Heading to Iceland in September? Get ready for dramatic landscapes, moody weather, and the start of Northern Lights season. This Iceland September packing list includes everything you need—from waterproof gear and thermal layers to tech for chasing waterfalls and glaciers.

Pin

---

Weather Overview 🌡️

September in Iceland = transition month. Fall colors emerge, but summer warmth disappears fast.

• Daytime temperatures: 45–55°F (7–13°C)
• Nights: 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Rainfall: Frequent light rain and drizzle
• Daylight: 12–14 hours early in the month; less later
• Northern Lights? Yes! September is the start of the season.

Pro Tip: The weather is wildly unpredictable. Think layers, waterproof everything, and thermal extras.

---

What to Pack for Iceland 🎒

Dressing Etiquette & Function

• Think practical over stylish: Icelanders are low-key.
• Waterproof, windproof, warm—the “Three Ws” of Iceland travel.
• Layer, layer, layer: Conditions shift within the hour.
• Cover up: Windchill and rain don’t play.
• No heels needed: Seriously—terrain > fashion.

---

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Carry-on suitcase – Durable, weatherproof, and compact.
• 🎒 Daypack (water-resistant) – For tours, hikes, and glacier visits.
• 🧼 Packing cubes – Separate warm layers, wet gear, and casual clothes.
• 👟 Shoe bags – Mud is everywhere.
• 💄 Makeup bag – Keep it simple and moisturizing.
• 🛁 Waterproof toiletry bag – Icelandic bathrooms are minimalist.
• 🗂️ Document organizer – Keep travel docs safe and dry.
• 👜 Collapsible tote – For grocery runs or geothermal pool visits.
• 🧺 Laundry kit / bag – In case your wool socks take a beating.
• 🔒 Luggage lock – Especially in hostels or vans.
• 🧣 Quick-dry towel – For waterfalls or geothermal spas.
• 💺 Neck pillow – Flights to Iceland are longer than you think.
• 😴 Sleep mask / earplugs – Icelandic hotels don’t always block light well.

---

👗 Clothes

• 👕 Merino base layers (2–3 tops + 2 bottoms) – Moisture-wicking and warm.
• 🧣 Long-sleeve tops (2–3) – For layering and lounge.
• 🧥 Fleece or down mid-layer (1–2) – Essential insulation.
• 🧥 Waterproof rain jacket (1) – Absolute must.
• 🧤 Insulated jacket or packable puffer (1) – For windy nights or glacier tours.
• 👖 Thermal leggings / hiking pants (2–3) – Avoid jeans; they don’t dry well.
• 🧳 Casual pants (1) – For Reykjavik dinners or museums.
• 👙 Swimsuit (1–2) – Iceland = hot springs heaven.
• 🩱 Swimsuit cover-up (1) – Optional but convenient.
• 🛌 Pajamas / sleepwear (1–2) – Warm and cozy.
• 👙 Underwear (1 per day) – Wool if you have it.
• 🧦 Wool socks (4–5 pairs) – Thick, warm, moisture-wicking.
• 🩲 Bras (2–3) – Include a sports bra for hikes.
• 🧣 Scarf / neck gaiter (1–2) – Wind protection = comfort.
• 🧤 Gloves (1 pair) – Waterproof, touchscreen-friendly if possible.
• 🧢 Beanie / thermal hat (1–2) – A must for early mornings and windy cliffs.

---

💆 Skincare

• 🧼 Creamy cleanser – For wind-chapped skin.
• 💦 Hydrating toner – Replenish after cold, dry days.
• 🧴 Thick moisturizer – Iceland’s air is DRY.
• ☀️ Sunscreen (face + body) – UV reflects off water and snow.
• 🧼 Makeup remover – For long tour days.
• 🍃 Exfoliator (optional) – Gentle, for dry flakes.
• 👁️ Eye cream – Puffy eyes + cold = rough combo.
• 💦 Facial mist – Mist + thermal spring glow = magic.
• 😘 Lip balm (with SPF) – You’ll use this daily.
• 💥 Spot treatment – Cold-weather breakouts happen.

---

💄 Makeup

Keep it simple and moisturizing. Wind and waterproof formulas are ideal.

• 💧 BB cream or tinted moisturizer – Hydrating & protective.
• 🧴 Concealer – For tired eyes post-night tours.
• 💖 Cream blush / highlighter – Looks better in the cold.
• 💦 Waterproof mascara – Rain and waterfalls = raccoon risk.
• 💋 Lip balm tint or gloss – Moisture > matte.
• 💨 Setting spray – Lock it in if you’re wearing any.
• 🖌️ Brushes / sponge – Small set is enough.

---

💇 Hair

• 💇‍♀️ Brush / comb – Detangle post-hike.
• 🎀 Hair ties / clips / pins – Icelandic wind = wild hair.
• 🧴 Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Moisturizing formulas.
• 💨 Dry shampoo – For campervan days or long tours.
• 🛡️ Heat protectant – If using tools.
• ✨ Hair oil / serum – Tame dryness & frizz.
• 💎 Warm hat-friendly styles – Braids or low buns work best.

