What to Pack For Your Iceland Adventure

From hot springs and waterfalls to volcanic landscapes and sparkling glaciers, Iceland is a majestic adventure that certainly lives up to its name as "the land of fire and ice." Known for its stunning picturesque views, otherworldly scenery, and dramatically varying weather, packing for Iceland can be a bit of a puzzle. But don't stress — SurfYogaBeer has prepared the top essentials to pack for your Iceland adventure.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE PACKING

With nature hikes, chasing waterfalls, and relaxing hot springs on the brain, in addition to the ultimate packing guide to help you pack the basics, let's dive into three important base facts to help you pack smart for your trip.

1. You can experience all four seasons in just a single day in Iceland. AKA - plan ahead and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way!

2. Depending on the season, Iceland has nearly 800,000 sheep that thrive in different kinds of weather. A sheep's body temperature is only a bit higher than that of a human, and their wool helps them stay comfortable in various weather conditions by keeping their body temperature steady. It's no surprise that nature enthusiasts prefer packing Merino wool products for their outdoor adventures, as wool has water-resistant properties.

3. Due to its high latitude, Iceland experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight during the summer months, also known as the Midnight Sun. Don't forget those sunglasses for the day and that sleeping mask for the night!

Photo by Ken Francis

LAYER UP BASICS

From sun to snow, Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable, so layering up is the key to comfort on this trip.

• Base & mid layers: Think moisture-wicking materials like synthetic fibers or merino wool to keep you warm without adding bulk.
• Jacket(s): Get a waterproof and windproof jacket. Icelandic winds can be fierce, and you'll want to stay dry during surprise showers. Look for a jacket with a hood for extra protection!
• Leggings & pants: Comfortable pants are a must. Look for water-resistant or, at least, water-repellent materials that will keep you both warm and dry.

FOOTWEAR

Your Icelandic adventures will involve crossing glaciers, muddy trails, and possibly volcanic terrain, so sturdy, *waterproof* footwear (and maybe a backup pair) is a must.

• Trail shoes: Invest in a comfortable pair of trail shoes with solid soles. Avoid footwear with smooth bottoms.
• Socks: While slightly more expensive than standard cotton socks, Merino wool socks are the route you'll want to take. Even after long hikes, you can re-wear (yes, re-wear) your socks multiple times before washing them. (Moisture-wicking = no smell and dry feet!)

ACCESSORY MUST-HAVES

• Backpack: A day pack to hold whatever you'll need for the day. 
• Reusable Water bottle: Water in Iceland is perfectly safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle for easy and free fill-ups!
• Sunglasses: For those long summer days full of sunlight
• Swimsuit: Despite the word "ice" in the name, Iceland is full of geothermal pools and hot springs. Pack a swimsuit to take advantage of these famous experiences.
• Travel towel: For quick-dry moments during hikes or at the thermal pools.
• Hat: For sunny days and windy moments.
• Gloves: Look for thermal gloves and maybe pack a pair of liners for added warmth.
• Plastic or reusable bag: After hiking through a river of melted glacial water, you'll want a separate space to toss your wet, muddy shoes!

Photo by Ken Francis

As someone somewhere once said, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." Embrace the quirky weather, soak in the stunning landscapes, and make the most of every moment, and do so by packing the right gear to match whatever weather may come your way. With so much adventure in store, it's time to start packing (or booking the trip?!), as Iceland is right around the corner.