Complete Iceland Packing List: Learn What to Bring and How to Pack

Iceland might be the most beautiful country in the world, but its weather? It can be chaotic, moody, and unpredictable. But, with a planned-out, well-crafted, and complete Icelandic packing list - it’s not a problem! Equipment needed can vary greatly from season to season and the length of your tour.

Pack light but precise - take things that you’re confident you’ll need because weight can be a burden to a good adventure. The following list can be used to determine what to bring to Iceland according to the time of the year and activity.

If you're wondering what to take to Iceland, prepare for sun, rain, wind, and even snow—sometimes all in one day. Because of the unpredictable weather of Iceland, it’s important to have varied protective items.

If you've camped or hiked before, many Icelandic travel essentials should feel familiar. We'll cover the clothes, accessories, and key items you'll need for a comfortable trip.

• You don’t need a huge variety of clothes to pack for Iceland, but garments should be tough enough for the outdoors. Layering is key—master that, and you'll just need warmer clothes for winter and lighter for summer. Your clothes for Iceland should be chosen for usefulness, not looks.

• Layers on layers
  • Base layer (Moisture-wicking)
  • Thermal underwear (wool or synthetic)
  • Thermal tops and leggings
  • Hiking, thermal, and woolen socks
  • Mid-layer (Insulating comfort)
  • Breathable t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
  • Long-sleeved shirts (fleece or flannel)
  • Insulating jumper/sweater (fleece, wool, or down)
  • Athletic, fleece-lined, and waterproof pants
• Outerwear (Weather protection)
  • Windproof and rainproof coat (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof shell jacket
  • Waterproof trousers or rain pants
  • Hat (wool or fleece)
  • Gloves (insulated, waterproof options)
  • Buff, neck gaiter, or scarf
• Footwear
  • Waterproof hiking boots, sturdy trekking boots
  • Hiking sandals, water shoes (for river-crossing trails or hot springs)
• Swimming gear
  • Swimsuit
  • Packable quick-dry towel

• Electronics
• Mobile phone (for navigation, communication, and photos)
• Universal power adapter (Type C/F plug for Iceland)
• Battery pack (for recharging on the go)
• Camera (with weather protection for Icelandic conditions)
• Portable battery (for extended trips without power access)
• Hairdryer (if needed, as not all accommodations provide one)
• Sunglasses (for glare from snow and ice)
• Reusable water bottle (Iceland’s tap water is pure and free)
• Luggage and bags
• Packable backpack (for day trips and hiking)
• Dry bag (for protecting electronics and gear from rain)

• Passport (required for entry)
• Boarding pass (for flights)
• Credit/Debit card (widely accepted for most transactions)
• Cash: Iceland is highly card-friendly, but carrying some ISK (around 10,000 ISK or $70) is helpful for rural areas, small businesses, tips for guides, and paid public bathrooms.
• Driving license (for rental cars, valid from your home country)
• Sunscreen (UV rays can be strong, even in winter)
• Chapstick/lip balm (for dry, cold air)
• First aid kit (for minor injuries and blisters)
• Dramamine (for motion sickness during boat tours or drives)
• Toilet paper: Most restrooms provide it, but carrying a small pack of tissues is useful for remote areas.
• Plastic bag (for wet clothes, trash, or dirty shoes)

• You’ll need warm, waterproof layers and grippy shoes for Iceland’s icy paths, freezing winds, and unpredictable weather. You will also need a swimsuit in winter—soaking in geothermal pools is very popular. You can still adjust your list for comfort depending on what to pack for Iceland for different months.

