Visiting Iceland in November is a magical experience. With its snow-dusted landscapes, frosty waterfalls, northern lights, and fewer crowds, it’s one of the best months to explore this rugged, beautiful country. However, packing and dressing properly is key to enjoying your trip comfortably and safely. Icelandic weather in November is cold, wet, windy, and highly unpredictable. Knowing what to wear in Iceland in November can make or break your adventure!
Thus, this guide covers everything you need to know—from essential clothing tips and footwear advice to seven detailed outfit suggestions for various November activities.
What to Wear in Iceland in November
Layering is Key: Iceland Late Fall Clothes Essentials
In November, Iceland’s temperatures typically range between -3°C to 5°C (26°F to 41°F). Wind chill, rain, sleet, and occasional snow are common, so layering is essential. Here’s what to wear in Iceland in November as a foundational wardrobe:
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking thermal top and bottom, ideally made from merino wool or synthetic materials. These will keep you warm without making you feel bulky.
Mid Layer: Add a fleece or down jacket for insulation. This is your main warmth layer, so make sure it’s cozy but easy to move in
Outer Layer: A high-quality, waterproof coat with a hood is a must. It should be windproof and long enough to cover your lower body.
Pro Tip: Focus on waterproof clothing, especially your outer layers. Iceland can be rainy or snowy at any moment, and staying dry is essential for staying warm. I have a great post about choosing the best jackets for Iceland!
Footwear: What Shoes to Wear in Iceland in November
Footwear is just as critical as your jacket in Iceland. Here’s what to wear in Iceland in November when it comes to shoes:
Waterproof Boots: Look for sturdy, waterproof boots with good insulation. Whether you’re walking around Reykjavik or hiking in the countryside, you need boots that keep your feet warm and dry. Boots with a thick, non-slip sole are ideal for icy conditions.
Thermal Socks: Wool socks are your best friend here. Bring a few pairs of thick, thermal socks that will keep your feet cozy in the cold.
Traction Cleats: If you’re planning on walking on icy terrain (which you likely will be), bring a pair of cleats or ice grips that can attach to your boots.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to break in your boots before the trip! You’ll be walking a lot, and comfortable footwear is crucial. I do recommend wearing warm shoes when packing for Iceland in November! Also, always avoid sneakers or fashion boots: they are not warm or waterproof enough! And anything that has leathered soles is a no: a lack of traction is dangerous on ice!
Iceland Outfit Ideas for November
Now that you know the essentials, it’ll be easy to balance warmth, practicality, and style. But just incase you need ideas, here are 13 outfit combinations designed for different activities in Iceland. Each includes suggestions for base, mid, and outer layers, footwear, and accessories.
1. Reykjavik City Exploration
Exploring Reykjavik’s cozy cafes, museums, and shops? You’ll want an outfit that’s functional but still stylish enough for Iceland’s most popular urban setting. You can also wear whatever you are wearing out to explore the nature around Reykjavik if you don’t want to pack multiple outfits!
Base Layer: Merino wool thermal top and leggings.
Mid Layer: Wool sweater and jeans (with thermal leggings underneath). Or even fleece-lined jeans! Wool trousers are also an option!
Outer Layer: Stylish yet waterproof trench coat or parka. Add a faux-fur lined hood for some fashion!
Footwear: Waterproof leather boots with wool, warm socks.
Accessories: Scarf, knit hat, and gloves. We prefer wool scarves and beanies, and the touchscreen gloves are always a plus!
Why it Works: This outfit balances style and practicality! Walk around town, go on a dining adventure, or even go explore nature around the city. You’ll be protected against the wind and icy streets while looking cute.
2. Northern Lights Watching
Heading out on a nighttime excursion to see the Northern Lights? If so, you’ll need an extra-warm outfit since you’ll likely be standing outside for long periods. It will be way colder than you will expect and you will be in the outdoors for quite a while! So stay warm!
Base Layer: Wool thermal base layer (top and leggings).
Mid Layer: Down jacket and fleece pants
Outer Later: Waterproof insulated jacket and ski pants
Footwear: Insulated snow boots + wool socks
Accessories: Headlamp (although these are provided, so don’t go purchasing one for yourself!), beanie, touchscreen gloves. Add a wool scarf as needed! Matching sets are cute too!
Why it Works: This outfit will keep you warm while standing outside for long periods of time. You can stare at the Northern Lights for hours being comfortable because those are views you don’t want to miss!
3. Golden Circle Tour Outfit
For a day of adventure—whether hiking on a glacier, visiting waterfalls, or specifically touring the Golden Circle—you’ll need an outfit that’s warm, flexible, and waterproof. If you are taking a tour, make sure you have layers you can easily take on and off so that you don’t overheat on the tour bus too! Think quick and easy.
Base Layer: Merino wool set
Mid layer: Lightweight down jacket or down vest for warmth. Insulated hiking pants for more warmth!
Outer Layer: Waterproof shell jacket. Rain pants as needed. Make sure they’re easy to put on and take off!
Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with wool socks. Maybe even pack an extra pair to be safe!
Accessories: Knit hat, gloves, sunglasses. And yes, sunglasses, because that sun reflects off the snow and ice!
Why it Works: The layered comfort of this outfit is perfect for a tour day: whether you’re spending time walking, driving, and/or sightseeing, this will allow you to accomodate for the changing weather.
4. Waterfall Visit or Tour (Gullfoss or Seljalandfoss)
If you’re continuing your days of adventures—whether hiking on a glacier, visiting waterfalls, or touring the Ice Caves—you’ll still need an outfit that’s warm, flexible, and waterproof. Let’s talk about one that is needed for waterfall visits in particular:
Base Layer: Quick-dry thermal layers. Make sure they are quick-dry and not wool because if you’re wet all day tis not fun!
