Are you planning on visiting Iceland in September or October? If so, good for you! Autumn is an excellent time to explore Iceland. However, you’ll want to pack certain things for Iceland in the fall to ensure you are properly prepared.
I visited Iceland in October, and the biggest lesson I learned was that the weather in Iceland really is as unpredictable as they say. The sun was shining one minute, and then it was snowing the next. How are you supposed to pack for that? Fear not; this Iceland packing list will help.
Whether you are visiting one of the many majestic waterfalls, hiking in an ice cave, or frolicking on a black sand beach, here’s what to pack for Iceland in the fall to keep you warm and dry.
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Why You Should Visit Iceland in the Fall
While Iceland is awesome to visit at any time of year, fall is one of the best times to visit. In September and October, you get a little bit of everything the country has to offer.
Daylight hours are more “normal,” with about 9-11 hours of daylight. You also have the chance of seeing the Northern Lights at night. Temperatures are cooler, but most places won’t be covered in snow yet.
Fall in Iceland is considered a “shoulder season,” meaning it’s in between the busy tourist seasons of summer and winter. That means fewer crowds and more affordable prices!
It should be noted, though, that some tourist and camping sites might be closed for the winter already. Likewise, some winter attractions, such as glacier walks, might not be available yet, so check your dates and tours carefully.
What is the Weather Like During Autumn in Iceland?
On average, temperatures in Iceland during the autumn months range from 36-50°F/2-10°C during the day. Evenings can reach below freezing, especially in October. Temperatures in southern Iceland will usually be a bit warmer than in the northern regions.
As I said, the weather can be unpredictable and should therefore be treated with caution. You should be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and snow…perhaps all in one day. When packing for Iceland, it’s important to include versatile pieces that will keep you comfy no matter what Mother Nature decides to throw at you.
I found checking the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s site helpful for weather forecasts. (They also have a map for Aurora forecasts.)
Clothing to Pack for Iceland in the Fall
The name of the game when packing for Iceland in the fall is layers.
When packing clothes, you’ll want three specific layers: one layer to keep the water off, one layer to keep the cold and wind out, and one layer to keep the warmth in. These powers combined offer the best protection against the elements.
Note: The photos below feature female examples, but the items mentioned are recommended for all genders.
Waterproof Layer
Your waterproof layer is the most important layer of clothing to pack for Iceland. Look for clothes made from Gore-Tex or polyester with a Polyurethane Laminate (PUL) coating.
- Waterproof Jacket or Parka: Of all the clothing to wear in Iceland, this is the one to splurge on. This will be your top layer, so you want something waterproof and insulated.
- Rain Pants: When I visited Iceland in October, I didn’t expect to use my rain pants as much as I did. These were good for walking around and behind waterfalls, like Seljalandsfoss.
- I bought the Columbia Storm Surge pants, and they worked very well.
I highly recommend waterproof layers like these:
Warm Layers
Your middle layer can be a bit more versatile, depending on which month you are visiting Iceland. These items can also be used as outer layers on warmer/drier days. Look for fabrics such as fleece, wool, and down (or synthetic) fill.
- Packable Puffer: A lightweight puffer is handy to have since it is warm but compact.
- Sweater: Packing one or two medium to heavyweight sweaters can help keep the cold air out.
- Alternatively, you can wait to buy a traditional Icelandic woolen lopapeysa in Iceland. (Don’t forget to leave space in your suitcase.)
- Fleece Jacket: Fleece is a good all-purpose layer.
Check out these options for warm layering:
Base Layers
Your base layer should help you retain body heat, while also being breathable. Look for fabrics like merino wool and polyester blends.
- Thermal Shirts: These will keep you nice and warm, no matter the weather.
- Fleece-Lined Leggings: Cozy leggings can be worn under rain pants, hiking pants, or on their own.
Consider items like these for your base layer:
Footwear to Pack for Iceland
As with your clothing, you want the shoes you pack for Iceland to be able to handle a little bit of everything. Also, as with clothing, you’ll want your feet to stay warm and dry, so make sure to bring waterproof options.
Chances are, you are visiting Iceland to take in the natural sights and picturesque cities, so your footwear can be on the casual side.
- Hiking Boots: The shoes you’ll most likely wear the most are hiking boots.
- My mom and I both have Merrell Moab hiking boots. They’re good for all ages!
- Casual Boots or Sneakers: Waterproof sneakers are good for walking around cities like Reykjavik or doing easy hikes.
- Wool Socks: Wool socks help keep your feet warm and offer a bit of cushion while hiking.
- Flip Flops: You’ll want them for walking from the changing room to a hot spring.
I packed these items for hiking in Iceland in the fall:
Accessories to Pack for Iceland in the Fall
These accessories are very useful to have in Iceland, especially in October. They are easily packable and make a world of difference.
- Warm Hat: A beanie works well since you can fit your coat’s hood over it.
- Gloves: Touchscreen fingered gloves come in handy (no pun intended) for taking photos without freezing your fingers.
- Waterproof Backpack Cover: This is perfect for keeping your camera gear, snacks, and extra layers dry.
What to Pack for Hot Springs in Iceland
Visiting a hot spring should definitely be on your Iceland bucket list. However, you’ll want to make sure you come prepared.
- Microfiber Towel: You’ll want to bring your own towel to the hot springs (to save from renting one), and a microfiber one dries quickly.
- Bathing Suit: Bright colors, like red or orange, will pop nicely in your photos of the Blue Lagoon.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Rather than leaving your phone unattended, you can bring it with you to snap photos within a hot spring, while keeping it protected from the water.
Gear and Gadgets to Pack for Iceland
- External Battery Charger: You don’t want your phone battery to die while you’re trying to capture the beauty of Iceland.
- I bought this solar-powered charger and put it on the dashboard of our camper van as we drove around (plus it doubles as a flashlight).
- Travel Adapter: Iceland uses a Type C/F plug, so folks visiting from North America will need a travel adapter for plugging in electronics.
- Reusable Water Bottle: One big piece of advice you’ll hear is, “Do not buy water in Iceland!” Tap water in Iceland is excellent, so bring a reusable bottle to fill up.
- Portable First Aid Kit: It’s always good to have one wherever you travel; you never know when you might scrape a knee while hiking.
I hope that you’ve found this Iceland packing list helpful for your upcoming trip. Whether you are going for a long weekend or two weeks around the Ring Road, by packing these items, you will be prepared to have a great time.
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