Why Packing for Iceland Matters More Than You Think
Iceland isn’t the kind of destination you can just “wing it.” Between the wild weather, dramatic light shifts, and the country’s rugged, remote beauty, what you bring truly shapes your experience. A well-packed bag means staying warm when the Northern Lights appear at midnight, keeping your camera safe near misty waterfalls, and being ready for four seasons of weather in one day.
After several trips (and a few packing mistakes), we’ve curated a complete guide to what to pack for Iceland, no matter the month. From the cosiest thermal layers to the camera gear that captures those unreal landscapes, this is your ultimate checklist.
You can shop everything mentioned directly in our Amazon Iceland Packing List.
The Essentials: What Every Traveller Needs
Before we dive into the seasons, a few things belong in every suitcase, no matter when you visit.
- Power Bank & Adapter: Iceland’s scenery begs for photos, so keep your tech alive with a Fast Charging Power Bank and Universal Travel Adapter.
- Blackout Sleep Mask: A 100% Blackout Sleep Mask is a lifesaver during the midnight sun.
- Waterproof Dry Bag: Waterproof Dry Bags keeps your camera and phone safe near waterfalls or during glacier tours.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes make it easy to organise bulky winter layers.
- Compact Torch or Headlamp: Don’t underestimate Iceland’s winter darkness. We love the Blukar Head Torch for its brightness and rechargeable battery.
Winter in Iceland (December – February)
Average daylight: 4–7 hours per day | Average temperature: -1°C to 4°C
Winter in Iceland feels like stepping into another world; snowy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and dark skies alive with the aurora. But you’ll only love it if you’re dressed for it.
- Thermal Layers: Start with a solid base using Thermal Sets or Fleece Thermals.
- Merino Wool Socks: Nothing beats Merino Wool Socks for warmth and comfort inside boots.
- Waterproof Outerwear: Go for something sturdy like the Outdoor Ventures Waterproof Jacket paired with insulated Soft Warm Gloves.
- Boots: You’ll want waterproof soles with grip for icy pavements and trails, lace up and stay dry.
- Lip Balm & Sunscreen: Even in winter, UV reflection from the snow is strong. Try Nivea Sun UV Lip Balm SPF 50+ and Nivea Sun Protect & Dry Mist.
Pro tip: Icelandic interiors are toasty warm. Layer instead of overpacking bulky knits so you can peel off easily indoors.
Spring in Iceland (March – May)
Average daylight: 10–20 hours | Average temperature: 2°C to 10°C
Spring is when the island comes back to life; waterfalls thunder with melted snow, puffins return, and roads reopen for adventure.
- Lightweight Down Jacket: This Lightweight Softshell Jacket is perfect for changeable weather.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Spring brings puddles, not snow. You’ll want comfort and grip.
- Polarised Sunglasses: Bright skies reflect off snowmelt, both ZENOTTIC and ATTCL Polarised Sunglasses keep your eyes protected while looking chic in photos (although nothing will beat my favorite Ray-Bans).
- Base Layers: Stick with your thermals from winter, Icelandic weather doesn’t flip to warm overnight.
- Camera Gear: The light this time of year is spectacular. Capture it with a Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera or stabilise mobile footage using the DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Gimbal.
- Memory Cards: Iceland’s beauty fills memory fast, stock up on a SanDisk Extreme PRO 256GB SD Card.
Summer in Iceland (June – August)
Average daylight: 20–21 hours | Average temperature: 8°C to 15°C
In summer, Iceland barely sleeps. The midnight sun casts golden light over volcanoes, waterfalls, and wildflower-covered hills. You can hike or photograph at any hour of the day.
- Eye Mask: Sleep is harder when it’s never dark. The 100% Blackout Sleep Mask helps your body clock adjust.
- Lightweight Activewear: Try breathable leggings like Thermal Underwear Bottoms for layering or hikes.
- Water Bottle: Hydration is key with long daylight hours, you need a collapsible water bottle.
- Running Belt: The CIRYCASE Running Light is super handy for sunrise hikes.
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Keep reapplying, the sun may be gentle, but it’s constant.
- Tripod: Long daylight means endless opportunities for photos. The Selfie Stick Tripod with Fill Light is compact and perfect for travellers.
Pack layers even in summer, Icelandic evenings can still feel chilly, especially near the coast or waterfalls.
Autumn in Iceland (September – November)
Average daylight: 8–14 hours | Average temperature: 0°C to 10°C
Autumn is Iceland’s golden season, crisp air, glowing tundra, and the Northern Lights dancing once again.
- Soft Fleece Layer: A fleece jumper works perfectly under a waterproof shell.
- Compact Umbrella or Rainproof Hood: Iceland’s showers arrive fast and vanish faster, you will need a travel umbrella.
- Travel Cubes: Keep warm weather and cold weather layers organised with Packing Cubes.
- Magnetic Hand Warmers: Magnetic Rechargeable Hand Warmers are small but mighty, ideal for aurora-chasing nights.
- Torch or Lantern: Bring light with you, a Head Torch is compact and bright.
The North Face Jackets We Swear By
When it comes to Iceland, no jacket performs better than The North Face. They strike the perfect balance of warmth, waterproofing, and style, making them worth every penny.
Here are a few favourites to look for:
- The North Face Antora Rain Jacket – lightweight yet completely waterproof, ideal for summer or layering in spring.
- The North Face McMurdo Parka – serious insulation for winter months, especially when chasing the aurora.
- The North Face Thermoball Eco Jacket – packable warmth, perfect for hikes and city days.
Shop our top picks below:
Shop the Full Iceland Packing List
You can find every item featured, from thermal layers to camera gear, in one place on our Amazon shop.
Shop the Full Iceland Packing List on Amazon
Final Thoughts
Packing for Iceland is less about looking fashionable (though you absolutely can) and more about being prepared for the extraordinary. This is a country of contrasts; ice and fire, daylight and darkness, serenity and power. With the right gear, you can stay warm, dry, and ready to explore every moment, from frozen waterfalls to golden midnight horizons.
So plan ahead, pack smart, and let Iceland show you what happens when nature doesn’t hold back.
