Are you traveling to Iceland in Autumn and curious about what to pack? In this post, we will cover everything you need to prepare for the country’s unpredictable weather so you can be confident in what to wear in Iceland in October.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission on products if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
If you want to be able to enjoy yourself in Iceland without worrying about what to wear, this post is for you!
Iceland is known to have fickle weather year-round. Therefore, you’ll want to ensure that you pack the appropriate kinds of clothing for any such change in temperature and climate.
Whether you plan on exploring waterfalls, hiking glaciers, trekking volcanoes, or relaxing in hot springs, we’ll make sure you are prepared for any activity. Here is a list of everything you should pack and wear to visit Iceland in October.
What To Wear In Iceland In October
Iceland in October is a beautiful month to visit. I myself visited in early October of 2021 and felt that the weather was completely manageable.
There’s a well-known Scandinavian saying that I learned – “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” I find it’s quite applicable when traveling to cold destinations.
From a young age, Icelanders are taught how to dress properly. It makes all of the difference in a land with unpredictable weather. Layers are going to be your best friend!
October is known as one of the wetter months of the year in Iceland. However, they do not have a rainy season so it’s more sporadic drizzles throughout the day than heavy rainfall.
For the most part, temperatures in October average between a low of 36°F (2°C) to a high of 45°F (7°C). The weather will be wetter and colder than in summer but not as bad as in winter, making October a perfect month to visit.
Tip: With about 14 hours of darkness, October is also a great time of year to possibly see The Northern Lights!
Innerwear
Thermals
Thermal base layers are going to be a must for the cold days in Iceland. A good pair of thermals regulate your body temperature while also trapping body heat in. Definitely opt for both a top and bottom pair as your crucial base layer.
There were some days where thermals weren’t necessary but also some snowy days where I was so happy to have them. Base layers are very important so make sure to buy some if you don’t already own any.
Leggings
Additionally, you should also pack some leggings. They will not keep you as warm as thermals but will still be more effective than no base layer at all. There were days when I wore thermals AND leggings under my hiking pants, but also days when I only wore leggings.
You’ll be happy you brought different layers and options for the temperamental weather ahead of you.
Tank Tops
One or two tank tops will likely do the trick for your trip. It’s nice to have another sort of base layer for those days when it’s not so cold to use thermals. As well as comfy, lounging clothes for when you’re relaxing.
Long Sleeve Shirts
You’ll definitely want to pack a few pairs of long sleeve shirts for layering. It’s better to have too many layers on and be able to take them off than to not have enough – trust me!
Sweaters
A few pairs of fleeces or sweaters will also come in handy. I often layered myself with thermals, a long sleeve shirt, a sweater, then my coat. On the days when it was windy and wet outside, I stayed nice and warm.
Moreover, it’s also nice to have some comfy loungewear for when you’re relaxing in your hotel. Especially, if you’re camping in a campervan, you’ll definitely want to have a warm hoodie option.
Outerwear
Your outerwear choices are just as important as your innerwear ones. It’s important to layer up with pieces from both categories. This will ensure you stay warm and wear the proper clothing for Iceland in October.
Weatherproof Coat
There are days when it will be raining, snowing, and just plain cold. A warm insulated and waterproof coat with a hood is a necessity. I almost wish I brought two because I did wear a coat pretty much every day.
Obviously, you can get by with just one but it would’ve been nice to have another option. If you have room to spare, consider packing a second coat.
Rain Jacket
A lightweight rain jacket will come in handy on those days when it’s not cold enough to need a coat but you still want to be protected if it starts to rain.
Chances are you’ll be wanting to get up close to some waterfalls and you’ll want to have a waterproof jacket with you.
The perks of having a lightweight jacket are that you can take it off and quickly store it in your backpack or tie it around your waist if you happen to get hot.
Weatherproof Hiking Pants
Because of all the outdoor activities in Iceland, you’ll absolutely want a good pair of hiking pants. Maybe even two! These should be comfy and loose to allow for base layers. I brought a pair of hiking pants and another pair of ski pants for those icy excursions and snowy days.
Especially if you plan on glacier hiking or ice climbing, you’ll want something warm, waterproof, and reliable.
Jeans
Most people will tell you to bring a pair of jeans for those nights you want to go out to dinner or hang out in Reykjavik. If you plan to spend most of your time outdoors, this is probably a fine suggestion.
That being said, I am such a jeans girl and wore jeans to do outdoor hikes or to visit the beaches. I was traveling in a campervan so I did have the luxury of being able to change several times of day.
If you swear by jeans and they’re comfy why not wear them as your outer layer? Just be sure you’re properly layering underneath or you’ll most likely get cold.
Just be sure to have at least one pair of waterproof pants for those extra wet excursion days.
Hat
A hat or two is also a must to be sure you keep your head and ears warm! I love beanies so I brought a few pairs of thick ones and they kept me nice and warm.
Gloves
Two pairs of gloves are a good idea for your trip to Iceland. One pair can be normal, cotton ones. Although, if you have wool gloves this would be a better option. The second pair should be waterproof gloves for those days it’s raining and/or wet.
You don’t want to touch a wet handrail with cotton gloves and then not have any others to wear for the rest of the day!
Scarf
You can’t go wrong with bringing a scarf or two. It’s nice to have all these extra winter accessories if you do tend to get cold easily. Especially with how easy it is to take on and off.
I’m also a big fan of blanket scarves or pashminas. These can double as a warm cover-up if you happen to need the extra warmth.
