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Iceland sits in the North Atlantic as a bastion to one of the last untamed wildernesses in the world. It is home to Nordic history and architecture, soothing hot springs, inspiring fjords, stunning volcanic landscape, and sought-after views of the Northern Lights.
Far to the north, but with the Gulf Stream flowing across it, Iceland enjoys mild winters and refreshing summers. Without extreme shifts in climate, Iceland offers a stable and reliable experience to its visitors.
In the heart of summer, Iceland’s average temperature doesn’t fluctuate much outside of the range of 10-15 ℃ (50-55 ℉). This cool weather offers a reprieve from the highs that most locations in the Northern Hemisphere endure during the summer months. It is also the best time to visit the island's northern wilderness to see all the beautiful sights that can be found here. Here is what travelers will need to get the most out of this experience.
What Clothes To Wear In Iceland During The Summer
Packing the right clothes when traveling to Iceland is incredibly important. Nothing ruins a trip like being poorly equipped and prepared for the elements of a region,
Jackets and Other Outerwear
Travelers to Iceland could find themselves spending a lot of time in the elements. And though the temperature in Iceland is often quite consistent during the summer, there is still the possibility of inclement and wet weather. As many travelers know, 10 ℃ is quite comfortable until they get wet. This means that travelers should have a waterproof shell and the option to put on a rain jacket and rain pants if necessary. Having a hat or headband, as well as gloves and neck warmers are nice to have in case there is a little more need for warmth, especially as travelers move further north and into higher elevations.
- Weatherproof Shell
- Rain jacket + Pants
- Hiking pants
- Packable Down Jacket or Vest
- Hat/Headband
- Gloves
- Neck Warmers
Layers
Layers are essential for nearly all outdoor adventures, especially those into higher elevations. Weather can change, and when hiking the bulk of a true jacket isn’t always ideal. Wearing warm layers under a shell or rain jacket is the best way to maintain a good and comfortable body temperature when traveling through Iceland. It is also recommended to back some leggings or leg warmers too, as it is best to keep the lower body warm as well. Jeans make the list, not because they are ideal for hikes or outdoor excursions, but because they provide something comfortable that offers protection while exploring the town or for grabbing something to eat from a restaurant.
- Thermal Base
- Shirt
- Fleece
- Leggings and Leg Warmers
- Jeans
Footwear
Most travelers understand the incredible importance of footwear. For anyone attempting an outdoor adventure, even someone just looking to spend time walking around a city, what’s on their feet is massively important. For travelers to Iceland first on the list is a good pair of hiking shoes. To get the most out of an adventure here, a lot of time will be spent outdoors traveling through potentially rough terrain. Feet need to stay dry and comfortable, so packing a few pairs of hiking and thermal socks is a good idea too. A good pair of walking shoes are great for time spent in town or for traversing less rough terrain. There are many thermal pools in Iceland so flip-flops and sandals are good to pack as well.
- Hiking Boots
- Walking Shoes
- Flip Flops and Sandals
- Hiking and Thermal Socks
What Else To Pack For A Trip To Iceland In The Summer
Clothing isn’t the only thing that travelers need to be concerned with. There is much that goes into traveling and making sure it is a lasting and pleasant memory. Here is everything else travelers will need to make the best out of their adventure.
Photograph Gear
Now, what would an adventure in Iceland be if you didn't have the opportunity to snap some photos while out adventuring? Smartphone cameras have gotten quite good now but if travelers have a real camera it will be worth bringing. There are just some shots that are still quite difficult for a smartphone to take. Next on the list of importance is making sure that the camera doesn’t run out of power. Travelers should not only pack chargers but chargers with multiple ports and adapters. A power supply is also a great option to pack if travelers own one.
- Camera
- Charger (Car and USB)
- Power Supply
- Adapters
Day Pack
A day pack can take many forms, but it is likely for the best if it is a backpack. This will make it much easier to carry around between destinations. There are a few things that should always be in a traveler's day pack and should essentially never be taken out. Sunscreen and sunglasses are a great choice as even if the weather isn’t overly warm the sun can still burn. A rain cover for the backpack is a good choice to keep everything dry inside. A head net is great for keeping bugs away in the early summer months. If travelers want to take a dip in any of the thermal pools in Iceland having a swimsuit and quick-dry towel is a great idea. If travelers have any medication, it should also always be inside their day pack.
- Sunscreen
- Backpack Rain Cover
- Head Net
- Sleep Mask
- Swimsuit
- Quick-Dry Towel
- Sunglasses
- Water Bottle
- Medicines/prescriptions