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Clothing for Iceland | What to pack in your suitcase, complete list
If you are here I assume it is because you are going on a trip and you are thinking about packing your suitcase and choosing clothes for Iceland. A country for which there is certainly some difficulty in preparing luggage since you have to be prepared for any inclement weatherIt's more unpredictable than in other countries. We lived in Iceland for a year and experienced all the seasons. To give you an idea, in August we had days below 1 degrees, while at the end of September you could wear short sleeves.
But don't worry, in this article we solve all your doubts about what to put in your suitcase. What to wear to Iceland, type of footwear, accessories and other essentials that once there you will be glad you packed in your suitcase.
This article is useful for those who travel to Iceland both on tour and on their own, both in car rental making stops in hotels like those that go by van camper.
Of all our recommendations I encourage you to try to buy the minimum, recycle everything you have at home, or even borrow from a friend. But if you still need some things, I'll leave them for you throughout the article. links to Decathlon and Amazon dThe companies we work with, so every time you buy through one of our links the price is the same and you give us a small commission.
HOW NOT TO GET COLD IN ICELAND, THE 4 LAYERS ESSENTIALS
On a trip to Iceland, the magic trick to not get cold and carry a perfect suitcase is to dress in layers. And what layers are these? I tell you What kind of clothes to take to Iceland to avoid getting cold ↓
1. Thermal cover
If the temperatures are high, you can replace the thermal layer with short- or long-sleeved T-shirts, whether they are sports or cotton. But if it's cold, this first thermal layer will be essential to keep your body warmAbove all, it's important to wear a thermal shirt, but thermal leggings are also highly recommended in spring and fall. In summer, you can also wear regular or thin leggings to wear under your pants in case it's very cold.
2. Polar layer
A pair of fleece jackets should not be missing on your list of clothes for Iceland, whether sweaters or jackets. You could also replace or complement them with warm wool sweaters.
3. Warm layer, essential clothing for Iceland
If you travel to Iceland in summer with the fleece from the previous point and a fine down is enough, but if you do it in spring or fall you will need a good anorak, preferably a little long That at least reaches below your ass. This will protect you much more from the cold than a short one. And if it were waterproof, even better to complement the fourth layer.
4. Waterproof layer
This last layer It is super important for any time of the year, Even if it's a bright day you can end up getting soaked when passing behind a waterfall... And who could resist not passing? In addition, it acts as a windbreak.
A raincoat is essential in your Iceland wardrobe, whether it's a long one that covers down to the knees or a jacket-style raincoat paired with waterproof overtrousers. These trouser covers (though not particularly stylish) are a good alternative to buying waterproof hiking trousers, which are much more expensive. carIn the next section I'll give you more information on the topic and links to examples.
CLOTHES FOR ICELAND: COMPLETE LIST ✓
What kind of clothes to bring to Iceland
Then I leave you a list of clothes for Iceland that I would definitely take on my trip. Depending on the length of the trip you need more or fewer units, but remember that traveling light is always a good idea and that polar fleeces do not sweat! In the “saving space in your luggage” section I give some tips. Each garment is linked so you can see an example;
Thermal T-shirt
A fundamental garment that you should not forget among your clothes for Iceland. Try to make it fit snugly to better maintain heat and absorb sweat.
The best material for this layer is merino wool for its ability to breathe and insulate. If you don't have any and you like the mountains, it is a small investment that is worth it. In addition, due to its breathability, it is a material that barely smells so you can use it for many more days. Take a look at this one for of and is with male cut.
Leggings or thermal leggings
Depending on the temperatures, they will be useful both under your pants if it is very cold and as a single layer if it is not. These thermal leggings for women and these for man They are quite economical and useful.
Trekking pants
For me the pants trekking They are the best option because They dry quickly and are comfortable. Of course, you can also wear standard sweatpants. My recommendation is not to wear only jeans because they aren't very warm and take forever to warm up.carsAnd if you get wet.
