This is my essential packing list for Iceland, I was so glad to have all of these items with me apart from the crampons which I just really wish I had! This article contains affiliate links meaning I may receive a commission from items purchased via these links but this comes at no extra cost to you.
1. Thermals
This probably goes without saying. It will be cold – layer up. You don’t necessarily have to invest tonnes in thermals if you don’t think you’ll get much use out of them, I bought mine from Aldi.
2. Walking boots
You’ll probably go on quite a few walks on various types of terrain so bring so comfy shoes to walk in.
3. Crampons
This is the one thing on the list I didn’t have when I went to Iceland. I’d never even heard of crampons before we got there! They are essentially spikes that you can strap to your shoes to make it easier to walk on ice. I coped without them but I shuffled along icy trails in Skaftafell whilst crampon-wearers strolled past me with ease so I’d recommend.
4. A phone holder for your car
If you’re hiring a car it might not have a sat nav or you might be charged extra for it so if you want to safe some money use your phone instead. Even if you don’t have mobile data in Iceland, you can download maps before you leave your hotel in the morning.
5. European plug adaptors
An essential but easy to forget!
6. Portable phone battery
If you’re going to be using your phone for photos and navigation, make sure its fully charged at all times!
7. Kiwi bird adaptor
If you’re bringing a camera, you can use this nifty little device to read your camera’s memory card on your phone. So you don’t need to bring your laptop or wait until you get home to share your photos. Just make sure you get the right one for you phone. Your phone also needs to be USB OTG (on-the-go) compatible too, unfortunately iPhones aren’t.
8. A warm hat
A must. My bobble hat didn’t cut it when the winds picked up so I ended up borrowing my boyfriend’s. I’d highly recommend a hat with ear flaps.
Bonus: Northern Lights App
Download an app like AuroraWatch to keep an eye on the best time and place to catch the Northern Lights during your stay. Definitely not something to miss if you can help it!