From snow-capped peaks to rainbow streets, epic natural sights to city-centre delights, when you visit Reykjavík, you’ll soon be in awe of your surroundings. And while you could book just your return Jet2.com flights there, we can’t recommend our Jet2CityBreaks packages enough. That way, you’ll have your hotel, return transfers and a Northern Lights tour included. And if you thought all that was fab enough, you’ll have your all-important 22kg baggage bundled in as well, so you can bundle up in the cold.
Prefer to pack light? It’s about time you broke that habit, as you’ll need all the warmth you can get! It couldn’t be simpler to put the suitcase wheels in motion when you follow these useful hints and tricks while packing for your city break to Iceland...

A big coat
Long, puffy and well-insulated, with a hood and lots of pockets – that's a top-tier coat choice right there, and it’s exactly what you should be wearing around Iceland! Just be careful if it zips from calf-length, as walking uphill can be a bit restrictive on your range of movement. But we’d say a coat of that kind is the best way to banish the shivers while you sightsee.
Layers, lots of layers
You don’t necessarily have to go down the route of thermals, though they certainly help. By folding lots of layers of long-sleeved tops and jumpers into your case, you’ll be prepared for every eventuality. After all, you can always remove clothing if you get too warm inside or on the coach during experiences – but that doesn’t work the other way around.
Sturdy yet comfy footwear
Walking boots might do the job around the UK’s hiking routes, but they don’t fare too well on slippery ice. Places such as Thingvellir National Park, which you’ll get to explore if you book the Golden Circle Tour (an experience we offer), has a lot of slopes you have to walk up and down, to see the main parts. Boots with deep treads are advised, or you may even want to go for a more local approach and pop some crampons in your rucksack.

Hats, scarves and gloves
You lose a lot of body heat from your head, so a woolly hat is definitely worth it. Likewise, a thick scarf to protect your neck and chest from the breeze is a must as well. It also pays to not just pack gloves, but to test how good they are in cold temperatures before you go. Some look the part, but they aren’t too snug and you’ll be left with chilly fingers. Fleece-lined or wool are cosy options.
Local currency
Although most bars, eateries and shops all accept card, it tends to be handy to carry some cash – just in case. And the majority of places accept notes and coins, so you shouldn’t be stuck with anything you can’t spend. Be sure to get Icelandic króna rather than euros, and know your exchange rates. They use big notes over there, so 1,000 ISK is actually just under £6! Box clever and be precise, to prevent being left with lots of spare change.
Your swimwear
Yep, you read that right! Thinking of bubbling away in those inviting thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon? We don’t blame you. But you won’t get far without a bikini, swimming cossie or trunks. Whatever your style, just make sure you’ve got swimwear with you, ready for a dip in the serene Icelandic surroundings. Plus, the city itself is known for its public baths, so there will be plenty of places to choose from.

A pair of sunglasses
Your sunnies, in Iceland? Never! Well, actually, it can get pretty bright over there – especially when the rays glint against the snow, so you’ll want to reach for your shades. The weather changes within a blink of an eye in Iceland though, so thankfully, there are various high-street brands in the city, to make buying a pair doable if you need to.
Your camera
Last but not least, don’t go forgetting your phone or your camera – whichever's your favourite way to snap holiday pics. An adapter for your charger is essential, but you could also consider a power bank, to stave off any battery outages at the most annoying times. While we’d recommend watching the Northern Lights the organic way if you see them, through a lens can actually strengthen the colours you witness. And you can’t beat photos for capturing those everlasting memories.
Posted: 8th Mar 2024. Updated: 17th Jan 2025.