What to Pack For a Trip to Iceland, From Snow Boots to Sweater Dresses

Published on April 21, 2023 at 10:35 AM

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While warm-weather locales like Puerto Rico and Belize are usually top of mind when it comes to vacation planning, a winter-ready getaway can be just as magical. Iceland is considered a bucket-list destination for its breathtaking volcanic landscape, fascinating ice caves, famed lagoons, and relaxing geothermal pools. And of course, there's the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis — a natural phenomenon so majestic, people travel from all over the world to see it. It's no wonder the Nordic island country frequently welcomes celebrities like Beyoncé, JAY-Z, and Kourtney Kardashian Barker. There's no shortage of activities to add to your itinerary, from a day spent whale and penguin watching to dinner at a world-class restaurant. But figuring out what to wear in Iceland may prove a bit more challenging.

When dressing to visit the North Atlantic island, remember warmth is key. Stock up on cozy fleece-lined leggings you can layer under snow-proof pants. Bomber vests will also come in handy, and they're easily removable when you go indoors. Snow boots and wool socks will go a long way in keeping your feet dry, as you trek through an ice-cave tour or wait outside for a view of the northern lights. Go skiing in a bright set from LoveShackFancy's collaboration with Bogner: floral-printed puffer jackets and pants that will keep you warm in style.

For a visit to a fancy bar or restaurant, you can marry fashion and function: think a Christopher John Rogers striped sweater paired with your favorite leather skirt. To unwind at the country's famed Retreat Spa at the world-renowned Blue Lagoon, pack a fun swimsuit and get ready to soak in water that's rich with therapeutic minerals. Although the water temperature is around 98 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (37 to 40 degrees Celsius), the air is still cold, so a knit headband from 66°North will keep you comfortable.

Keep reading for more tips on what to wear in Iceland.

Where to Eat in Iceland: Tides Restaurant at the Reykjavik Edition

Treat yourself to a fancy dinner at Reykjavik Edition's signature restaurant, Tides. Led by chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, Tides is known for its fresh and complex Icelandic ingredients and flavorful dishes, from grilled salmon with habanero and radishes to vanilla mousse with orange marmalade and chocolate namelaka.

Striped Sweater

Vero Moda Begonia Ombré Stripe Sweater ($65)

This chic striped sweater from Nordstrom is perfect for an evening at a restaurant, especially paired with a sleek leather skirt and knee-high boots.

Vero Moda Begonia Ombré Stripe Sweater

From

$65

Where to Relax in Iceland: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

Spend a day at the world-famous Retreat Spa to experience the warm, mineral-rich, geothermal seawater of the Blue Lagoon. The Retreat offers a more private experience than the Blue Lagoon spa, with the opportunity to soak beside lava canyons with a Champagne cocktail in hand. Added bonus? Private changing rooms, an array of treatments and massages, and the Blue Lagoon's famed skin-care ritual with silica, algae, and minerals.

Cutout Swimsuit

Andrea Iyamah Rora One-Piece Swimsuit in Chocolate ($211)

For a day luxuriating at the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon, pack this gorgeous cutout one-piece swimsuit from Andrea Iyamah. The Black-owned brand pays special attention to the details, like the ruching on the bra and gathered sleeves.

Andrea Iyamah Rora One-Piece Swimsuit in Chocolate

From

$211

Knit Headband

66°North Headband ($35)

Though the water temperature at the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon is around 98 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (37 to 40 degrees Celsius), the air is still cold. Cover your head and ears with a hat or a knit headband from beloved Iceland-based brand 66°North.

66°North Headband

From

$35

Fleece-Lined Leggings

Baleaf Fleece-Lined Winter Leggings With Pockets ($31)

Upgrade your leggings collection for a trip to Iceland with this fleece-lined style. Along with breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, the leggings boast two convenient pockets, big enough to hold your smartphone.

Baleaf Fleece-Lined Winter Leggings With Pockets

From

$31

Wool Socks

COS Folded Colorblock Wool Socks ($35)

With snow and ice all around you, it's important to keep your feet dry when traveling to Iceland. Knitted from a wool and recycled cashmere blend, COS's famous socks even have fold-over cuffs to make your toes extra warm.

COS Folded Colorblock Wool Socks

From

$35

Sweater Nails

B. Clawed Sweater Weather Nails ($23)

Keep the wintry theme going with a manicure featuring these viral sweater nails from B. Clawed. The easy-to-apply press-on set comes with ombré purple polish and a knit-inspired design.

B. Clawed Sweater Weather Nails

From

$23

Balaclava

The Series Granny Balaclava ($100)

For those unbearably windy days, grab a balaclava from cool-girl brand The Series. The hand-knit headwear boasts a chic ivory and black colorway and of course the label's colorful logo.

The Series Granny Balaclava

From

$100

Ugg Boots

Ugg Classic Short II Boot ($170)

Ugg boots are popular for a reason: they essentially feel like you're walking on a cloud. For Iceland in particular, the soft sheepskin and durable sole make it ideal for trekking through snow.

Ugg Classic Short II Boot

From

$170

Fuzzy Bag

Brandon Blackwood Mya Bag ($550)

Brandon Blackwood's cult-favorite bag has a version perfect for cold-weather outings. With its green fox-fur trim, the purse feels just as soft and cozy as your favorite winter coat.

Brandon Blackwood Mya Bag

From

$550

Statement Scarf

Loewe Fringe Striped Scarf ($224)

Add some flair to your neutral winter wardrobe with Loewe's popular statement scarf. The mohair-blend accessory features a leather-trim logo and an array of vibrant hues from orange and blue to yellow and red.

Loewe Fringe Striped Scarf

From

$224

Bomber Vest

Moose Knuckles x Telfar Metallic Bomber Vest ($975)

From the gold metallic sheen to the all-over logo print, this down vest is equally functional and glamorous. It even boasts a faux fur-trimmed hood for a touch of added warmth.

Moose Knuckles x Telfar Metallic Bomber Vest

From

$975

Snow Boots

Moon Boot Icon Low 2 Snow Boots ($175)

Trek through Iceland's famous ice caves in a Moon Boot made for that very purpose. The rubber sole delivers a secure grip that helps you keep your balance with every step.