What to Pack for Iceland: Ultimate Winter Packing List for a Fully Prepared, Worry-Free Trip

Iceland in winter is a magical mix of snowy landscapes, northern lights, geothermal lagoons, and arctic winds. But don’t be fooled – the cold is serious, and packing right makes all the difference. Think thermal layers, waterproof everything, and durable gear that holds up in snow and sleet.

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You’ll need smart layers for outdoor adventures, cozy clothes for Reykjavik cafés, and extras for soaking in hot springs while snowflakes fall. Style meets survival in this winter packing list.

📝 This article is all about what to pack for Iceland in winter. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

• Reykjavik: -3°C to 3°C (26°F–37°F)
• Northern Iceland: -10°C to 2°C (14°F–35°F)
• Frequent snow, rain, and high winds
• Limited daylight: 4–6 hours in peak winter

What to Pack for Iceland in Winter

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• Water-resistant rolling suitcase – handles wet snow.
• Daypack – for tours and glacier hikes.
• Packing cubes – organize layers and thermal gear.
• Shoe bags – separate dirty/wet boots.
• Waterproof toiletry bag – protect items from leaks and frost.
• Travel document holder – passport, visa, booking copies.
• Dry bag – for lagoon days or wet excursions.
• Compression laundry bag – saves space with bulk layers.
• Luggage scale – helpful for winter gear-heavy bags.
• Padlock – secure in hostels or on buses.
• Neck pillow – comfort for long flights or drives.
• Sleep mask – daylight hours are minimal but still unpredictable.

👗 Clothes

• Thermal base layers (3 sets) – top and bottom, heat-retaining fabrics.
• Wool sweaters (2–3) – classic Icelandic style + function.
• Fleece jacket – mid-layer warmth with breathability.
• Waterproof insulated jacket – critical outer shell.
• Down or synthetic puffer – for dry cold days.
• Waterproof pants or snow pants – for outdoor tours.
• Jeans or thick leggings – for Reykjavik exploring.
• Wool dress/skirt – stylish with thermal tights.
• Activewear – moisture-wicking, good for layering.
• Thermal pajamas – keep warm in basic guesthouses.
• Swimsuit – Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or hotel hot tubs.
• Quick-dry cover-up – hot springs essential.
• Underwear (7) – warm, comfortable, breathable.
• Wool socks (5–7) – essential for warmth and dry feet.
• Thermal tights (2–3) – wear under pants or dresses.

💆 Skincare

• Creamy cleanser – combat dry air and harsh wind.
• Hydrating toner – soothe and balance skin.
• Thick moisturizer – barrier cream for protection.
• SPF 30+ – UV reflects off snow and ice.
• Makeup remover – balm or micellar for gentle use.
• Exfoliator – every few days to prevent dullness.
• Eye cream – reduce puffiness from cold exposure.
• Facial mist – rehydrate on the go.
• Sheet mask – travel recovery or post-cold exposure.
• Lip balm (2) – pack extras; lips dry fast in Iceland.
• Spot treatment – for breakouts in harsh weather.

💄 Makeup

• Hydrating foundation – for dry skin relief.
• Concealer – under eyes and red cheeks from cold.
• Setting powder – light application only.
• Cream blush – blends better in cold air.
• Highlighter – glow in the low winter light.
• Bronzer – warm up pale winter skin.
• Neutral palette – soft tones for natural looks.
• Waterproof eyeliner – survive snow flurries.
• Smudge-proof mascara – snow-tested.
• Brow pencil or gel – tidy for photos and tours.
• Lip tint + balm – hydrating color combo.
• Setting spray – if wearing makeup during long tours.
• Brush kit – compact size for travel.

💇 Hair Care

• Brush + wide-tooth comb – fix hat hair fast.
• Hair ties + clips – windy days need control.
• Moisturizing shampoo + conditioner – travel-size or bars.
• Dry shampoo – extend style in cold weather.
• Leave-in conditioner – prevent static and dryness.
• Heat protectant – if using styling tools indoors.
• Mini dryer – optional, check hotel availability.
• Mini straightener/curling tool – for Reykjavik nights out.
• Anti-frizz serum – essential for dry, cold air.
• Wool-safe hair accessories – barrettes or knit headbands.

