Winter in Iceland is unforgettable, but packing smart is essential. The season matches the northern lights months and also the coldest road-trip period. Dressing in layers, choosing solid footwear and having a reliable rental car helps you explore Iceland.
Iceland’s Winter Weather
Iceland winter is cold and unpredictable, so warmth and weather protection matter more than style. Winter runs from October to April, with January and February being the coldest.
Average temperature by winter month in Reykjavík
- October: 28°F (-2°C) to 41°F (5°C)
- November: 30°F (-1°C) to 39°F (4°C)
- December: 23°F (-5°C) to 36°F (2°C)
- January: 14°F (-10°C) to 32°F (0°C)
- February: 16°F (-9°C) to 34°F (1°C)
- March: 28°F (-2°C) to 37°F (3°C)
- April: 28°F (-2°C) to 40°F (4°C)
Outside cities, snow and wind chill are common, especially in the north and east. Short temporary road closures can happen during storms, so planning ahead is always smart.
What to Wear in Winter in Iceland
To stay warm, wearing layers is the most effective approach.
Layered Clothing
- Start with a merino wool or thermal base layer
- Add an insulating middle layer such as fleece or a wool sweater
- Finish with a warm windproof and waterproof winter coat
Winter Accessories
- Warm hat
- Insulated waterproof gloves or mittens
- Wool scarf or neck gaiter
- Merino or wool socks
Winter Footwear
- Waterproof, insulated boots with strong traction are recommended
- Ice cleats or crampons are helpful for icy days, especially near waterfalls or snowy paths
- Look at our guide: What is the best shoes to wear in Iceland?
Dress Like a Local in Iceland
Popular Icelandic winter items:
- Lopapeysa: A wool jumper with traditional Icelandic yoke patterns
- Ullarsokkar: Wool socks worn under boots for insulation
- Pollagalli: Raincoat onesie for kids outdoors
- Regngalli/Regngalla buxur: Waterproof coat + trousers for adults outdoors
These pieces are practical for cold evenings and outdoor days on the road or in nature.
Packing list for Adults and Kids in Iceland Winter
Here´s a quick, practical packing list to help you prepare for winter in Iceland:
Adults
- Base layer top and bottom (merino wool or thermal)
- Fleece or wool sweater
- Windproof and waterproof winter coat
- Waterproof over-pants
- Warm hat
- Insulated waterproof gloves
- Wool scarf or neck warmer
- Warm socks
- Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction
Kids
- Base layer top bottom
- Fleece or wool jumper
- Waterproof and windproof warm winter coat
- Waterproof over-pants or a winter snowsuit
- Warm hat
- Insulated waterproof gloves or mittens
- Wool scarf or neck warmer
- Warm socks
- Waterproof, insulated boots with strong traction
FAQ: What to Wear in Iceland for a Winter Trip
- What should adults wear in Iceland in winter?
Adults should wear warm layers including a thermal or merino base layer, an insulating fleece or wool sweater, waterproof insulated boots, and a windproof, waterproof winter coat.
- What should kids wear in Iceland during winter travel?
Kids should wear a full thermal base layer set, a fleece a wool jumper, waterproof insulated boots, a warm hat, gloves or mittens and a waterproof winter coat or snowsuit for outdoor days.
- What type of boots are best for Iceland winter?
The best boots for Iceland winter are waterproof, insulated and have strong traction to handle snow, ice and outdoor paths.
- What accessories are essential for Iceland winter weather?
A warm hat, insulated gloves or mittens, a scarf or neck warmer and merino or wool socks are the most important winter accessories.
- What is Iceland´s winter season and how should i pack?
A warm hat, insulated gloves or mittens, a scarf or neck warmer and merino or wool socks are the most important winter accessories.
- When is Iceland´s winter season?
Winter in Iceland most often runs from October to April, with January and February being the coldest.
- How should I pack for winter travel in Iceland?
Pack a warm thermal or merino base layer set, an insulating fleece or wool mid-layer, waterproof insulated boots with strong traction, plus a windproof and waterproof winter coat to stay comfortable while traveling.
Conclusion
Packing smart for Iceland´s winter means choosing warm layers, waterproof insulated boots and windproof outerwear so you can enjoy the scenery comfortably. Winter most often runs from October to April and the best time to visit depends on the experience you want. Summer brings easier driving and long daylight, while winter offers dramatic geothermal steam, darker nights and great conditions for seeing the Northern Lights.
With the right preparation, you can focus on the beauty of Iceland, not the cold.
For an cheap and dependable car rental in Iceland, choose Firefly Iceland. Enjoy pickup at Keflavík arrivals, drive on your own schedule and explore Iceland comfortably at own pace.