If the trekking pants you have are water resistant better than better, but otherwise don't worry because they sell some over pants to protect from the rain like these which I recommend you put in your suitcase for Iceland.
Fleece
Is the Perfect layer to insulate you from the cold and if it's not too cold it can be used as a jacket. If you want to dress more “cute” you can change it for a thick wool sweater.
We have fleeces from Decathlon, North Face and Columbia and they all work similarly in non-extreme conditions, so there is no need to spend a lot if you don't have any, with the basics from Decathlon you will be able to stay warm.
“Fine” down jacket for summer or anorak for the rest of the year
As I mentioned above, if you go in the cold season, you will greatly appreciate an anorak that protects you well up to your butt. I also do not recommend taking a very long one because it will not be comfortable for you to walk. In summer with fine down this style It will be enough.
Raincoat/Raincoat
Another essential in your clothing for Iceland or you will be very limited when two drops fall. If you like the mountains a good raincoat It shouldn't be missing from your closet, but if you think you're only going to use it for Iceland, the best option is a long raincoat like this poncho type. Ask friends, this is the typical thing that many people have at home and never use!
Hat or earmuffs
Protecting your ears is super important since it is one of the points on the body where the most heat is lost, especially in a country like Iceland where it is windy day in and day out. try Your cap It is not completely made of wool, but has an insulating layer inside Just in case you get caught in the rain or snowflakes, it doesn't get your head wet.
Scarf or panty
The neck is another point that loses a lot of heat so the more protected the better. Tea I recommend carrying two just in case one gets wet you can change it.. And that it is also big enough to cover your mouth if you are very cold or the wind is unbearable one day.
Gloves
If you go in the months of June - August, they are not an essential item of clothing, but outside of these midsummer months it is important to wear them.. The ideal would be warm ones, resistant to water and with good mobility., but if you don't have them, the other option is the typical finite ones wool accompanied by a ski jacket as a second layer, although it is not always worn but in the backpack in case it starts to rain/snow or you get very cold.
For the middle of winter I recommend wearing two layers, if the top one is gauntlets better, because they keep more heat. There are some that you can sacar your fingers and it's super practical for being able to pick up your phone. without sacarI'll give you the whole glove.
Swimsuit
Yes, it is very cold, but surely you already know that the country is full of hot springs so don't forget your swimsuit on your clothing list for Iceland! I leave you two posts related to this.
Avoid wearing a white swimsuit, and also avoid wearing one you like the most. carbecause the minerals in some waters could spoil it..
You will not need a pool cap, it is required in no thermal bath on the island, what you will see is people bathing with wool hats to keep warmer.
Flip flops
Especially essential if you are touring Iceland in a van or camping because you will use them a lot to go to the camping toilets and showers or to rest your feet while you make dinner.
They will also be good for you to access some thermal baths, although most have paid access from the locker room itself and flip-flops are not allowed inside..
What shoes to take to Iceland
The most important make you feel comfortable and if you already have them at home, even better, It is not necessary to buy new hiking shoes or boots that are this way or that way. As long as they meet some minimums it is more than enough because Iceland is still a trip in which most days you will be going back and forth to the car and the distances you walk will not be very long or over difficult terrain.
That said, the ideal thing would be for them to be trekking shoes or boots with a good sole and waterproof with GORE-TEX or waterproof technology. Another option is to buy a spray like this and applycarI applied it to your shoes to waterproof them, although the results are not perfect, several people have told me that they work very well.
Try to avoid soles with little tread or very soft ones to walk more safely and also try to avoid wearing excessively summer shoes because if they have a lot of “holes” to sweat your feet will freeze at the slightest moment, especially if you catch a day. wind (nothing unusual here)
These are the sneakers trekking which I have used in Iceland for summer and autumn, as well as during the entire trip through South America with great results.
What footwear to take for excursions on the glacier
Another point to have Keep in mind that on some excursions such as trekking along the glacier they put you on crampons that may not be compatible with your shoes. In some of them they only accept that you go with trekking boots to prevent ankle sprains. However, all companies lend or rent boots for around €6. Which will always be a better option than buying shoes that you may never wear again.
