After putting every single item to the test through blizzards, glacier hikes, and northern lights chases, I’m sharing my carefully curated winter packing list for Iceland! Between us? That famous saying about Iceland’s weather being unpredictable? Absolutely true – and I learned this lesson the hard way (more on that story in a moment!). After experiencing everything from mild sunny days to surprise blizzards, I’m sharing what I’m calling my “adventure-ready-but-make-it-cozy” packing strategy (trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this one!).
THE GOLDEN RULE
Before we dive in, let me share the most important lesson I learned: Always carry your waterproof outer layers with you. Even if the sky looks innocent, Iceland’s weather can change dramatically in minutes. I learned this firsthand when a quick coffee run turned into an unexpected battle with a surprise blizzard!
LAYER BY LAYER
Let’s start with the foundation – base layers are your best friend here! After trying several options, I landed on Cuddl Duds sets (absolute game changers!). I brought both their Fleece-Lined Thermal sets (packed two of these!) and Warm Layers Base Set – perfect for everything from glacier walks to northern lights viewing.
Quick Reference – Base Layers:
- Cuddl Duds Fleece-Lined Thermal Set (x2)
- Cuddl Duds Warm Layers Base Set
- All-in-Motion Leggings (perfect for layering!)
For mid-layers and outerwear, my Columbia Benton Springs fleece was perfect for milder moments, while the Powder Lite II puffer proved essential for those chilly mornings and evening northern lights chases. The Columbia Hikebound rain jacket was my constant companion – because in Iceland, you never know when you’ll need it!
Quick Reference – Mid Layers & Outerwear:
- Columbia Benton Springs Fleece Jacket
- Columbia Powder Lite II Puffer
- Columbia Hikebound Rain Jacket
- ZeroXposur Hanover Pull-On Pants (MVP of the trip!)
FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES
Let me tell you about what might be the most crucial gear decision for Iceland: proper footwear. My Timberland Chocorua Trail hiking boots proved invaluable throughout the trip, especially during our glacier expedition on Sólheimajökull. Here’s why proper hiking boots (not just snow boots) are essential: you need serious grip for glacier walks, ankle support for uneven terrain, and waterproof protection for those surprise weather moments.
Quick Reference – Footwear & Accessories:
ADDITIONAL ESSENTIALS
Don’t forget these game-changers:
- Waterproof gloves/mittens (essential for glacier walks and northern lights viewing)
- Crampons or ice cleats (the thing I wish I had packed!)
- Columbia Winter Blur beanie with fleece lining
- Exski Winter Neck Gaiter
- Polarized sunglasses (those glacier views deserve proper eye protection!)
- Tomule 25L waterproof backpack (perfect for carrying those essential layers!)
- Portable Charger/Power Bank (cold weather drains phones quickly)
- Swimsuit (for dips in Iceland’s geothermal waters!)
- Reusable water bottle (Iceland has some of the purest tap water in the world!)
PRO TIPS
- Layering is everything – I can’t stress this enough!
- Always carry your waterproof layers (even for quick coffee runs!)
- Bring proper hiking boots, even in the winter!
DON’T WANT TO INVEST IN ALL THE GEAR?
Here’s a game-changing service I discovered during the Icelandair trade show: IcelandCover! They offer clothing rentals for winter gear – everything from basic essentials to complete outdoor sets. The best part? They can deliver directly to your hotel, making the whole process absolutely seamless. It’s perfect if you’re not ready to invest in winter gear or just want to travel lighter. (Plus, it’s such a sustainable option!)
Want to see these items in action? Follow along with my Iceland adventures over on Instagram (@gowandertravelco) ✨
Planning your own Iceland winter adventure? Let’s chat! From packing lists to perfect itineraries, I’d love to help you create your own meaningful adventure in this incredible destination.
Happy Wandering,
Lina
