how cold is Iceland in June

If you’re planning a summer trip to Iceland, you might be wondering: how cold is Iceland in June?  

The answer might surprise you!  

While June marks the beginning of Icelandic summer, Iceland is still relatively chilly compared to what many would expect for the season. But don’t worry, with the right preparation (and wardrobe), it’s a great time to explore the island. 

In this post, I’ll go over: 

How cold is Iceland 

How warm it is  

What to wear (and the fact that you can rent what you need!) 

And give you some bonus tips.  

So let’s get to it! 

How Cold is Iceland? 

June in Iceland offers some of the most stable and pleasant weather of the year, but it’s not your typical summer. 

Across most regions, average temperatures range from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F). In Reykjavík, you can expect daily highs around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while nights can dip closer to 7°C (45°F). On warmer days, temps might climb to 20°C (68°F), but this is more of a treat than the norm. 

Up north and in the Icelandic Highlands, it’s usually a few degrees colder. And don’t forget the wind, it will make even the sunniest day feel brisk.. 

How Warm is Iceland? 

On paper, June might not sound super cold.  

After all, 15°C doesn’t seem bad, right?  

But Iceland’s wind, rain, and sudden shifts in weather often make it feel cooler than the thermometer reads. Since we don’t factor in the wind chill, you’ll need to do that yourself. So the temperature I mentioned above, that’s without wind, so if it’s 5 mps (11mph), then it’ll lower the temperature by about 1-2°C. 

The good news?  

The days are long, really long. Thanks to the Midnight Sun, the sun barely sets at all in June, meaning you’ll have 24-hour daylight to explore, hike, and take in the magical scenery.  

And when the sun is out, it can feel almost warm, especially if you’re layered up. 

What to Wear in Iceland 

This is where many travelers slip up. Packing for Iceland in June isn’t about shorts and tank tops. it’s about layering smart and staying dry. 

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to bring: 

• Base layers: thermal underwear. This is a good option all year round. 

• Mid-layers: Fleece or wool sweaters for insulation. 

• Outer layers: Highly water-resistant jacket and pants are essential. Iceland’s weather is wet and breezy. 

• Footwear: Gore-tex or similar hiking boots with good grip, you’ll likely encounter wet trails, mud, and rocky paths. Be careful of relying too heavily on Gore-tex. I usually recommend leather boots with Gore-tex as well.  

• Accessories: Hat, gloves (yes, even in June), and a sleep mask for those all-day bright skies. 

And don’t forget a swimsuit, Iceland is dotted with geothermal hot springs, from the famous Blue Lagoon to secret mountain pools. 

Outdoor Clothes in Iceland 

Now let’s talk style, Icelandic style, that is. Locals are experts at functional fashion.  

You’ll often see people dressed in sleek raincoats, wool sweaters (called lopapeysa), and solid hiking boots, though not in the city. 

When it comes to outdoor clothes in Iceland, here’s what works best: 

• GORE-TEX or similar breathable waterproof materials are ideal. 

• Merino wool is a traveler’s best friend, warm, odor-resistant, and comfy. 

• Layering systems (base + mid + outer) are more flexible than one heavy coat. 

• Convertible clothing (like zip-off pants or 2-in-1 jackets) add versatility. 

Remember: it’s better to over-prepare than be stuck cold and wet. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon faster than you think. 

Rent Clothing in Iceland 

Here’s a little-known travel hack: you don’t have to pack everything.  

Bulky outerwear can weigh down your luggage, especially if you’re flying with tight weight limits. Luckily, we offer a practical solution, renting clothing! 

Icelandcover makes it super easy to rent high-quality outdoor gear. From great outdoor jackets and pants to boots and gloves, we’ve got you covered (literally). You can book online, pick up your gear on arrival, and return it when you’re done, hassle-free. 

Renting is ideal for travelers who: 

• Don’t want to invest in expensive gear 

• Are traveling light 

• Forgot an essential item 

• Want to try local-grade equipment designed for Icelandic conditions 

Plus, renting means less stress about packing and overage fees, and more room in your bag for Icelandic souvenirs. 

Bonus Tips for Staying Warm 

To make the most of your June adventure in Iceland, keep these comfort tips in mind: 

• Check weather forecasts daily, they change quickly. 

• Use apps like Vedur.is for real-time updates on weather and wind. 

• No need to rush out the door, the sun will be out for a looooooong time. 

And if you’re renting a campervan or car, make sure your heating system is reliable, nights can get chilly, even in June. 

Final Thoughts 

So, how cold is Iceland in June?  

Cold enough to make you reach for a jacket, but not cold enough to stop you from having the time of your life.  

With average temps in the single digits to low teens Celsius, and plenty of fresh mountain air, June is a nice month to visit Iceland.

Whether you pack it all or rent from IcelandCover.com, what matters most is being prepared.  

Dress smart, stay flexible, and embrace Iceland’s wonderfully unpredictable nature. 

After all, it’s not just about staying warm, it’s about soaking in every magical moment, no matter the weather. 

Check out our selection at icelandcover.com for all your rental clothing needs. It’s fast, affordable, and tailored for Iceland’s wild side.