What to Wear in Iceland in Fall

While Iceland isn’t the frosty, frigid, land of snow and ice that many people assume it is, it  does experience colder Autumns than most places in North America. Weather in Iceland in the fall will be cool but not cold. Lows range from -1 to 5°C and highs can vary from 2-7°C (about 30-40°F). Of course, the earlier in the season you travel to Iceland, the milder the temperatures will be. As the days creep on towards December, the temperatures get colder and the days get shorter. Precipitation is at its highest levels in October, and then begins to decrease in November.

Packing for a trip to Iceland in fall is all about layers. Like packing for a trip in summer, packing for a trip in fall means packing for the outdoors – a pair of sturdy hiking books, moisture-wicking socks, long pants, and a few t-shirts will keep you covered for most activities.  A lightweight, waterproof but breathable shell will keep you dry on the many rainy or misty days you’ll experience in the fall season, and some fleece pullover or vest inserts will keep you warm. Add in some wool (not cotton) sweaters, a hat/glove/scarf set, and an umbrella, and you’re covered for everything Mother Nature might throw at you.

For your time in cities like Reykjavik and Akureyri,the same clothes you’d wear in any city in the world will be equally appropriate here. For women, a dress or skirt/jeans and trendy top will suffice with boots, heels or ballet flats, and for men, dark jeans and a button-up shirt will work just as well as a pair of slacks and a sportcoat for evenings out.

Many people wouldn’t think to bring a bathing suit to Iceland in October, but Icelandic pools and hot springs, including the Blue Lagoon, are open all year round. If you don’t bring your own suit, you can rent one for a few bucks, but you may as well save yourself the cash and come prepared.

Photo by jovike