✹Don't know which one to choose? Here You can read our Glacier tours in Iceland favorites.
Spare footwear
It is highly recommended that you carry A second shoe, no matter how waterproof the first one is, could get wet inside. And that's it, you're finished, because these shoes usually take a long time to dry.carse. I recommend some sneakers trail shoes (better if they are waterproof), but otherwise normal sneakers will be enough.
Whatever footwear you choose Combine it with warm and comfortable socks, preferably not ankle socks, to prevent the cold from getting in.. The ideal thing would be to bring at least a pair of thermal socks. And if it's new, don't forget to walk a little several days before your trip to avoid unexpected chafing during the trip.
Toiletry bag for traveling to Iceland
You will need to bring all the basic hygiene products; gel, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste... Let's go with the usual, but what I come to recommend that you may not have in mind is;
➜ Facial sun cream, during the summer the sun in Iceland can be very strong so don't forget cream. In addition, it is very likely that you will also do activities such as this trekking on the glacier and the white surfaces reflect the radiation even more.
➜ Cream of cara, hands and lip balm, The Icelandic wind and cold can be very treacherous so don't forget to bring small bottles with different moisturizers.
If you need a practical travel bag that I recommend this or this other bigger which is the one we used during the trip through Southeast Asia and we love it. Hanging toiletry bags are a wise traveler.
First aid kit for traveling to Iceland
Don't forget to prepare a small first aid kit with products that you may need such as something for the headache, muscle pain or some drug that works well to stop a cold. Keep in mind that Iceland is a very unpopulated country and many kilometers can pass between pharmacies.
It is also interesting that you add dressings In case your shoes cause any scratches, use gauze and tape in case you get a wound that you can use as a temporary bandage.
If the sea makes you dizzy and you would like watch whales during your trip Don't forget to put biodramine in the first aid kit..
Other essential things to take to Iceland
These are essentials that cannot be missing in your suitcase when traveling to Iceland or when you are there you will miss them.
microfiber towel
Even if you have rented car and when you go to hotels, I recommend bringing a towel because the cheapest accommodations sometimes do not include it and because You'll need it for the hot springs. Most paid thermal baths towel not included They only offer the option to rent it for around €6. Currently, the only hot springs that include it are Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, which also have the most expensive entrance fee. cara.
I recommend towels microfibre so that it can becar faster and they don't take up or weigh anything in your luggage.
Credit card without commissions abroad
In Iceland the Icelandic krona (isk) is used so for payments I recommend you bring yes or yes a wallet card traveler like Revolut or N26.
Iceland is already enough carso that you end up paying more due to bank feescarias and poor conversion rates.
We pay with both interchangeably. We like to have two in case we lose one or it stops working.
If you are interested in traveling to Iceland economical way read this article with ➜ 10 tricks to save on your trip to Iceland.
Reusable water bottle
Iceland has the purest water in the world, so pure that it is difficult to find bottled water in supermarkets because everyone drinks it from the tap. So carrying a water bottle to refill is essential. We have this bottle for a long time, it is super resistant and maintains the temperature great.
In line with trying not to use so much plastic, in the article Tips to Traveling to Iceland Responsibly and safe We give you other ideas, such as: buying garbage bags to take your waste with you to the next city.
Backpack for excursions
Carry one not very big backpack for day to day It is the best option to travel through Iceland, I recommend a backpack of about 30 liters make it comfortable. In it you can put essential things that it doesn't hurt to always carry with you such as a water bottle, a raincoat, a snack, a camera...
If you have a waterproof backpack it will be ideal but if not, bring one bag to protect her. Another option is that your raincoat is wide enough to put your backpack under it if it starts to rain.
Sunglasses
For the sun but also for the wind, which can be much more unpleasant than the sun.
Self-heaters
If you are very cold you can wear some heaters of hands in the pocket of the anorak, they are easy to use and the effect lasts for several hours. We have used them for years in Poland.
