How to dress for Iceland in winter

Are you coming to Iceland? Worried it’s going to be a bit cold and you’re wondering how to dress in Iceland in winter? 

Then this is the right place for you! 

In this article, I’ll walk you through;  

• Iceland’s climate 

• Winter packing list 

• Give you some pointers on how to save money on clothes 

• How to dress for specific activities  

• Mention a few comfort essentials to pack 

• And answer some frequently asked questions 

So let’s get to it! 

Understanding Iceland’s Winter Climate 

Average Temperatures in October to April 

Yep! The winter in Iceland is basically the entire year! And some years we include September in this, if we’re unlucky. 

Iceland’s winter spans from October to April, with temperatures typically ranging between -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F).  

Now hold on a moment!  

I know you’re thinking, ‘huh, that’s not too bad’ 

But please remember, these are averages and don’t take into account the wind chill. 

Sure, the average temperature in January is only –1° C (29° F), but let me be the first to tell you, it does not feel like it!  

The weather can shift dramatically, bringing wind, sleet, snow, and even sunshine all in one day!  

And as I mentioned, the issue is usually the wind, people always forget to factor in the wind. 

Weather Conditions: Wind, Snow, Rain, and Darkness 

The wind is perhaps the most notorious challenge in Iceland.  

Combine that with icy roads, heavy snow, rain showers, and limited daylight in deep winter, and you’ll understand why proper attire is essential 

Don’t underestimate how much the dark roads will affect you as you drive.  

Weather warnings in Iceland 

We also have an increase in weather warnings during winter.  

So that will mean stronger winds and colder temperatures. 

We’ve got 3 warnings 

Yellow – Windier than usual but don’t cancel your plans 

Orange – now you have to start thinking if you really need to go somewhere, especially from December to March 

Red – just stay inside! 

We wrote special articles explaining each weather warning! I’ve linked to them here above.

Winter Packing List for Iceland: Essentials for Every Traveler 

Layering is key 

Layering is crucial to manage Iceland’s rapidly changing winter conditions.  

You’ll want to have at least 3 layers (base, mid, and outer). Though I prefer to wear a thick good outer layer and just a base layer.  

Then I’ll add the mid layer if it’s a bad day. 

Base Layers 

Start with synthetic or merino wool thermal underwear.  

Merino wool thermal underwear are the best option in my opinion. 

Cotton is a no-go, it traps moisture and will leave you cold. 

Once cotton gets wet, it’s game over! 

Mid-Layers 

Fleece jackets, wool sweaters, or down vests work best to retain body heat. 

For the legs, you can wear sweatpants or fleece pants. 

I really like a fleece sweater.  

You can also get away with a hoodie and a regular sweater. 

Though you want them to be from a sports brand, since they tend to breathe a bit better.  

Cause remember, it’s important they breathe well!  

Outer Shell 

Your jacket and pants should be both windproof and highly water-resistant. You don’t have to go for full ski pants; in fact, that might be a bit too much. 

Maybe in deep deep winter you can get away with it, but I would recommend outdoor pants and then just layers underneath. 

I like to wear a thick parka. That way, it’s extremely water resistant and warm and I can get away with wearing just a base layer. 

Then, if the weather is really bad, I’ll wear mid layers. 

You can also wear a Shell, but that will mean that you’ll have to wear a lot more layers. But it does offer versatility. 

Then you can go for a puffer jacket. 

It’s a nice option for cold days; however, they can’t withstand a lot of water most of the time, unless you have a very expensive one. So in general, I choose the parka over the puffer.  

Footwear 

Choose waterproof boots. Gore-Tex or similar. 

I like leather boots since they can withstand a lot of water, though that will mean that they won’t breathe as well. 

Snow spikes or crampons are highly recommended for walking on ice, no amount of traction on your boots will save you on the ice.  

So just because they have grip does not mean that they can handle icy roads.

Accessories You Shouldn’t Forget 

• Thick gloves or mittens  

• Wool hat and maybe a neck gaiter  

• Wool socks (bring several pairs) 

• Sunglasses and sunscreen for snowy glare (crazy I know!) 

