What is the most important thing to pack for Iceland?

A waterproof, windproof jacket with a proper hood. If the outer layer of your jacket, pants, and shoes is waterproof, you'll be comfortable in almost any weather Iceland throws at you.

Do I need waterproof pants for Iceland?

Yes. Horizontal rain is common and will soak regular pants within minutes. A waterproof outer layer on your legs makes a huge difference.

Should I bring a swimsuit to Iceland?

Absolutely. Public swimming pools and hot pots are a big part of daily life. You'll want to visit at least one.

Iceland Packing Checklist: Tick Off What You Need

Iceland Packing Checklist

One rule first: your jacket, pants and shoes must be waterproof. Get that right and the rest is easy.

0 of 42 items packed

Tip: click Print to save a one-page PDF you can take with you.

🧥Weather Protection

Waterproof, windproof jacket with a hood that stays on in wind(Whole year)Waterproof outer pants (horizontal rain is real)(Whole year)Waterproof shoes or boots. Many paths are wet, icy, and uneven(Whole year)A second comfortable pair of shoes for towns, restaurants, and rest days(Whole year)Waterproof gloves. Bring a second pair, the first gets soaked at waterfalls(Oct to Mar)Warm hat that covers your ears(Oct to Mar)Scarf or buff for wind protection(Oct to Mar)

🧅Layers

Merino wool or thermal base layer top (no cotton, it holds moisture)(Oct to Mar)Thermal base layer bottoms(Oct to Mar)Fleece or light down mid layer(Oct to Mar)Thicker mid layer (heavy fleece or down jacket)(Oct to Mar)Insulated waterproof jacket (not just a shell)(Oct to Mar)Wool socks (at least 2 to 3 pairs)(Oct to Mar)Extra socks in your day bag. Wet feet happen fast(Oct to Mar)

📋Travel & Documents

Valid passport(Whole year)Travel insurance details (printed or screenshot)(Whole year)Credit/debit cards. You don't need cash, cards work everywhere(Whole year)Phone charger and adapter (Iceland uses Type C/F plugs)(Whole year)Dry bag or plastic bag for wet clothes in your suitcase(Whole year)

Travelling with Children?

A few extras parents tend to wish they had packed

Iceland weather changes quickly, and kids often get wet before adults do. These are the small things that keep a family day from unravelling.

P.S. Pack money too

Iceland is beautiful, and expensive

A reader said it best, so we are passing it on: we hope you packed enough money for the trip.

Try the Cost Reality Check → see what your trip might cost in ISK.

Read the full packing guide →

You might also need

Packing Guide

Why each item matters and how to layer

Arrival Checklist

Your first 24 hours in Iceland

Iceland by Month

What to expect during your travel month

Weather & Conditions

What to prepare for

Planning a trip?I only need one thing

🧥Weather Protection

🧅Layers

🎒Essentials

🧴Health & Skin

📋Travel & Documents

Travelling with Children?

P.S. Pack money too

You might also need

Iceland Packing Checklist – Everything You Need to Pack

🧥Weather Protection

🧅Layers

🎒Essentials

🧴Health & Skin

📋Travel & Documents

Travelling with Children?

P.S. Pack money too

You might also need