Got a fall trip planned to Iceland? Iceland can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 46°F (that's 8°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Iceland in fall—whether you're visiting Thingvellir National Park, taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon, exploring Vatnajökull National Park, or checking out the geysers at Haukadalur.
What should women wear in Iceland in fall?
Iceland in fall is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: jeans, long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, heavy coat, and thermal baselayers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Iceland has to offer.
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Iceland, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
Long-sleeved shirts
Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Iceland, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.
These would be perfect:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Iceland in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
These would be perfect:
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Iceland, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
This is the kind of thing I mean:
Thermal baselayers
As Iceland in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Iceland trip despite the cold weather.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
What should men wear in Iceland in fall?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: jeans, hat and scarf, thermal baselayers, heavy coat, and button-down shirts or polos. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Iceland in comfort and style.
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Iceland, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
These would be perfect:
Hat and scarf
A trip to Iceland in fall can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.
I found these which would all work great:
Thermal baselayers
As Iceland in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Iceland trip despite the cold weather.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Iceland, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
Button-down shirts or polos
Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.
These would be perfect:
FAQs
Is fall a good time to go to Iceland?
Fall is a great time to go to Iceland. The weather is cold and fresh, and there are still plenty of things to do and see. There are also fewer tourists, prices are not quite as high as in the summer peak season, and you can often find better deals on accommodation and airfares.
How do people typically dress in Iceland in fall?
People in Iceland dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many fall outfits you will see in Iceland typically include coats, scarves, and boots.
What should you NOT wear in Iceland in fall?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Iceland. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Iceland will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Iceland has to offer!