Special Items for Outdoor Activities 

Bring crampons, headlamps, and hand/feet warmers for tours like glacier hikes or chasing the Northern Lights. 

Items not to bring 

• Umbrella – usually useless in the wind 

• Scarf – Just zip up the parka and use the hood! It takes space inside the coat and you end up having a weird bulge around your neck. 

Warm Clothes Iceland: Must-Have Garments and Fabrics 

Best Materials for Icelandic Winters 

• Merino wool: Ideal for base layers. 

• Fleece: A solid mid-layer material. 

• Wool: breathable and warm 

• Gore-Tex: Recommended for outer layers and boots 

What Not to Wear in Iceland in Winter 

Avoid jeans, cotton clothing, and flimsy sneakers. These won’t keep you warm or dry. 

Of course you can bring a pair for the city, but when you’re traveling, I won’t recommend jeans.  

Cotton is warm, but if it gets wet, then you’re in for a bad time.  

Regular sneakers are not recommended for the winter in Iceland. I’d wear normal shoes for the plane, but always have a good pair of hiking boots or trail shoes with you.  

Clothing Rental in Iceland: A Smart Alternative 

Why Rent? 

Renting warm clothes in Iceland is perfect for travelers on a budget or those with limited luggage space. 

And you can rent everything you need, right here with us!  

Check out our selection here! 

Come to our store at Laugavegur 51 and we’ll get you fitted! And if you order a size that doesn’t fit, we’ll of course exchange it for a size that fits you better! 

Popular Rentals 

• A warm winter parka 

• Outdoor pants 

• Leather and Gore-Tex boots 

The essentials! 

Dressing for Specific Activities in Iceland 

Glacier Hikes & Ice Caves 

Base layer – Thermals 

Mid layer – fleece sweater 

Outer layers – shell (parka in deep winter) 

Crampons – will be provided by tour operator  

Beanie, thick gloves 

Northern Lights Tours 

Base layer – Thermals 

Mid layer – fleece sweater, wool sweater 

Outer layers – Parka 

Crampons – good idea if it’s very icy 

Other items – Bring thermos with hot chocolate, hand warmers. 

Beanie, Thick gloves 

Exploring Reykjavik in Winter 

This depends on a lot of things. 

Reykjavík can be very cold and also very mild. 

There are days when you’ll want to layer like you’re going out into the wilderness, and there are days when a pair of jeans and a sweater is enough. 

Maybe you’re doing a food walk, and it’s a yellow warning!

I personally like to wear regular pants, no base layers, thin sweater or a t-shirt and a thick parka. 

Some days I’ll wear everything I own! 

Beauty & Comfort Essentials to Pack 

Cold air is drying. Pack: 

• Hydrating lotion 

• Lip balm with SPF 

• Hand cream 

• SPF in general, the sun can be strong even though it doesn’t show up a lot.  

• Sunglasses when driving, the sun can be very annoying when driving 

Conclusion 

I hope this has helped you get a better idea of how to dress for Iceland in winter. 

If you have any questions you can always contact us at icelandcover@icelandcover.com 

And if you want to save money and space in the bag, check out our selection right here 

FAQs about How to Dress in Iceland in Winter 

What are the most important clothes to bring to Iceland in winter? 

Thermal underwear, good hiking boots, good socks, a thick, highly water-resistant coat. 

Can you rent clothes in Iceland instead of buying? 

Yes! Right here with us at Iceandcover.com  

Do I need snow pants and thermal underwear? 

Snow pants can be a good option, though they can also be a bit too much. We recommend outdoor pants, base layers and maybe a pair of sweatpants  

What should I wear in Reykjavik during winter? 

Really depends. But in general, if you a warm coat, beanie, gloves and good shoes that can handle water, you’ll be fine! 

What kind of footwear is best for icy conditions in Iceland? 

Waterproof boots with strong grip and then you’ll want to have crampons as well.