Depending on the weather where you are coming from, you may need to check deep in your closets or even invest in a thing or two before your trip to Iceland.
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Our recommended list is based on winter vs. summer travel, but remember that Iceland really doesn't get extremely cold or very warm. However, wind and rain can be a factor year around.
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Summer temperatures get into the low 70's at best and winter temperature usually stay anywhere from the 20's to the 50's
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Remember to pack all your medication, pharmacies are usually within reach, but they do not honor American Health Insurance, and you have to make sure that they can dispense medication based on your doctors prescription
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Water resistant hiking shoes or good sneakers with good thread, we prefer Mid High Gore-Tex hiking shoes, as we feel they give good traction and protection, which is often helpful. Good thread is extremely important as we often venture on trails that are gravel or dirt
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Warm Wind and waterproof jacket" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water and wind proof or at least water resistant jacket
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Short and long sleeved shirts and sweaters, wool or fleece to help layer under jacket
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Hiking / Outdoor pants, water resistant or waterproof recommended. Not necessary all days, but good to have around waterfalls and when it rains.
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Gloves, hats and even gaiters/buffs can be good to have at almost any time of the year. More heavy duty for winter use of course.
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Socks, may be some of the most valuable item of clothing to have with you. Wool socks are a good idea, at least a pair or two. You can find excellent wool socks in Iceland, but here are some alternative ones (and quite a bit cheaper) to have in your bag. Keep a pair in your day bag to change when needed
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Waterproof socks are a good idea on our Expedition Adventure tours and Motorcycle Tours. There are days that we see a bit of water and they come in handy, especially if your hikers are not fully waterproof. Here are some of the ones we like, we usually stick with these waterproof socks from Randy Sun which have worked very well for us.
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Swimwear is highly recommended as there are geothermal hot-springs, lagoons, pools and tubs all around the country. It's not a bad idea to have at least two pair. Also, some light and packable flip-flops may come in handy.
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Reusable water bottles are a must! Every drop of water in Iceland, be it from a bathroom sink or a quiet brook is probably fresher than any water you have ever tasted. Buying water is therefore not only a waste of money, but completely unnecessary pollution. Here are a few water bottle options we would recommend.
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Smaller day packs are highly recommended. They can of course also double as a "water-bottle" of they have a hydration bladder. You might be happier if you pick one with a rain cover.
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Sun protection and Sunglasses are recommended year around. Even in the winter time reflection from snow, water and ice can be very strong and in the summer the sun can be shining almost around the clock
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Mosquito nets are a must in the hight of summer, especially in certain areas in the South-West and by Myvatn in the North. Now, there are no mosquito's, but there are swarms of pesky midgets that you will be happy to fend off with a Mosquito net.
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Standard European travel adaptor, sometimes called German style, is a must, although most hotel will have one for you in the lobby, it's a bit inconvenient. The ones linked to all work, choose your own style. we recommend less bulky and ones with USB ports are usually helpful
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Portable battery chargers can help to add a bit of juice to phones and other accessories during long days and extensive usage. It's not a bad idea either to go over your camera gear and accessories in case you need a filter to step down light exposure for waterfalls or a handy carry bag for example. An extra camera battery is often a good idea.
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Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs, wool and lamb skin products and the best chocolate and licorice in the world!
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URGENT!
Make sure that your U.S. Passport is valid for at least 3 months past your planned return date . U.S. Passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Iceland.
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Please note that the links above are affiliate links to products on Amazon, of which Icelandx earns a little commission on. We appreciate you using our links to shop for your travel needs!
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