April 2025

Bucket list travels

In November 2024, I checked off a huge bucket list trip to the stunning land of fire and ice: Iceland. And let me tell you, it was EVERYTHING—freezing cold, but still everything! Before I could dive into exploring, though, I faced one major challenge: packing for Iceland’s intense winter weather.

Since sharing my Iceland adventures, I’ve been asked how I knew what to pack. Honestly? It was all about months of research. I’ve put together this guide to save you that time and help you pack efficiently for an Icelandic winter.


Quick Note: This post isn’t sponsored—I’m just sharing items that really worked for me. Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you decide to purchase through them. This helps support my blog, at no extra cost to you.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

To stay warm, I followed a layered approach that’s perfect for Iceland’s unpredictable November weather:

  1. Base Layers – These create your heat foundation and need to be moisture-wicking to keep you dry. Look for thermal tops and leggings in a high-quality, moisture-wicking material.
  2. Midlayers – Think hoodies and sweaters to lock in warmth. I mostly used items I already had, like fleece-lined hoodies and cozy crewnecks. My favorites are from North Face and WrldInVsn.
  3. Outer Layer + Waterproofing – This is your armor against Iceland’s elements. I wore two coats at all times and packed a third, just in case! My go-to combo was North Face’s Shelbe Raschel Fleece Hooded Jacket layered with a Nautica Ladies Puffer with Faux Fur. Both are water and wind-resistant (though not fully waterproof), so I added a raincoat as my top layer to ensure complete protection.

Bottoms + Footwear :

  • For pants, I went with snow pants designed for extreme weather—specifically ones with great reviews for Iceland. Layered over thermals, these were a lifesaver!
  • Merino Wool Socks – These are a must. They seal in warmth at your base layer, so don’t skimp on quality.
  • Insulated, Waterproof Boots – I chose the Columbia Ice Maiden boots for their grip and warmth. Perfect for hiking, exploring thermal lagoons, and walking around in icy conditions.
  • Alternative Options: Look for insulated hiking boots with excellent grip, especially if you can find a good sale.

Miscellaneous Clothing Essentials:

For those extra-cold moments, I packed:

  • Ear Muffs
  • Screen-Compatible,
  • Waterproof Gloves
  • Scarf
  • Beanie
  • Bathing Suit for lagoons (I went with a bathing suit dress for extra warmth when transitioning between pools)
  • Hand Warmers in bulk (these were a life saver on excursion days)

Camera + Tech Gear

To capture this unforgettable trip, I invested in a Sony ZVE 10 camera—something I’d wanted for a while! Here’s how I set up my tech gear for easy access and protection:

  • Camera and Tripod – I also got a handheld tripod and a protective case.
  • Travel Case with Compartments – I used a cube case that kept my camera, tripod, extra SD cards, and two spare batteries organized.
  • Chargers and Battery Packs – Iceland’s chilly climate can drain batteries fast, so I came prepared!
  • Universal Plug Adapter – Iceland uses European-style plugs, so having an adapter saved us some hassle.

Extra Essentials:

Besides the basics, I packed a few additional items to make the trip smoother:

  • Snacks – Essential for long travel days.
  • Thermos – Perfect for keeping tea and other drinks warm.
  • Waterproof Sling Backpack – Great for exploring without worrying about the elements. (I LOVED this bag from the TurnWay Store)
  • AirPods – For those quiet moments during scenic drives.

Travel Tips

  • Layering is Key – Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and it’s easy to go from chilly winds to warm indoor spaces in a matter of minutes. Dress in layers so you can add or remove items as needed. Stick to moisture-wicking base layers, cozy midlayers, and a solid waterproof outer layer.
  • Invest in Quality Winter Gear – Iceland isn’t the place to cut corners on winter wear. Spend a little extra on items like merino wool socks, insulated boots, and a sturdy coat. Quality gear can be the difference between an amazing adventure and a freezing, uncomfortable one.
  • Plan for Iceland’s Wind and Rain – Icelandic weather is famous for its strong winds and sudden rain. Even if your coat isn’t fully waterproof, make sure your top layer is. A lightweight rain jacket over your outer coat works wonders.
    Bring Spare Batteries and a Universal Adapter – Cold weather drains camera and phone batteries fast. Pack extra battery packs, and don’t forget a universal adapter so you’re prepared for European plugs.
  • Pack Snacks and a Thermos – Iceland can be remote, and snacks can be pricey in certain areas. Pack a stash for long drives or hikes, and bring a thermos to fill with hot tea or coffee—perfect for warming up on those especially cold days.
  • Prepare for Snow and Ice on Foot – Iceland’s trails and paths can get icy, especially in winter. Invest in insulated, waterproof boots with good traction, and consider bringing a pair of crampons if you plan to do serious hiking. Most tour excursions will provide them.

Final Thoughts

That’s my full Iceland packing list. Hopefully this saves you some time on research. If you need further assistance or just want to see the items on me, check out my Pack and Prep video below to see how everything looked and worked for this unforgettable adventure.