What to wear in Iceland

My Iceland packing guide will help you prepare for Iceland’s changeable weather conditions so you can have the best Iceland adventure and not be distracted second-guessing the weather.

The golden rule: layering for Iceland

Whatever the season, dressing in layers is essential. Think in three parts:

Base layer – keeps warmth in and wicks away any moisture
Mid layer – provides insulation
Outer layer – for waterproof and windproof protection

Add warm accessories like hats and gloves and you’ll be prepared for almost anything Iceland decides to throw at you.

What to pack for Iceland all year-round

These are the core items you’ll need to pack whatever time of year you visit.

Waterproof jacket (your most important item)

A proper waterproof, windproof jacket or coat with a hood is non-negotiable. Icelandic wind and rain can appear without warning. A lightweight rain jacket won’t cope.

This will probably be the item you wear the most. A proper waterproof, windproof jacket is absolutely essential in Iceland. I’ve tested a few over the years and always travel with one that’s fully waterproof, insulated with a proper hood.

Make sure it’s long enough to keep you covered. Knee length for winter or to cover your bum if you’ve got fleece-lined hiking or ski pants or for when you’re visiting in summer.

Shop my tried-and-tested waterproof coats and jackets here:

Warm accessories

Small items make a big difference to comfort. Be sure to pack:

Fleece-lined beanie (covering ears)
Scarf or thermal neck warmer
Warm gloves (ideally waterproof)
Touchscreen gloves for photos and phones

Thermal socks

Merino or Thermal socks will keep your feet warm, wick away moisture and prevent blisters. Don’t underestimate good socks. Investing in proper merino wool or thermal hiking socks will keep your feet warm, dry and blister-free.

My absolute favourite boot socks for hiking are Darn Tough socks which are well worth the extra cost. They last for years and are seamless so they won’t rub and cause blisters. I highly recommend them. And if they do wear out Darn Tough will replace them for free! I pack several pairs of Darn Tough socks in different thicknesses and knits.

Day backpack

A backpack is essential for day trips and sightseeing. You’ll be outdoors a lot, so this will get daily use and a waterproof or water-resistant one makes life much easier when the weather turns. Especially if you’re carrying camera gear.

I recommend this Osprey daypack for Iceland. It’s big enough to keep all your essentials in but small enough for it not to get in the way. It looks good too.

Use it for carrying extra layers, gloves and hat, snacks and water.

Swimwear for hot springs

If you’re visiting the Blue Lagoon or any geothermal pools, don’t forget swimwear, flip-flops and a micro-fibre travel towel. I always pack this quick-dry swimsuit and my FitFlop flip-flops.

Towels and robes can usually be rented at larger lagoons like the Blue Lagoon, but having your own swimsuit is a must.

Tech items

Cold weather drains batteries quickly, especially if you’re taking lots of photos. And don’t forget a spare SD card. A good power bank is a lifesaver on long sightseeing days.

Don’t forget these travel tech essentials for Iceland:

European plug adaptor. I like the ones with integrated USB ports
Power bank
Camera + spare battery (Cold weather drains camera and phone batteries faster, especially in winter).
Extra SD card

Practical bits and pieces

Sunglasses
Lip balm and moisturiser
Sunscreen. Yes, even in winter – UV radiation is stronger when it’s reflected by the snow
An e-sim. Download to your phone before you leave home

What to pack for Iceland in winter

*Braving the cold at Gullfoss Waterfall*

Winter packing is all about staying warm and dry without feeling bulky. There’s nothing more miserable than being too cold to enjoy your trip, so what should you wear in Iceland to keep warm in winter?

Thermal base layers

It’s all about the base. Let’s start at the bottom, literally, with a good base of thermal leggings and long-sleeved thermal tops. Merino wool or synthetic base layers will trap heat and wick moisture away from the skin. A high necked, long-sleeved zipped thermal to will keep you warm and toasty.

