What to Wear in Iceland and the Arctic Regions?

The Icelandic region is split into two seasons, mainly 7 months of chilling winters and five months of breezy summers. Choosing the right clothes is important in Iceland to save yourself from the weather blues.

Seasons in Iceland: What to wear in summer

In summer Iceland has 15 to 20 hours of daylight. The nights and day temperature are similar hence you need to wear adequate clothes at all times. Sunscreen and sunglasses are important accessories. Summer temperatures do not rise too high.  It is maximum 17 degrees. Showers and windstorms can still occur at any time, especially in the mountains and highland areas, but less often than in winter.

Be prepared to get wet anytime! As for clothing, dressing in layers applies to the summer season. Wear windproof soft-shell clothing, polar insulation and, if you are not used to the chilly summer temperatures, you might need warm long johns and long-sleeved underwear. Gloves and hats might be necessary if you go hiking on a glacier or in the mountains.

Seasons in Iceland: What to wear in spring

Iceland does not really have spring, but visitors often refer to the period between late March and late May as the spring season.

However, March is winter for Iceland as the temperatures still cling close to zero degrees and there is tremendous snowfall. The temperatures begin to rise in April, but periods of freezing weather and snowfall are not uncommon well into mid-May. Leaves and flowers start to sprout in May, although the very tiny buds often start to show in April.

The weather in spring is quite changeable. After cold and windy periods, temperatures can rise quite high, up to 8 degrees on some better days. The mountain roads and the hiking trails in the Highlands are closed until mid-June, but it is good to be insulated with proper layer clothes to save yourself from wind and snow. A warm hat and gloves are necessary.

Seasons in Iceland: Storms in Iceland

The frequency of storms is highest in the autumn and during the winter months. There are generally 10 to 20 stormy days per year in the lowlands, with average wind speeds exceeding 18 m/second.

If you plan to go hiking, it is advisable to select your clothing with extra care. Dress in at least three layers and choose quality, breathable and fast drying fabric.

Your undergarments need to move moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry, and helping to regulate body temperature as you sweat during physical activity. These undergarments should include a long-sleeved shirt and long johns (full-length underpants). Try to avoid fabrics with a high cotton content since they absorb moisture and don’t dry fast. This material stays moist and cools your body instead. Choose fast-drying, breathable fabric, for instance, fine merino wool.

How to dress for hiking and outdoor activities in Iceland

Your middle layer should be able to retain your own body heat effectively to keep you warm.  A long-sleeved fleece or wool sweater, or a duck down jacket are good options to wear. Insulated pants are necessary to keep your legs warm.

The outer shell layer protects you from wind and rain. Both your shell jacket and trousers should provide good water and wind protection. Waterproof hiking boots are necessary when hiking in Iceland and in stormy season too. 

Seasons in Iceland: The winter season

Make sure that your outer layer dressing is easily adjustable. You can hop them back when you feel cold. The boots should be comfortable. The leather boots are mostly recommended as they are waterproof as well as warm enough for walking in the chilly winters.  It is advisable to avoid wearing high-heeled boots or sneakers.

These are the appropriate measures you should be equipped with to tackle all seasons in Iceland and the Arctic region.