Iceland’s northernmost region practically bumps into the Arctic Circle, but most travelers are surprised by its climate once they visit. If you’re traveling in late fall or winter, you’ll need to plan for cold, rainy, and windy conditions, but not the snowy tundra that many people expect. For example, in Reykjavík in the middle of winter, temperatures can drop to 31°F, but he can usually cope with two important packing tips.
Create your Iceland winter pack list with the idea of layering your clothing and prioritizing waterproof materials. Although temperature is not always the culprit, constantly changing weather conditions can cause problems. Wind and rain can occur at any time, and it can get quite cold when it’s wet while temperatures hover in the relatively mild 30s. On the other hand, when the sun comes out, it’s intense. Layering waterproof items will help you adjust quickly throughout the day.
1. You need a raincoat when traveling to Iceland
The first thing to consider is a raincoat designed to withstand the elements. This is similar to what’s on your Iceland summer packing list, but still important. If you’re going to Iceland, you need to buy an authentic raincoat. This is more technical than something you’d wear around town or running errands.backcountry Runoff 2.5L Rain Jacket It’s waterproof and breathable, which has the big advantage of being able to stuff it in your pocket.
2. Get a versatile merino wool sweater
Merino wool has excellent insulation properties and is odor-resistant, making it a great addition to your Iceland packing list. Perfect for layering. A lightweight merino wool sweater is perfect to wear over a simple base layer. These two layers and a waterproof coat are usually a good combination. You don’t necessarily need a super thick wool sweater. Merino wool is the main material.His thin merino wool sweater, like Royal Robbins. Westlands Fair Isle Sweater– and base layers are much more versatile than bulky sweaters. You can easily pack a merino layer into your daypack and have it on hand at all times.
3. Stock up on waterproof bags
Even when it’s not raining in Iceland, visiting one of the many waterfalls means you’ll experience wet conditions up close. Walking behind an Icelandic waterfall is a must-do bucket list adventure, but the mist and spray that rises from the falls can be intense. Bring a waterproof cover for your daypack and invest in a small fully waterproof hip pack style bag to protect your phone, wallet and passport from potential water damage. 4L roll top downstream bag This bag can be used as a Chums waist bag or a shoulder bag. The simple design also has the advantage of a pack flat that reduces the bulk of your luggage.
4. Bring a windbreaker
The wind in Iceland surprises people. A good raincoat will help you stay comfortable. Still, if you plan on going hiking or participating in more strenuous activities, consider a different windbreaker. Adventures like this generate more body heat.this Merino cotton windbreaker Icebreakers protect you from light rain and wind, but also “vent” excess heat through underarm mesh gussets and a special back panel. Plus, bright colors look great against gray or rainy backgrounds.
5. Ignore puddles and snow with gaiters
Iceland’s natural attractions are often easily accessible to tourists, just hop in your car, park, and walk to amazing sights like the famous waterfall Gullfoss. Sometimes you have to do some light walking, but depending on Mother Nature’s mood, there may be puddles. Additionally, if it’s snowing, be careful not to get the hems of your pants wet. Kahtoola waterproof NAVAgaiter™ GTX Ultra Tough Gaiter It hugs your foot snugly to keep the elements out, and the stirrup straps at the bottom prevent it from riding up.
6. Bring extra gloves
The gloves are small so it’s easy to pack extra. Temperatures are generally at average winter cold levels, but it’s a good idea to change your gloves if they get too wet. Bring one pair of warm, waterproof gloves and two pairs of thinner gloves. The benefit of having extra gloves is that you have a layering option plus a go-to option in case of mild temperatures. Don’t forget to look for touchscreen-compatible gloves. HEATTECH lined functional gloves From Uniqlo. Stay warm and comfortable in Iceland on a budget with these cost-effective brands.
7. Don’t forget your swimsuit
Iceland is as famous for its many natural hot springs and spas as it is for its volcanoes and adventure. Most guided tours include a visit to a soaking hole, so plan ahead and bring your swimsuit. Usually people wear swimsuits and winter hats. If you’re a do-it-yourself traveler, plan your hat to match your swimsuit.Andy Swim’s tulum dress It holds up well even after a quick wash in a hotel sink, and its cherry red color looks great in photos. For men and those who prefer swimming trunks, Vineyard Vines is the perfect choice. chappy swimming trunks— with over 30 prints.
8. Insulate with a base layer
If you’re traveling to Iceland in the winter, you’ll probably be wearing base layers most days. These will be the first layer closest to your skin. For maximum comfort, it should be both insulating and breathable. Along these lines, avoid scratchy fabrics. hot chili’s offers Clima-Wool base layers in styles for children, men, and women, but the design is perfect for those looking for a genderless style. This brand’s base layers are made from odor-resistant merino wool, so even if he stays for a week, he only needs one set.
9. Storage is a plus for your Icelandic adventure
You can spend plenty of time searching the internet for versatile layers that can be stored in pockets or small pouches. Proper layering also requires a base layer, a mid-layer such as a light wool sweater, and an outer jacket. In some cases, you may want to add an additional layer as a backup. When the wind starts to pick up, a hat and hooded coat will come in handy.lore makes this base insulation jacketFeaturing Primaloft® vegan insulation, hood and great storage. Additionally, it has been tested to temperatures as low as 14°F.
10. Don’t skimp on socks
Not only will you need a few pairs of socks when touring Iceland, but it’s also important to be comfortable in your hotel. Heat Holders offers his thermal socks in 3 different thicknesses. LITE™ crew socks and ULTRA LITE™ options work well inside already insulated hiking boots. If you plan on wearing rain boots, you may want to choose ORIGINAL™ Socks from the same brand. Once back at the hotel, ORIGINAL™ is the best because it’s so thick. cozy slouchy lounge socks.
Melanie is a travel and adventure writer who grew up in the woods of New England. Her passion for riding UTVs on decommissioned railroad tracks as a child replaced her lifelong passion for hiking. When she was 19 years old she moved to Alaska on her own and began her life of travel and adventure. She continued her travels while working on her 7 year passion project as a private chef and she has now visited over 20 countries. As she entered her 20s, Mel began traveling solo, including diving with tiger sharks in the Bahamas and tracking whales in Baja, Mexico. Along the way, she developed an interest in national parks and began exploring them during the less-traveled winter months, making snowmobiling in Yosemite and winter hiking in Yosemite memorable for a lifetime. Ta. Whether it’s her winter adventures or her January baby, she loves snowy adventures like dog sledding. She also took a day-long survival course with Mark D’Ambrosio from the History Channel’s survivor style show Alone. She’ll be ready whenever the opportunity arises to explore wineries in Austria, snorkeling coves in the Galapagos, seaside Airstream camps on Cape Cod, and more. The only piece of luggage she takes on her trip is her backpack. .
In 2017, Mel returned to university to focus on food and culture journalism, which included courses in foraging and herbalism. During her time at Amherst College, Mel was a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society. She received the University of Massachusetts Jack Wilson Presidential Scholarship and the Amherst Alumni Association Senior Leadership Award. She earned her 4.0 GPA and graduated with honors.