Good thermal base layers make all the difference in Iceland. I learned this the hard way on my first trip when I massively underestimated the wind chill.

These are the thermal layers I now always pack for Iceland and for ski trips →

thermal leggings
merino wool leggings
thermal half zip top
merino wool option
my favourite thermals which I also use for skiing

Travelbunny Tip: Make sure the tops are a good length so you can tuck them into your bottoms to stop drafty gaps.

Mid layers for warmth

Your mid layer provides insulation.

Good options:

Micro fleece top
Wool sweater

A Micro fleece top makes for great mid-layers and come in different thicknesses. I like fleeces which have a high neck and half-zip with sleeves which tuck over the wrists with a thumb-hole. Try not to have any gaps where the cold can creep in.

Icelandic Sweaters

Lopapeysa Knitting, Iceland — Hand-knitted lopapaysa sweaters in Iceland

You’ll see many locals wearing traditional Icelandic wool jumpers (lopapeysa). They’re incredibly warm and make a lovely souvenir if you buy one locally. I wish I had.

The wool traditionally used is called ‘Lopi’ and ‘peysa’ means sweater and the iconic knits have many different patterns and designs all hand-knitted by locals. I guess they’ve got to find ways to fill those long, dark winter days. You’ll find these warm sweaters for sale all over Iceland.

Waterproof insulated jacket

A proper winter coat or long-line waterproof jacket is essential.

Look for:

Insulated
Waterproof and windproof
Hooded with a high collar that buttons over your mouth and chin
Comfortable to move in

Standing near waterfalls or out searching for the Northern Lights can be bitterly cold, especially when wind chill kicks in. I was very grateful for my insulated jacket at Gullfoss waterfall where the winds were bitterly cold and it was very exposed.

Waterproof trousers or ski pants

Jeans are not suitable for winter in Iceland. If they get wet, they stay wet and may ice up. Instead pack:

Fleece-lined waterproof hiking trousers – I bought these last year for my Tibetan Plateau trip and they’re my new go to winter hiking pants
or ski pants (these come a short length) with thermal leggings underneath

Either of these will keep you warm and dry when exploring snowy landscapes.

What boots to wear in Iceland in winter?

Good footwear is crucial.

Waterproof hiking boots are non-negotiable in Iceland. Between waterfalls, black sand beaches and uneven terrain, your feet will get wet quickly without proper footwear. Ideally with a cleated, good grip sole to prevent slipping on snow or ice.

A sturdy pair of snow boots are a great option in deep winter snow and have the added advantage to keeping your lower legs warm too. And don’t forget to pack a few pairs of thick thermal socks.

These are the boots I personally recommend for Iceland:

Travelbunny Tip: Avoid trainers, they’re not waterproof or warm enough for winter conditions and don’t grip in icy conditions.

It’s worth the extra cost of buying some good quality wool socks to wear in Iceland. They’ll wick away moisture and keep your feet warm and dry. Longs socks in winter will stop chilly winds whipping around your ankles.

Hat, gloves and scarf

Never leave your accommodation without:

Thermal hat that covers your ears
Gloves (two pairs recommended)
Scarf or neck warmer

These small items make a huge difference when winds pick up and won’t take up much room in your backpack.

Take a hat that covers your ears, a fleece-lined hat is a good call. Neckwarmers are great and you can pull them up over your nose if it gets really icy. They’re small and light and easy to pop in your pocket if you get too warm.

On winter trips I wore two pairs of gloves, thin touchscreen gloves underneath a pair of thicker waterproof gloves. The touch screen gloves meant I could take photos or use my mobile phone without freezing my fingers off.

What to pack for Iceland in summer

Summer still requires layers, just lighter ones.

Pack Light layers

Short and long sleeve t-shirts
Lightweight jumpers or fleeces
Light thermal top for evenings

Temperatures can drop quickly, especially at night or near waterfalls.