• Thermal layers (moisture-wicking tops and leggings)
• Parka or insulated winter coat (windproof, waterproof)
• Wool socks (thick, moisture-resistant)
• Waterproof boots (insulated, sturdy, ankle support)
• Microspikes (for traction on icy paths)
• Hat (thermal or fleece-lined)
• Woolen mittens or gloves (insulated, waterproof)
• Scarf, balaclava, or neck gaiter (for wind protection)
• Hand warmers (disposable or reusable)
• Insulated water bottle (keeps drinks warm)
• Lip balm and face cream (for dry, cold air)
• Headlamp (for limited daylight)
• Reflective gear (for visibility)

Packing for Iceland in summer means preparing for long days outdoors under the midnight sun. Warmer temperatures are great for hiking and camping trips, but sudden rain, wind, and slippery trails make proper gear essential. There’s a wide variety of things to do in summer, so you'll need to stay comfortable with layers and waterproof essentials. 

• Light fleece or sweater (for chilly evenings)
• Waterproof jacket (windproof, breathable)
• Waterproof trousers or rain pants (for sudden showers)
• Comfortable hiking pants (quick-dry, flexible)
• Hiking boots (waterproof, ankle support)
• Hiking sandals (for warmer days and stream crossings)
• Cap, buff, neck gaiter, or lightweight scarf  (for wind and sun protection)
• Insect repellent (for areas like Mývatn Lake)
• Sunscreen (high SPF, non-greasy)
• Lip balm (with SPF)
• Sleep mask (for bright nights)
• Band-aids (for blisters)

In summer, you can hike through remote areas like the Highlands, where the weather can change rapidly. Since you’ll carry everything for safety and comfort yourself, it’s important to pack light for backpacking in Iceland. You’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag and food, as most huts only offer basic shelter, with limited or no meals and minimal heating.

• Backpack (50 to 70 liters / 13.2 to 18.5 gallons)
• Lightweight tent and sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag (3-season, warm but not Arctic-level for huts)
• Cooking stove, utensils, and fuel
• Food (dehydrated meals, snacks)
• Water purification tablets or filter
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Dry bags
• Portable charger or power bank
• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• First aid kit with blister care
• Lightweight tarp or emergency shelter
• Map and compass or GPS device
• Biodegradable soap and microfiber towel
• Trash bags

There are many designated campsites around the country, often accessible by vehicle, making it easier to bring more equipment. Near the Highland huts, you can also stay outside but must bring your own camping gear, as kitchens are not available for campers. When camping in Iceland, you may still encounter basic facilities such as limited water and electricity, so pack accordingly.

• Tent and sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag (3-season)
• Cooking stove, utensils, and fuel
• Food (ready-to-cook or dehydrated)
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Camp chairs and table (optional for comfort)
• Cooler or food storage
• Trash bags

Hiking in Iceland means exploring trails for a few hours or a full day, focusing on mobility without overnight gear. You won't need shelter or cooking equipment, as you're not staying out overnight, but having the right Iceland hiking gear is essential for comfort. Iceland’s ever-changing weather and uninhabited regions require detailed preparation, especially for Laugavegur trail trekking.

• Daypack (20 to 30 liters / 5.3 to 7.9 gallons)
• Water bottle or hydration system (at least 1 liter / 0.26 gallons)
• Hiking boots with good ankle support
• Specialized hiking underwear (seamless or flat-seamed to prevent chafing)
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (preferably with UV protection)
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
• Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
• First aid kit
• Trekking poles
• Flashlight or headlamp

The final and most important advice on how to pack for Iceland for a week or longer is to use your luggage space wisely—stick to neutral basics you're sure you'll wear. Skip umbrellas since the wind will break them, and avoid cotton or denim.

If you want to pack light for Iceland, take essentials only, with layers for all seasons made from lightweight, weatherproof fabrics. And remember, even though Iceland isn’t tropical, you still need to pack sunglasses for travel year-round.

If you are traveling from the European Economic Area (EEA), you can bring up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs) of food, including candy, as long as the total value stays under ISK 25,000 (about $180). However, if you are arriving from a non-EEA country, certain foods are not allowed due to strict biosecurity laws:

• Uncooked and dry meats like salami and raw poultry
• Uncooked eggs and dairy products
• Fresh fruits and vegetables