It’s the last Iceland post I promise! Iceland’s stunning landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and otherworldly views make it a dream destination for travelers. After our recent family trip around the Ring Road, I’ve rounded up my best essential tips for visiting Iceland to make your trip smoother, more comfortable, and budget-friendly. From what to pack to how to get around, here’s everything I wish I’d known before we went. If it’s a place you planning on visiting (and I think you should), these will really help the packing and overall trip go much more smoothly.
Getting Around
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Rent a car — It’s by far the easiest way to explore at your own pace. If you’re comfortable driving an electric vehicle, you can save a lot on gas. Always make sure you pay for parking to avoid tickets!
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Get a hotspot with your rental — Having Wi-Fi on the go makes directions, restaurant searches, and trip updates effortless.
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Pre-book the ferry — If you’re heading to the Westman Islands, tickets fill up quickly.
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Bring your car to the Westman Islands if your visit is short — It’s faster to get around than walking everywhere.
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Motion sickness meds — Roads can be winding, and whale watching excursions can be choppy. Even if you usually don’t get motion sickness, it’s worth packing some.
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Keep motion sickness bags in the car — Just in case. Roads are curvy and have many elevation changes.
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Consider a family audiobook — Long stretches of driving are perfect for stories. We listened to Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
Packing & Gear Tips
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Packable rain pants in your carry-on — If the weather changes mid-hike, you’ll be glad you have them within reach.
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Waterproof shoes — Iceland is wet, muddy, and sometimes snowy even in summer.
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Layer up for glacier tours — Wear more than you think; I wore three layers and still got chilly.
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Bring snacks and water for tours — Especially glacier tours, which can run long if maintenance is needed.
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Small, soft-sided cooler — Perfect for keeping sandwiches and drinks fresh, especially in areas where food stops are scarce.
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Protein bars — A lifesaver on early mornings or when lunch is delayed.
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Camp towels — They dry quickly and pack small.
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Foot powder — Your feet will thank you after long hikes and all-day walking. As will your family.
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Plastic bags or dry bag for wet swimsuits — Especially after the Blue Lagoon or hot springs.
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Bath products for the Blue Lagoon — They provide some, but the amount is minimal, especially if you need to coat your hair with conditioner before swimming.
- Sleeping Mask– If you go in summer, it’s 24 hours of daylight. Even with blackout curtains, a comfortable sleeping mask helps.
Clothing & Weather Preparedness
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Dress in layers — Iceland’s weather changes quickly; a T-shirt, fleece, and waterproof shell is a good combo.
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Bring a warm hat and gloves year-round — Even summer evenings can be chilly.
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Wind protection — The top of Grábrók Crater was especially gusty; pace yourself on the stairs.
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Rain jacket and rain pants — Truly essential. We used ours almost daily.
Money & Convenience
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No currency exchange needed — We used our credit card for everything.
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Bring an empty water bottle — Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world. Want to keep it clean? Bring a few denture tabs to disinfect when you can’t wash it out.
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Shop duty-free at the airport — You’ll find Icelandic chocolates, salts, and alcohol at good prices.
My Iceland Packing List
What I Wore in Iceland
I got pictures of everyday except one during our trip. When I was researching, it was hard to find what people wore. In reality, there is a large mix! Iceland is NOT a style center. It’s mostly casual and comfortable which works well! I think the only thing I brought and didn’t wear were a pair of jeans. Fleece lined leggings were my more worn item.
Travel & Day 1: Spanx half zip and Sweatpants, Hiking boots
Day 2: Sweatshirt, Turtleneck, Leggings 
Day 3: Leather leggings & Quarter zip sweater
Day 4: Sweatshirt, Turtleneck, Leggings
Day 6: Sweatshirt, Flare leggings,
Day 7: Sweater & Leggings
Day 9: Fleece & Joggers
Day 10: Sweater, Flannel, & Leggings 
What I actually looked like most days: Coat, Rain pants, & Hiking boots
Final Thoughts
Iceland is breathtaking, but its weather and distances can catch travelers off guard. With these essential tips for visiting Iceland, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy every moment—from soaking in hot springs to climbing volcanic craters. Pack smart, dress in layers, and don’t forget the snacks—you’ll thank yourself later.
Last week’s favorite post was from Alison at Midlife and Beyond who shared her holiday packing checklist.
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