I know how stressful it can be to pack for a trip, especially when you’ve never been to a new country before. For me, it’s been a lot of research (and way too many tabs open at once). Coming from someone who grew up in the desert, going to Iceland where it’s cold year-round felt like a whole new experience of “what do i even wear?” Like…please explain what a puffer jacket is?!?
But don’t worry, I did all the research so you don’t have to…at least for October! If you’re traveling during another month, I can definitely do more digging. But fair warning, it’ll cost ya a flight to Iceland because I already know I want to go back!
Since I’ve been trying to figure out what October in Iceland is really like. To get you inspired for your upcoming trip, here’s a glimpse of some of the incredible places I can’t wait to explore! Seeing these landscapes and activities ahead makes it even clearer why packing the right gear is so so important!
So, let’s get into the necessities! I’ll be spending 6 nights and 7 days in Iceland (plus one night in Raleigh,NC before my dreaded red-eye flight). To keep things organized, I’m breaking this down into three parts: my carry-on suitcase, my “personal item” aka backpack, and my overnight bag for North Carolina.
1. Carry-On Suitcase
We’re flying Icelandair, and I’ve heard they can be a little picky with bag sizes. That said, every blog and TikTok I’ve come across mentions that no one has actually had to pay an overage fee, so fingers crossed. I’ll be bringing the same carry-on suitcase I used all over Europe last year, and it worked perfectly. No issues then, so I’m hoping Icelandair doesn’t do me dirty (I’ll add a photo of it here so you can see what I’m working with)
Shoes – Practical. Not cute…well, mine are sorta cute!
You’ll be walking A LOT! Sometimes on wet or uneven ground, so comfort and practicality definitely come before style (though I did manage to find some that are kinda cute).
• Tennis Shoes – I’ll be wearing these for our night in Raleigh, NC before the flight and also for casual walking days in Reykjavík.
• Hiking Boots – An absolute must for Iceland. I’ll be wearing these on the plane along with my heaviest layers. These will come in handy at the waterfalls (especially the ones you can walk behind) and are required for our Katla Ice Cave Tour. Waterproof is key here! Though they say nothing is 100% waterproof in Iceland…fun right?
Outfits – Layers, layers, layers!
No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, every single guide and blog I’ve read said the same thing: layer up. October averages in the 30s–40s °F. With the wind though, it feels even colder! Layering is key because the weather changes constantly. You might have sunshine, rain, and strong gusts of wind all in the same day. Bonus tip: we booked Airbnbs with a washer and dryer!
• Leggings x4
• Sweats x1
• Waterproof Pants x1
• Long Sleeve Shirts x4 (mix of turtleneck, thermal, and regular)
• Crewneck(s) x2
• Sweater x1
• Sleepwear x2
• Swimsuit x2
Undergarments
• Socks (short and long) x6 – Wool is recommended for warmth, but I’m just bringing what I already have
• Underwear x6
• Bras x2
Outerwear
• Scarf
• Gloves
• Beanies x2
• Knee-length winter coat – This will be worn on the plane
2. Personal Item – Backpack
This bag needs to be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. I’m keeping it simple with no bulky items or fluff. I’ll only pack the essentials I want close by during the flight and at the airport.
• Passport + Travel Documents – Boarding passes, ID, and screenshots of reservations
• Debit/Credit Cards
• AirPods – If you’re flying Icelandair, bring corded headphones for movies. I’ll be trying to sleep on the red-eye, but on the way back this might be a plus
• Camera
• Chargers + Power Bank
• International Outlet Converter
• Medicine (OTC + Prescription) – Always keep these with you in case of delays
• Hygiene Bag – Toothbrush, toothpaste, toothpicks, small mouthwash, hairbrush, comb, deodorant, perfume, hair ties
• Small Face Wash – I’ll buy other shower products once I’m there, but I can’t go without my face wash.
• Light Makeup – Just the basics: mascara, brows, and chapstick
• Book
• Reusable Water Bottle – Fill it up after security and save money on bottled water. Iceland is known for having some of the best water in the world, so this will be amazing once we’re on the go too!
• Whale Shark Stuffed Animal – Yup he’s coming along!
3. Overnight Bag – Raleigh, NC
Kayla and I are sharing one overnight bag to save space since our Iceland bags take priority. This bag will stay in the car at the airport, so I’m only packing what we need for the hotel night and the airport. A couple of things will get swapped into my personal item before we fly.
• Pajamas x1
• Airport Outfit – Leggings, shirt, winter jacket, socks, underwear, bra, and hiking boots (bulky items are a must wear on the plane when traveling with a carry-on)
• Hygiene Bag – Move to personal item
• Chargers – Move to personal item
• Daily Medicine – Just enough for the 1 night
That’s my full packing list for Iceland in October! I’ll update you after my trip with what was truly necessary and the items I didn’t end up using. Stay tuned for photos, some packing tips, and outfits I’ll be wearing! If you think I missed anything, message me on my socials I don’t want to miss a single tip!
Until next time,
XO, Jessica Jordan
