Packing for a trip to West Iceland can feel tricky: dramatic weather changes, coastal winds, and varied landscapes mean your suitcase needs to work hard. With a bit of planning—and the right base in each region—you can stay warm, dry, and comfortable while enjoying everything from glacier views to quiet harbor towns.
West Iceland stretches from the gentle farmlands of Borgarfjörður to the windswept peninsulas and the wild Westfjords. Each area has its own microclimate and character, so your clothing choices should adapt as you move around. Staying with Ourhotels.is makes this easier: you can unpack, reassess your gear each evening, and adjust your layers for the next day’s adventures.
Start in Borgarfjörður, where the Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes offers a cozy base close to hot springs, lava fields, and rivers. This region often feels milder than the Westfjords, but the weather can still shift quickly. Think in layers: a breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer (like fleece or light wool), and a windproof, waterproof shell. Comfortable hiking pants or jeans with a bit of stretch work well for exploring waterfalls and historic sites. Even in summer, pack a light hat and gloves—cool evenings by the river are part of the charm. At Hvítá Inn, you can easily dry damp clothes and repack for the next day, so don’t hesitate to bring quick-drying fabrics that handle a surprise shower.
Moving north and west toward the Snæfellsnes area, the Stykkishólmur Inn places you right in a picturesque harbor town with easy access to boat tours and coastal walks. Here, wind is often the main factor. A good windproof jacket, a snug beanie, and a neck gaiter or scarf make a big difference on boat trips or when you’re standing on a viewpoint overlooking the bay. Footwear matters too: waterproof walking shoes or light hiking boots with good grip are ideal for wet docks, rocky shorelines, and short hikes. Under your shell, keep your layers flexible—sun can break through and warm you quickly, but a passing shower or sea spray can cool you down just as fast. Back at Stykkishólmur Inn, you can change into something comfortable and warm for an evening stroll around town or a relaxed dinner.
Farther north, the Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords puts you in one of Iceland’s most dramatic regions. Here, the weather can be cooler and more unpredictable, even in summer, and winter conditions can feel truly Arctic. This is where your warmest layers earn their place in your bag. Pack a thicker wool or down mid-layer, thermal base layers, and a high-quality waterproof and windproof outer shell. If you plan to hike or join outdoor excursions, consider bringing lightweight crampons in winter, warm hiking socks, and insulated gloves. A warm hat that covers your ears and a buff or scarf are essential, as fjord winds can be sharp. Ísafjörður Inn offers a comfortable retreat after a day in the elements, so you can warm up, dry out, and prepare your gear for the next day’s exploration.
Across all regions, a few clothing principles hold true. Layering is key: it lets you adapt quickly to shifting conditions without overpacking. Choose moisture-wicking base layers to keep you dry, insulating mid-layers like fleece or wool, and a reliable outer shell that blocks wind and rain. Neutral, versatile pieces that you can mix and match will help you travel lighter while still being prepared. Don’t forget a swimsuit—hot springs and pools are part of Icelandic life, and you’ll find inviting geothermal baths within reach of all three Ourhotels.is locations.
By planning your clothing with each region in mind—and using Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn as your comfortable bases—you can focus less on the weather and more on the experience. Ourhotels.is connects these diverse corners of West Iceland, giving you a warm, welcoming place to return to after every windswept viewpoint, coastal walk, and fjord-side adventure.
