Iceland Packing List: What to Pack for Spring, Summer & Fall

2 hours ago
10 min read

A smiling couple in Iceland with a rainbow over a waterfall, greenery, and river. Text: "The Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide."

Iceland is one of the most dramatic destinations we’ve ever visited — waterfalls crashing over cliffs, steaming geothermal vents, black sand beaches, moss-covered lava fields, and glacier-fed rivers. But packing for Iceland? That’s where things get tricky. Even in summer, Iceland can feel cold. Even on a sunny morning, rain can roll in by afternoon. And the wind? Well… You can count on it. Packing smart isn’t about packing more — it’s about packing strategically. This Iceland packing list is designed specifically for Spring, Summer, and Fall travel — the three most popular seasons for visiting. Whether you’re doing the Golden Circle, the South Coast, Reykjavík, or the full Ring Road, this guide will help you pack efficiently without overdoing it.

Check out our Iceland Essentials Amazon list for our personal recommendations on everything mentioned in this guide and more!

⬇️ See this packing list in action! ⬇️

See exactly what we packed, wore, and used throughout

our Iceland trip in our full video series!

Clothing Essentials

Iceland’s weather can change quickly, and packing the right clothing is all about layering. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly and windy, afternoons can bring light rain, and evenings cool down fast—sometimes all on the same day. Whether you're exploring waterfalls, walking through geothermal areas, or road-tripping along the coast, having the right layers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. Here’s what you’ll need to be prepared for Iceland in the spring, summer, and fall:

▪️Base Layers: Start with moisture-wicking thermal base layers to help regulate your temperature during cooler mornings and windy days. You may not need them every single day, but you’ll definitely want to pack at least one good pair. We recommend using Merino wool if possible since it regulates temperature extremely well and resists odor (seriously… you can go days… sometimes weeks without washing it). The downside to Merino wool? It’s expensive. So if Merino wool isn’t in the budget, synthetic base layers will work just fine. Natalie loves her Cuddl Duds, and I’ve been really liking these fleece-lined compression pants.

▪️Mid Layers: This is your insulation layer. Pack sweaters, fleeces, flannels, sweatshirts, and a lightweight puffer jacket for added warmth. Even in the summer months, wind exposure can make it feel much colder than the actual temperature. Merino wool is superior here as well, but synthetic options will absolutely get the job done. Also, a packable puffer and fleece are some of the most versatile pieces you can bring since they layer easily under your rain jacket or can be worn on their own when conditions are milder. For fleece, we keep it pretty basic with the Columbia Fast Trek II for Natalie and the Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 for me. And the For puffer jackets, I wear a classic design like this Eddie Bauer one, while Natalie prefers a slightly longer, parka-style like this Eddie Bauer one.

▪️Outer Layers: A fully waterproof rain jacket is absolutely essential in Iceland. Not “water-resistant”. Not “weatherproof”. Fully waterproof. Between waterfall mist, sudden rain showers, and constant wind exposure, this is the item you’ll likely wear the most. Natalie wears the Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap Stretch 2.0 Parka, while I prefer the Eddie Bauer Packable Rainfoil Jacket. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Columbia Glennaker Lake II (men’s) and the Columbia Lillian Ridge II (women’s) are both solid options.

▪️Pants: Avoid cotton (especially jeans), as it absorbs moisture, stays wet, and will make you cold fast. Instead, opt for synthetic or quick-dry pants that are breathable and flexible. I’ve enjoyed these CRZ Yoga pants, and Natalie often wears these fleece-lined leggings, but we also pack insulated, water-resistant pants for cooler, wetter days when conditions can change quickly.

▪️Footwear: Comfortable, waterproof shoes are a must in Iceland. You’ll likely be walking on wet rocks, gravel, mud, uneven terrain, and slick boardwalks near waterfalls. Even if you’re not planning major hikes, waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes make a huge difference. Natalie wears the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX, and I wear the Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid GTX — both have held up incredibly well in wet, unpredictable conditions. If you prefer something slightly more versatile for both town and nature, Blundstone Chelsea boots are a solid option. Just don’t rely on basic sneakers — they won’t cut it once things get wet.

▪️Socks: Good socks matter more than you think. Between damp conditions, wind exposure, and long days on your feet, quality socks make a noticeable difference. We recommend FITS or Smartwool Full-Cushion Socks for durability, comfort, and warmth. They’re not the cheapest, but they last for years and are worth the investment.

▪️Accessories: Don’t forget a warm beanie or ear cover, lightweight gloves (especially in spring and fall), a buff or neck gaiter, and polarized sunglasses. Wind chill in Iceland can be stronger than you expect, even on sunny days. For sunglasses, I use FEIDUSUN Polarized Sunglasses as a more affordable polarized option, but I love my Carfia Polarized Sunglasses for a more refined look while still remaining budget-friendly. Natalie, on the other hand, swears by her Polarized Ray-Bans.

