Iceland: Packing list for your holiday on the Island of Horses

Iceland – the raw beauty of nature, the huge glaciers, steaming hot springs and the impressive aurora make this island a very special destination. Whether you are wandering through the mystical highlands, relaxing in the Blue Lagoon or taking a riding trip on the famous Icelandic horses, Iceland has something for everyone.

But one thing you must not forget: a well thought-outIceland Packing List.In this article I will show you what you need for yourHolidays on the Island of HorsesWhether for winter, summer or autumn.

Island Packing List: Download PDF now!

Here is the packing list for Iceland

Money and Finance

• Icelandic krone (ISK): Iceland uses theIcelandic kroneas a currency. Make sure you take a small amount of cash, especially if you are visiting more remote regions. In Reykjavik and larger cities, however, you can pay almost anywhere by credit card.
• Credit card / EC card: It is advisable to use a credit card or debit card for larger payments. In Iceland, card payments are widespread and very often possible even in remote areas.
• Emergency benefit: In case you are traveling in remote areas or have to pay for an activity in cash, it makes sense to have a small amount of cash with you.

Hygiene and culture bags

• Hairbrush / comb
• Deo
• Shampoo, rinse, etc.
• Hair gum
• Hand cream
• Contact lenses + accessories
• Labello / Lip Balm
• Razor for the trip
• Shaving foam for travel
• Make-up utensils
• Sunscreen (travel size)
• Tampons / Women's hygiene articles
• Towels
• Toothbrush + toothpaste for travel
• Hand disinfectants: Since you are often out in Iceland, it is convenientHand disinfectantsto clean the hands after hikes or after contact with animals.
• Wet wipes: These are especially useful if you’re in remote areas and can’t find a laundry.

Iceland usually has very good sanitation facilities, but you should not forget to bring personal hygiene products.

Clothing

• Bathrobe
• Bathing goods
• Merino wool underwear
• Belts
• Gloves
• Shorts
• Jeans
• Caps/Caps/Hats
• Sweaters/Sweatshirts
• Rain jacket / Raincape
• Pajamas/Pajamas
• Socks
• Softshell jacket
• Sunglasses
• Trekking pants
• T-shirts
• Traveling/functional socks

Medications / Pharmacy

• Travel pharmaciesIn the event that you become ill or suffer minor injuries during your stay in Iceland, you should consider a basicTravel pharmacieswhere:
• Pain relievers, patches, antiseptic, mosquito repellents and anti-nausea or diarrhea drugs.
• Personal medicationsBe sure to take all medications you take regularly, as they may not be easy to find in Iceland.

Papers and documents

• Passport/ID card
• Health insurance card
• Driving licenceIf you plan to rent a car in Iceland, you should definitely buy your car.Driving licenceTake it with you. If you are travelling with a rental car, also note that there is left-hand traffic in Iceland.
• Travel insurance: It is recommended that oneTravel insurancefor medical emergencies and anTravel cancellation insurancefinalised.

Backpacks and bags

• Suitcases or travel bags: For the flight to Iceland a suitableTravel bagor a stableSuitcases. If you are traveling by car, you can also use a practicalRolling suitcasesuse.
• daypack,to store important things such as snacks, water, camera and clothes for a short trip.
• Backpack cover and rain protection

Footwear

• Walking shoes
• Sandals / Light Shoes
• Sneakers
• Flip flops, slippers
• Rubber boots: If you walk a lot through wet terrain or mud.

Other

• Notebook and pen: If you want to take notes for your travel experiences.
• Glasses / contact lenses + cases
• Book / Magazine
• Sewing machines
• Ohropax / earplugs against snorers
• 1 to 2 travel towels (fast drying)
• Sleeping glasses
• Safety needles
• Water bottle, foldable
• Dictionary (book or app)

Technical equipment

• Digital camera incl. battery / tripod
• eBook readers (e.g. Kindle)
• Mobile phone incl. Charging cables
• Mobile phone case, waterproof
• Headphones
• Powerbank
• SD card
• Selfie stick

Island Packing List: Clothing with the Most Important Things for Every Season

Iceland offers a unique experience at any time of the year, which is why it is important to find the right one.Packing list for Icelanddepending on the season. Temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the year, so you should adapt in any case.

Iceland Packing List for Winter

Iceland in winter has its own magic. The auroras, hot springs and impressive glaciers make winter a special time to travel.

• Warm clothesA thick, isolatedWinter jacket, Thermal underwear or wool underwearWarm caps and gloves are essential in the winter month.
• Watertight equipment: Also in winter there may be rain or snowfall, so you should make sure that all your clothes areWaterproofor at leastWater resistantare.
• Shoes and socks: Walking shoesThose that offer good traction even in snow or ice are necessary.Warm socksmade of merino wool help to keep the feet dry and warm even in cold weather.

