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. 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—avoid cotton)

  • 1-2 lightweight warm layers (sweater, fleece, or sweatshirt/hoodie—avoid cotton)

  • Heavier weight warm layer or “puffy” jacket

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

  • 1-2 pairs 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

  • 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

  • Casual outfit for evenings/dinners (e.g. dress with leggings or tights to wear underneath) *optional

Layering Basics

  1. Base Layer: Moisture Management - Long underwear (avoid cotton)

  2. Middle Layer: Insulation - Sweater, sweatshirt, fleece, or puffy coat + hiking pants (avoid cotton)

  3. Outer Layer: Rain & Wind Protection - Rain coat or shell + rain pants


DAY PACK, Gear, & Accessories

  • Day pack (25-35 liter capacity)

  • Water bottle or bladder (1 liter capacity)

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • SPF lip balm

  • Snack stash – Luna, Power Bars, etc.

  • Handkerchief or extra Kleenex

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Plastic phone case on a lanyard for quick photo ops / waterproof *optional

  • Headlamp *optional (useful if sharing a room)

  • Thermos *optional

  • Baseball cap *optional

Shoes

  • Waterproof boots with ankle support 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/slides 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)

  • 1 COVID self-testing kit

  • Passport and ID (make photocopies)

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

  • 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)

  • Disinfectant wipes and/or 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)

  • Electrolyte tablets *optional (good for jet lag)

  • Stuff sack for dirty laundry *optional

  • E-reader/Kindle *optional

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