What to Pack for Iceland in Winter: The Ultimate Packing List to Stay Warm and Dry

The ultimate Iceland Winter Packing List will keep you warm and dry while visiting the country of fire and ice. Iceland’s national slogan should be “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes”. Generally, Iceland climate is cold and windy for most of the year but the temperature is fairly moderate due to the ocean and Gulf Stream. The winter months average around 0 °C (32 °F) in southeast Iceland and about -10°C in the north. If you are planning on driving, be weary of blizzards and blowing snow – the wind in Iceland is fierce! If you don’t like the colder winter months but want to enjoy the unique experiences Iceland has to offer in the winter, stick to the southern part of Iceland.

How Cold is Iceland in Winter?

As a Canadian in the capital city, it wasn’t too bad! However, Iceland isn’t just cold, it’s wet and windy. I found it to be milder than winters in Ottawa, but the wind is wild. Reykjavik is warmer than the highlands and rural areas of Iceland.

What to Pack for Iceland in Winter

If you have plans to visit Iceland in winter, you’re first thought might be what to pack. The best winter clothing for Iceland is layered, waterproof, and windproof. You’ll also want breathable layers to avoid overheating when indoors or in the car.

Depending on the length of your trip, and whether you like to bring a carry on or checked bag, you may wish to increase the amounts shown below. Most people travel to Iceland for as little as a 24 hour stopover or up to 5+ days. This Iceland packing list would be great for anywhere from the 2- to 5-day range, and add more options if you plan to go for longer.

Read more: 4-day Iceland Winter Itinerary: Ice Caves and Reykjavik in the Snow

Iceland Winter Packing List

• 2–3 short-sleeve shirts (for layering)
• 3–5 long sleeve base layers (merino wool recommended)
• 1 warm sweater or cardigan (fleece or wool)
• 2 pairs of pants (preferably waterproof or quick-drying)
• 1 pair warm pajamas (hotels can be chilly!)
• 2 bras
• 7 pairs of underwear (I always pack extra!)
• 5+ pairs of warm socks (wool is ideal for warmth and moisture control)
• 1 bathing suit (Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or hotel hot tubs)
• 1 dress or outfit for a night out (optional)

Outerwear

A winter coat is necessary for being comfortable in Iceland in the winter, but a light warm base layer is also recommended.

I wore a waterproof down parka with a windproof shell, perfect for Iceland’s unpredictable weather. A merino wool base layer under a midweight fleece is a cozy combo. Don’t skip the hat, gloves, and scarf. You’ll especially need them if you’re out hunting Northern Lights!

💡 Pro Tip: Pack a bright-colored coat like yellow or pink. It’ll pop beautifully against Iceland’s dramatic winter backdrops!

Tops

Warmth will be key for comfort in winter in Iceland. Having a merino wool base layer is ideal, with a few layering options like long sleeves or a sweater. If you can create a clothing capsule and pack items like sweaters/cardigans that will be warm on an outdoor adventure but nice for a dinner outing, you’re set!

Bottoms

Iceland is wet year round, so waterproof or quick drying pants will be your best friend for your Iceland winter packing list. These pants from Aritzia are my favourite travel pants because they’re stylish but very comfortable and pack up tightly without wrinkling. I also love travelling with a pair of leggings. You can also bring a pair of rain pants or snow pants but I found I was comfortable without them. I don’t recommend jeans because they’re likely to get wet from rain or snow and they are not fun to sit in wet.

Shoes for Iceland

The best shoes for Iceland in winter are insulated, waterproof boots with strong grip. Icelandic sidewalks and trails can be icy. Optional: Add traction cleats or Yaktrax for added stability, especially if you plan on walking in rural areas or on packed snow.

Other Essentials for your Iceland Packing List

• A reusable water bottle. This is one of the top items that should be on every list
• Toiletries/makeup: toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, soap, face wash, moisturizer, a comb/brush, etc.
• Hand warmers: for hands but also for a camera
• Photography equipment: including my camera, lens, tripod, remote (for shutter), extra SD card, extra batteries and camera bag
• Electronics and their chargers
• Universal adapter
• Moisturizing lip balm (wind + dry air)
• Sunscreen (yes, even in winter from the reflection off snow)
• Travel towel (for hot springs/lagoon visits)
• Dry bag or waterproof pouch (for phones/cameras at waterfalls or hot springs)
• Power bank (cold temps drain phone batteries faster)
• Snacks/protein bars (gas station food is $$$ and remote areas can have long gaps)

Optional Comfort / Just-In-Case Items

• Hair straightener – can double as a curling iron
• Especially these days, I pack these sanitary wipes in my bag to wipe down any plastic surfaces on the plane/public transport
• Cold medicine and Advil (considered a non-essential because you can buy some in Iceland if you need to).