I’m heading to Iceland this October and couldn’t be more excited! Here’s everything I’m packing to stay warm, dry, and ready for adventure – rain or shine.

I’m heading to Iceland this Monday for the very first time, and I honestly can’t wait! The dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs have been on my bucket list for years. I’ll be traveling in October, which means unpredictable weather, and according to the forecast, rain every day. So packing smart is essential.

If you’re planning your own Icelandic adventure, here’s a detailed packing list I’ve put together to help you stay warm, dry, and ready for whatever nature throws your way.

🧥 Outerwear Essentials

• ☐ Waterproof rain jacket + rain pants
• ☐ Insulated down jacket or vest
• ☐ Weatherproof outer shell
• ☐ Fleece or warm mid-layer
• ☐ Gloves or mittens
• ☐ Warm hat + scarf or gaiter
• ☐ Baseball cap (handy for airport or layering)

👖 Clothes for Layering

• ☐ Merino wool base layers (top + bottom)
• ☐ Long-sleeve shirts and sweaters
• ☐ Comfortable leggings or hiking pants
• ☐ Outfit for dinners in Reykjavik or hotel restaurants
• ☐ Pajamas and undergarments

🥾 Footwear

• ☐ Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy shoes
• ☐ Casual shoes for evenings
• ☐ Merino wool socks + liner socks
• ☐ Flip flops or sandals (for hot springs or hotel)

👜 Travel Accessories

• ☐ Waterproof backpack or dry bags (to keep gear dry)
• ☐ Reusable water bottle
• ☐ Hand warmers (especially for outdoor stops)
• ☐ Sunglasses (yes, even in October!)
• ☐ Quick-dry towel + swimsuit for hot springs
• ☐ Moisturizer + lip balm with SPF (the wind can be brutal)

📸 Photography & Electronics

• ☐ Camera or GoPro + extra batteries (they drain faster in cold)
• ☐ Power bank and charging cables
• ☐ European plug adapter
• ☐ Tripod for northern lights or waterfall shots

🧼 Toiletries & Health

• ☐ Prescription meds + pain reliever
• ☐ Cold medicine (just in case)
• ☐ Motion sickness remedy (I’m bringing Dramamine)
• ☐ Travel-size toiletries + tissue packs
• ☐ First aid kit

📑 Must-Have Travel Documents

• ☐ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• ☐ Credit/debit cards with no foreign transaction fees
• ☐ Printed itinerary and hotel confirmations
• ☐ Travel insurance and emergency contact info
• ☐ Offline maps or GPS app downloaded

🧳 Luggage Tips

• ☐ Rolling suitcase or duffel (weather-resistant)
• ☐ Daypack for hikes and city exploring
• ☐ Packing cubes (game changer for organizing)
• ☐ Wet bag + laundry bag
• ☐ Collapsible cooler or reusable shopping bag

✨ Final Thoughts

Iceland’s beauty is wild, raw, and totally worth braving the weather. I’m excited for the waterfalls, geothermal pools, the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, and just experiencing the magic of this island for the first time.

If you’re preparing for your own trip, I hope this list helps you feel more confident and ready to embrace the elements. Don’t forget your rain gear, your sense of adventure, and your camera—you’ll want to remember every moment!

Follow along as I share more about my Iceland journey—coming soon!

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Have you been to Iceland? Share your must-pack items or tips in the comments below!