Packing Tips for Camping in Iceland

Due to its unique nature, this Iceland dialogue requires a packing list that most likely strays from others. Everything I brought–including my camping gear–fits into one large duffle bag and a hiking pack. That’s why it’s important not to waste prime packing space on unnecessary items that will weigh you down and to instead make sure you have all the essentials. We received a packing list well in advance of the trip , but the following is a list of items that you may not think to pack but should definitely consider and some things which you shouldn’t bother bringing along based on my experiences so far.

What to Bring
1. Layers

I cannot stress this one enough, which is why I put it first. Iceland weather is unpredictable. The first few days, we were blessed with blue skies and weather in the mid 50s. Other days were in the 30s with wicked winds and sideways rain. This dialogue also includes a lot of hiking, which can get you warmed up real quick. It’s nice to have t-shirts, long sleeves, thermal shirts and leggings, sweatshirts, puffy jackets, hiking pants–pretty much anything you can layer easily to get warm or to cool off. The only article of clothing that hasn’t yet seen the light of day are my shorts, but I’m still holding out hope.

2. Sleeping Bag Liner

Anyone on our dialogue will tell you that the sleeping bag liner is a game changer. Basically, it’s a warm little cocoon that goes inside your sleeping bag for extra warmth. Our second campsite is up high in the mountains and gets pretty cold at night. Waking up shivering in the middle of the night is the worst, so having an extra defense against the cold isn’t a bad idea.

3. Rain Gear

Again, it rains a ton in Iceland and it can start pouring out of nowhere. You’ll want a waterproof jacket and rain pants that you can put on in a moments notice to spare yourself from the annoyance of damp clothes.

4. Sleep Mask

The sun doesn’t really go away in Iceland, so sleep can be tricky. It’ll still be plenty light out at 10 or 11 at night. It’s not too hard to fall asleep on days with cloud cover, but on sunny days sleeping without the typical darkness of night can be difficult. I’ve been getting by with my hat pulled over my eyes. It doesn’t have to be a sleep mask specifically, but something to cover your eyes is definitely helpful.

5. More Socks Than You Think

I’ve been going through these pretty fast because we hike so much. I’d also recommend investing in a couple pairs of wool socks–they’re great for comfort and warmth on a hike.

6. Watch

Preferably one that doesn’t need to be charged and can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear. We don’t always have access to chargers, and when we do I tend to prioritize my phone. It’s nice to be able to keep track of time in the field without exposing your phone to the elements, so it’s a good idea to have one handy.

7. Plastic Bags

I did not pack plastic bags, but I’ve started collecting them to use throughout the trip. They serve multiple purposes and they’re something you don’t think about until you need one. They’re great for keeping wet/dirty clothes in so the rest of your wardrobe doesn’t suffer. They’re also great for collecting rock samples–something for which you’ll have ample opportunity.

8. Hat, Scarf, and Gloves

I have two hats and two pairs of gloves on this trip. I’m glad I brought back ups–two hats to double up on warmth at night and two pairs of gloves for when one pair gets wet. Alas, I did not think to bring a scarf and surprisingly not many stores in Iceland sell them. When dealing with high speed winds and late night chill, I really wish I had something to cover my face.

9. Sunscreen/Sunglasses/Baseball Cap

This may not seem intuitive, but you definitely want to pack some sun protection. Even when it’s cloudy, my fellow pale skinned campers and I have experienced sunburn. Everything besides my face is typically covered, so facial sunscreen usually does the trick. Sunglasses and a baseball cap are nice to have for when the sun comes out, especially on snowy terrains when the brightness is amplified.

10. Lotion/Chapstick

The wind in Iceland is harsh on your hands and face, so bring some moisturizer along.

11. Camera

It’s only been a little over a week, and my phone is full of photos.
These are some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve seen, and I don’t want to miss a second of it. My iPhone has been doing the trick, but other students have brought nicer cameras to capture the moment. Just keep in mind the harsh weather when deciding what to bring.

12. Hiking Poles

These are more optional as they’re not typically lying around the house. Hiking poles or walking sticks are used to absorb some of the force on your knees when you hike down a steep slope. I didn’t think they were necessary when I was packing, but my professor lent me his extra pair and they made such a difference when trecking down the steep Mt.Esja. Most people don’t have them, but if you already own a pair and are on the fence, you won’t regret bringing them along.

Don’t Bother

1. Makeup

The phrase “Who am I trying to impress?” has been uttered many a time during this trip. When you’re sleeping in a tent and hiking all day, the last thing you care about is how you look. I brought some along (“What if we go out?”) and it hasn’t come out of my bag yet.

2. Nice clothes

At least, don’t pack a lot. I packed a pair of jeans and one nice shirt, which is more than enough. Everyday wear should be something you’re comfortable hiking in and provides warmth.

3. Laptop

On a trip like this, keeping a laptop safe and charged is asking a lot. I’ve been writing my blogs on an iPad and it’s been sufficient enough. A laptop is just extra weight and an extra worry to have on the trip.

4. Flashlight

The sun never really goes away, so you can see at pretty much all times of the day.