Mid Layer: Fleece pullover and trekking pants.
Outer Layer: Waterproof wind breaker and rain pants. Maybe a waterproof parka if you know you’re going to be cold.
Footwear: Waterproof boots with good grip. Add wool socks!
Accessories: Rain cover for backpack. Waterproof gloves!
Why this Works: You’ll get wet from the mist of many waterfalls when exploring. Prevent soaking and stay warm! This November outfit for Iceland is designed to handle unpredictable weather: the waterproof outer layers protect you from water, while hiking boots provide grip for uneven terrain.
4. Hot Springs Visit
Even in November, Iceland’s geothermal pools are a must! I know imagining swimming or water in late fall/early winter seems crazy, but visiting the Blue Lagoon or other hot springs is a unique experience. You’ll want to stay warm before and after your dip, though. Yes, you WILL want to pack a swimsuit when figuring out what to wear in Iceland in November!
Swimwear: A well-fitting swimsuit that’s easy to slip in and out of.
Outer Layer: A warm parka or jacket for post-swim warmth.
Footwear: Waterproof slides or flip-flops for walking around the pool area. Make sure to bring waterproof boots for when leaving the whole area!
Accessories: A knit hat and quick-dry towel. Keep your head warm and dry off quickly!
Why it Works: The combination of a cozy parka and waterproof shoes ensures you stay warm while transitioning in and out of the hot springs. A quick-dry towel is essential for drying off quickly in the cold air.
5. South Coast Road Trip
If you’re traveling to go explore a variety of different locations, you have to think how to pack smart. Think easy layers for on and off, and a variety of layers for different landscapes and temperatures. If you’re taking a road trip, consider the following outfit:
Base Layer: Long-sleeve merino wool shirt and leggings.
Mid-Layer: Fleece jacket and jeans (with thermal tights under them– or thermal lined pants in general!).
Outer Layer: Waterproof parka! If it’s extra cold, opt in for one with a faux fur hood.
Footwear: Waterproof boots! Think easy slip on and slip off, this way when you’re getting in and out of the car you can be quick.
Accessories: Blanket, gloves, travel pillow, beanie, and scarf. All easy and quick to grab. They are great for the car ride and you’ll need some of those other accessories when stepping out of the warm automobile.
Why it Works: This outfit is comfortable for sitting in a car while prepared for photo stops! Places like the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, or even Dyrholaey with it’s lighthouse and arch are must sees!
6. Visiting Black Sand Beaches
Just because you’re visiting Iceland in November doesn’t mean you have to avoid the beach! In fact, many people love to explore the famous black sand beaches no matter when they visit! When planning for this, prepare for waves and wind:
Base Layer: Thermal set (matching? We think yes!)
Mid Layer: Down Vest. and hiking pants. If you’re really cold, add thermal leggings underneath the pants.
Outer Layer: Waterproof, windproof jacket. Shell pants are also a plus!
Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots. Wool socks too (and packing an extra pair!).
Accessories: Hat (beanie?), gloves (touch-screen ready?), and a waterproof camera bag or waterproof bag in general for valuables. Dry bag even?
Why it Works: This outfit prepares you for the fierce winds and cold spray of the water when visiting the black sand beaches in November. Stay dry and toasty, and yet be comfortable and stylish: you can always coordinate your beanie, and jacket for those cool photo ops!
7. Evenings Out on the Town
There is a thing known as Icelandic street style so if you want to channel that when exploring the towns during the evening. Whether you’re going out for a drink, or looking through local shops, be warm and cute with this outfit suggestion:
Base Layer: Thermal tights or undershirt (this is optional! It depends on how cold it is and how cold you are!)
Mid Layer: Stylish sweater dress or wool blazer with dark jeans
Outer Layer: Elegant wool coat or Down parka. This may be needed more if you’re spending time outdoors, but if you’re staying inside, then you may not need it!
Footwear: Waterproof leather boots: but remember, no leather soles! You don’t want to be slipping on the ice!
Accessories: Wool scarf, statement earrings, and a knit beret.
Why it Works: This outfit combines warmth with that mentioned Icelandic street style. You’ll be fashionable and comfortable as you navigate cities and towns, getting to know the locals, their restaurants, their bars, their stores and more!
What to Pack for Iceland in November: Key Accessories to Not Forget
In addition to your clothing, you’ll need a few essential accessories to handle Iceland’s weather conditions. Here are a few must-haves for your Iceland packing list:
Wool Hat: A knit beanie that covers your ears is essential.
Thermal Gloves: Opt for gloves that are insulated and waterproof. Look for pairs with touchscreen capabilities so you can snap photos without exposing your hands to the cold.
Wool Scarf or Neck Gaiter: Something thick and cozy to protect your neck and face from wind chill.
Sunglasses: Yes, even in ice and snow! The sun reflecting off snow can be intense. Protect your eyes!
Moisturizer and Lip Balm: Iceland’s air is very dry, so pack some heavy-duty moisturizer and lip balm to protect your skin.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear in Iceland in November
Dressing properly for Iceland in November is all about staying warm, dry, and flexible. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, hiking glaciers, or strolling Reykjavik’s cozy streets, layering with purpose is your best friend. With the right mix of base layers, insulated mid-layers, weatherproof outerwear, and sturdy footwear, you’ll be ready for anything Iceland’s wild weather throws at you.
Keep these outfit ideas and packing essentials in mind when planning what to wear in Iceland in November, and you’ll stay warm, stylish, and ready for the trip of a lifetime!
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