Visiting Iceland in Winter: What To Pack

Travel Tips on What to pack to make the most of your snowy adventures

Visiting Iceland in winter… there’s just something magical about it that summer can’t touch. Picture this: you’re exploring vast, snow-covered landscapes, marvelling at frozen waterfalls, and soaking in natural hot springs as snowflakes gently fall around you. Fewer tourists Roguetrippers visit Iceland in Winter mean you get to embrace Iceland’s dramatic beauty without the crowds truly. Plus, winter is prime time to catch the Northern Lights putting on their mesmerizing dance. Why wait until summer when Iceland’s icy allure is calling you for an unforgettable adventure right now? Embrace the winter wonderland and get ready for a trip that’s pure magic.

Packing for a winter vacation to Iceland requires some thoughtful preparation. Let me guide you through the charm and wonder of Iceland’s winter magic and get you ready with tips on packing and preparation. Here’s a list of essentials to keep you ready for your adventure:

Staying warm:

Preparing for an Icelandic winter adventure? Here’s your ultimate packing list to stay warm and cozy when you are visiting Iceland in Winter:

Clothing:

Thermal Underwear consisting of tops and bottoms that keep your core temperature in check. Thin fabrics, such as Merino wool or synthetic base layers, keep you warm and wick away moisture.
Fleece or Wool Sweaters: These snug layers are perfect for insulation.
Insulated Jacket: Go for down or synthetic to hold in the heat, but also less bulky.
Waterproof and Windproof Outer Shell: This is essential for shielding you from Iceland’s unpredictable weather, especially if you take a boat cruise to see puffins and the Northern Lights.
Warm Socks: Wool or synthetic socks will keep your feet warm and dry. Pack at least 2 pairs per day in case they get wet.

Outerwear Essentials:

Waterproof and Windproof Snow Pants: Stay dry and comfortable in Iceland’s unpredictable weather with pants designed to repel rain and snow.
Warm Hat: A toque, beanie, or knit hat is essential for keeping your head cozy while braving the chilly Icelandic winds.
Gloves of Mittens: Opt for waterproof, insulated gloves to ensure your hands stay warm and dry, no matter the weather. Tech gloves will make it easier for you to capture photos without exposing your hands.
Scarf or Neck Gaiter: Shield your neck from the biting cold wind with a snug scarf or neck gaiter.
Ear Muffs: Sometimes, ear muffs may be a better choice than a toque. If you are like me, you might wear both.

Footwear:

What you wear on your feet when you visit Iceland in winter can make or break your vacation. Make sure your feet are comfy and cosy.

Waterproof Winter Boots: Perfect for keeping your feet warm while exploring urban areas and braving colder temperatures.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: These provide excellent traction on icy and snowy surfaces. If your winter boots can also be used for hiking, then you’re all set.
Ice Grips or Crampons are a must for added traction when walking on icy surfaces. Our crampons came in handy daily on icy roads and sidewalks, as well as when hiking up glaciers and visiting the many frozen waterfalls.
Warm Socks (Preferably Wool): Keep your feet warm and dry with these cozy socks.
Spare Socks: Always have an extra pair handy in case your socks get wet. We recommend packing two pairs of socks per day.

PRO TIP:

Comfortable casual shoes: You can pack casual shoes if you wish, but if you plan to spend most of your time outdoors, don’t bother. We packed ours but did not wear them because we spent so much time outdoors that we never really changed for indoor footwear. Everyone wears boots everywhere, even indoors. Don’t waste the space in your luggage.

Additional items to pack when visiting Iceland in winter:

Get ready to embrace Iceland’s winter wonders with these essentials. Here are more items to add to your packing list for Visiting Iceland in winter to make sure you have everything you need:

Essentials for Outdoor Activities:

Swimsuit: Don’t miss out on the hot springs and geothermal spas—plunging into the warm, steamy waters while surrounded by snow is a must.
Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright winter sun and snow glare.
Sunglasses Strap: Keeps your sunglasses secure in windy conditions.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your adventures.
Snacks & Gum: Great for long road trips, especially if you plan to drive around the Golden Circle.
Binoculars: You will want to look for wildlife like puffins, whales, and more (and keep a safe distance).
Waterproof Bag or Dry Sacks: Protecting electronics, documents, etc.
Daypack: A small backpack is handy for keeping snacks, water, extra socks, tech accessories, and other essentials.
Headlamp: The sun rises late and sets early in Iceland, leaving you with limited daylight. Don’t let that stop you from having fun. A headlamp with a high lumen count will be useful when exploring the dark.

Check out our Tips for a Winter Road Trip

Tech and Gadgets:

Camera: Bring extra batteries; cold weather drains them faster.
Power Bank: Essential for keeping your devices charged.
International Outlet Adapters: Iceland uses the European plug type.
Navigation Tools: Offline maps app or paper maps, GPS device if you plan to drive.
Car Essentials: An ice scraper, snow brush, blanket, and emergency supplies. We used the Mylar heating blankets because they take up virtually no room. Rental cars may supply these items, but it is good to be prepared.

Check out our article on Often Overlooked Items that you should pack.

Health, Comfort, and Entertainment:

Moisturizer: Cold air can be harsh on your skin.
Lip Balm: Keep your lips from chapping.
Hand Warmers: Perfect for keeping your hands (or feet) toasty.
Hygiene Essentials: Travel-sized toiletries, toothbrush and toothpaste, quick-dry travel towel.
First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and personal medications.
Entertainment: Books or e-readers, travel journals and pens, downloaded movies or TV shows. (You will be busy soaking up the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes to use these)
Food and Drinks: Reusable thermal insulated travel mug for hot beverages or thermos, non-perishable snacks, tea bags or instant coffee.

Important Documents:

For safety and security, make sure to have copies of the following important documents whenever you travel:

Passport
Travel Insurance Information
Copies of All Booking Confirmations

To fully immerse yourself in Iceland’s winter magic, you’ll need just the right gear. Packing smart is your ticket to fully enjoying Iceland’s snow-covered landscapes, awe-inspiring waterfalls, bubbling geysirs, majestic glaciers, and even the allure of volcanoes. Start with thermal layers and a cozy insulated jacket to stay snug in the chilly weather. Don’t forget those waterproof boots for exploring icy terrain. And yes, bring that swimsuit—you won’t want to miss a dip in the rejuvenating geothermal hot springs amidst the snow.

There are many amazing reasons for visiting Iceland in Winter, and you won’t want to miss out on any of these amazing experiences. With these packing essentials, you’re all set to embrace the icy wonders and the beauty of visiting Iceland in winter and make your trip unforgettable.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with our upcoming Iceland Travel Guide! It will be packed with tips and tricks for making the most of your dream Iceland vacation. Our Iceland travel guide will be suitable for trips any time of year. Discover must-see attractions, hidden gems, and exciting tours that will make your trip truly magical. Stay tuned to Roguetrippers.com; you won’t want to miss it!

Visiting Iceland in Winter is the best time to see Northern Lights