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If you are planning a trip to Iceland, one thing that you need to remember is to dress for the weather, because the weather is not dressing for you! Whether you are going for zodiac boat tours among icebergs, glacier hikes, ice caving, or even spending the night in a floating hut at Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, knowing what to wear in Iceland is essential.
As the local experts on adventure in South East Iceland, we know that comfort, warmth, and flexibility are the keys to enjoying every wild, beautiful moment here. That is why we tend to point out to travelers that clothing layering is something they need to understand and take seriously.
Since we spend our days and sometimes nights out in the wild, we know exactly what people need to savor the experience completely. So, to help you out, we have created an ultimate guide to clothes layering, which is designed to teach you how to stay warm, dry, and ready for every Icelandic adventure.
If you have done your research on Iceland’s activities and tours, you have probably come across the necessity of layering clothes for Iceland.
Namely, Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Sunshine, wind, rain, and even snow can all happen within the same afternoon. So, you need to be prepared for everything at all times.
However, the good thing is that temperatures are rarely extreme, and what matters most is your ability to adapt. And, layering lets you do that. That is, it lets you add or remove clothing as the weather changes, so you stay comfortable from Reykjavik’s city streets to the wilds of Vatnajökull National Park.
This is the layer that sits right against your skin, so think of it as your personal thermostat. More precisely, the base layer wicks away sweat and keeps you dry, which is critical for comfort in Iceland’s climate.
Our expert advice is that you should choose merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Avoid cotton because it stays damp and will chill you fast.
Also, you will want long underwear, a moisture-wicking top, and warm socks. When it comes to socks, wool is a local favourite for a reason!
The mid layer is your insulation, or the area where you trap heat.
So, fleece jackets, wool sweaters, especially the classic Icelandic lopapeysa, or insulated vests are perfect. Not only do these keep you warm, but they are easy to add or remove as conditions change. In other words, they are the layer you need for both cold and warm weather.
Nonetheless, if you visit Iceland in colder months, you may want to double up with heavier socks or add a second fleece so you ensure you are warm enough.
The third layer is your weather shield. Wind, rain, and snow are all part of the Icelandic experience. So, breathable, waterproof clothes for Iceland will make all the difference.
Make sure you look for windproof materials and good zippers. Your shell layer is your best defense on windy glacier hikes, rainy city walks, or zodiac boat tours across the chilly lagoon.
Above, we have covered the general guidelines on what to wear in Iceland. However, if you want to be prepared for a specific season, you will need more specific information.
That is why we have included details for each season to help you plan your Iceland packing list properly.
Now that we covered layers, we also need to be specific about footwear. This is also an essential part of clothing for Iceland that determines the quality of your experience.
You should go for year-round, waterproof hiking boots with good grip since they are essential for every adventure, especially glacier hikes, ice cave tours, or simply navigating the short walk to our Zodiac boat dock.
In winter, you should include insulated boots and crampons in your suitcase to keep you safe and toasty, while in summer, lighter boots work for city and trail.
Since we want our travelers to be prepared and to have the ultimate experience, we have included some details that may make a difference for each tour. You should remember that each tour is a distinct adventure, so specific preparations are surely needed.
The right clothes are your passport to every Icelandic thrill – from Zodiac rides among ancient ice to hiking secret glacier trails. So, make sure you pack properly so you can enjoy your Iceland adventure to the fullest. Every sight comes with a special story, so you need to be prepared to truly savor it!
If you are ready to plan your trip to this magical country, feel free to get in touch with us.
At Fjallsárlón, we are all about adventure, wild landscapes, and getting up close to Iceland’s raw nature. Our home turf is Southeast Iceland, and we have plenty of activities to offer, but we also believe everyone with extra time should explore Iceland to the fullest. So, for those with a week to spare, North Iceland… Continue reading Spend a Week in North Iceland Without Rushing
FjallsárlónAt Fjallsárlón, we know a thing or two about epic Icelandic adventures. While our home base is the breathtaking Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon in the southeast, we are also passionate about exploring every wild corner of this incredible country, including the untamed wonders of Northern Iceland.
FjallsárlónAs explorers and locals at Fjallsárlón, we spend our days surrounded by icebergs, glaciers, and the endless drama of Southeast Iceland’s wild landscapes. And, if there is one thing we see over and over, it is travelers zipping through the region on a rushed South Coast itinerary – snapping photos at Jökulsárlón and then dashing back to Reykjavík.
Fjallsárlón
