Most airlines allow 20kg of checked-in baggage. So it is good to consider what you really do need for your journey. Of course, this will depend on what kind of a trip you are planning; hiking, biking and other outdoor activities with camping will require more planning than ordinary holiday with accommodation in hotels. So we just like to give you a general list based on our experience about things never should be missed for a tour in Iceland.
Weather protection:
Adequate outdoor clothing should meet the following criteria:
- good insulating qualities
- water and wind proof
- breathable to allow body moisture to escape
- light, flexible and packable.
Unfortunately, no single item of clothing exists that fulfills all of the above demands. The solution lies in the multilayer-principle: Usually, it is enough to have 3 layers where each has its own special role and purpose. A simple layering system consists of a moisture transferring base layer next to the skin, then adjustable insulating layers, and finally an outer shell against water and wind.
And of course, don’t forget about:
- warm cap and gloves
- comfortable and waterproof shoes
Useful items:
- Credit card: Icelanders pay everything by credit card and it is especially practical on a self-drive holiday as most petrol stations use a self-service system with credit card payment.
- Swimsuit: with geothermal water in abundance almost every village has an outdoor geothermal swimming pool
- Slippers or thick socks: Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a private house or even the swimming pool or guesthouse
- Camera equipment: Iceland is a photographer’s paradise and you should ensure to bring along enough memory cards an extra set of batteries.
- Binoculars: for watching the wildlife – birds and whales
At the following site: http://www.safetravel.is/equipment-lists/ you can download a detailed list in PDF-format for tours with different focuses.
