Ultimate Iceland Winter Packing List That Will Change Your Trip!

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If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to bring, here’s your complete Iceland winter packing list. Yep, the one you’ll be searching for obsessively before your trip.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably opened 27 tabs, watched countless YouTube videos, and still feel like you’re forgetting something important. Been there.

Winter in Iceland is intense and unpredictable. When I visited, I was surprised by how quickly the conditions could change.

This is the ultimate guide on what to pack for Iceland in winter so you can stay warm, safe, and ready for anything Iceland throws your way.

So let me help you put together the perfect Iceland winter packing list without second-guessing every item.

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Know Before You Go

Before you go, here are some essential things to make planning your trip to Iceland easier. I know planning can feel overwhelming, but a little prep goes a long way in saving you time, money, and stress. Below, I’m sharing my personal recommendations to help you get the most out of your trip.

Beautiful Hotels Nearby

• Fjallsarlon igloo – is a unique igloo on the water, so you’re practically alone on a glacial lagoon, with icebergs drifting by. Definitely a one-of-a-kind stay worth experiencing!
• Hótel Skógafoss – is a cozy, welcoming hotel with amazing views and a great location, perfect for exploring the area!
• Hótel Jökulsárlón – Glacier Lagoon Hotel – is a beautiful hotel with an outdoor hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Epic Once-in-a-Lifetime Tours You Can’t Miss in This Area

• Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour – Chase the Northern Lights and explore the stunning Glacier Lagoon on this unforgettable tour.
• Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride – Take a scenic boat ride through the Glacier Lagoon and take incredible photos.
• Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour – Go inside an actual glacier on this epic ice cave tour and discover a whole new world beneath the surface!

Stay Connected

I always use eSIM when I travel, and Airlo makes it simple to stay connected without having to remove your current SIM card.

Never Travel to Iceland Without Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an absolute must when visiting Iceland – the wild weather can completely mess up your plans in minutes!

SafetyWing is an affordable travel insurance designed for travelers who want to explore freely without worrying about the unexpected.

Rent a Car to Explore the Best of Iceland

Renting a car is the best way to explore the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of Iceland at your own pace, and Discover Cars is great for comparing prices and finding the best deal.

The Only Iceland Winter Packing List You’ll Ever Need

Planning a trip to Iceland in the colder months means preparing for some of the most dramatic weather nature can throw at you. I absolutely recommend renting a car, as you will be able to see so much and discover many hidden gems by having a car. At least, that’s how I was able to explore both the Ring Road and the Golden Circle in just a week.

Before your trip, it will be smart to check this map of Iceland that shows real-time travel conditions throughout the country, making it easier to plan your route and travel safely.

If you plan on renting a car for your adventure in Iceland, always make sure to check the road conditions regularly and learn more about safe winter driving in Iceland.

From strong winds and snow to freezing rain and slippery roads, your Iceland winter packing list needs to be more than just warm clothes, it should be a strategy.

The Icelandic winter is no joke and staying warm, dry, and comfortable is essential not just for your comfort but for your safety too.

You’ll also find specific product suggestions throughout the post to make packing a whole lot easier.

I may have bravely held this icy chunk at Diamond beach with bare hands just for the picture, but trust me, my fingers did not enjoy it. Also, that day was surprisingly warm. Way warmer than the usual winter cold you’d expect at that time of year.

You should have seen how fast I threw this ice chunk the second the photo was taken!

💎 Ever heard of a beach covered in diamonds? Discover why Diamond Beach in Iceland is one of the most mind-blowing places on Earth!

Here are some of the essentials to include into your Iceland winter packing list. And below, I’ll show you my full packing list for a 7-day Iceland trip, so you’ll know exactly what to bring and how much of it.

This way, you can focus on enjoying the incredible Icelandic winter without worrying about being unprepared.

Clothes And Accessories

🎁 Discover 25 insanely unique souvenirs from Iceland you’ll actually want to gift (or keep for yourself!)

When it comes to clothes and accessories, layering is key. You want to be warm, comfortable, and ready for whatever Iceland throws at you. The weather can change fast, so it’s always better to be slightly overprepared.

Your Iceland winter packing list should focus on practical pieces that keep you warm. Being prepared makes a big difference, especially when you’re spending long hours outdoors.

If you’ve been wondering what to wear in Iceland winter, go for warm outerwear and clothing that protects you from wind and cold. Staying comfortable helps you enjoy the experience more.

Base Layer

Your base layer is the key to staying warm and cozy in Iceland’s cold weather because it sits right against your skin and helps keep you comfortable. Merino wool is a fantastic choice since it’s soft, warm, and breathable.

When putting together your Iceland winter packing list, make sure to include thermal tops and leggings that feel great and layer easily under everything else.

Here are the base layer options I recommend:

• Thermal underwear: Not optional. The best option and my personal favorite is merino wool. It’s warm, breathable, and super comfortable for wearing all day. Ideal for layering, especially when you’re out in changing weather.
• Merino wool thermal leggings or tights: Perfect for layering under your pants to keep your legs cozy and dry.
• Thin moisture-wicking socks for layering: These help keep your feet dry and add an extra layer of warmth when it’s really cold.
• Handmade wool socks: I wore these all the time and my feet were never cold, even after long days outside.

