What to pack for Iceland: A practical guide for every season (2026 update)

Without a doubt, Iceland is still one of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful places I’ve ever been. The locals are warm and welcoming, the food is surprisingly delicious (especially if you’re into hearty soups and fresh seafood), and the landscapes feel like they belong on another planet. If it’s not already on your list, seriously—do yourself a favour and look into it. This magical place really is one of those must-visit destinations you’ll be talking about for years.

When I first shared our Iceland road trip guide and tips for exploring Reykjavik and beyond, one of the trickiest parts was packing. Coming from Brisbane, where winter is a bit of a joke compared to even Iceland’s summer, I had no idea where to start. Airlines aren’t exactly thrilled when you show up with a suitcase full of thermal layers and fluffy coats, so the challenge is packing for cold, wet, and wild conditions—without blowing your baggage limit. It’s all about being clever, versatile, and ready for anything Mother Nature throws at you.

What you need to pack will depend a lot on when you’re going—summer and winter in Iceland feel like completely different worlds. If you’re visiting between November and February, think snow boots, thermal layers, and even ice cleats. Summer visitors might still need a beanie and a waterproof jacket, but you’ll also want things like a sleep mask for the midnight sun. I’ve put together this guide to help make packing less stressful, with practical tips and some must-haves like power banks, eSIMs, reusable bottles (because the tap water is next-level pure), and even a dry bag for those misty waterfall hikes.

Planning your trip?
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Travel eSIM: Simify

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What’s the weather like and when should you visit?

We visited in July, right in the heart of Iceland’s summer. Down south, where most visitors spend their time, average temps sit around 10–13°C (50–55°F), but warm days can reach a glorious 20–25°C (68–77°F). If you’re visiting in winter, brace yourself—temperatures hover around 0°C (32°F) but can feel much colder with wind chill. The weather changes quickly in Iceland, so be ready for sunshine, wind, rain, and fog… all in one day.

Low Season (October–April)

This is Iceland at its most rugged and raw. Snowfall and icy conditions can close mountain roads, so getting around might be trickier. But this is also prime time for the Northern Lights, fewer crowds, and activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling. You’ll need serious winter gear, including thermal layers and waterproof outerwear.

Shoulder Season (May & September)

These months are a sweet spot for fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. You might get lucky with clear skies and mild days, but occasional snow or rain is still very possible. It’s a great time for hiking, road tripping, and photographing dramatic landscapes without the peak season rush.

High Season (June–August)

Summer brings long days—think 20+ hours of daylight!—plus festivals, wildlife, and lush scenery. Accommodation can be pricey and in high demand, especially around Reykjavik and popular spots like the Golden Circle. Booking ahead is essential. Even in summer, bring a warm jacket—temperatures are mild, not hot—and a sleep mask will help with those endless bright nights.

What to pack for Iceland

Warm layers & smart insulation

Layering is everything in Iceland. Pack a thermal base layer (top and bottom), a mid-layer like a fleece or merino wool jumper, and a waterproof outer shell. Chunky knitwear, scarves, gloves, and a beanie are must-haves for staying cosy—especially on glacier hikes, boat tours, or standing around waiting for the Northern Lights. Good quality thermal underwear and thick socks (ideally wool) are worth every cent. A windproof, waterproof jacket is essential—bonus points if it has a hood.

Stylish but sensible

Reykjavik locals are effortlessly stylish, so if you plan on going out for dinner or drinks, pack one or two smart-casual outfits. Just make sure your dressy clothes can layer easily under warm outerwear. Think jeans, boots, and a nice top or knit that still works under a puffer.

Comfortable, weatherproof footwear

The terrain in Iceland is rugged and often wet. You’ll want closed-in, waterproof shoes or hiking boots with great grip. Falls are common around waterfalls or icy paths, so good traction is a must. If you’re hiking, consider bringing moisture-wicking socks and a second pair of shoes for when the first inevitably gets soaked.

Sun protection gear

Yes—even in Iceland! The UV index can be surprisingly high, especially in summer or around reflective surfaces like snow and glaciers. Be sure to pack high-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe, if possible), lip balm with SPF, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brim hat or cap. I never leave the hotel without applying sunscreen to my face and exposed skin. And remember: cloudy skies don’t block UV rays, so keep reapplying throughout the day—especially during hikes or road trips with lots of sun exposure.

