Packing for Iceland in the Winter can be overwhelming because the climate is something you’ve likely never experience before. Even though I did a ton of research, nothing could prepare me for the chill of that winter wind. It gives me shivers just thinking about it now. The key to packing for Iceland is comfort, moisture-wicking, WINDPROOF (!!!), and functionality. You will likely be visiting a variety of stops each day, from beaches to glaciers, to waterfalls. The great thing about driving the ring road on your own is that you can pack your car full of various outfits and change of clothes. You’ll need them! One trip to a waterfall and you’ll likely be soaked and want to change. Below is my ultimate guide to packing for Iceland in the Winter. This list is everything I packed, and everything I wish I packed!!

Pants:

• Legging Base Layer
• Yoga Pants/Leggings x2
• Waterproof Pants (A must for waterfall visits and great over base layers!!)
• Jeans (for dinners out or when you’re back at the hotel)

Tops:

• Longsleeve Base Layer
• Cozy Fleece/Merino Wool Sweater x 2
• Waterproof Down Jacket
• Big Ski/Winter Jacket
• A windproof waterproof shell like the red Patagonia one below (I wore this a ton!!)

Accessories:

• Beanie/Toque x 2
• Windproof Gloves (Make sure they are windproof!!)
• Windguard for your face
• Scarf
• Warm Ski Socks x 2
• Bathing Suit (One you don’t care that much about as the Blue Lagoon and other thermal pools can ruin it)

Shoes:

• Waterproof Boots (One of the most important things to bring! I LOVED the sorel boots. They kept my feet warm, didn’t get my feet wet and dried easily)
• Runners
• Sandals for Baths and Blue Lagoon

Necessities:

• Pajama’s
• Bra’s and Undies (Bring a few sports bras too)
• Toiletries
  • Keep in mind the wind and climate will be drying, so pack lip balm, a few hydrating face masks and face oil! I can’t tell you how good face oil and hydrating serums felt after a long day outside.

To have at the hotel:

• Portable Speaker for music
• Travel Adapter (I recommend bringing a couple of these so you can charge your phone, camera, computer etc simultaneously. You most likely wont have a ton of time at your accommodation so being able to charge all your electronics overnight is key)
• Water Bottle
  • Iceland has some of the best tap water in the world, fill up often!
• Portable Coffee mug

Snacks

• Quick Oats, Chia Seeds, Goji Berries and a Nut Mylk
• Protein Bars
• Nuts
• Candy
• Power Balls

Consider bringing these with you from home as Iceland is expensive. I’m so glad we had these on hand for long travel days and early mornings! I bought the little tetrapak almond milk that doesn’t need to be refrigerated until opened and it was amazing to have hot oatmeal every morning (and so cheap!)

I hope this gives you a great place to start as you get ready for your trip to Iceland! It is such a magical place, there is truly no destination like it in the world. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask! Shoot me a message on Instagram.

Here are a few more resources to help you plan your trip to Iceland!

Driving Iceland’s Ring Road in the Winter

The Pros and Cons to Iceland in the Winter

20 Photo Ideas for Your Trip to Iceland

Shop my Iceland Packing List:

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