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

The equipment needed for Iceland can vary greatly depending on the season and length of your trip. The weather can be chaotic, moody, and unpredictable. With a well-planned, well-crafted, and complete Iceland packing list, you'll be well set for your journey. Pack lightly but accurately—take things you're sure you'll need because weight can be a burden on a good adventure!

If you're wondering what to take to Iceland, be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and even snow - sometimes all on the same day. Because of the country's unpredictable weather, it's important to have a variety of protective gear. If you've camped or hiked in Iceland before, you'll be familiar with many of the Iceland travel essentials - the clothing, accessories, and key items - everything you need for a comfortable trip.

The list of clothes to pack for Iceland does not need to be extensive, but garments should be tough enough for the outdoors. Layering is key—you will only need warmer clothing for the winter and lighter clothing for the summer. Your wardrobe for Iceland should be chosen for its usefulness, not for its appearance. Start with the essentials:

1. 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

2. 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

3. Footwear

• Waterproof hiking boots, sturdy trekking boots
• Hiking sandals, water shoes (for river-crossing trails or hot springs)

4. Swimming gear

• Swimsuit
• Packable quick-dry towel

1. Electronics

• Mobile phone (for navigation, communication, and photos)
• Universal power adapter (Type C/F plug for Iceland)
• Battery pack
• Portable battery (for extended trips without power access)
• Camera (weatherproofed for Icelandic conditions)

2. Important basics

• 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)

3. Luggage and bags

• Packable backpack (for day trips and hiking)
• Dry bag (for protecting electronics and gear from rain)

• Passport and boarding pass
• Credit/Debit card (widely accepted everywhere)
• 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 (protects against Iceland’s cold, dry air)
• First aid kit (useful for minor cuts and blisters)
• Dramamine (a lifesaver for motion sickness on boat tours or winding roads)
• Toilet paper (some remote restrooms might not have it)
• Plastic bag (perfect for wet clothes, trash, or muddy shoes)

You’ll need warm, waterproof layers and grippy boots for Iceland’s icy roads, freezing winds, and unexpected weather. (You'll also need a swimsuit in the winter—soaking in geothermal pools is a popular activity!) The country's unique and rapidly changing climate makes it important to know what to pack for Iceland, including for the winter season:

• 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
• Lip balm and face cream (for dry, cold air)
• Headlamp (for limited daylight)
• Reflective gear (for your safety and 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 the right equipment essential. There’s a wide variety of things to do in summer, so you'll need to stay comfortable with layers and waterproof items:

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

It's important to pack light when backpacking in Iceland because hiking in remote areas like the highlands means that you'll be carrying everything yourself, including safety and comfort items. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag and food, as most huts offer only basic shelter, with limited or no meals and minimal heating. The packing list includes:

• 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 encounter basic facilities such as limited water and electricity, so pack accordingly:

• Tent and sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag (3-season)
• Portable 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 focusing on mobility and no need for overnight gear. You won't need shelter or cooking equipment if you're not staying overnight, but having the right Iceland hiking gear is essential for comfort. The country’s ever-changing weather and uninhabited regions require careful preparation, especially when trekking the Laugavegur trail. Make sure you have the following:

• 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 (offline maps downloaded in advance, compass, GPS)
• First aid kit
• Trekking poles
• Flashlight or headlamp

The last advice on how to pack for Iceland for a week or longer is to use your luggage space wisely:

• Take only neutral basics and the essentials you'll surely wear, with layers for all seasons in lightweight, weather-resistant fabrics
• Use compression bags to save space
• Wear your bulkiest items (jacket and boots) on the plane to save weight
• Bring easily removable footwear, as many homes and accommodations require outdoor shoes to be removed at the door
• Remember that although Iceland is not tropical, you'll need to pack a pair of sunglasses for year-round travel

What NOT to pack:

• Skip umbrellas, as the wind will break them
• Avoid cotton or denim - once wet, they dry very slowly
• High heels or fancy shoes - most places, including Reykjavik’s nightlife, are casual

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

USEFUL LINKS:

• Duty-free imports - View Skatturinn.is for information on the amount of food you can bring
• Live weather updates - Check Vedur.is for real-time forecasts
• Road conditions - Use Road.is before you drive
• Emergency updates for travelers - Visit SafeTravel.is for alerts and travel advisories