And now there are also them for the sole of the shoe, in the middle of winter it can be a pleasure.
Portable battery
With the cold batteries wear out much faster than normal. So it doesn't hurt to take one Extreme battery for your cell phone or even an extra battery for your camera if you are one of those who can't stop taking photos.
Flashlight or mask
Although they are almost opposite terms, it is worth putting them together because when you need one you will not need the other and vice versa. If you travel In summer in Iceland you will find the phenomenon of the midnight sun, that is, it is never night! So if you find it difficult to sleep with light, you will be grateful an eye mask (there are usually no blinds). And if, on the other hand, you travel when it is already dark, flashlight or headlamp It will be great for you to move around the campsite or if you go in search for northern lights.
You may be interested... Our guide to see Aurora borealis in Iceland
Strip
If you're traveling by van, camping, or in shared rooms, I recommend bringing a power strip. carTo store everything more conveniently, or an adapter with multiple USB ports. We always travel with this one. adapterso with the same plug we can cargarlo todo.
Crampons
If you are going in late spring, summer or early autumn, crampons are not necessary, but if you are travelling to Iceland from late October to April, it is important to bring them.
On the Web road.is you can see the condition of the carreteras, If there are many frozen ones, it is more than likely that the roads will be too. But in a country where the weather changes so quickly and drastically, I personally would always take snowmobiles outside of the summer months. cramponsWalking near waterfalls without them can be very dangerous.
Save space in your suitcase to travel to Iceland
When preparing your luggage you have to keep some things in mind;
Lo first of all the space, not that of your suitcase but the space of the car or van. In most vehicles there may only be room for one large suitcase. When renting a car you will always receive information on how many large and small suitcases can fit. Don't get lost and keep this in mind!
Then there is the question of How much clothing do I need to travel to Iceland? Well, keep in mind that what you will get the most dirty are the clothes closest to your body, such as thermals. You can reuse the rest for several days.
In addition, in many campsites, hotels and guesthouses they have washing machines So if you want to minimize your suitcase for Iceland more, you can put a washing machine in the middle of the trip. What is not usually allowed in campsites is using the bathrooms to wash, there are cartels prohibiting it.
That said, I personally for a trip of about 10 days in which you want to travel very light I would take 3 thermals, 2 or 3 fleeces/sweaters, 1 leggings, 1 trekking pants and underwear for 5 days. I would put a washing machine on half the trip
Use Packing Cubes
Since winter clothes take up a lot the best way to reduce space and also carry your clothes to Iceland well organized is to buy some packing cubes. After years of using them, I cannot conceive the idea of packing a backpack or suitcase without using them. If you don't have one yet, take a look at these Amazon.
IS IT WORTH TAKING LUNCH?
And finally, and without going into too much detail, I also wanted to leave in this article about clothing for traveling to Iceland a little information about bringing food to Iceland. For me if it involves pregnancycar An extra suitcase isn't worth it.
Don't expect to eat the same things you eat at home, but if you don't mind adapting a little, you can buy many products at not exorbitant prices.
You can legally carry up to 3kg per person of foodprovided they are not carraw or sausages.
I would prepare my luggage in the normal way and If you have extra space or weight, I'd take something, but not too much.carI had a suitcase just for food.On both flights we took to Icelandcar Adding suitcases or hand luggage was much more caror of the normal amount, so carefully analyze whether or not it will represent a saving for you.
Can ham be brought into Iceland?
Nothing has to happen, they rarely check. But keep in mind that some products are prohibited from entering the country. Legally, you cannot enter Iceland with carneither raw nor sausages.
In this other article about How to travel cheap to Iceland We also talked a little about the subject and there is a link to Icelandic supermarkets so you can see the prices of the products.
I hope this article has helped you clarify all your doubts about what type of clothing to bring to Iceland, what to pack in your suitcase and how to protect yourself from the Icelandic cold. Remember that here you can access all articles, or see our Featured stories from Instagram.