Lightweight waterproof jacket

A lighter waterproof jacket is ideal in summer.

Look for:

Lightweight
Packable
Windproof and waterproof

You’ll likely wear it most days. You’ll need a jacket that’s light, completely waterproof with a stowable hood so it’s nicely warm but not too bulky. A lightweight down jacket which packs down neatly is also a good option.

Trousers and leggings

Good options:

Hiking trousers
Comfortable walking trousers – these come in different leg lengths
Leggings for layering

Waterproof over-trousers can be useful but aren’t always essential in high summer.

colourful houses in Eyrarbakki, Iceland — Eyrarbakki, Iceland

What shoes to wear in Iceland in summer

The best shoes to wear in Iceland during summer are a good pair of sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

Best choices:

Waterproof hiking boots shoes
Good grip for uneven terrain
Wool hiking socks

Shoes for Iceland need to be warm and comfortable. A decent pair of hiking shoes which have a good grip for shale tracks, volcanic rock and rugged outdoor terrain are ideal. I like Keen hiking shoes for summer. Wool hiking socks (seamless to stop rubbing) are a good move too.

Hat and gloves

A thin pair of touch screen gloves are a must just in case the weather turns, they take up barely any room in your backpack.

Insect repellent

If visiting in summer and heading near lakes or water, pack insect repellent as midges called lúsmý can appear in some areas.

What I actually wore in Iceland

On my winter trips, I relied heavily on:

Even fully layered up, I was grateful for every item when standing near waterfalls or out searching for the Northern Lights. Spoiler, we never saw them but I did see them back at home in the UK last year from my garden!

On my summer visit in August:

Light layers were key
Light waterproof jacket
Packable down jacket
Hiking trousers or leggings
Good hiking shoes
Lightweight fleece
Warm jumper for evenings

Even in summer, I never went out without a jacket in my daypack.

Packing for Iceland’s activities

Blue Lagoon and geothermal pools

If you’re stopping off at The Blue Lagoon on the way back to Reykjavik airport or dipping into any of the many geothermal pools across Iceland, you’ll need to pack a bathing suit and a pair of flip-flops. A robe and towel can be rented at the Blue Lagoon. Don’t forget to alternate your dips in the thermal pools with a roll in the snow – it’s incredibly invigorating! Pack:

Swimsuit
Flip-flops
Hair tie – you really don’t want to get your hair wet in the thermal spas. It’ll be ruined for days. Read more about why in my post about visiting the Blue Lagoon.

Northern Lights chasing

Bring:

Extra warm layers
Hat and gloves
Hand warmers (optional)
Fleecy neck warmer

You’ll often be standing outside late in the cold at night waiting for the lights to appear.

Glacier hikes and snowmobiling

If you’re going snow-mobiling, glacier hiking or any other adrenaline sports then you’ll need specialist clothing. The company you’ve booked with should include this as part of the excursion but check this before you travel. Most tour companies provide specialist gear, but always check in advance.

What to wear in Iceland — That time I went snow-mobiling in Iceland

Iceland road trip packing extras

If you’re driving Iceland’s Ring Road or exploring further afield:

Small first aid kit
Snacks and reusable water bottle
Offline maps
Power bank
Travel pillow for long drives. I swear by the Trtl travel pillow

You’ll spend a lot of time on the road between stops.

Travel insurance for Iceland

One of the most important things to pack for Iceland isn’t clothing — it’s travel insurance.

With unpredictable weather and adventurous activities like glacier hikes and snowmobiling, comprehensive travel insurance is essential for peace of mind. I recommend Heymondo travel insurance which includes a 5% discount for booking through my site.

Shop my Iceland packing essentials

I hope this guide helps you outsmart the Icelandic weather and help you enjoy this amazing country without any wardrobe malfunctions. hve the best time, and if you have any more tips on what to wear in Iceland please share.

Download your free Iceland packing checklist

Want a printable version?
Download my free Iceland packing checklists