Iceland Packing List for Road Tripping and Families

The cold Icelandic weather will drain your phone battery faster than you think, especially when you’re taking hundreds of photos of waterfalls. Keep a power bank handy so you’re never caught with a dead phone mid-road trip.

Icelandic tap water is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world, so don’t even think about buying plastic bottles. Bring a reusable one and fill it up from any tap for free throughout your trip.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you’re out on a remote trail.

A dedicated wash pouch keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your gear. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in those compact camper van bathrooms.

Whether you’re trying to sleep on the flight or staying at a busy campsite, a pair of ear plugs is absolute gold for ensuring you get some quiet rest during your Icelandic adventure.

Separating your laundry from your clean clothes is a simple way to stay organized, especially when you’re dealing with damp gear from a rainy day near the waterfalls.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing layers and varied climate gear so easy. They’re perfect for keeping your base layers separate from your evening outfits in your bag.

You’ll want a bag that can handle being dragged through busy airports and fits easily into the back of a rental car. We found that soft-sided duffel bags are much easier to manage in a camper van than rigid hard-shell suitcases.

If you’re planning on bringing home some local wool sweaters or souvenirs, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag’s weight. A quick check with a scale can save you from those annoying overweight fees at the airport.

A waterproof daypack is perfect for carrying your water, sunscreen and extra layers while you’re out exploring the trails. You’ll want something comfortable that will keep your gear dry even during those sudden Icelandic showers.

I find a sling bag to be one of the most versatile things I pack because it works for city walks in Reykjavik and keeps my most important things right across my chest where they’re easy to reach.

Even in a cold climate, a few breathable short-sleeve shirts are great for layering under sweaters and jackets. They’re perfect for those moments when you step into a cozy heated cabin or cafe.

Long-sleeve shirts are ideal for providing that extra layer of mid-layer warmth between your base layer and your outer shell. Look for fabrics that offer a bit of insulation without being too heavy.

I find lightweight joggers to be some of the most versatile things I pack because they’re perfect for relaxing in your cabin after a long day of hiking. They’re also great for those long travel days in the rental car.

Comfortable long pants are a staple for exploring the island’s parks and historic sites. You’ll want a pair that offers a bit of stretch and wind protection for all those outdoor activities.

A warm sweater or fleece is a crucial layer for those cool evening walks along the coast. It’s the perfect thing to throw on when the sun goes down and that Atlantic air turns even chillier.

A good waterproof and windproof jacket is absolutely essential because the Icelandic weather can change in a heartbeat. It’ll keep you dry during sudden showers and block those biting ocean breezes.

You’ll probably be showering and changing more than usual after those active days. Bring plenty of extras so you always have a fresh pair throughout your road trip.

Choosing a comfortable and supportive sports bra is key for those long days of hiking and exploring. You’ll want something that doesn’t pinch or chafe while you’re hitting all the major sites.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the boots themselves in Iceland. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and warm even during long walks in the damp terrain.

When that biting wind starts blowing off the Atlantic, you’ll be so glad you have a warm hat. It’s an essential for both staying cozy and adding a bit of local style to your outdoor look.

The coastal breeze in Iceland can be quite persistent, even on sunny days. A warm scarf or neck gaiter is an easy way to stay toasty and protect your neck from the wind while you’re out sightseeing.

Proper waterproof hiking boots are an absolute must for navigating the uneven and often wet Icelandic terrain. Make sure they’re already broken in before you arrive so you can avoid any painful blisters on your trip!

Since your feet are likely to get a bit damp from either rain or mist, having multiple pairs of warm, moisture-wicking socks is key. They’ll keep your toes toasty and comfortable regardless of the weather.

If you’re hitting the hiking trails, you’ll want some dedicated thick hiking socks. They provide extra cushioning and help manage moisture much better than your regular everyday pairs.

While you’ll want boots for the countryside, a comfortable pair of waterproof walking shoes is perfect for exploring the streets of Reykjavik. They’re an easy way to stay dry while you’re hitting the local cafes and sights.

A lightweight daypack is perfect for carrying your water, sunscreen and an extra layer while you’re out on the trails. You’ll want something comfortable that won’t weigh you down as you’re climbing up to those views.

The weather in Iceland can be quite fickle, so a good rain jacket is a smart addition to your hiking kit. It’ll keep you dry during sudden showers and block those cool breezes at higher elevations.

A good warm hat is one of the most important things for protecting yourself from the wind while you’re out on the trails. We found that a beanie that covers your ears offered the best protection for those long days of hiking.

for bright days and glacier reflection

Staying hydrated is key when you’re walking miles between natural sites and waterfalls. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to save money while you’re exploring the island’s pristine water.

A quick-dry towel is a lifesaver for managing mist from the waterfalls. It’s lightweight and takes up almost no space, making it an easy thing to throw in your daypack for any outing.

Proper hiking boots are an absolute must for navigating the rugged landscape. You’ll be glad for the extra ankle support and waterproofing when you’re out exploring the more remote areas of the island.

Don’t underestimate the sun while you’re out on the glaciers or exploring the coast. A bit of sunscreen will save you from a nasty burn during those long days of sightseeing in the clear Atlantic air.

Hand sanitizer is such a handy thing to have in your daypack, especially for quick snacks during your road trip. It’s an easy way to stay fresh while you’re out and about in the more remote areas.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you have a minor scrape in the countryside.

While cell service is generally good, having offline maps or a dedicated GPS can be a lifesaver in the more remote areas of the island. It’s an easy way to stay on track even when you lose your signal.

A sling bag or fanny pack is the perfect way to keep your most important things right at your fingertips while you’re out exploring. It keeps your valuables secure and your hands free for taking photos.

Sometimes it’s nice to put the phone away and look at a physical guidebook for local context. It’s a great way to learn more about the island’s history without staring at a screen all day.

The sun can be surprisingly strong as it reflects off the glaciers and the ocean waves. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re out exploring.

A warm hat is a versatile accessory that works for both sun protection and extra warmth during those chilly morning walks. Plus, it always looks great in those iconic Icelandic landscape photos!

Staying hydrated is key when you’re walking miles between natural sites and waterfalls. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to save money and reduce plastic waste while you’re exploring.

Believe me when I say you’ll be doing a lot of walking, from the streets of Reykjavik all the way out to the remote waterfalls. Your feet will thank you for choosing support and comfort over style.

A good warm hat is one of the most important things for protecting yourself from the cold while you’re stationary at night. We found that a thick wool beanie offered the best warmth during those long hours of waiting.

I’ve learned that keeping your feet warm is the hardest part of standing still at night. Quality thick wool socks will keep your toes toasty and comfortable regardless of how low the temperature drops.