Surprisingly, my Iceland packing checklist for winter isn’t too dissimilar from my Iceland summer time packing checklist — however there are some vital variations. Boy Scouts ought to do nicely in Iceland as a result of it is very important be ready. After visiting Iceland in winter and summer time, I’ve put some thought into what to put on in Iceland in winter and what different gear to place in your Iceland winter packing checklist. Don’t be caught unprepared!
The very first thing to bear in mind is that “winter” in Iceland is technically September via May. The common temperature is 32 levels Fahrenheit within the Southern Lowlands however will get right down to about 14 levels within the Highlands. This might not really feel that chilly when the solar is shining however for the reason that climate in Iceland is so unpredictable, this may rapidly change to wind, snow, or sleet, making the temperatures appear decrease.
What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Note: This publish accommodates affiliate hyperlinks. If you click on via and make a purchase order, I’ll obtain a small fee. Thank you in your assist!
- Base layer: since layering is essential, begin off with base layer. Columbia is one in every of my favourite manufacturers with their good heavyweight or Omniheat base layers.
- Fleece: You will then desire a good fleece to layer on high. You can all the time discover some heat and trendy choices from Columbia.
- Fleece-lined leggings: cold-weather leggings are nice for layering. You positively don’t wish to put on denims, as a result of if these get moist they’re so chilly and take endlessly to dry. The Dog Walker leggings from Aventura Clothing are very heat and constructed from recycled polyester. The Columbia Titan Pass Helix leggings are one other nice alternative.
- Water-resistant pants: You will even need some good waterproof pants to layer on high. Columbia’s Ballistic Ridge insulated pant is ideal for outside exercise and the Omni Shield know-how retains you dry.
- Water-proof pants: I’d additionally suggest pair of waterproof/windproof rain pants. You by no means know when it’d begin raining or snowing, or once you wish to rise up near a waterfall. Our complete household has made good use of our Columbia rainpants.
- Warm coat: Of course, you’ll be able to’t neglect a heat, waterproof, or waterproof coat ski jacket with warming know-how. A ski jacket is ideal since you wish to have the liberty of motion which you could’t simply get from an extended, down coat.
- Waterproof climbing boots: An absolute requirement is a very good pair of insulated, waterproof climbing boots or sturdy, sturdy snow boots with nice grip. I’d suggest the La Sportiva Gore-Tex Nepal Evo mountaineering boots or the Sorel Kinetic Conquest Sneaker Boot. You can also wish to put money into some strap-on crampons like Yaktrax, as a result of close to the waterfalls it’s pure ice within the winter.
- Wool socks: Wool socks are essential for staying heat and dry within the chilly climate and I don’t suppose there are any higher than Vermont-made Darn Tough socks.
- Hat and gloves: Just don’t neglect a very heat hat and gloves (particularly ones with touchscreen-friendly finger ideas so that you don’t freeze your palms off taking footage.)
- Bathing swimsuit: I do know that it might sound shocking to deliver a washing swimsuit to Iceland (particularly within the winter), however likelihood is, you will both cease on the Blue Lagoon or a minimum of take a dip in a sizzling spring or sizzling tub in some unspecified time in the future on the journey.
- Flip-flops: In addition to your bathing swimsuit, you might be additionally going to want flip flops for these sizzling springs or visits to the recent tubs.
- Polarized sun shades: The solar doesn’t keep out for lengthy within the winter, however when it does the reflection off the snow can have lots of glare. Bring polarized sun shades to guard your eyes.
If you do neglect something, simply head over to 66° North in Reykjavik or within the airport. I’ve a very heat hat, socks, and skinny microfleece gloves from them that I purchased in Iceland, plus I introduced Hannah again a pair of fleece-lined leggings of theirs that she loves.
Iceland Packing List for Winter
Now you understand what to put on in Iceland in winter, however there are different issues that have to go in your Iceland packing checklist. Remember, shops are few and much between so it would be best to deliver alongside some fundamental provides together with:
- Moisturizing lip balm (we love Burt’s Bees in our home.)
- A superb facial moisturizer with SPF solar safety.
- Protection in your cheeks from the wind and chilly, like Aquaphor.
- Tissue packs in your pockets.
- Foot and hand heaters to pop into your boots or gloves.
- Back up energy packs and a automobile charger in your cellphone. Remember, the chilly drains batteries so rapidly. I discovered that even once I warmed my cellphone again up it didn’t flip again on until I plugged it right into a cost.
- While telephones take wonderful footage, Iceland is one place the place you’ll desire a good digicam as a result of the surroundings is wonderful! Consider a weatherproof digicam or journey digicam.
- Make certain you deliver a wide-angle lens, tripod, a distant/shutter launch (to keep away from shaking your digicam), and tons of additional digicam further batteries (due to that chilly.)
- Day pack or backpack in your digicam, further batteries/chargers, and any further gear you would possibly want.
- Refillable water bottle — all of the water from the taps is clear so don’t fear about shopping for bottled water.
- Protein bars for when you find yourself out doing actions and wish a snack otherwise you simply can’t discover a place to eat.
- Electric outlet adapter (if you wish to use a hair dryer, flattening iron, and so on then additionally, you will want a converter — however don’t fear about your hair in Iceland ;)) I like those which have built-in USB ports so I don’t have to deliver as many (simply understand that they take longer to cost although this manner.)
- If you intend on going out at night time to search for the Northern Lights, take a soak in a sizzling tub below the celebs, or simply in case you might be out in nature after darkish, make certain to place a headlamp in your bag. One that has a purple gentle is greatest to reduce gentle air pollution for star gazing.
PIN THIS for Later