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.