Iceland Packing List for Road Tripping and Families

I packed very light for my trip to Iceland, and guess what, everything worked out fine. If you want to pack like a pro and visit Iceland for your first time, I’ve put together this guide that can get you through all the questions you’ll have about what you need to take a trip to Iceland.

While lots of people think Iceland is cold all year round, it’s simply not true. Summer can be moderate with temperatures in the high 50s, although nights will be in the 40s. Winter is, naturally, pretty cold, but might mirror the temperatures you’re used to if you come from various northern parts of the US or Canada.

In the checklist that follows, use the packing ideas I had for my trip to Iceland (I had a blast). Use the trip packing selector right here, below, to choose the length of your trip.

Packing essentials

All these super important items form the basis of what you’ll need in Iceland, from local currency and your travel docs, to convenient must-have products like First Aid.

Packing organization

With the items below in this section, stay organized while you pack so that you can dig out your balled-up jacket as soon as the cold sets in during your days in Iceland. Using packing cubes and making sure your luggage isn’t oversized helps manage the size of everything you’re taking, and packing day bags into larger luggage is one of my best minimal hacks.

Clothing for cold weather

Layering is key in Iceland, although you’ll be going from moderate temperatures to cooler, and then colder ones. The main variables are rain and wind, because cooler or cold temperatures are the constant. For managing the cold, make sure to have thermals, layers, hoods and fleece materials.

Footwear

Iceland’s rocky and hilly terrain requires sturdy, waterproof footwear. You’ll be walking on uneven surfaces, near waterfalls and potentially on ice or snow, depending on the season. Here are a few waterproof and versatile shoe products I take along for a trip to Iceland, as well as the ideal socks to go with them.

Hiking and outdoor gear

If you plan to explore Iceland’s trails, glaciers, waterfalls and rugged landscape, you’ll want gear that handles elevation changes, variable weather and varied terrain. I’ll emphasize that rain happens from time to time in Iceland, and near geysers or waterfalls, be prepared to be right up close to water during your hikes and outdoor exploring.

Toiletries and health

You can buy most things in Reykjavik, but having these products already packed will save time and stress. Iceland is expensive, so bringing items from home can save money. I think this is where a lot of travelers make the same decision to take as many emergency items as you can, from home, because the large majority of specialty products in Iceland are imported (and priced as such).

Electronics and tech

Stay connected so that you’re in communication with your Airbnb host, or your family at home. And, make sure your tech is charged up while exploring Iceland’s Ring Road, using navigation systems to drive or capturing photos of the stunning landscapes that will be out your window all day long.

Sightseeing essentials

I think Iceland is one of the most sightseeing-heavy places I have ever been. The sights are plentiful and it’s easy to pack your days with lots of natural landscapes to see, as well as vistas of small towns, villages and incredible natural phenomena. As you’re exploring Iceland’s Ring Road, waterfalls, geysers and attractions, make sure your day bag has handy essentials so that you don’t have to head back to your accommodation to pick something up.

Northern Lights viewing

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter or early spring to see the northern lights, you’ll need additional gear for staying warm during nighttime viewing. Keep in mind that there is a difference between being outdoors in the cold and hiking (being active) versus being outdoors in the cold, at night, and being stationary, which is how you’ll be viewing the Northern Lights. What I mean to say is, you’ll be colder while you’re outside watching the natural light show, so bring out those super-warm socks and hats.