▪️Swimwear: Don’t forget a swimsuit and flip-flops. Iceland is famous for its geothermal lagoons and hot springs, and you don’t want to miss out because you packed poorly. I wear the Fabletics “The One” Shorts or these vintage-style swim trunks, and Natalie loves this one-piece and bikini set. For waterproof sandals, we keep it pretty simple with our Quiksilver or Havaianas. The key is choosing something low-profile for easy packing and something with no fabric so you’re not packing up wet flip-flops after a soak.

Those are the core clothing items we recommend for Iceland in the spring, summer, and fall. Dressing in smart layers will keep you comfortable no matter what the weather decides to do. Now let’s talk about the gear and travel essentials that will make your trip smoother... Especially if you’re road-tripping or planning to capture Iceland’s unreal landscapes.

Smiling couple in front of a waterfall with a rainbow. They're outdoors, wearing jackets, with lush green hills in the background.

Gear & Technology

Iceland is one of the most photogenic places we’ve ever visited — but it’s also one of the windiest and wettest. Having the right gear not only helps you capture the experience, but it also protects your equipment and keeps your travel days running smoothly. Here are the essentials we recommend bringing:

▪️Camera with Zoom Lens: Iceland’s landscapes are massive, and wildlife (like puffins or seals) won’t always be right in front of you. A camera with a solid zoom lens makes a huge difference for capturing details you can’t reach. We shoot on a Sony A7CII (mostly photo) and a Sony ZV-E1 (mostly video), paired with a few different lenses, but a versatile zoom lens like a 24-70 f2.8 will allow us to capture everything from wide waterfall shots to tighter landscape frames. If you want to truly capture wildlife, something in the 200-600 range is ideal, while a 70-200 is a great middle ground, plus this Sony version lets you get some really detailed macro shots as well! And if all these numbers and letters look like complete gibberish to you, that’s totally fine. At the end of the day, the best camera is the one you’ll actually carry and use — even if that’s just your phone.

▪️Filters (Polarizer, ND & Protection): If you’re bringing a camera to Iceland, lens filters are worth considering. A circular polarizer helps reduce glare off water and wet surfaces (which you’ll encounter constantly near waterfalls), while also deepening blue skies and boosting contrast on bright days. ND (neutral density) or VND (variable neutral density) filters are helpful if you want to create that smooth, “silky water” effect at waterfalls by slowing down your shutter speed. And a simple UV or clear protection filter adds an extra layer of protection for your lens, which is especially important in windy, mist-heavy conditions where water spray and debris are common. You can also find filters that combine the circular polarizer with a VND into one, like this one by K&F Concept.

▪️Action Cameras, Drones & Unique Perspectives: If you're looking to capture unique angles and more dynamic video footage from your time in Iceland — especially in places where a regular camera won’t cut it — consider bringing an action camera, 360 camera, drone, or compact gimbal camera. Drones offer incredible aerial perspectives of waterfalls, cliffs, and volcanic landscapes (just be sure to follow local regulations and posted no-drone zones). Action cameras are perfect for rugged conditions, snorkeling between tectonic plates, waterfall mist, or hands-free hiking shots. A 360 cameragives you flexibility in post-production and lets you reframe your shots later and get some unique perspectives. And a compact gimbal camera is great for smooth, stabilized footage without carrying a full camera setup. These aren’t mandatory, but they can absolutely elevate the way you document your trip.

▪️Charging Essentials (Car Charger & Power Bank): Long days on the road in Iceland mean constant navigation, filming, photos, and checking weather conditions, which drains batteries fast. A reliable USB car charger is essential if you’re renting a vehicle, so you can power devices between stops. We also always travel with a high-capacity portable power bank for backup, especially on longer days away from accommodations. Between cold temperatures and heavy usage, batteries can die quicker than you expect, so having both is a simple way to avoid unnecessary stress.

▪️Bags & Carry Solutions: Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall or road-tripping between stops, having the right bag setup makes a big difference. A comfortable daypack is ideal for carrying extra layers, snacks, water, and camera gear throughout the day. We prefer something lightweight but structured enough to distribute weight well. If you’re bringing camera equipment, a padded camera insert or dedicated camera backpack adds protection without sacrificing organization. And in Iceland specifically, a small waterproof dry bag is incredibly useful for protecting electronics, wallets, or spare layers from waterfall mist and sudden rain. Conditions can change quickly, and having gear that keeps your belongings dry gives you peace of mind.

A couple in swimsuits sharing a joyful moment in a stone hot spring, set against a rustic wooden hut and a pink and blue sunset sky.

