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
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.