All-season essentials

Here’s a sample packing list of items you should bring with you regardless of the time of year you’re traveling:

• Warm coat
• Fleece jacket/lightweight wool sweater
• Rainproof/windproof jacket
• Rain pants
• Sturdy walking shoes with a good tread/grip
• Gloves
• Scarves
• Hat (toque/beanie)
• Swimsuit
• Thermal underwear (specifically for highland travel/activities)
• Waterproof hiking boots (specifically for highland travel/activites)
• Warm socks (specifically for winter and highland travel/activities)

Winter packing tips

Temperatures do not often drop below freezing during Icelandic winter, but an insulated jacket is recommended due to the cool northerly winds.

And, as sidewalks can get icy and slippery, you may want to bring ice cleats, ice grips or anti-slip soles to give your shoes better traction. These can also be purchased in Iceland at various shops, like outdoor clothing stores.

Hitting the town

Though dress codes are rarely enforced, Reykjavík is a cosmopolitan city like any other European capital. We recommend that you pack a nice outfit and shoes to wear if you plan on going out in Reykjavík either to grab a bite or to explore the city’s famous nightlife.

Forgot something?

Don’t worry, several apparel store and second-hand thrift shops can be found in downtown Reykjavík. Among them is Flying Tiger, a budget variety store with inexpensive accessories like sunglasses, gloves, ear plugs, batteries and more.

If you’re feeling cold or wet after arriving in the North Atlantic, we’d recommend paying a visit to their shops on Bankastrœti in Reykjavík or at the Kringlan or Smáralind shopping malls.

For lighter loads

We recommend bringing a rucksack or small backpack for your daily essentials (eg camera, wallet, medications, extra clothing layers, bottle of water, etc) since you may not have easy access to your suitcase during the day as you travel between accommodations. It can also come in handy for hiking excursions or picnics.