Preparing for a multi-day hiking adventure in Iceland requires careful packing. The Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, so being well-equipped is essential for your comfort and safety. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
Essential Footwear & Clothing
Footwear:
- Waterproof hiking boots with solid ankle support – these are crucial for Iceland's rugged terrain
- River crossing shoes – old trainers or walking sandals with good grip work well (flip-flops won't suffice)
- Warm wool or neoprene socks for river crossings
Base & Mid Layers:
- Long-sleeve thermal base layer (merino wool or synthetic material)
- Short-sleeve thermal base layer
- Fleece or lightweight wool mid-layer for insulation
- 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic blend)
Outer Layers:
- Waterproof, windproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or equivalent breathable material)
- Waterproof, windproof trousers – full rain gear is mandatory in Iceland; ponchos are ineffective due to strong winds
- Quick-drying hiking trousers in durable, lightweight fabric (soft-shell recommended)
Accessories:
- Two pairs of gloves in varying thickness (wool or synthetic)
- Warm beanie or hat
- Swimwear for geothermal pools along the route
Gear & Equipment
Bags & Packs:
- Duffel bag for transporting overnight gear between mountain huts (please avoid suitcases)
- Day pack (25-40L capacity) for carrying extra layers and your daily essentials
Sleeping:
- Sleeping bag – a basic bag is sufficient as all mountain huts are heated
- Lightweight, packable towel
Essentials:
- Sunglasses and sun protection (SPF 30+ recommended)
- Water bottle (0.5-1L) or hydration system
- Headlamp or torch for navigating huts in the evening
- Comfortable clothes for wearing inside the huts
- Lunch container
- Personal first aid kit with blister treatment
- Any prescription medications and personal health items
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap)
- Earplugs for shared accommodation
Optional But Recommended
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (to protect fragile highland vegetation)
- Fully charged power bank for electronics – note that charging facilities are not available in highland huts
- Gaiters (especially useful for June and early July departures)
- Lightweight insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof dry bags for protecting electronics and spare clothing
- Small sitting pad for lunch breaks
- Indoor slippers or sandals
- Pillowcase (you can stuff it with a jacket to create a pillow)
- Sun hat or baseball cap
- Pocket knife
- Entertainment (book, playing cards, travel games)
- Small amount of cash for paid showers along the trail
A Local Tip: Iceland's liquor laws mean alcohol isn't readily available in the highlands. If you'd like to bring something to share with fellow hikers around the evening campfire, pick it up at the duty-free shop when you arrive at Keflavík Airport. Just remember to bring a plastic or metal flask to carry it in – glass bottles aren't suitable for hiking!