Mid Layers

The mid layer is all about insulation. It traps heat close to your body while still allowing some airflow so you do not overheat. This layer gives you flexibility because you can add or remove it depending on how cold it gets.

Wool and fleece are top choices since they are warm, breathable, and dry quickly. When putting together your Iceland winter packing list, remember this is the cozy layer you will rely on when temperatures drop or when you are inside a chilly lodge.

Here are the mid-layer options I recommend:

• Icelandic wool sweaters: I can’t recommend enough buying a traditional Icelandic wool sweater. It is simply beautiful and so warm. I now wear mine all the time and absolutely love it.
• Fleece Jacket: Lightweight and warm, perfect for layering or wearing on its own when the weather is milder.
• Insulated Vest: Provides extra warmth to your body while keeping your arms free for movement, and it is great for layering.
• Fleece Sweatshirt: A cozy and warm layer that works perfectly both indoors and outdoors.

Outer Layer

The outer layer is your shield against wind, rain, and snow. It needs to be waterproof and windproof to protect you from Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

When putting together your Iceland winter packing list, look for jackets and pants with good insulation as well as breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable during all-day adventures.

A quality outer layer is essential because it keeps you dry and blocks the wind so you can focus on enjoying the incredible landscapes.

Here are the outer layer options I recommend:

• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: A must-have for your winter packing list for Iceland. Look for something insulated, breathable, and durable.
• Waterproof Pants: Perfect for glacier hikes, snowy trails, and any wet conditions you might face.
• Neck Gaiter or Buff: Keeps your neck warm and can double as a face mask against the cold wind.
• Waterproof Raincoat: Lightweight and packable, perfect for unexpected rain or milder days when you don’t need heavy insulation
• Quality Snow Boots: Waterproof boots with good grip are essential for walking on ice and snow safely.
• Warm Long Coat: A thick, insulated coat is perfect for layering under your waterproof shell. This extra warm teddy coat I wore in most of my Iceland photos was my personal favorite. It kept me so warm and looked great too.

Accessories

Accessories are more useful than people realize. A warm hat, earmuffs, and great gloves can turn a freezing day into a manageable one. Planning your outfits in advance also helps when putting together your winter packing list for Iceland. It saves time, space, and stress once you’re on the road.

• Knitted Wool Hat: Bonus if it covers your ears. Triple bonus if it’s super cute, like this puffin hat.
• Earmuffs: Great for protecting your ears from cold wind while staying lightweight and easy to wear. I wore this ones throughout my entire trip to Iceland, and I loved how they kept me warm and looked great on photos!
• Waterproof Gloves: Keeping your hands warm and dry is crucial when the wind is hard.
• Icelandic Wool Headband: Keeps your ears warm while letting your hair flow naturally. It is perfect for staying comfortable and looking cute.

And of course, don’t forget to pack a bathing suit! It might sound strange for winter in Iceland, but those hot springs and geothermal pools are the ultimate way to warm up after a day of exploring.

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🏨 17 Unique Hotels in Iceland That You Won’t Believe Exist!
⏱️ 48 Hours In Reykjavik – The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary in Reykjavik
🦈 I Tried Icelandic “Rotten Shark”: Does Hakarl Really Taste That Bad?

Additional Gear

Putting together your Iceland winter packing list isn’t just about throwing warm clothes in a suitcase. It’s about being smart with what could actually make your trip smoother.

Depending on when you visit Iceland, you might not need every single item on this list, but it’s always good to have these in mind for your Iceland winter packing list. These extras can really help you stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for whatever the Icelandic weather and terrain throw at you, especially if you are going on one of the amazing glacier tours Iceland has to offer.

A winter packing list for Iceland should always leave room for flexibility. What works for one person may not work for another, depending on the kind of adventure you’re after.

• Crampons: These attach easily over your boots and give you the grip you need to avoid slipping on icy or slippery paths.
• Hand Warmers: Small and easy to carry, they provide extra warmth when placed inside your gloves or pockets on cold days.
• Thermal Water Bottle: A good thermal bottle keeps your coffee or tea warm for hours while you explore outdoors. This one is super cute and compact, so it won’t take up much space in your bag.
• Headlamp: Iceland’s winter days are short, so a reliable headlamp is useful for early morning or late evening, freeing your hands and lighting your path well.
• Sunglasses: Snow reflects sunlight strongly, so good sunglasses protect your eyes and improve visibility. They can also look really stylish, like these ones, which happen to be my favorites!
• Dry Bags: Waterproof bags help keep your phone, camera, and other important items safe from rain, snow, or splashes.
• Lip Balm: Icelandic air can be very dry, so keeping lip balm handy prevents discomfort. Honestly, I can’t live without it, no matter the weather!
• Trekking Poles: These provide extra balance and support on uneven or icy trails, helping reduce strain on your knees during hikes.
• Gaiters: Covering your boots and lower legs, gaiters keep snow, slush, and mud out, which is helpful for walking through snowy or wet areas.
• Insulated Backpack Cover: Sudden rain or snow won’t soak your gear if you use a waterproof cover for your backpack.

