Packing List for Iceland: Northern Lights, Glaciers, and Hot Springs
Everything you need to pack for Iceland covering layering systems, waterproof gear, glacier equipment, and essentials for both summer midnight sun and winter aurora season.
Merino wool regulates temperature, wicks moisture, and resists odor for multiple wears. Bring 2-3 sets of lightweight base layer tops and bottoms. Synthetic alternatives work but develop odor faster. Avoid cotton as it holds moisture and chills you in cold wind.
Bring insulating mid-layer fleeces or down jackets
A 200-weight fleece or lightweight down jacket traps warmth between your base layer and outer shell. Down packs smaller but loses insulation when wet. Synthetic insulation maintains warmth even when damp, making it more reliable for Iceland's unpredictable weather.
Pack wool or thermal socks in bulk
Bring 5-7 pairs of merino wool hiking socks. Feet get cold fastest in Icelandic wind and wet conditions. Double up with a thin liner sock under a thicker wool sock for glacier hikes. Dry your socks overnight at your accommodation.
Bring thermal leggings for under pants
Wearing thermal leggings under hiking pants adds a critical warmth layer for glacier walks, ice caves, and winter excursions. Lightweight merino leggings work best and can double as pajamas. Pack 2 pairs minimum.
Outer Shell and Waterproof Gear
Pack a waterproof and windproof hard-shell jacket
Iceland's weather changes within minutes, and horizontal rain driven by 60+ km/h winds is common. A jacket with sealed seams, a storm hood, and a rating of at least 10,000 mm waterproofing is essential. Gore-Tex or equivalent membranes breathe while blocking water.
Bring waterproof pants or rain trousers
Waterproof over-trousers that pull on over hiking pants are a non-negotiable item for Iceland. Waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss will soak your lower body. Side zippers make them easier to put on and off over hiking boots.
Pack waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
Broken lava fields, glacial terrain, and constantly wet trails require sturdy waterproof boots. Break them in at least 3 weeks before your trip. Ankle support prevents sprains on uneven volcanic rock. Bring them on the plane rather than packing them in case luggage is delayed.
Bring a warm winter hat and a buff or balaclava
Wind chill in Iceland can make 0 degrees Celsius feel like minus 15. A fleece-lined beanie covers ears, and a merino buff protects your neck and face. A balaclava is essential for glacier hikes and snowmobile tours where exposure is prolonged.
Pack waterproof gloves and liner gloves
Bring two layers: thin touchscreen-compatible liner gloves for driving and photography, and insulated waterproof outer gloves for glacier walks and outdoor activities. Mittens are warmer than gloves but less dexterous. Carry both pairs in your daypack at all times.
Hot Spring and Swim Gear
Pack a swimsuit for hot springs and thermal pools
Iceland has dozens of natural hot springs and geothermal pools. The Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon all require swimsuits. Many rural hot pots are free and clothing-optional. Pack a quick-dry swimsuit that handles sulfur water.
Bring a quick-dry travel towel for hot springs
Some hot springs provide towels for a rental fee of 500-1000 ISK, but carrying your own saves money at natural hot pots in rural areas. Microfiber towels dry quickly in cold air and pack small.
Pack waterproof sandals for pool areas
Geothermal pool decks can be slippery, and changing room floors are wet. Simple waterproof sandals protect your feet and are required at many public pools. They also work for quick walks from your car to natural hot pots.
Photography and Electronics
Bring extra camera batteries and keep them warm
Lithium batteries lose charge rapidly in cold temperatures. Keep spare batteries in an inside pocket close to your body heat. A camera that lasts 500 shots at room temperature may only manage 200 in Icelandic winter. Bring at least 2 extra batteries.
Pack a sturdy tripod for northern lights photography
Aurora photography requires long exposures of 5-25 seconds, making a tripod essential. A tripod that withstands 60 km/h wind gusts needs a hook for hanging weight. Northern lights are visible from September through March on clear nights.
Bring lens cloths and rain covers for your camera
Iceland's combination of rain, sea spray, and waterfall mist means constant lens cleaning. A rain cover or plastic bag protects your camera body. Microfiber cloths absorb water droplets without scratching lenses. Carry 3-4 cloths as they get saturated quickly.
Pack a portable charger and car charger
Long driving days on the Ring Road mean limited access to power outlets. A 20,000 mAh power bank charges a phone 4-5 times. A dual USB car charger keeps devices powered during the 1,322-km Ring Road circuit. Most campervan rentals include USB ports.
Driving and Day Trip Essentials
Pack a headlamp with red light mode
Winter daylight lasts only 4-5 hours in December and January. A headlamp is essential for predawn hikes, late-night northern lights chasing, and navigating dark parking areas. Red light mode preserves night vision for aurora viewing.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Iceland's tap water comes from glacial springs and is among the cleanest in the world. There is zero need to buy bottled water. A 750 ml insulated bottle keeps water from freezing during winter day trips. Fill up at any tap, restaurant, or gas station for free.
Pack sunglasses for snow glare and glacier walks
Sunlight reflecting off snow, ice, and glaciers causes intense glare that can lead to snow blindness. Category 3 or 4 sunglasses are necessary for glacier walks. Polarized lenses reduce glare from wet roads during long drives.
Bring a small daypack for hikes and excursions
A 20-30 liter daypack carries your layers, water, snacks, camera, and headlamp for daily excursions. Waterproof or with a rain cover is essential. Hip belt support distributes weight on longer hikes to glaciers and waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for Iceland in winter vs summer?
Winter requires heavier insulation: a puffy down jacket, thermal base layers, insulated waterproof gloves, and a balaclava. Summer is milder at 10-15 degrees Celsius but still needs a waterproof shell, fleece, and wind protection. Both seasons require waterproof boots and rain gear. Summer adds a sleep mask for 24-hour daylight. Winter adds hand warmers, a headlamp, and extra batteries.
Do I need special gear for glacier hiking in Iceland?
Glacier tour operators provide crampons, ice axes, and helmets. You need to bring waterproof hiking boots with stiff soles that crampons can attach to. Soft-soled boots and sneakers are not accepted. Wear waterproof pants, a windproof jacket, gloves, and sunglasses. Operators will turn away visitors without proper footwear.
Can I buy outdoor gear in Iceland instead of packing it?
Reykjavik has outdoor shops selling quality gear, but prices are 30-60% higher than in other European countries or the US due to import taxes and high cost of living. A basic waterproof jacket costs 25,000-50,000 ISK in Iceland compared to half that elsewhere. Buy essentials before you go and only purchase forgotten items locally.
How many layers do I need for Iceland?
The three-layer system works best: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell. In winter, add a fourth insulation layer like a down jacket between the mid-layer and shell. You will add and remove layers constantly as conditions change throughout the day, so front-zip options are most practical.