Iceland Packing List for Summer

In summer, the weather can be milder and more pleasant, but you should still be prepared for colder temperatures.

• Light rain jacket: Also in the summer you should have aRain jacketIt can rain very quickly in Iceland, even on sunny days.
• Layer principle: Iceland is known for its fast weather changes, so you should go to theLayer principleset. LightT-shirts, Sweatersand oneWindtight jacketare ideal.
• Bathing goods: During a visit toBlue lagoonOr a hot spring should youBathing goodsThey've got it. The geothermal energy of Iceland provides for numeroushot springsWhere you can relax.

Iceland Packing List for Autumn

Autumn in Iceland brings not only breathtaking colors but also cooler temperatures.

• Heat and rain clothing: OneRain jacketandRobustClothing is also required in autumn, as the weather can change quickly. Make sure your clothes areRespiratory activityis to stay dry during hikes.
• Footwear: The trails can be muddy or slippery, so make sure youWalking shoesThey are good ones.

Iceland Packing List for Spring

Spring in Iceland can be cool, but it’s also a wonderful time to explore the country.

• Layers of clothingPack warm clothes likethermal underwearandFleece jacketsand lighter clothing for warmer weather.
• Varying temperaturesPrepare for temperatures to rise and fall quickly, so you should always have aWind densityandWaterproofTake the jacket with you.

Iceland: Packing list for women

• Menstrual cups or preferred menstrual products in sufficient quantity (selection very limited in rural areas of Iceland)
• Dry or dry shampoo for days without shower facilities (especially important for long trekking tours)
• Moisturizing face cream with windscreen and UV protection (Icelandic weather conditions can put a lot of strain on the skin)
• Lip care products with high LSF (the combination of wind, cold and UV radiation is particularly challenging)
• Sports bras with a fast-drying function (important for outdoor activities lasting several days)
• Hair ties and hair clips in larger quantities (essential in wind and easy to lose)
• Wet wipes for intimate hygiene (especially important during camping trips)
• Tampons with applicator (often not available in Iceland or only in limited selection)
• Wet untangling brush for long hair (practically in windy conditions)

Iceland: Trekking Packing List for Hikes

Iceland is a paradise for hiking friends. If you want to discover the country on foot, the following things are essential:

• Walking shoes: Robust walking shoesare essential for Iceland, especially if you want to explore the highlands. They should:Waterproofand well insulated to protect your feet in cold or wet weather.
• Backpack:Waterproof rucksackIt is important for your walks to keep your equipment safe.
• Map and compassIceland has secluded trails, so you should always have a map and a compass with you to avoid getting lost.

Iceland: Camping Packing List

Camping is a popular way to explore Iceland. You should have some important equipment with you:

• High quality, windproof and waterproof 4-season tent
• Sleeping bag with comfort temperature up to at least -5°C, better -10°C
• Thermal isomats with high R value (minimum R-4)
• Light camping stove with wind protection and extra gas cartridge
• Stable lightweight cooking utensils and cutlery of titanium or aluminium
• Multilayered, fast-drying clothing on the onion principle
• Watertight bags for clothing and electronics
• Headlamp with spare batteries for the bright summer nights
• Multitool or pocket knife for repairs
• Water filters or cleaning tablets for natural water sources
• Camping chair or light seat mat
• Garbage bag (everything has to be taken back)
• Compass and physical maps as backup
• Powerbank for electronic devices
• First aid kit with bladder patches for hikes
• Biodegradable camping shampoo and soap mosquito protection (especially important in summer)
• Sunscreen with high SPF (even in cloudy skies)

Packing List for Riding Holidays in Iceland

TheIcelandic horsesThis is one of the highlights of an Icelandic trip. However, before embarking on a riding trip, you should inquire in advance whether you are allowed to bring your own riding clothes, whether you need to rent them locally or buy them new locally. Otherwise:

• Respiratory, water-resistant, buttocks reinforcement
• Riding gloves with good grip for wet conditions
• Waterproof riding boots or Ankle Boots with heel
• Reithelm according to international safety standards
• Lightweight, breathable riding jacket with hood and wind protection
• Functional underwear as base layer under riding clothing
• Sun protection for long rides in open landscape
• Camera with weatherproof shell for photos during the ride
• Drinking bottle or hydration system on the go
• Rain poncho large enough to carry in saddle
• Scarf or buff for protection against wind and dust

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Frequently Asked Questions about Iceland Packing List