Footwear
Socks
You should bring extra pairs of wool and hiking socks. I would suggest you bring more than you think you’ll need just in case. It’s possible your socks and/or shoes might get wet and you’ll be happy to have a second pair to continue on with your day.
The warmer the sock the happier your feet will be! Doubling up on socks may even help you stay warmer.
Hiking Boots
A great pair of hiking boots are essential to hike all over Iceland. Preferably waterproof ones with great traction. I personally wear Oboz hiking boots for any outdoor activities and I love them! They can be pricey but it’s such an investment to have good foot support – especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Snow Boots
Snow boots will also come in handy. If you plan on traveling to the north of Iceland, chances are you’ll get at least a day or two of snow. I brought both a pair of hiking boots and snow boots and I was content to have them both.
I would say this one is up to you. If you’re hiking boots are great quality and you only want to pack one pair that is your decision. However, I would recommend at least a second pair in case your first shoes get wet.
Sandals
Sandals are also optional. They are good to have if you’re going to be visiting hot springs and don’t want to walk around barefoot. Similarly, if you’re going to be staying in hostels or anywhere with shared bathrooms, it’s nice to have a pair of flip-flops. Nothing fancy just a normal sandal will do.
Miscellaneous
Bathing Suit
As mentioned above, if you’re going to be visiting hot springs or the blue lagoon, don’t forget to pack a bathing suit! It can be easy to forget this one as Iceland is such a cold country and you wouldn’t normally think of it.
Quick Drying Towel
I always travel with a quick-drying towel just in case. You’ll never know when you’ll need it or what places won’t have one for you. Most hot springs will have towels for you to rent but at a cost.
If you’re going to be traveling in a campervan and stopping at campsites to shower, you will also want your own towel.
Not to mention, for those moments when it’s raining and you get wet. It might be nice to have a quick-drying towel to dry off a bit.
Pajamas
Albeit obvious, make sure you pack pajamas or sleepwear. I would also suggest loungewear if you want to be cozy after a long day of cold-weather excursions.
Sunglasses
You may not think about bringing sunglasses but if you plan on doing a glacier hike, you’ll want to have eye protection. You may also use them any time you’re around snow if the sun is out and shining.
Car Charger/Adapter
This is one that I always forget. Luckily, my husband usually packs it for us. If you’re renting a car, always bring a USB adapter for the car. Most newer cars have USB ports but not all do. Some only have one and there are times multiple people would like to charge their phones.
Universal Adapter
A universal adapter is a great thing to get into the habit of bringing on all your travels. I use this universal adapter and it’s great because it works for every country. Iceland uses the standard European socket with two round prongs so your US plugs won’t fit without an adapter.
Battery Pack
Also, another great device to get into the habit of bringing when you travel – is a portable battery pack. If you’re like me, you take hundreds of pictures and your phone battery dies quickly. This is a great way to make sure your phone is never without power.
There are a ton of portable chargers you can get. Any will work just fine. I often bring more than one just so I don’t have to charge them every day. This one is one of my favorites because it can be charged with solar power. You can even hook it onto your backpack and take it on a hike with you while it charges. Super convenient!
Water Bottle
Don’t forget to bring a reusable and refillable water bottle. It’s an ongoing joke in Iceland that tourists are easy to point out because they buy water. 95% of the water in Iceland comes from the natural springs and is one of the cleanest in the world.
It’s definitely safe for you to drink from the tap and some people even fill up their bottles from the water in nature because it’s so pure.
Backpack
Make sure you bring a small backpack to use as a day bag. This way you can store your water, battery pack, extra clothes you take off or may want to put on, etc. Especially if you plan on going on many hikes.
Umbrella
This is something you may or may not want to bring. As we’ve gone over, the weather in Iceland can be quite erratic. I personally travel with an umbrella if I think it’ll be bad weather because I like to have it.
If you follow this guide and pack waterproof outwear jackets, you’ll most likely be okay without an umbrella. I just figured I’d mention it here.
October is a great month to visit Iceland. It’s not too cold yet, there are pretty good chances of seeing The Northern Lights, and there are fewer tourists. You should remember to overpack because it’s better to be too warm than too cold.
I hope this post gave you all the information and assurance you need to know exactly what to wear in October in Iceland!
What To Wear in Iceland in October Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Cold in Iceland During October?
Yes, it’s cold in Iceland in October. For the most part, temperatures in October average between a low of 36°F (2°C) to a high of 45°F (7°C). The weather will be wetter and colder than in summer but not as bad as in winter, making October a perfect month to visit.
Can I Wear Jeans in Iceland in October?
Yes, you can wear jeans in October in Iceland. Just make sure to wear thermals or leggings underneath as you will probably be cold if not. If you are planning on doing glacier excursions, you definitely want to wear waterproof hiking or ski pants.
Do You Need a Towel for Iceland?
If you’re staying in hotels or guesthouses, you can manage without packing a towel. Just be aware that hot springs will charge you for a towel rental if you do not have one.
If you are traveling in a campervan, you should bring your own towel when showering at campsites. A quick-drying towel is perfect for this.
Do You Need Sunglasses in Iceland in October?
Yes, you should bring sunglasses to Iceland just in case. Iceland is filled with glaciers and usually snow, depending on what time of year you visit. You always want to make sure you have eye protection if you’ll be out hiking with a lot of sun exposure.
For more Iceland information, you may also like:
- Easy, Epic, & Best Iceland Ring Road 5 Day Itinerary
- Iceland Rainbow Road – The Cute & Unique Town of Seyðisfjörður (2023)
- Iceland F-Roads: How to Avoid Closures & Getting Stuck
