Jess at Sea

Thinking of visiting Iceland in the summer? Get ready for jaw-dropping waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, black sand beaches, and… wildly unpredictable weather! Yes, even in the warmer months, Iceland can throw everything at you – wind, rain, sun, snow (sometimes all in one day). Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, hiking a glacier, or soaking in the Blue Lagoon, packing smart is essential.

Here’s your ultimate packing guide for Iceland in the summer – layered, waterproof, and hot-spring ready.

Layers, Layers, and More Layers

Summer temps in Iceland hover between 50–60°F (10–15°C), but with the wind chill, it often feels colder. The trick? Dress like an onion – in layers!

• Base layers: ensure your base layers are thermal.
• Mid layers: Fleece jackets or light sweaters to add warmth without the bulk.
• Outer layer: A waterproof and windproof puffer jacket to protect against the cold as well as sudden rain or gusty winds.
• Rain Coat/Jacket: a fully waterproof layer to protect against the rain and waterfalls
• Pants/leggings: Comfortable, durable pants that are flexible enough for hikes and waterproof if you plan on getting close to waterfalls or the beach. I wore these fleece lined water resistant leggings for the whole trip and they were perfect.
• Rain Pants: essential for adventures up close to the waterfalls that you can wear over the top of your regular pants.

Footwear: Waterproof or Bust

You’ll be hiking volcanic craters, strolling along mossy lava fields, and possibly tiptoeing through some snow. Your feet deserve VIP treatment.

• Waterproof hiking boots: Perfect for tackling Iceland’s rugged trails and unpredictable weather. Make sure they’re waterproof for rainy days and snowy areas. Make sure they’re broken in before your trip.
• Casual shoes or sandals: For walking around towns, visiting cafes, or enjoying hot springs like the Blue Lagoon.
• Warm socks: Wool or thermal socks will keep your feet warm during hikes and long days of sightseeing.

Accessories That Make a Big Difference

Don’t overlook the little things—they can make or break your Iceland adventure.

• Hat and gloves: While summer is relatively mild, it can still get chilly, particularly in the evenings or in highland areas. A hat and pair of gloves will come in handy.
• Buff or scarf: A versatile item that can keep your neck warm or protect you from wind and rain. I wore this neck warmer and it was perfect.
• Waterproof bag: A small waterproof bag or dry bag will protect your electronics and other essentials from rain, especially if you’re visiting waterfalls or beaches. I used this one which was perfect for hikes and general adventures.

Swimwear for Soaking in Iceland’s Hot Springs

No trip to Iceland is complete without a dip in a geothermal pool!

• Swimsuit: A comfortable swimsuit is essential for visits to places like the Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, and other hot springs across the country.
• Quick-dry towel: Some places may not provide towels, so it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you plan to visit several pools or natural baths in less touristy places.

Electronics to Capture the Magic

Iceland offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world, from cascading waterfalls to black sand beaches and towering glaciers. You’ll want to capture every moment!

• Camera or smartphone: To snap photos of all the breathtaking sights you’ll encounter.
• GoPro or action camera: Ideal for capturing your adventures in extreme conditions like glacier hikes or underwater shots in hot springs.
• Extra batteries or power bank: Iceland’s remote areas might not have charging stations, so having backup power is a lifesaver.
• Tripod: great for taking self-timer pics.
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: for keeping your phone dry in the rain and at hot springs.

Toiletries & Personal Care

In addition to the basics, there are a few essential items that will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Water bottle: Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Adapter and chargers: Iceland uses the European standard plug (Type C, E, and F), so make sure you have the right adapters for your devices.
• Medication: If you take any medications, make sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip.
• Toiletries: Pack your toiletries in travel-sized containers to comply with airline regulations. Iceland has excellent amenities, so you won’t need anything special unless you prefer your own products.
• Wet wipes or hand sanitizer: Great for keeping fresh while you explore remote areas where bathroom facilities might be limited.
• Lip Balm/Chapstick: keep your lips hydrated in the cold Icelandic air
• Moisturizer/Lotion: be sure to also keep your skin moisturized

Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Even though the weather in Iceland may be cool, the sun can still be intense, especially in summer when the country experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight. Protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s rays.

• Sunglasses: A good pair of UV-protection sunglasses is a must, especially if you’re planning to explore glaciers where the sun reflects off snow.
• Sunscreen: Don’t forget sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from UV damage, even if the weather feels chilly.

Staying Connected in Iceland

One of the best travel hacks for exploring Iceland stress-free is staying connected. From navigating those winding Ring Road drives to checking live updates on weather and road conditions (which change fast in Iceland!), having reliable data is a total lifesaver. Instead of scrambling for a local SIM or relying on spotty café Wi-Fi, I used an eSIM from Airalo and it worked perfectly! I was online the second I landed in Reykjavik, and topping up along the way was super easy through the app. If you want the same hassle-free experience, you can check out Airalo here.

Ready for Your Icelandic Summer Adventure?

With the right gear, you’ll be ready to hike through volcanic valleys, warm up in steamy lagoons, and chase waterfalls to your heart’s content – rain or shine. Iceland is wild, beautiful, and unpredictable – but with this packing list, you’ll be ready for anything it throws at you.

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