Iceland Packing List for Women: Bold Spirit Travel

Iceland offers unpredictable weather. You should bring layers and warm clothing. 

IMPORTANT: You are limited to one bag weighing 45 lbs. This restriction is due to the driver who may need to lift and handle your luggage. It also has to do with van space. You should also plan to bring a day-pack.

Feel free to bring:

  • 1 suitcase

  • 1 day pack

  • 1 purse

No laptops please. If you need to stay connected, use your phone or a tablet — something lightweight.

The following items are Bold Spirit Travel packing recommendations. Please remember that these are guidelines and that your personal preferences will dictate what you will want to bring.

Clothing

In late March, Iceland is still cold and wet, with temperatures around 40°F and an average of 13 days of precipitation. The weather can be unpredictable, with rain, snow, wind, and storms, so pack warmer clothes and a variety of layers that will keep you comfortable in any conditions.

  • 2-3 comfortable shirts (base layers, short- or long-sleeved)

  • Lightweight warm layer (microfleece or sweatshirt/hoodie)

  • Heavier weight warm layer or “puffy” jacket

  • 100% waterproof, windproof, breathable rain jacket (e.g. Goretex)

  • 2 pair hiking pants (moisture-wicking or water resistant)

  • 1 pair long underwear bottoms or fleece leggings (Pure Merino wool is a top choice for a quality base layer material)

  • 1 pair waterproof rain pants

  • 1-2 pairs comfortable pants or jeans

  • Extra sweater, fleece, or hoodie for evenings/dinners

  • Dress for evenings/dinners with leggings or tights to wear underneath *optional

  • Warm hat/beanie

  • Gloves

  • Scarf or neck gaiter

  • 2 pairs hiking socks

  • 2-3 pairs comfy socks

  • Bras and undies

  • Pajamas

  • Swimsuit for hot springs & cover-up

Layering Basics:

Base Layer: Long underwear / moisture management

Middle Layer: Puffy coat for outdoors / insulation

Outer Layer: Rain coat or shell plus rain pants / rain and wind protection

DAY PACK, Gear, & Accessories

  • Day pack (25-35 liter capacity)

  • Water bottle or bladder (1-2 liter capacity)

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • SPF lip balm

  • Snack stash – Luna, Power Bars, etc.

  • Handkerchief or extra Kleenex

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Headlamp *optional (useful if sharing a room)

  • Thermos *optional

  • Baseball cap or sun hat *optional

  • A face mask

Shoes

  • Waterproof hiking shoes or boots for exploring on uneven terrain and rough surfaces

    • Running shoes or gym shoes are not suitable for hiking

    • Shoes should be fully broken in and comfortable before the trip

  • Casual boots (e.g. Chelsea style) or shoes/sneakers suitable for cool/wet weather

  • Flip-flops for hot springs and pools

OTHER ITEMS

Your guide will carry a comprehensive first aid kit, but you may wish to bring some of your own items for traveling.

  • Eye mask and earplugs for sleeping

  • Face mask (in case you are sick)

  • Passport and ID (make photocopies)

  • Plug adapter for cell phone/camera charger / Epika Universal Travel Adapter

  • E-reader/Kindle *optional

  • Medications

  • Toiletries

  • Anti-inflammatories (e.g. ibuprofen)

  • Analgesics (e.g. aspirin)

  • Anti-diarrheal (e.g. Immodium)

  • Anti-histamines (e.g. Benadryl)

  • Antiseptic ointment (e.g. Neosporin) *optional

  • Electrolyte tablets *optional (good for jet lag)

  • 1 COVID self-testing kit

  • 1 toiletry kit

  • Stuff sack for dirty laundry

  • Disinfectant wipes

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Ziploc bags (can be used also as packing cubes)

  • Soap to quickly wash out clothes at night and let air dry (Dr. Bronner's)

Additional Considerations & Tips

Bring cash for tipping tour leaders and buying drinks at bars, souvenir shops, coffee stops, etc.

We recommend that you bring $350 with you in cash (around 50,000 Icelandic Króna).

It’s a good idea to order Króna from your bank or AAA ahead of time for the trip.

It is also a good idea to have extra cash in your own currency (USD, CAN, etc)

Leave the Rolex watches and diamond earrings at home. No laptops, please. If you need to stay connected, use your phone or a tablet—something lightweight. Bold Spirit Travel is NOT responsible for lost or stolen items.

Make copies of all of your important documents and stow them in different places in your luggage. Same with money. Split up your money and your credit cards so that you have an extra stash.

Regina Winkle-Bryan