IcelandTravel guideWhat to Pack for IcelandGood packing is about flexible layers and equipment suited to your actual itinerary. Use this list as a base, then adapt it to the season, forecast and activities.Layered clothingFootwearRain and wind protectionWinter and summerHikingHighlandsSwimming and hot springsPlaces 01 / GuideLayered clothingChoose layers that combine well and dry easily.Base layerManages moisture next to skin.Mid layerInsulation matched to cold and activity.Outer layerWind and rain protection with room for layers.02 / Travel adviceFootwearMatch footwear to terrain and walking distance, break it in and pack dry socks. A city visit and mountain hike do not require the same shoes.03 / Travel adviceRain and wind protectionA waterproof shell is useful year-round. Do not rely on an umbrella alone, and carry a hat and gloves when season or forecast warrants them. Read the weather guide04 / GuideWinter and summerSeason changes priorities but never rules out cold, wind or rain.Winter travelAdd warm insulation, winter footwear, hat, gloves and reflective visibility.Summer travelPack a sleep mask, sun protection and layers for cool evenings.05 / Travel adviceHikingRoute, length and conditions determine equipment. Navigation, food, water, spare layers and basic emergency gear should reflect the risk. Hiking in Iceland Safety in Iceland06 / Travel adviceHighlandsA remote journey demands more self-sufficiency than a day trip near services. Confirm road, communications, weather and the route-specific equipment list. Highlands guide07 / Travel adviceSwimming and hot springsSwimwear, a towel and suitable footwear are often enough. Follow shower and site etiquette, and remember that not every hot spring is safe for bathing. Natural hot pools08 / Travel adviceRoad tripsKeep a charging cable, offline-capable navigation, warm spare clothing and delay supplies accessible inside the vehicle. Driving guide09 / Travel adviceCameras and electronicsProtect devices from moisture and cold, bring suitable chargers and keep spare batteries warm. Fly a drone only where permitted.10 / Travel adviceWhat you probably do not needAvoid specialist gear your itinerary does not require and too many heavy garments that do not layer. Check what accommodation, rental companies or tour operators provide before packing. From the places databaseOutdoor places to prepare forPlaces are drawn from published hiking and nature categories. Cards do not indicate current conditions or required equipment.Akrafjall LoopMountain hikes · VesturlandAkrafjall Loop is a hiking route of approximately 14 km. Estimated hiking time is 6 hours to 7 hours. The recorded elevation gain is approximate…Alfaravegurinn gamliShort hikes · HöfuðborgarsvæðiðAlfaravegurinn gamli is a hiking route of approximately 5 km. Estimated hiking time is 2 hours. This is a point-to-point route. Always check cur…Álftanes – BessastaðatjörnDay hikes · HöfuðborgarsvæðiðÁlftanes – Bessastaðatjörn is a hiking route of approximately 6 km. Estimated hiking time is 2 hours. The recorded elevation gain is approximate…AlmannagjáCool Nature · South IcelandAlmannagjá is one of Iceland’s most famous rift formations and is located within Þingvellir National Park . The gorge forms part of the boundary…AlmenningshnakkiMountain hikes · Norðurland vestraAlmenningshnakki is a hiking route of approximately 16 km. Estimated hiking time is 5 hours to 6 hours. The recorded elevation gain is approxima…AlmenningsvegurinnDay hikes · HöfuðborgarsvæðiðAlmenningsvegurinn is a hiking route of approximately 7.5 km. Estimated hiking time is 3 hours. This is a point-to-point route. Always check cur…Explore more places FAQFrequently asked questionsDo I need waterproofs in summer?Windproof and waterproof outer layers are useful year-round.What shoes should I bring?Match them to terrain and activities, with grip and support where needed.Should I pack swimwear?Yes, if pools or suitable natural hot pools are in your plans. Northern lights Midnight sun Weather Best time to visit Driving Highlands F-roads Camping Winter driving Iceland in winter Iceland with kids Ring Road Volcanoes Glaciers Geothermal