---

👠 Shoes & Accessories

• 🥾 Waterproof hiking boots (1 pair) – Non-negotiable.
• 👟 Casual sneakers or slip-ons – For Reykjavik or hotel wear.
• 🩴 Flip-flops or water shoes – For geothermal pools.
• 🧤 Gloves – Warm and waterproof = ideal combo.
• 🧢 Beanie / wool hat – You’ll want it for glacier tours or Northern Lights.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – Especially for glacier glare.
• 🎒 Day bag / crossbody – Keep it waterproof or lined.
• 🧣 Scarf – Doubles as warmth and wind barrier.
• ⌚ Watch – Icelandic nature doesn’t wait for phones.
• 🎒 Waterproof cover for bag – Rain is unpredictable.

---

🧾 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 Passport – No passport = no geysers.
• 📋 Copy of passport – Always smart.
• 📄 Visa (if needed) – Schengen zone rules apply.
• 🩺 Travel insurance info – Healthcare is $$$ for non-residents.
• 💳 Credit / debit cards – Iceland is nearly cashless.
• 💵 Small cash (ISK) – For rural bathrooms or small vendors.
• 🏨 Printed hotel & car rental receipts – Good backup.
• 🧭 Offline maps or GPS – Cell service can vanish.
• ✍️ Pen + notebook – Notes, journaling, or trail info.

---

🩹 First Aid

• 🩹 Band-Aids / blister pads – Hiking must-haves.
• 💊 Painkillers – For long drives or sore legs.
• 🌿 Antiseptic wipes / ointment – Minor cuts or scrapes.
• 🌡️ Small thermometer – Optional but useful.
• 🧻 Q-tips / cotton pads – Multipurpose.

---

💊 Health & Hygiene

• 💊 Prescription medications – Bring enough + copies of prescriptions.
• 🧴 Hand sanitizer – For on-the-go snack stops.
• 🌸 Feminine hygiene – Bring what you prefer.
• 🧼 Toothbrush + toothpaste – Obvious but critical.
• 🪒 Razor + cream – Optional.
• 🧴 Deodorant – Strong, long-lasting formulas.
• 🧽 Body wash / soap – For post-glacier cleanup.
• 👃 Nasal spray / saline – Air can be super dry.
• 🧻 Tissues / wipes – Public restrooms vary.
• 🧴 Perfume / cologne – Travel-size spritz is enough.

---

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Phone + charger – Lifeline for nav & photos.
• 🔋 Portable power bank – Tours = long days.
• 🔌 Universal adapter (Type F) – Iceland = European plug.
• 📷 Camera + memory cards – Optional but worth it.
• 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones – Great for flights & road trips.
• 📡 Offline maps & weather apps – Crucial for route planning.
• 💡 Headlamp or flashlight – For camping or night hikes.

---

🎧 Entertainment

• 📚 Books / Kindle – For cozy cabin nights.
• 🎧 Podcasts or playlists – Road trip essentials.
• 📓 Travel journal – Iceland inspires.
• 🎲 Card game or compact game – For van life or hostel hangs.

---

🎒 Extras

• 🥤 Reusable water bottle – Iceland tap water = 💧 pristine.
• 🍫 Snacks / protein bars – Limited food stops on road trips.
• 🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – Grocery stores charge for bags.
• 🧼 Travel laundry detergent – For long trips.
• 🧵 Mini sewing kit – Optional but smart.
• 🛌 Travel blanket or sleeping bag liner – For campers.
• 🔦 Flashlight / headlamp – Northern Lights hikes or cabins.
• 💊 Motion sickness pills – Whale watching & winding roads.

---

✈️ Travel Tips

• 🚙 Rent a car with 4WD for ring road trips
• 📶 Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me)
• 🌋 Book tours (glacier hikes, volcano visits) early
• 💵 Don’t exchange too much cash—cards accepted nearly everywhere
• 🔋 Always carry a power bank—cold weather drains batteries fast

---

🛂 Visa Tips

• 🇮🇸 Iceland is part of the Schengen Zone
• 🗂️ U.S., Canada, UK: 90 days visa-free
• 📄 Carry proof of return ticket + accommodations
• 🛂 Check passport validity: Must be valid for 3+ months beyond trip
• 📸 Optional: Bring extra passport photo if continuing Europe trip

---

✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip

• 🧥 Waterproof jacket
• 🥾 Hiking boots
• 👙 Swimsuit (for hot springs!)
• 💳 Credit card
• 📱 Phone + charger
• 🧴 Moisturizer & SPF
• 💦 Water bottle
• 🌌 Tripod or app for Northern Lights

---

👍 Good-to-Have Items

• 🔦 Headlamp
• 💊 Motion sickness meds
• 🧣 Extra scarf
• 🎲 Travel games
• 📷 Wide-angle lens or GoPro
• 🧤 Hand warmers
• 💺 Travel blanket
• 🎒 Waterproof backpack cover