Packing for Iceland can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not used to wind, rain, and sudden weather changes. The good news: with the right layers, you can stay warm, dry, and comfortable whether you’re exploring waterfalls in Borgarfjörður, wandering the harbor in Stykkishólmur, or chasing the midnight sun in the Westfjords.
Icelanders have a simple saying that sums it up: “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Here’s how to dress smartly for Iceland’s climate—plus how staying at Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can make your trip even more comfortable.
Iceland’s Climate: What to Expect Year-Round
Iceland’s weather is famously changeable. You can experience sunshine, wind, rain, and fog in a single day, even in summer. Temperatures are milder than many expect, but the wind and humidity make it feel colder.
Typical conditions:
– Summer (June–August): 8–15°C (46–59°F), long days, cool evenings, frequent wind and light rain.
– Shoulder seasons (May, September–October): 3–10°C (37–50°F), more rain, stronger winds, occasional frost.
– Winter (November–April): -5 to 5°C (23–41°F), snow, ice, storms, shorter days, but also Northern Lights potential.
Because the weather shifts quickly, the key is flexibility: layers you can add or remove as you move from the car to a hike, or from a windy fjord to a cozy inn.
The Golden Rule: Dress in Layers
Think of your clothing in three main layers:
1. Base Layer – Keep You Dry
This is the layer next to your skin. Its job is to wick moisture away so you don’t get chilled.
Best choices:
– Merino wool tops and leggings
– Synthetic thermal underwear
Avoid:
– Cotton (it holds moisture and makes you cold)
If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður and planning to explore nearby hot springs, lava fields, or waterfalls, a good base layer will keep you comfortable as you move between warm car interiors and cool, damp outdoor air.
2. Mid Layer – Keep You Warm
Your mid layer traps heat. You can add or remove it depending on the day.
Good options:
– Fleece jacket or sweater
– Lightweight down or synthetic insulated jacket
– Wool sweater (a classic Icelandic lopapeysa is perfect)
At Stykkishólmur Inn, you might start the day with a fleece and light jacket for a calm harbor walk, then add a thicker mid layer if you head out on a boat tour or drive across the Snæfellsnes Peninsula where the wind can pick up quickly.
3. Outer Layer – Keep Out Wind and Rain
The outer shell protects you from Iceland’s biggest challenges: wind and wet weather.
Look for:
– Waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood (Gore-Tex or similar)
– Waterproof or water-resistant pants
This layer is essential in the Westfjords, where Ísafjörður Inn makes a great base for exploring dramatic fjords and coastal roads. Even on a “nice” day, wind and sea spray can make you cold fast without a proper shell.
What to Wear on Your Feet
Your feet will thank you if you plan ahead.
For outdoor activities:
– Waterproof hiking boots with good grip (ideal for wet trails, gravel, and uneven ground)
– Warm, moisture-wicking socks (wool or wool blend)
– Gaiters if you expect snow or very wet conditions
For towns and inns:
– Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
– Slippers or warm socks for relaxing in your room at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn
In winter, especially in the Westfjords, consider adding:
– Ice grips/traction cleats for your shoes if you plan to walk on icy streets or paths.
Accessories You Shouldn’t Skip
Small items make a big difference in Iceland’s climate:
– Hat or beanie: Wool or fleece, covering your ears.
– Gloves: Waterproof outer gloves or warm insulated gloves; thin liner gloves are useful for photography.
– Scarf or neck gaiter: A buff or neck warmer is great for blocking wind.
– Sunglasses: The low sun and reflections from snow or water can be intense.
– Swimsuit and quick-dry towel: For hot springs and pools near Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur, or Ísafjörður.
– Daypack with a rain cover: To keep extra layers and your camera dry.
Season-by-Season Packing Tips
Summer (June–August)
– Light base layer top
– Fleece or light wool sweater
– Waterproof shell jacket
– Hiking pants (ideally quick-dry)
– Hat and light gloves (yes, even in summer)
From Hvítá Inn, you might enjoy bright evenings exploring Borgarfjörður’s countryside. Even if the sun is out, a breeze over rivers and open fields can feel chilly, so bring that extra layer.
Autumn & Spring (May, September–October)
– Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
– Warm fleece or wool sweater
– Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
– Waterproof shell and pants
– Warmer hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
These shoulder seasons are ideal for quieter travel and potential Northern Lights. Stykkishólmur Inn is a great base for exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with fewer crowds, but you’ll want flexible layers as conditions can swing from mild to wintry in a single day.
Winter (November–April)
– Thermal base layers (merino or synthetic)
– Thick fleece or wool sweater
– Insulated winter jacket plus waterproof shell if needed
– Insulated, waterproof boots
– Thick wool socks
– Warm hat, scarf/neck gaiter, and insulated gloves
In Ísafjörður, winter can be magical: snow-covered mountains, crisp air, and a strong chance of Northern Lights on clear nights. Ísafjörður Inn offers a warm, comfortable place to return to after a day of snowy adventures—just make sure you’re dressed for icy streets and cold winds.
How Ourhotels.is Helps You Handle the Weather
Staying at Ourhotels.is properties in West Iceland and the Westfjords makes it easier to adapt to Iceland’s climate:
– Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður, near Borgarnes):
A perfect stop when driving from Reykjavík into West Iceland. You can check the weather, adjust your clothing, and head out to explore waterfalls, hot springs, and lava fields knowing you have a warm, welcoming base to return to.
– Stykkishólmur Inn (Stykkishólmur):
Located in a charming harbor town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this inn is ideal for day trips in all directions. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast, check the day’s forecast, and choose your layers accordingly before heading out to beaches, cliffs, and viewpoints.
– Ísafjörður Inn (Ísafjörður, Westfjords):
In one of Iceland’s most dramatic regions, weather can be more intense—but also incredibly beautiful. Ísafjörður Inn gives you a cozy, central base where you can dry wet gear, warm up after a windy hike, and plan the next day’s adventures.
All Ourhotels.is locations are designed with Iceland’s climate in mind: warm interiors, comfortable bedding, and practical spaces where you can store and adjust your gear. That way, you can focus on enjoying the scenery instead of worrying about the weather.
Practical Dressing Tips for Iceland
– Always check the forecast, but don’t rely on it completely—pack for surprises.
– Dress so you can add or remove layers easily throughout the day.
– Keep your waterproof jacket and a hat in your daypack, even if the sky is blue.
– Prioritize comfort and function over fashion; Iceland is casual, and outdoor-ready clothing is the norm.
– If you forget something, you’ll find outdoor shops in larger towns like Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur, and Ísafjörður.
With the right clothing and a comfortable base at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, Iceland’s wild weather becomes part of the adventure rather than a challenge. Pack smart, layer up, and let Ourhotels.is be your warm home between the waterfalls, fjords, and mountains of West Iceland.
