Iceland packing list for summer: quick Guide

So you’re in need of a packing list for the summer in Iceland. 

Well fear not! I will tell you everything you need to know! 

In this article, I’ll go over: 

1. What to pack for Iceland 

2. What clothes to wear 

3. The weather in Iceland 

4. The fact that you can rent what you need! 

5. And answer from Frequently asked questions! 

So let’s get to it! 

Summer Packing List Iceland

Here is a general list of items you want to bring with you. 

Toiletries & Travel Essentials 

Bring: 

• Mini shampoo, soap, and toothbrush 

• SPF sunscreen & lip balm. Crazy, I know, but when the sun is out it can be quite strong. 

• Moisturizer (wind dries skin fast!) 

Tech & Gadgets 

Must-pack: 

• European adapter ( Iceland uses Northern European electrical standards, 50 Hz/220 volts) 

• Power bank 

• Waterproof phone pouch might be smart for the lagoons. 

Travel Documents 

Pack: 

• Passport 

• Driver’s license (for car rentals) 

• Travel insurance 

Special Items for Summer 

Extras that matter: 

• Swimsuit for Blue Lagoon, Mývatn, or Reykjadalur 

• Quick-dry towel 

• Reusable water bottle 

• Bug spray (for lúsmý) 

• Mosquito net 

What not to bring to Iceland? 

Skip: 

• Umbrellas (useless in wind) 

• Cotton layers, cotton isn’t the best since if it gets wet it’s pretty useless and uncomfortable  

• Dress shoes or formal wear 

But what about the clothes? 

Clothes to Pack for Iceland 

The most important thing about your Iceland Packing List for summer is to have good outdoor clothes and to layer.  

General 

• Medium thick socks that dry fast and breathe well 

• T-shirt 

• Comfortable underwear that don’t chafe  

• Sweater (fleece, wool, or something that breathes well) 

• Comfortable pants (1x pair of jeans max!) 

• Thin pants (like merino wool, more on that below) 

• Hiking pants can be a good option as well. 

Base Layers 

Go for merino wool or synthetic thermals that wick away moisture. Skip cotton, it absorbs water to easily and stays wet. 

Mid-Layers 

Light fleece or wool sweaters are best. They trap warmth and stay breathable. 

You can also go for a hoodie or a sweater. If you do choose this option, make sure they are from a sports brand since that clothing tend to breathe better. 

Outerwear 

There are a few options here. 

1. A windproof and water-resistant shell. Breathable, windproof, and highly water resistant. You might need to wear some extra layers underneath since. A good option for long hikes. 

2. Insulated raincoat. Windproof, completely waterproof, and warm. This will keep you dry no matter what. However, it doesn’t breathe well so not ideal for long hikes 

3. Summer parka. Windproof, warm, and highly water-resistant. This is a mixture of the shell and the raincoat. It is warmer than the shell but not as breathable and it is more breathable and warmer than the raincoat, but not as water-resistant. 

I recommend the insulated raincoat or the summer parka if you’re staying close to the ring road while you travel and don’t plan on doing long hikes. 

Footwear 

Non-negotiable: Gore-tex hiking boots. Add comfy walking shoes for towns. 

This is so so so important. Don’t wear sneakers if you plan on exploring Iceland. 

Sure, it might work out, but if you’re playing chicken vs the Icelandic weather, I don’t think you win that one bud.  

Accessories 

Don’t forget: 

• Hat and gloves 

• Sunglasses 

• Sleep mask (hello, midnight sun!) 

• Mosquito net if you’re going up north.  

Wow that’s a lot of stuff to bring, what type of weather can I expect? 

Glad you asked! 

Weather in Iceland 

Temperature Variations 

During summer (May –September, but I’m talking about June – August), temperatures range between 8°C and 15°C (46°F–59°F). While it doesn’t sound freezing, wind and rain can make it feel cooler…a lot cooler 

Sunshine vs. Rain 

You might wake to clear skies and end the day in fog and rain. Bring a jacket and extra layers everywhere, even if it’s sunny out. 

And if it’s a good day the entire day, then great!  

But why buy all these items that you might not need again? 

Rent Outdoor Clothes in Iceland 

Maybe you don’t own the outdoor clothes you need to enjoy Iceland, so what can you do!? 

You can rent all the outdoor gear you need to enjoy Iceland with us. 

Check out our selection right here! 

What You Can Rent 

Common items include: 

• Summer parka 

• Insulated raincoat  

• Outdoor pants 

• Hiking boots 

• Hiking poles 

• Gloves 

• Beanie  

• Camping equipment 

All the items we have are chosen to withstand Icelandic weather. 

And here are some frequently asked questions. 

FAQs 

Do I need hiking boots for Iceland in summer? 

Yes. Trails are often muddy or rocky, even near popular sites. 

Can I wear jeans in Iceland? 

Avoid them for outdoor activities. Jeans stay wet and cold. Quick-dry and comfortable pants are better. Bringing 1x pair of jeans is fine. 

What type of pants should I wear? 

Light and breathable, something like light hiking pants. 

Do I need to wear my layers all the time? 

I like to wear my base layers all the time unless the weather is amazing. But you always want to have the mid layers ready to go in a backpack or in the car. 

Bomber jackets, are they enough? 

No, they are cool but I wouldn’t trust them to protect me against the Icelandic weather. 

Do I really need all that outdoor stuff? 

Only if you plan on leaving Reykjavík! If so, then yes.  

Do I need a swimsuit? 

Definitely! Hot springs are everywhere and unmissable. 

How cold is Iceland in July? 

Temps hover between 8°C–15°C. But wind and rain can make it feel colder. 

Are mosquitoes a problem in Iceland? 

Not mosquitoes, but lúsmý are! Bring repellent and a mosquito net if you go to Lake Myvatn. 

Can I drive anywhere? 

You’ll need a 4×4 for the F roads and some of them have rivers so be careful. But generally, yes, you can almost drive anywhere in the summer. 

Where do you recommend I go? 

Westfjords or the North. 

And that’s it! 

I hope I’ve helped with your Iceland packing list for the Summer!   

And if you want to travel light and save some money, then you can rent all the outdoor clothes with us!