Iceland in September is one of those places where the landscape seems to change by the hour. You might wake up to crisp sunshine, spend the afternoon walking through mist and wind, and find yourself soaking in a geothermal hot tub beneath a clearing evening sky.

For our Breath + Story Iceland retreat, that unpredictability is part of the adventure. We’ll be exploring waterfalls, riding Icelandic horses, enjoying the country’s geothermal waters, taking time for yoga and wellness, and soaking in the dramatic beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

The question we hear most often before a trip like this is simple:

What do I actually need to pack?

Our answer: layers, waterproof gear, comfortable shoes, and a few things that make you feel like yourself.

You don’t need a huge suitcase or a closet full of specialized outdoor clothing. With a thoughtful capsule wardrobe and the right outer layers, you’ll be ready for just about anything Iceland’s September weather sends our way.

Understanding Iceland Weather in September

September is a beautiful time to visit Iceland. Summer’s long days are beginning to give way to autumn, the landscapes are shifting into their fall colors, and the crowds of the high summer season have begun to thin.

But Iceland’s weather is famously changeable.

September temperatures are generally cool rather than truly cold, but wind and rain can make the conditions feel considerably colder. It’s entirely possible to experience sunshine, rain, wind, and mist within the same day.

That’s why we don’t recommend packing one enormous winter coat.

Instead, think layers.

A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm sweater or fleece, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell give you the flexibility to adjust as conditions change.

And, perhaps most importantly, make sure your outer layer is actually waterproof. Water-resistant is not quite the same thing when you’re standing near a waterfall in Icelandic wind!

Our Iceland Packing List

Clothing

Start with versatile pieces that can be layered and worn more than once.

• 2–3 long-sleeve base layers
• 1–2 warm sweaters, fleece layers, or lightweight down layers
• 2 pairs of comfortable pants or travel pants
• 1 pair of leggings
• 3–4 casual tops
• 2–3 comfortable yoga outfits
• Comfortable pajamas
• Underwear for the length of your trip
• 3–4 pairs of warm wool or merino socks
• One outfit you feel beautiful wearing to dinner

What about jeans?

Jeans are perfectly fine for evenings or indoor activities, but we wouldn’t make them your primary outdoor pants.

Once denim gets wet, it stays wet for a long time—and Iceland offers plenty of opportunities to encounter rain, mist, and spray.

Comfortable travel pants, hiking pants, or leggings are much more practical for days spent outdoors.

The Most Important Piece: A Waterproof Shell

If there is one item we would encourage you to invest in before visiting Iceland, it’s a good waterproof, windproof jacket with a hood.

This will be your outer layer for waterfalls, sightseeing, horseback riding, and other outdoor adventures.

Pair it with a warm mid-layer underneath, and you have a system that works across a surprisingly wide range of conditions.

We also recommend bringing waterproof rain pants. They may not be something you wear every day, but you’ll be very happy to have them when the weather turns wet and windy.

Shoes: Choose Function First

Your most important footwear for Iceland should be:

Waterproof hiking boots with good traction.

They’ll be useful for exploring waterfalls, walking on uneven terrain, sightseeing, and many of the outdoor experiences that make Iceland so extraordinary.

A comfortable pair of casual shoes or sneakers is also helpful for travel days and evenings.

And one important piece of advice:

Please break in your hiking boots before your trip.

A beautiful new pair of boots isn’t nearly as beautiful when they’re giving you blisters halfway through the day.

You don’t need multiple pairs of hiking boots or heavy snow boots for a September trip.

Don’t Forget the Warm Accessories

Small accessories take up very little room in your suitcase but can make a huge difference in Iceland.

We recommend:

• A warm beanie
• Gloves
• A scarf or neck gaiter
• Sunglasses
• Optional hand warmers

Don’t underestimate the wind. Even when the temperature isn’t particularly low, a strong Icelandic breeze can make it feel considerably colder.

Pack Your Yoga Clothes

Wellness is an important part of the Breath + Story experience, so comfortable clothing for yoga belongs in your suitcase, too.

Bring 2–3 yoga outfits that allow you to move and stretch comfortably.

And don’t worry about packing a yoga mat or accessories. We provide those for our retreat guests.

Bring Your Swimsuit—Or Two

If there’s one thing you don’t want to forget in Iceland, it’s your swimsuit.

Geothermal bathing is woven into Icelandic culture, and enjoying warm water surrounded by Iceland’s dramatic landscape is one of the experiences we love most.

For our retreat, you’ll have opportunities to enjoy hot tubs, saunas, and lakes throughout the week, along with a special spa experience.

We recommend bringing two swimsuits.

Having a second suit means you always have a dry one ready to go, especially on days when you’re moving between outdoor adventures and wellness experiences.

You’ll also want:

• Flip-flops or water shoes
• A waterproof bag for your wet swimsuit
• Comfortable lounge clothes

Your Iceland Daypack

A small daypack will become one of your most useful travel companions.

Each day, we recommend carrying:

• Your waterproof jacket
• A warm layer
• Hat and gloves
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Portable phone charger
• Small waterproof pouch for valuables
• Zip-top bags for wet items

The goal isn’t to carry everything you own. It’s simply to have the few things you might need if the weather changes while you’re out exploring.

What You Can Leave at Home

One of the easiest ways to overpack for Iceland is to prepare for every possible weather scenario.

You really don’t need:

• A heavy winter parka
• Snow boots
• An umbrella
• Multiple pairs of hiking boots
• Lots of bulky sweaters
• Dressy shoes
• A completely different outfit for every day

A simple capsule wardrobe works beautifully in Iceland.

Choose pieces that layer well, coordinate easily, and can be worn more than once.

And leave a little room in your suitcase.

You may find a beautiful Icelandic wool sweater, a special souvenir, or simply want space for all the memories you’ll be bringing home.

Our Favorite Iceland Packing Philosophy

When we’re preparing for a Breath + Story retreat, we want our guests to feel prepared—but never burdened by their luggage.

The same philosophy applies to Iceland.

Pack clothes that make you feel comfortable. Bring layers that allow you to adapt. Choose shoes that can handle the landscape. And don’t forget something that makes you feel beautiful for the evenings when we slow down and enjoy being together.

Because the magic of Iceland isn’t in having the perfect outfit.

It’s in standing beneath a waterfall, feeling the spray on your face.

It’s in riding an Icelandic horse through an extraordinary landscape.

It’s in warming up after a cool afternoon with a steaming soak.

It’s in moving through your morning yoga practice while the Icelandic landscape stretches out beyond you.

And sometimes, it’s simply standing still and realizing how very small—and very lucky—we are.

Pack well. Leave room for wonder.