What to Pack for Iceland in March: Essential Items for a Memorable Trip

What to Pack

Photo by Jorge Fernández

The key to staying warm and comfortable in Iceland in March is layering. Here are some essential clothing items you should pack:

• Winter jacket: A warm, waterproof, and windproof winter jacket is a must for Iceland in March. Look for one with a hood to protect you from the wind and rain.
• Fleece or wool sweaters: Pack a few warm sweaters to wear under your jacket. Fleece and wool are excellent materials for keeping you warm.
• Thermal base layers: Thermal base layers are essential for keeping you warm in cold weather. Pack a few pairs of thermal tops and bottoms to wear under your clothes.
• Waterproof pants: It’s not uncommon to experience rain or snow in Iceland in March, so pack a pair of waterproof pants to keep you dry.
• Warm socks: Pack several pairs of warm socks to keep your feet warm and dry. Wool or thermal socks are the best options.
• Winter boots: A good pair of waterproof winter boots with good traction is a must for Iceland in March. Make sure they are comfortable and warm.
• Gloves, hat, and scarf: Don’t forget to pack gloves, a hat, and a scarf to keep your hands, head, and neck warm.

Here you can see all the items that were mentioned above.

Other Essential Items

• Backpack: A good quality backpack is essential for carrying all your essentials while exploring Iceland. Make sure it’s waterproof and comfortable to wear.
• Reusable water bottle: Iceland has some of the cleanest and freshest water in the world, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Camera: Iceland is a photographer’s paradise, so don’t forget to pack your camera to capture all the stunning landscapes.
• Portable charger: With all the photos you’ll be taking, your phone battery may drain quickly. Pack a portable charger to keep your devices charged.
• Travel adapter: Iceland uses the Europlug, so make sure to pack a travel adapter to charge your devices.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit if you plan on visiting the famous Blue Lagoon or any other hot springs.
• Medications: If you take any medications, make sure to pack enough for your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring some over-the-counter medications for common ailments like headaches and colds.
• Travel documents: Don’t forget to pack your passport, travel insurance, and any other necessary travel documents.

Here you can see all the items that were mentioned above.

What Not to Pack?

Now that we’ve covered what to pack, let’s talk about what not to pack. Here are some items you can leave at home:

• Jeans: Jeans are not the best option for Iceland in March. They are not waterproof, and they take a long time to dry if they get wet.
• High heels: Iceland is a country of rugged terrain, so leave your high heels at home. Pack comfortable and sturdy shoes instead.
• Bulky winter gear: While it’s essential to pack warm clothing, try to avoid bulky items that take up a lot of space in your luggage. Opt for thinner layers that you can easily pack and wear.
• Too many toiletries: Iceland has plenty of stores where you can buy toiletries, so don’t pack too many. Bring travel-sized items or buy them when you arrive.
• Expensive jewelry: Iceland is a safe country, but it’s always a good idea to leave expensive jewelry at home when traveling.

What is the Weather Like in Iceland in March?

Let’s take a look at what the weather is like in Iceland in March. March is considered the end of winter in Iceland, but that doesn’t mean it’s warm. The average temperature in March is around 32°F (0°C), with highs of 39°F (4°C) and lows of 27°F (-3°C).

However, the weather can change quickly, and it’s not uncommon to experience snow, rain, and wind all in one day. Therefore, it’s essential to pack for all types of weather.

Dressing for the Weather

As mentioned earlier, the weather in Iceland in March can be unpredictable. Therefore, it’s essential to dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing as needed. Here are some tips for dressing for the weather in Iceland:

• Start with a thermal base layer: As mentioned earlier, thermal base layers are essential for keeping you warm. Start with a thermal top and bottom and build your layers from there.
• Add a sweater or fleece: On top of your thermal layer, add a sweater or fleece for extra warmth.
• Wear a waterproof jacket: Your outer layer should be a warm, waterproof, and windproof jacket. Make sure it has a hood to protect you from the wind and rain.
• Don’t forget your waterproof pants: If it’s raining or snowing, make sure to wear your waterproof pants to keep your legs dry.
• Wear a hat, scarf, and gloves: Don’t forget to wear a hat, scarf, and gloves to keep your head, neck, and hands warm.
• Wear warm socks and waterproof boots: Make sure to wear warm socks and waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry.

Other Tips for Packing for Iceland in March

• Pack a daypack: A daypack is a smaller backpack that you can use to carry your essentials while exploring. It’s more convenient than carrying a large backpack.
• Pack a swimsuit: As mentioned earlier, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit if you plan on visiting the Blue Lagoon or any other hot springs.
• Pack a reusable water bottle: As mentioned earlier, Iceland has some of the cleanest and freshest water in the world, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Pack a portable charger: As mentioned earlier, pack a portable charger to keep your devices charged.
• Pack a travel adapter: As mentioned earlier, Iceland uses the Europlug, so make sure to pack a travel adapter to charge your devices.
• Pack a waterproof phone case: If you plan on taking photos with your phone, pack a waterproof phone case to protect it from the rain.
• Pack a first aid kit: It’s always a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and other essentials.
• Pack a small towel: If you plan on visiting hot springs, pack a small towel to dry off.
• Pack a headlamp: If you plan on exploring caves or going on a Northern Lights tour, pack a headlamp to light your way.

Conclusion

Packing for Iceland in March can be a bit challenging, but with the right items, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Remember to dress in layers, pack waterproof and warm clothing, and don’t forget your camera to capture all the beautiful landscapes. With these tips, you’ll be ready for your trip to Iceland in March. Happy travels!