What to wear in Iceland

This is a question we hear a lot. Iceland is a land of extremes, and you need a strategy to cope with the variable conditions you may encounter. We recommend bringing layered clothing. Even during the Summer months it is necessary to have decent waterproofs and warm layers.

What to wear in Iceland

This is a question we hear a lot. Iceland is a land of extremes, and you need a strategy to cope with the variable conditions you may encounter. We recommend bringing layered clothing. Even during the Summer months it is necessary to have decent waterproofs and warm layers.

The basic essentials are:

  • Thermal underwear
  • Zip-up fleece
  • Waterproof jacket & trouser (pref. Goretex)
  • Hat & gloves

It’s always a good idea to pack spares too, for instance spare socks for the end of a day’s hiking are a must. Also useful are spare jumpers and generally any clothing / accessories that can help you feel warm and cosy (think woollen socks, scarves and balaclavas because why not?).

Iceland is a fashion conscious nation, so by all means bring a few fancier clothes for nights out, but understand that most of your time will be in more practical attire (especially if you are heading outdoors). Shorts and t-shirts can definitely be a thing during the Summer, but you will still need those extra layers.
 As far as footwear is concerned, solid hiking boots are a must, again waterproof / Goretex options are preferable. If you can slip some running shoes into your luggage then these will be great for more relaxed days, or walking around town.

Don’t plan on buying much clothing during your visit unless you have deep pockets, as the price of decent hiking gear in Iceland can be painful. In an emergency you might find something at one of the Red Cross 2nd hand shops, but don’t bank on it.

Winter visitors could consider buying, cheap metal spike adapters (attachable to most shoes) which provide extra grip in the ice. These are not the same type as the crampons usually provided on glacial tours. These are rather designed to help keep you from slipping up around town, if the streets are icy.