Congrats, you booked your trip to Iceland! Now let’s figure out What to Pack/Wear during your Summer Iceland Adventure
Check out my previous blog describing why you should visit Iceland during the pandemic.
I visited Iceland in Summer 2021and it was an amazing adventure. Even though I traveled to Iceland in the summer, it definitely felt like winter/ fall most days. Icelandic weather is very temperamental so making sure you pack the right things is essential. Iceland is an expensive country so the last thing you want to do is spend money on clothing items that are already in your closet or on sale at your local sports store.
Here are the 10 things you must wear/pack during your Summer Iceland adventure. But first, it’s important to have a brief understanding of Icelandic Weather.
Overview of Icelandic Weather
Packing for Iceland was probably the most difficult part of my trip. No matter when you visit Iceland, plan to experience four seasons in 1 trip. One moment the sun is shining and the next you will be ducking for cover due to the intense wind/rain. Do not underestimate the Icelandic weather during your stay.
It is difficult for anyone, even the most acclaimed weathermen, to accurately predict Iceland’s weather weeks out. There is limited benefit in checking the weather forecast a few weeks out.
In the summer the weather in Iceland may be brisker than you realize. There are possibilities of rain, chili winds, and even snow. Summers range from 0°C (68-77°F) that are mild and relatively dry.
Iceland is a small island in the Atlantic Ocean. Its climate is highly affected by ocean currents. Iceland’s climate is classified as maritime climate. They have a mixture of climates However beware, there are specific areas with subarctic, tundra and highland climates that have more extreme ranges.
Here are 10 things you must pack /wear during your Summer Iceland Adventure
1.) Hiking Boots/ Hiking shoes
If you plan on doing active events during your trip I highly recommend bringing hiking boots and hiking shoes. Iceland is a land of adventure. From glacier hiking to hiking the highlands, for the walking enthusiast, there are lots of opportunities for walking and hiking. I recommend bringing hiking boots and hiking shoes if you have the space. During my glacier hike, hiking boots were mandatory. If you came in hiking trainers you, unfortunately, had to pay to rent a pair of boots.
2.) Leggings
Iceland is an active island. If you plan on doing active activities, I recommend that you pack a few pairs of active sports leggings. I wore leggings daily as I spent most days hiking, running, and exploring. It was the perfect clothing accessory to accompany me on my 1 week Iceland journey.
3.) Gloves/Scarves/Hat
It gets chilly in Iceland so a pair of gloves might be useful depending on what you plan on doing in Iceland. I used my gloves frequently in Iceland when I visited in the summer. I used them during my hikes on the highland, glacier hikes, and daily while walking the streets of Reykjavík. While I don’t think scarves are a must, I would recommend at least one hat. I used my beanie to keep my head warm and my hair dry while hiking the highlands during scattered showers and keeping my ears warm while hiking a glacier.
4.) Umbrella and Raincoat
– During my 1 week in Iceland it rained almost every day. The decision on whether to wear a raincoat versus carrying an umbrella is a hard one and dependent on your own preferences. Your decision between umbrella and raincoat also depends on your activities that day.
5.) Waterproof Pants
-If you plan on hiking in the rain, glacier hiking, or walking close to a waterfall, waterproof pants are useful. The weather in Iceland can be cold, and wet, but it shouldn’t deter your schedule. Waterproof pants were a must on my one-week Iceland getaway
6.) Warm Sweater
If the weather is permittable, a warm sweater with a nice pair of leggings/ jeans is all you need for your Iceland Day trip. I packed two nice sweaters which came in handy on the days when it finally stopped raining.
7.) Bathing suit
You can’t forget your bathing suit. Iceland is known for its hot springs and swimming pools. I am more of an active traveler so I didn’t need more than one bathing suit, but for those out there that are interested in some serious relaxation, consider bringing a few.
8.) Lightweight weatherproof jacket.
Yet again! The weather in Iceland even in the spring/ summer can be cold, rainy, and windy. Make sure you pack a lightweight jacket that will allow you to continue your adventurous journey but stay warm. Consider bringing a jacket with a hood to protect your head from the elements.
9.) Layers
The most important thing to consider when packing for your Iceland trip is to pack layers. The weather is constantly changing, so I recommend layers!
10.) Manners
Remember you are a guest in Iceland. Respect the local customs. Respect the land. During my week in Iceland, I saw many foreigners doing things that were beyond dangerous for the perfect photo and breaking rules/customs that were put into place for the safety of Iceland visitors and to protect nature. Please, bring your manners with you.
Remember, prior to traveling to Iceland, make sure you take a look at Iceland Restricts by visiting
https://www.icelandair.com/blog/iceland-is-open-faq/
Look out for my next Post about my Iceland Adventures!
