Packing for a trip to Iceland isn’t like preparing for your average vacation! With its dramatic weather, rugged landscapes, geothermal activity, and ethereal beauty, Iceland demands a thoughtful packing list. While everyone remembers their jackets and hiking boots, there are things people forget when packing for Iceland—and many of them are surprisingly essential.
So, whether you’re driving the Ring Road or soaking in a hidden hot spring, this list of often-overlooked items will ensure you’re fully prepared for every magical moment! Happy packing and enjoy your trip!
13 Things People Forget When Packing for Iceland
1. Swimwear (Yes, Even in Winter!)
It may seem odd to bring a swimsuit to a land known for glaciers and volcanoes, but Iceland is rich with geothermal hot springs. The famous Blue Lagoon and the lesser-known Secret Lagoon in Flúðir are must-visits—and both require swimwear.
celanders love hot pots, and you’ll find public geothermal pools in almost every town. Don’t be the person stuck watching from the edge because you forgot your swimsuit. Use your once piece at celanders love hot pots, and you’ll find public geothermal pools in almost every town. Don’t be the person stuck watching from the edge because you forgot your swimsuit!
2. Quick-Dry Towel
Many travelers forget to pack a towel, assuming all accommodations will provide one. While most do, you’ll want a compact, quick-dry towel for spontaneous swims or roadside hot springs.
Traditional towels are bulky and slow to dry, especially in Iceland’s damp climate. Quick-dry versions are light, compact, and dry fast—even in cold conditions. Bring along to Hot springs, waterfalls, hostels, and during camping.
3. Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag
Iceland is a photographer’s paradise—but it’s also wet, windy, and wild. Whether you’re taking selfies near waterfalls like Gullfoss or trekking through rainstorms, you’ll want to protect your electronics.
Rain is unpredictable, and spray from waterfalls can soak everything. A waterproof case or dry bag keeps your phone, passport, and electronics safe! Use it when exploring Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, boat tours, glacier hikes, and during bad weather.
4. Headlamp or Flashlight
Depending on the season, Iceland can be dark for most of the day. While the Midnight Sun brings endless daylight in summer, winter months mean long nights—and rural areas have little to no light pollution.
A headlamp or flashlight are essential for spotting trails, finding your way in campgrounds, or hunting the Northern Lights without fumbling in the dark. We suggest using it on hiking paths, rural cabins, tent camping, or even walking to the restroom at night.
5. Sleep Mask
In summer, Iceland experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight. This can make sleeping tricky, especially in accommodations without blackout curtains. Get an eye mask or sleep mask to trick your body into thinking it’s nighttime and get proper rest during the bright summer nights. Bring along to hotels, camper vans, tents and more!
6. Reusable Water Bottle
Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world—straight from glacial sources. Yet many travelers waste money buying bottled water. A reusable water bottle is environmentally friendly, budget-saving, and always useful. Some bottles with built-in filters can double as hiking gear.
We love this due to it being good for the environment (yay less plastic!) and for the fact that it is versatile. It truly can be used everywhere: from Reykjavik to remote hiking trails!
7. Windproof Layers
Everyone remembers to bring a warm coat—but wind is one of Iceland’s most intense weather features. A down jacket is warm, but without windproof layers, you’ll still feel that icy blast.
Iceland’s fierce wind can cut through regular clothing. A proper windproof shell or jacket is crucial for comfort and safety. This is especially true if you’re visiting coastal areas, highlands or even walking around Reykjavik.
8. Sturdy, Waterproof Hiking Boots
Surprisingly, hiking boots often get left behind in favor of sneakers. Don’t make this mistake. Trails in Iceland range from muddy and mossy to icy and steep. Waterproof hiking boots offer grip, support, and dryness. Bring them along when exploring jaðrárgljúfur canyon, Þórsmörk, glaciers, lava fields, and waterfall paths.
9. Snacks or Energy Bars
Food in Iceland can be pricey, and grocery stores are scarce in remote areas. Having a stash of snacks can be a lifesaver. You may need a snack during long drives between towns, on hiking excursions, or even during lazy mornings that require quick fuel.
Pack nutrient-dense snacks that travel well! You will never know when you may need them. We’ve used snacks for road trips, hikes, camping or even when we get to a restaurant too late or too early and they’re closed!
10. Flip-Flops or Shower Sandals
While not ideal for Iceland’s rough terrain, flip-flops are perfect for geothermal pools, communal showers, and hostels. They keep your feet clean and fungus-free in shared spaces. Also great for lounging at hot springs without trekking in wet socks afterward. We’ve also seen people use them at campsites too! Don’t knock them.. and to be honest, they take up little space too.
11. Car Charger and Phone Mount
If you’re planning to drive around the island (and you should!), navigation and battery life are vital. Iceland’s landscape is perfect for road trips, but outlets can be few and far between on the road. A car charger and mount will keep your devices powered and your GPS easily visible. Use when exploring Ring Road, Golden Circle, Westfjords, or highland routes.
12. Moisturizer and Lip Balm
The wind, cold, and geothermal water can dry out your skin and lips fast. These often-forgotten items will save your face—literally. Iceland’s weather and sulfur-rich water are tough on skin. Pack good moisturizer and SPF lip balm for daily use! And truly make sure you use it every day, but especially so if you’re going swimming or hiking.
13. Travel Adapter (Type F Plug)
Iceland uses the European two-pin Type F electrical plug, and if you’re coming from the U.S., U.K., or other non-European countries, you’ll need an adapter. Don’t get caught in a pickle, because if you forget it…
You won’t be able to charge your gear without it. And while many hotels may have extras, it’s best not to rely on it. Use at accommodations, airports and at charging stations throughout Iceland to be prepared!
Final Thoughts: The Little Things Make the Biggest Difference
When dreaming of Iceland’s Northern Lights, black sand beaches, and thunderous waterfalls, it’s easy to forget the small stuff. But the things people forget when packing for Iceland often become the things they miss the most when they’re out in the wilderness, cold, wet, or in need of a snack.
Each item on this list has a specific role in making your adventure more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Packing smart doesn’t mean packing more—it means packing right. So, before you zip up your suitcase or load your camper van, double-check this list. The land of fire and ice awaits—and you’ll be ready for it all.
What to Wear in Iceland in the Fall: Iceland Outfit Ideas for September, October & November