Photography Gear

Photography in Iceland during winter is next level. The kind of jaw-dropping, “is this real life?” scenery that makes you want to frame every photo you take. So yeah, photography gear definitely deserves a spot on your Iceland winter packing list.

You don’t need to bring a full studio setup, but a few thoughtful items can make your life a whole lot easier when you’re out there freezing your fingers off for that one perfect shot.

Packing smart means less time worrying about gear and more time yelling “wow” every five minutes. Your Iceland winter packing list isn’t complete without the right gear.

• Camera: Having a real camera lets you capture those epic views way better than your phone (even if your phone is pretty fancy). I strongly recommend the Sony Alpha series, especially the Sony Alpha 7C II. But, if you’re not ready to invest much, the Canon EOS R50 is a great and very affordable option that’s perfect for anyone who loves taking travel photos.
• Mini drone: Ever since I got my Hover Air X1 Pro Max, I never travel without it. It’s super light and easy to fly, with smart modes like follow, dolly track where it flies ahead of you, side track, and hover mode for stable shots. Unlike a classic drone, it’s way easier to use since you don’t have to connect it to your phone or a remote. You just tap a button and it flies right off your hand. And the best part is it’s really affordable. Honestly, I can’t recommend it enough!
• Extra batteries: Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so bring extras to stay powered up.
• Memory cards: You’ll take way more photos than planned. Having extra storage saves you from the frustrating “which photo do I delete” game.
• Tripod: Great for Northern light shots and keeping things steady. Plus, it makes you look like you know what you’re doing even if you don’t. 🙂
• Weather protection: A rain cover or waterproof bag keeps your gear safe when the weather decides to surprise you with a splash or two.
• Lens cloth: Cold lenses fog up fast. Wiping them with a proper cloth helps keep your photos clear.
• Power bank: Useful for recharging your camera and phone when you’re away from power outlets.

📌 More posts to check out:

🗺️ 13 Iceland Hidden Gems You Have to See to Believe
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⏱️ 48 Hours in Reykjavik – The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

My 7-day Iceland Packing List

This is my 7-day go-to winter packing list for Iceland to stay warm, dry, and comfortable without overpacking. It’s full of cozy clothes and handy gear that make a big difference in Iceland’s weather, but you can easily adjust it if you’re staying longer or shorter.

💳 The Essentials

• Passport and travel documents
• Phone and charger
• Credit cards and some cash
• Medications
• Travel insurance info
• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Earphones
• Tickets or reservations (printed or digital)

🧣 Clothing and Accessories

• 4 thermal tops (merino wool)
• 3 thermal leggings or tights (merino wool)
• 7 pairs of thin moisture-wicking socks
• 3 pairs of handmade wool socks
• 3 Icelandic wool sweaters
• 1 fleece jacket
• 1 insulated vest
• 3 fleece sweatshirts
• 1 waterproof and windproof jacket
• 1 waterproof raincoat
• 1 warm long insulated coat
• 2 pairs of waterproof pants
• 1 pair of quality snow boots (waterproof, with grip)
• 2 knitted wool hats
• 1 pair of earmuffs
• 1 neck gaiter
• 1 pair of waterproof gloves
• 1 Icelandic wool headband
• 2 bathing suits
• 8 pairs of underwear
• 2 bras
• 1 lip balm

🛠 Additional Gear

• 1 pair of crampons
• hand warmers
• 1 thermal water bottle
• 1 headlamp
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 dry bag
• 1 pair of trekking poles (optional)
• 1 pair of gaiters (optional)
• 1 waterproof backpack cover
• 1 power bank
• Snacks

📸 Photography Gear

• 1 camera
• 1 mini drone Hover Air X1 Pro Max
• 3 extra batteries for Hover Air X1 Pro Max
• charger for camera and batteries
• 2–3 memory cards
• 1 tripod
• 1 rain cover or dry bag for camera
• 1 lens cloth
• 1 power bank (shared with gear above)

Final Thoughts on Winter Packing List for Iceland

Having a solid winter packing list for Iceland is really important if you want to stay warm and comfortable throughout your trip. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing the right layers and waterproof gear makes a huge difference.

This list helps you pack smart and avoid bringing too much, so your luggage stays manageable but you still have everything you need.

With the right Iceland winter packing list, you’ll stay cozy and warm no matter what the weather throws at you and have the best experience possible.

Want to see most incredible spots in Iceland with almost zero crowds? Take a look at my post on 13 Iceland hidden gems you have to see to believe. It’s full of jaw-dropping places most travelers miss.

And if you are heading to the Golden Circle don’t miss my blog post with 11 Golden Circle hidden gems you won’t find in most guides.

Got your own must-haves for a winter packing list for Iceland? Drop a comment below and share your tips. I’d love to hear what you can’t live without in the cold!

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Vladana

Hi, I’m Vladana! I’m always on the lookout for unique travel experiences and destinations that are a little different from the usual. I love sharing my adventures on my blog with people who are looking for something they won’t find in typical travel guides. I also have a thing for unique boutique and luxury hotels that are an experience in themselves, not just a place to sleep.