MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Isafjordur

What to Pack for Isafjordur

Isafjordur Iceland Travel Guide

Clothing - Layering System

Weather in Iceland, especially the Westfjords, changes rapidly. A proper layering system helps you adapt to conditions that can shift from sun to rain, or even snow, in a single day.

Layers

Cultural & Activity-Specific Attire

No specific cultural dress codes or modesty requirements exist in Iceland. Casual, practical, and warm clothing is standard. You will fit in wearing outdoor gear in most settings.

Activity Specifics

  • Hiking: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are important.
  • Swimming (Geothermal Pools): Bring a Swimsuit and a Quick-drying towel.
  • Religious Sites: No strict dress code; respectful attire is appropriate (avoid swimwear).

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Waterproof, ankle-supporting hiking boots with good grip. For protection on uneven or wet terrain. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are popular.

Important for outdoor activities.

Casual Shoes

Bring Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for urban exploration, especially in summer. Good for wandering around town.

For town exploration.

Traction Cleats

If traveling in winter, lightweight Traction cleats or microspikes for shoes. These grip icy paths and snowy sidewalks, preventing slips. Kahtoola MICROspikes are reliable.

For winter safety.

Essential Documents Checklist

Useful Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your travels. You will need both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry your valid passport and all necessary visa documents.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Bring both printed and digital copies, including policy number and emergency contacts.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): Carry both your domestic license and the IDP when driving.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Advised to carry a record of important vaccinations.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, accommodation, rental car, and tour bookings. Store electronically and print a physical set.
  • Emergency contact information: List family/friends not traveling with you, and your country's embassy or consulate in Reykjavík.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts: A valid student ID (like an ISIC card), senior citizen cards, or press credentials can sometimes offer discounts.
  • Prescription medications with documentation: In original labeled containers with a copy of your prescription.

Tech & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel depends on technology. Plan for charging and connectivity.

Essentials

  • Power adapter: Iceland uses 230V, 50Hz, Type F (Schuko) and Type C plugs.
  • Mobile phone compatibility: Most modern smartphones work with Icelandic networks.
  • SIM card options: Local SIM cards or Airalo eSIM options.

Charging & Backups

Cold weather drains batteries quickly. Be ready for long days out or remote areas.

Items

  • Portable chargers and power banks: Highly recommended for charging devices on the go.
  • Extra batteries: Carry several spare batteries for your camera and phone. Keep them warm.
  • Backup solutions: Use cloud storage or an External hard drive for photos and documents.

Photography & Apps

Camera Gear

A camera with good low-light performance (for Northern Lights) and wide-angle lenses for landscapes. A durable, weather-resistant camera like a GoPro Hero12 Black and a sturdy Tripod are useful. A Lens cleaning kit is practical.

Recommended Apps

Google Maps/Apple Maps (download offline maps), Veður (Icelandic Met Office app for weather), 112 Iceland (safety app), Google Translate, Wapp – Walking App (for trails). These streamline navigation and safety.

Online Security

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. For camera and electronics needs, check B&H Photo.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked kit for minor issues on the go. Customize it for outdoor activities in Iceland.

Kit Contents

Medications & Personal Care

Bring sufficient quantities of personal medications, as local availability might differ or prices may be higher.

Medications

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern for Ísafjörður.
  • The town sits at sea level, and surrounding mountains are not high enough to induce altitude sickness.
  • No specific precautions needed for altitude.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies might be useful for boat trips in the fjords.
  • Winding mountain roads in the Westfjords can also cause motion sickness.
  • Consider bringing over-the-counter remedies if you are prone to motion sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For exploring the trails around Ísafjörður and the Westfjords.

  • Daypack (20-30L capacity) for layers, water, snacks. An Osprey Talon 22 works well.
  • Hiking poles (optional but useful for uneven/steep terrain).
  • Waterproof hiking boots.
  • Layering clothing (base, mid, outer).

Kayaking & Boating

For water excursions in the fjords and to nearby islands.

  • Dry bag for electronics and valuables.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Warm layers, even on sunny days.
  • Tour operators typically provide specialized gear (dry suits, life vests, paddles).

Photography Gear

Capture Ísafjörður's dramatic landscapes and potential Northern Lights.

  • Camera (weather-sealed is a plus).
  • Extra batteries (cold drains them quickly).
  • Sturdy tripod (essential for Northern Lights and long exposures).
  • Lens cleaning kit for moisture and dust.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Items to Rent Typically

  • Dry suits for kayaking.
  • Specialized winter gear (ice axes, crampons, snowshoes for specific tours).
  • Ski equipment (available for rent at Tungudalur Ski Resort).
  • Many tour operators provide necessary technical gear.

Items to Bring Typically

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort Items

Small items that significantly improve your comfort and security during travel and rest.

Travel Comfort

  • Neck pillow for long flights or bus journeys.
  • Eye mask especially for sleeping during the midnight sun in summer.
  • Small lock for hostel lockers.
  • RFID-blocking wallet for credit card protection.

Eco-Friendly & Local Essentials

Support sustainable travel and save money by bringing reusable items.

Reusable Goods

  • Reusable water bottle: important for hydration and saving money.
  • Reusable shopping bag: Many shops charge for bags.
  • Reusable utensils: Good for self-catering or picnics.
  • Thermal underwear: Useful for any season for extra warmth.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Iceland's tap water is pristine. Save money and plastic by refilling your bottle.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Many stores charge for plastic bags. Bring your own for groceries and souvenirs.

Reusable Utensils

Perfect for self-catering, picnics, and reducing single-use plastic when dining out.

Solid Toiletries

Shampoo bars, solid soaps, and toothpastes reduce plastic waste and lighten your luggage.

Destination-Specific Items

Westfjords Climate

  • Windproof and waterproof outer layers are non-negotiable.
  • Good quality thermal underwear for any season, adding extra warmth.
  • Warm hat, gloves, and wool socks for comfort in all conditions.

Activities Focused

  • Binoculars for birdwatching (especially puffins in summer).
  • Swimsuit and quick-drying towel for geothermal pools.
  • Headlamp for exploring dark caves or Northern Lights hunting.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack smart, not heavy. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear matter more than fashionable outfits. Being ready for varied conditions makes your Ísafjörður adventure more enjoyable.

Specialty outdoor gear, while available in larger towns like Reykjavík, has limited options in Ísafjörður. Specific prescription medications and high-quality base layers are also best brought from home to ensure comfort and safety.