Ultimate Packing List for Iceland in Summer: What to Bring for Your Trip
“What should I pack for my trip to Iceland in June?!?!”
Planning a trip to Iceland in the summer and wondering what to pack? I had the same question a few weeks before my mid-June trip. Now, as I write this on the plane to Iceland and plan to finish it on the flight back to Houston, I hope to help you prepare for your own Icelandic adventure.
Weather During the Summer in Iceland
Overview of June weather in Iceland.
Summer weather in Iceland can be quite different from what you're used to, especially if you're from a warmer climate like Texas. In mid-June, temperatures typically range from 40°F to the high 50s. For someone accustomed to warmer weather, this can feel quite chilly. Here’s a breakdown of what I packed to stay warm and comfortable.
What I Packed for Iceland
Everything I packed fit in my carry on bag, except for my sleeping bag which hung off the side of my carry on bag. Also, to save space I wore my puffer jacket and hiking boots.
Clothing
Hiking Pants: Comfortable and durable for long walks and hikes.
Jeans: Casual wear for exploring Reykjavík.
Rain Jacket: Essential for Iceland's unpredictable weather.
Down Puffer Jacket: Great for warmth without bulk.
Base Layers: Both top and bottom to keep warm during the day or night
Pickney Pocket Flag of Iceland Pocket Tee: A fun and practical choice of course to showcase you are traveling to Iceland!
Gloves: To keep hands warm.
Socks: Multiple pairs, including long warm socks.
Beanie: To protect your head against the cold wind.
Underwear: Enough for the trip.
Sports Bras: Comfortable for active days.
Swimsuits: For the hot springs
Electronics
GoPro Hero: For capturing outdoor adventures. Great especially for Silfra snorkeling or diving.
Canon R6: To capture photographs of the beautiful Iceland.
For travel photography tips: itsmoretojab.com/blog/travel-photography-tips-japan
Battery Pack: Essential for keeping devices charged.
Universal Plug Adapter: For charging electronics.
Ray-Ban Wearables: Stylish and functional.
Headphones: For the semi-long flight layovers
Camera and headphones are a must! Especially for 4+hr flight to Iceland!
Footwear
Hiking Boots: Essential for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain & water ways
Camping Gear
Headlamp: Did not need as there were 3 hours of darkness.
Sleeping Bag: Warm and comfortable.
Sleeping Pillow: For a good night's sleep.
Personal Care Items
Towel
Wash Cloth
Bath Soap/Shower Gel
All the essentials for daily hygiene.
Other items
Collapsible Water Bottle: You can drink water from any tap in Iceland!
Foldable Day Bag pack: Carrying your travel daily essentials.
Things I Wished I Packed
Waterproof Sandals: Useful for hot springs and campground showers
Most days, I wore multiple layers which included thermal base layer, puffer jacket, and rain jacket as the weather in Iceland changes frequently. In addition, I carried around a light day bag pack to store my layers incase the weather got a little warm. This day I also wore my Flag of Iceland pocket tee from Pickney Pocket!
Additional Tips for Packing for Iceland
Layering is Key: The weather can change rapidly, so having layers you can add or remove is essential.
Waterproof Everything: From jackets to shoes, waterproof gear is crucial to stay dry.
Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable hiking boots are a must.