Iceland Packing Guide: What to Wear for Your Trip

Iceland! Just the name conjures up images of stunning landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and maybe... a little bit of shivering? I recently took a trip there, and let me tell you, packing was the hardest part. I spent hours researching what to bring, and I want to share my experience to help you avoid the same pre-trip stress.

My Iceland Packing Dilemma

Before my trip, I was completely overwhelmed. I kept asking myself, "What should I pack for Iceland? What clothes do I really need?" I knew I needed to be prepared for all kinds of weather, but I didn't want to overpack and lug around a huge suitcase. I started making lists, but everything felt either too general or too extreme. I saw some packing lists that seemed geared towards climbing Everest, and I knew that wasn't the kind of trip I was planning! I just wanted to see the sights and stay comfortable.

My Packing Essentials (and What Worked!)

After much research and a bit of trial and error, I finally figured out my perfect Iceland packing list. Here's what I learned:

• Sunglasses: This might seem odd, especially if you're going in the winter, but trust me, you'll need them! The sun reflecting off the snow and ice can be incredibly bright.
• Hat and Scarf/Gaiter/Snood: These are essential for keeping your head and neck warm, especially on windy days.
• Waterproof Gloves: My hands were constantly exposed to the elements, so waterproof gloves were a lifesaver.
• Bathing Suit: You can't go to Iceland without experiencing the geothermal pools!
• OTC Medications: Bring any over-the-counter medications you might need, like ibuprofen, just in case.

The Base Layer Revelation

One of the best pieces of advice I received was about base layers. I decided to try out Uniqlo Heattech base layers based on a recommendation I found. And wow, I was impressed! They were lightweight, comfortable, and kept me incredibly warm. I ended up buying a set for my whole family before the trip. I cannot recommend these enough!

Wool vs. Synthetic Base Layers: A Smelly Situation

I also learned something important about base layers: the material matters. While wool and synthetic base layers provide similar warmth, I discovered that my synthetic ones ended up smelling much worse after a day of activity. The wool ones, on the other hand, could be worn for multiple days without any odor. For a week-long trip, you might need five to seven synthetic base layers or a place to wash them, compared to just two or three wool ones. I opted for a mix, but definitely leaned towards wool.

Avoiding the "Everest Climber" Look

Honestly, sometimes the packing advice I saw was just ridiculous. You don't need ”Everest climber” type clothing if you're not doing anything out of the ordinary. I saw many people dressed up as alpinists only to walk 30 feet from their car to a sightseeing spot. Normal people in Iceland don't wear 50 layers while being indoors. So, remember to pack smart, not just pack a lot.

My Go-To Accessories

Beyond the basics, I found a few key accessories that made a big difference in my comfort and enjoyment of the trip.