Iceland Packing Guide: Essential Items for Your Trip

Iceland is a destination like no other, offering stunning landscapes, unpredictable weather, and endless opportunities for adventure.

Whether you’re planning to soak in geothermal pools, explore dramatic waterfalls, or photograph the Northern Lights, packing the right gear is essential for making the most of your trip. The weather in Iceland can change rapidly, and being prepared will ensure your comfort and safety.

This Iceland packing guide draws on years of experience to help you organise your essentials based on the type of activities you’ll be enjoying, from hiking and camping to photography and wildlife watching.

What to Pack for Your Iceland Adventure

Travelling to Iceland requires careful planning, as the seasons and activities you choose will influence what you need to bring. Regardless of the time of year, some items are always essential for a successful trip. These include:

• A valid passport or ID
• Camera gear with extra batteries and memory cards (electronics are expensive in Iceland)
• Charging cables and laptop if you want to review photos each day
• Water bottle (Iceland’s tap water is pure and safe to drink)
• Travel insurance
• Swim suit and microfibre towel (for relaxing in Iceland’s famous hot springs)

Remember to pack layers and versatile clothing to adapt to the changing weather conditions.

Packing for Winter in Iceland

Winter in Iceland is magical, with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights. However, the cold weather requires careful preparation. Warm, waterproof clothing is essential, as you’ll likely spend time outdoors exploring glaciers, waterfalls, and ice caves. Layering is key, starting with thermal underwear and adding insulated outer layers for maximum warmth.

Winter Essentials

• Thermal base layers (underwear and leggings)
• Waterproof and windproof winter coat
• Sturdy, insulated snow boots or hiking boots
• Wool socks
• Gloves, scarf, and winter hat
• Ski trousers or snow pants
• Swimwear (for hot springs like the Sky Lagoon or Mývatn Nature Baths)
• Crampons or ice grips for walking in icy areas

If you’re planning to photograph the Northern Lights, pack gloves that allow for easy camera operation, as well as extra batteries for your gear since cold weather can drain them quickly.

Packing for Summer in Iceland

Summer in Iceland offers long days and endless opportunities to explore. Despite the warmer temperatures, the weather can still be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and cool winds. Lightweight, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable while you enjoy activities like hiking, sightseeing, and soaking in the midnight sun. Even in summer, the weather can be cold, so always make sure you have plenty of layers.

Summer Essentials

• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Quick-drying or waterproof trousers
• Waterproof jacket
• Moisturiser (helpful after bathing in geothermal pools)
• T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for layering
• Flip-flops (for spa visits, not for outdoor exploration)
• Hat and buff

While flip-flops are great for spas like the Sky Lagoon, stick to sturdy shoes for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain, especially lava fields.

Packing for Hotel-Based Travel

Staying in Reykjavík or travelling between hotels is a convenient way to explore Iceland. Even if you’re not camping, you’ll need weatherproof clothing for outdoor adventures. Activities like day trips around the Golden Circle or visits to landmarks such as Gulfoss require preparation for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures.

Essentials for Hotel-Based Travel

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Thermal layers for cooler evenings
• Sturdy hiking boots with a good grip
• Light clothing for warmer days
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Swim suit and microfibre for geothermal pools

Having a personal first-aid kit and binoculars can also be handy for spontaneous wildlife spotting or extended outdoor activities.

Packing for Camping Trips

Camping in Iceland is an adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty. Whether you’re staying in campsites under the midnight sun or braving cooler temperatures, extra gear is necessary to stay comfortable and organised.

If you are in a campervan or camping in Iceland, then travelling with a soft duffel bag that can be folded away will give you more flexibility during your stay and save loads of room.

Essentials for Camping

• Warm sweaters or long-sleeve clothing
• Sleeping bag (if not rented)
• Mosquito spray
• Torch and scissors
• Backpack for day trips
• Clothes pegs for drying wet items

Pack light but smart, ensuring you have durable, weatherproof items to withstand Iceland’s variable conditions.

Packing for Hiking and Trekking

Iceland’s hiking trails, like the Laugavegur Trail, offer some of the world’s most incredible trekking experiences. Whether you’re navigating lava fields, wading through rivers, or exploring glaciers, having the right clothing and gear will make your hikes more enjoyable and safe.

Packing for a hiking trip should be minimal, and where possible, you should leave your main luggage at your base. Take just what you need for the days you are on the trail to make your pack lighter.

Hiking Essentials

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Hiking trousers (avoid jeans; opt for Gore-Tex or similar materials)
• A fleece sweater for insulation
• Trekking poles to ease strain on knees
• Reusable water bottle and sunscreen
• Gaiters (optional but useful for muddy or wet trails)
• Energy bars for long hikes

Avoid cotton clothing as it retains moisture, and opt for quick-drying, breathable materials to stay comfortable during long days outdoors.

Packing for Photography

Iceland is a photographer’s paradise, with its dramatic landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and unique natural phenomena like the Northern Lights.

Photography Essentials

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with wide-angle and zoom lenses
• Extra batteries and memory cards (cold weather can drain batteries quickly)
• Tripod for stability, especially for long-exposure shots
• Waterproof camera bag or protective cover
• Gloves that allow dexterity for camera controls
• Lens cleaning kit to deal with rain or mist

It’s also a good idea to pack a power bank to keep your devices charged while you’re out exploring all day.

Packing for Wildlife Watching

Iceland’s diverse wildlife, from puffins and Arctic foxes to whales and seals, makes it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts. To fully enjoy wildlife-watching excursions, bring the right gear for comfort and observation.

Wildlife Watching Essentials

• Binoculars for spotting birds and marine animals
• Warm, waterproof clothing for boat tours or coastal trips
• Sturdy hiking boots for accessing remote observation points
• Camera with a zoom lens for close-up shots
• Notebook or app to record sightings
• Reusable water bottles and snacks for long outings

Whether you’re visiting puffin colonies or going on a whale-watching tour, dressing in layers and having durable gear will help you stay comfortable and focused on the experience.