Medicine bag

A compact, go-anywhere medicine kit is essential. Iceland is remote in parts and pharmacies may not always be open, especially outside Reykjavik. Bring any prescription meds you need, plus basics like paracetamol, ibuprofen, antihistamines, cold & flu tablets, Imodium, rehydration salts, travel-sickness tablets, bandaids, hand sanitiser, and wet wipes. Pocket tissues come in handy at roadside stops, and if you wear contacts or glasses, don’t forget spares and eye drops—wind and cold can dry your eyes out fast.

Swimwear

Don’t even think about skipping Iceland’s geothermal pools—they’re incredible! Bring your swimwear, a lightweight quick-dry towel (many places charge for rentals), and flip-flops or waterproof sandals for walking around hot spring areas. You might also want a dry bag for your clothes and a plastic bag for wet items. If you use ear drops, goggles, or a swim cap, pack those too—it’s all about being prepared for a blissfully steamy soak, even in the snow.

Hot tip: Pre-book a Blue Lagoon Thermal Pool Comfort Package (with transfers) here.

Rain gear

Weather in Iceland can flip in an instant. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re getting hit with sideways rain. Pack a high-quality waterproof jacket with a hood (preferably breathable), waterproof trousers if you’re doing serious outdoor exploring, and a compact umbrella for city use—though wind often makes them useless in rural areas. Waterproof packing cubes or dry bags are also handy to keep gear safe inside your backpack.

Camera gear

If you’re into photography or videography, Iceland is a dream. Bring your best camera, wide-angle lenses for landscapes, and a tripod for long-exposure shots (especially if you’re chasing the Northern Lights). A spare battery and memory card are essential—cold weather drains batteries fast. A lens cloth or microfiber towel will help manage rain, sea spray, or fog.

Flashlight

A small flashlight or headlamp is a smart addition, especially during winter when daylight hours are short. It’s useful in emergencies, late-night Northern Lights viewing, or if you’re navigating remote car parks or campsites after dark. Opt for a USB-rechargeable model if you’re packing a power bank.

If you plan to hire a car we recommend booking it here

Day pack

Bring a sturdy, comfortable day bag or backpack—ideally waterproof or with a rain cover. You’ll need it for road trips and day hikes to carry your essentials like a reusable water bottle, snacks, gloves, scarf, camera gear, and spare layers. Internal compartments or a hydration sleeve can be helpful too, especially if you’re out exploring for hours at a time.

Cold-weather skincare & beauty products

Iceland’s cold, dry air can wreak havoc on your skin. Pack a rich face moisturiser, heavy-duty lip balm (SPF if possible), and a good hand cream or balm—your hands will thank you. A cracked heel balm or all-purpose ointment is also great for dealing with dry patches. If you wear makeup, keep it simple and hydrating.

Sleep mask (eye shades)

In summer, Iceland’s near-constant daylight can really mess with your sleep. A good-quality sleep mask is a game-changer—look for one that blocks out light completely and fits comfortably. If you’re a light sleeper, consider pairing it with earplugs too, especially if you’re staying near busier areas.

Thermos & road trip comforts

If you’re hitting the road (which you absolutely should), bring a Thermos for tea or coffee. There’s nothing better than pulling over at a windswept lookout or beside a bubbling hot spring and enjoying a hot drink with a killer view. Pack a few road trip snacks too—muesli bars, trail mix, or even some Skyr from a local supermarket—and if your accommodation allows, borrow a small throw blanket to make your roadside picnics extra cosy.

Power adaptors

Iceland uses the European two-round-pin Type C and F plugs. Make sure to bring a travel adaptor so you can charge your gear. A multi-port USB charger or small power board can be a lifesaver if you’re charging multiple devices overnight.

If you forget something…

No worries—Reykjavík has plenty of shops to pick up forgotten essentials. You’ll find outdoor stores, budget variety shops like Flying Tiger Copenhagen, and large department-style supermarkets like Hagkaup (located in the Kringlan Mall and Skeifan area). These spots are great for grabbing affordable extras like gloves, earplugs, charging cables, snacks, or even thermals and toiletries.

My packing tips and travel hacks

A few quick tricks I swear by to stay organised, save space, and avoid the dreaded suitcase explosion…

Eco-friendly storage bags

Pack a few reusable sandwich bags and lightweight eco-bags—they’re lifesavers for separating dirty clothes, muddy shoes, wet swimwear, soap bars, or even leaky toothpaste. They’re light, compact, and make you feel smugly prepared.

Hard containers for the win

I always travel with a few small Tupperware-style containers. One for toiletries (zero risk of explosions ruining clean clothes), one for tech gear like cords and adaptors, and another for jewellery or small valuables. It keeps everything tidy, easy to find, and makes re-packing a breeze. Plus, stacking containers = packing like a pro.

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