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• Insulated waterproof boots – grip soles for icy paths.
• Wool-lined ankle boots – for city exploring.
• Slip-on shoes – optional, for indoors/hotels.
• Wool beanie – thick knit, fleece-lined if possible.
• Thermal scarf – oversized and cozy.
• Touchscreen gloves – insulated and windproof.
• Sunglasses – protect from snow glare.
• Thermal earmuffs or headband – protect ears in wind.
• Crossbody or anti-theft day bag – secure and compact.
• Gaiters – snow protection for hiking.

📑 Documents & Essentials

• Passport – required for all international travelers.
• Schengen visa – if applicable to your nationality.
• Travel insurance – medical + weather disruptions.
• Hotel + car rental confirmations – printed + digital.
• Tour vouchers – print copies of excursions.
• Credit cards – most places cashless.
• Some cash (ISK) – for rural areas or small stops.
• Emergency contacts – both digital and printed.
• Offline maps – cell coverage can drop in remote areas.
• Notebook + pen – jot down road trip details.

🚑 First Aid

• Blister pads – thick socks + hiking = friction.
• Antiseptic wipes – for quick cleanups.
• Painkillers – for sore muscles post-adventure.
• Motion sickness meds – for boat or road tours.
• Thermometer – winter flu season alert.
• Tweezers – multipurpose tool.
• Medical tape + gauze – for basic first aid.
• Cotton pads + Q-tips – multiple uses.

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• Prescription meds – in original packaging.
• Vitamins – immune boosters.
• Hand sanitizer – for remote or public spaces.
• Wet wipes – clean hands or wipe gear.
• Feminine hygiene – carry extras for rural travel.
• Eye drops – dry air relief.
• Contact lenses + solution – plus backup glasses.
• Toothbrush + paste – compact travel kit.
• Floss – icy treats can get stuck!
• Deodorant – solid stick preferred in cold.
• Razor – optional, but handy.
• Nail clippers – for winter cracks and splits.
• Perfume – solid or rollerball travel size.
• Tissues – a must for runny noses.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• Phone – GPS, camera, weather alerts.
• Camera – capture glaciers, waterfalls, and auroras.
• Chargers – for all your devices.
• Power bank – cold drains battery fast!
• Universal adapter – Iceland uses European plugs (Type F).
• Offline GPS or app maps – for road trips.
• SIM or eSIM – check local providers for better data.
• Headphones – long drives = podcasts.
• E-reader – perfect for dark cozy nights in.
• Waterproof phone case – for lagoons and rain.

🎧 Entertainment

• Icelandic novels or travel books – get immersed.
• Podcasts – for road trips or Northern Lights waits.
• Downloaded shows – for long nights in the countryside.
• Travel journal – document epic moments.
• Card games – pass the time in cabins or hostels.

🎁 Extras

• Snacks – protein bars, trail mix, instant soup.
• Insulated water bottle – prevents freezing outdoors.
• Reusable shopping bag – eco-friendly Icelandic stores.
• Detergent sheets – hand wash thermals.
• Sewing kit – patch ripped coats or thermals.
• Whistle – safety tool during hikes.
• Foot warmers – essential for glacier days.
• Shoe deodorizer – after a long icy trek.
• Melatonin – short days = circadian confusion.

🌍 Travel Tips

• Pack layers – base, mid, and waterproof outer.
• Book Blue Lagoon + tours early – they fill fast.
• Drive with caution – rent a 4×4 in winter.
• Download weather and road apps (e.g., Vedur, SafeTravel).
• Keep essential layers in your carry-on.

🛂 Visa Tips

• Schengen visa required for many non-EU travelers.
• Travel insurance often required at entry.
• Print hotel and return flight bookings.
• Have passport valid for at least 3 months post-trip.

⭐ Must-Haves

• Thermal layers
• Waterproof boots + jacket
• Passport + insurance
• Phone + charger + adapter
• Daypack for excursions
• Health kit + prescription meds
• Offline maps or GPS
• Swimsuit + towel for lagoons

👍 Good-to-Have

• Foot/hand warmers
• Mini steamer for down gear
• Moisturizing face mask
• Reusable cutlery set (for road food)
• Insulated picnic thermos