Road Trip & Daily Carry Essentials

Iceland is a road trip destination at heart. Even if you’re only visiting for a few days, you’ll likely spend long stretches driving between waterfalls, geothermal areas, coastal viewpoints, and small towns. Beyond clothing and camera gear, there are a few practical items that will make your drive days smoother, more comfortable, and far less stressful.

▪️Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water in Iceland is some of the cleanest in the world, and it’s free! Bring a reusable water bottle so you can refill at accommodations, rest stops, and public facilities instead of constantly buying bottled water. We prefer an insulated bottle to keep water cold throughout the day, but you can’t go wrong with a classic Nalgene. If packability is a high priority, a collapsible water bottle is also a great option.

▪️Snacks for Long Drives: Iceland may look small on a map, but distances between towns can be farther than expected — and food options aren’t always open when you need them. On top of that, Iceland is expensive. Bringing a small stash of protein bars, trail mix, jerky, or even meal replacement bars from home can save you a surprising amount of money over the course of your trip. Having snacks in the car also keeps you flexible if the weather slows you down or restaurants close earlier than anticipated. You can always supplement with local bakeries or gas station stops along the way, but having backup options prevents unnecessary stress (and overspending).

▪️eSIM or Reliable Data Plan: Having reliable data in Iceland makes a huge difference, especially on long drive days. You’ll likely be using Google Maps constantly, checking weather and wind conditions, looking up road closures, and adjusting plans on the fly. While service is generally strong along major routes, we always recommend setting up an international eSIM before you arrive so you’re connected the moment you land. It eliminates the hassle of airport SIM kiosks or swapping physical cards, and it gives you peace of mind from day one. Our preferred eSIM is Holafly, and if you use our code ADVENTURESOFMATTANDNAT, you’ll get 5% off your eSIM!

▪️GPS Audio Tour App (GuideAlong): If you’re road-tripping through Iceland, a GPS-guided audio tour app like GuideAlong can completely elevate your experience. It works offline using your phone’s GPS and automatically plays commentary as you drive — sharing local history, geology, hidden gems, and suggested stops along your route. It’s essentially like having a tour guide in your car without being on a group tour schedule. We love tools like this because they add context to what you’re seeing instead of just pulling over for photos and moving on.

▪️Lip Balm & Sun Protection: Between strong winds, cool air, and long hours outdoors, chapped lips and dry skin are very real in Iceland, even in the summer. A quality lip balm or chapstick is a must, and we also recommend bringing a good face moisturizer to combat windburn. Don’t forget sunscreen either. UV rays can still be strong, especially with reflective surfaces like water, glaciers, and snow, amplifying exposure. Even on overcast days, you’ll want protection if you’re spending extended time outside.

▪️Small First Aid Kit & Motion Sickness Relief: You don’t need anything extreme, but packing a small basic first aid kit is smart, especially if you’re walking long distances or breaking in new hiking shoes (which you should have already done, but we won’t get into this, lol). Blister care, band-aids, and a few basic pain relievers can go a long way. If you’re planning any boat tours (like whale watching), consider bringing motion sickness medication or patches just in case. Conditions on the water can change quickly, and it’s much better to have it and not need it than the other way around. Plus, they can be useful for car sickness as well!

A couple in bright red and yellow jackets smiles near a powerful waterfall, surrounded by mossy cliffs and rocks, under a blue sky.

Planning Your Iceland Itinerary?

Now that you know what to pack for Iceland, the next step is planning how to use it.

If you're visiting for a shorter trip, our Golden Circle guide walks you through Iceland’s most famous route, including waterfalls, geothermal areas, and hidden gems you can realistically see in one day from Reykjavik.

If you have a little more time, our 48 Hours on the South Coast guide (COMING SOON) covers dramatic black sand beaches, glacier hikes, iconic waterfalls, and some of the most photogenic landscapes in the country.

Both guides include detailed stop-by-stop itineraries, practical tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

Packing for Iceland can seem like a daunting task, but with some strategic planning (and the right gear), you’ll be ready for everything from misty waterfalls and glacier hikes to long coastal drives and black sand beaches. Iceland’s weather may be unpredictable, but your packing list doesn’t have to be.

If you want to see everything we personally use and recommend in one place, we’ve linked it all in our Iceland Essentials Amazon list. That includes all the clothing, gear, and travel items mentioned throughout this guide.

If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out our full Iceland travel series on YouTube for a closer look at our experience, including route ideas and detailed itineraries. Seeing the weather we experienced and what we actually wore and used throughout the trip can help you feel even more prepared. You can also follow us on Instagram @AdventuresofMattandNat for behind-the-scenes moments and future travel inspiration! Safe travels and enjoy Iceland!

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