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What to wear in Iceland during winter?

When you hear the name Iceland, you probably think about cold weather, snowstorms, minus degrees Celsius, etc.

You are quite right, but do not imagine that the North Pole is here. It is not that cold. And people are not living in igloos either.

Photo by Esse Chua on Unsplash

Winter in Iceland is not that “scary.” The only thing that can make it “special” is the snowstorms and the indispensable wind that may occur sometimes.

And because Iceland welcomes people from all over the world, we find it helpful to discuss what to wear in Iceland during winter. An Australian winter is not the same as Icelandic winter.

Photo by Michele Orallo on Unsplash

The temperatures have started to decrease in Iceland since September and will stay at one digit usually until the beginning of May.

So, if you plan to visit Iceland during this cold period, consider some things when packing for your trip.

Check our blog about Weather in Iceland to see what to prepare for.

Check the live weather conditions on Vedur.is.

Truck stuck in extreme winter snow storm.
Photo by Jonatan Pie on Unsplash

Layers, layers and again, layers. To feel comfortable while exploring the wonders of Iceland, you will need some warm layers under a waterproof or windproof clothing layer.

You will need three layers of clothing. The first layer is the thermal underwear, which will keep you warm. The second layer is a wool sweater or a fleece one and hiking trousers or waterproof ones (recommended).

Exploring Thingvellir during winter.
Photo by Jonatan Pie on Unsplash

To keep your feet warm, you will need wool socks; to keep you safe, you will need sturdy hiking boots, preferably waterproof. The relief in Iceland is rough, and a pair of sturdy boots will keep you away from unwanted situations.

For the final layer, you will need a waterproof, thick jacket to protect you from the wind and snow. Thick gloves, a wool scarf and a wool beanie, will also keep your hands, face and head warm.

You won’t feel cold this way and will enjoy your trip more, especially when you stay outside to hunt the Northern Lights.

Hunting the Aurora Borealis in Iceland.
Photo by Annie Niemaszyk on Unsplash

If you take a backpack with you, make sure it is waterproof, or if you don’t have a waterproof backpack, take a waterproof cover for your bag. It will be handy.

If we are talking about what to pack for your trip to Iceland, here are some more things you should put in your suitcase: a swimsuit, you will need one even if you are travelling in winter because Iceland has many geothermal baths and hot springs that will be hard not to try them.

Aerial view of the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa covered in snow.
Photo source: Blue Lagoon Iceland

Together with your clothes, take a reusable water bottle or a thermos. It will save you some money because the water in Iceland is drinkable directly from nature or the tap.

You can also take with you a pair of sunglasses. There won’t be so much sun, but driving on a sunny day will be helpful.

So, have you decided what to wear in Iceland during winter? Put your adventurous spirit into your suitcase because you will have some unforgettable moments in Iceland.

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