Family-Friendly Iceland! The Best Winter Tips For Laughing In The Face Of Snow, Rain, And Cold Weather While Hunting For The Northern Lights. Part 1: Iceland Know Before You Go

Iceland Know Before You Go

Iceland is a very beautiful and family-friendly country, similar in size to the state of Kentucky. You can either stay in Reykjavík – the main city – as a base and take day trips, or move regions every few days for a different experience.

Like many European airlines, the companies that service Iceland have tight carry on bag size restrictions. For your trip to Iceland, know before you go if your bag fits based on their website dimensions or just play it safe and check your bags.

Iceland Has Crazy Weather!

Iceland is a place where you want to bring many different outdoor clothing options. Everything one reads warns that Icelandic weather changes on a dime and this was not a hyperbolic statement. Luckily, I listened and packed for all contingencies. It was not an exaggeration. We had gorgeous sunny weather for five days straight and then on day six the weather turned and our tours were canceled. We were also afraid to leave our hotel and drive because we were cautioned about the wind and doors FLYING OFF (Yes. That is a real concern here).

What To Pack For Iceland – Know Before You Go!

Anticipating all the new gear we’d need for our February trip I went to town on Black Friday buying everything warm and waterproof I could find. This saved me a ton of money and because of the time of year allowed for generous return policies. Costco had great options as did Amazon.

Reykjavík

Keep in mind that while your specific itinerary can dictate your packing needs, most items are universal and useful in both the winter and summer in Iceland. For example, Reykjavík is a city so you walk around like in any city. However, they have the added bonus of geothermal technology flowing underground.

That’s right! Their awesome technology is flowing under the sidewalks melting snow as it falls so many streets are clear immediately. In terms of packing, any warm gear or rain gear works here with a good pair of boots. Chances are you won’t need anything too extreme in Reykjavík.

We were well prepared for all the things we did in Reykjavík – The Icelandic Phallological Museum, FlyOver Iceland, The Lava Show, Elding Whale Watching, and Hallgrímskirkja Church – in our warm socks, waterproof boots, fleece-lined pants, and layers.

Chasing Waterfalls

Waterfalls are gorgeous and an important part of Iceland’s scenery. Most are easy to walk around but many have icy paths. You don’t need any special footwear per se, but crampons could help you here. Also, since the sprays are so strong, waterproof gear is suggested. We packed amazing lightweight raincoats and rain pants that did the trick and took up minimal space in our luggage.

Additionally, if you’re self-driving, be sure to include “parking lot” when putting the waterfalls into Google Maps. We learned this the hard way and had to turn around a few times. Lastly, be prepared to pay a small fee for many of the waterfall parking lots (all take credit cards).

Glacier Exploration

Glaciers are made of… ice! So they are cold. Make sure to pack layers and warm footwear if you’re visiting or hiking on a glacier or ice cave. If you’re doing a proper tour (which you should do for safety purposes) they will provide any specific gear that’s needed for the conditions (crampons and helmets).

Geothermal Steam Heat

Throughout the country, you will see steam bellowing up from the geothermal power plants harnessing energy from within the Earth. Besides being incredible to watch, it is sustainable and natural.

Iceland uses this technology for everything ranging from home heating to cooking bread in the ground. It is a country that values sustainability and this comes through with everything they do.

Lagoons

Outdoor public swimming pools and lagoons are a huge part of the Icelandic culture so be sure to pack bathing suits and visit as many as you can. It’s such a cool experience to go in the heated pools while it’s cold outside. Most pools are family-friendly and offer complimentary admission for kids.

Admission includes a locker with ample room to store your coat and belongings. Towels are often not included with the entrance fee but are available to rent from most lagoons. If I had known this in advance, I would have packed a super thin, quick-drying towel from home. You can also grab one from your hotel, or simply rent one there.

Since you’ll want to take some fun steamy pictures, be sure to pack a water-tight bag for your phone. Additionally, you must shower before entering any lagoon (bring shower shoes!). Most people shower naked, put on their dry bathing suits, then head out for a soak.

Water Water Everywhere

There is lots of beautiful water to look at in every direction but don’t forget about water to drink! Iceland is a super forward country when it comes to sustainability, offering free water everywhere. Make sure to pack a reusable water bottle and enjoy refilling it everywhere you go. Of course, remember to empty it before going through security at the airport in each direction.

Icelandic Cuisine

I’ve read many different reviews about Icelandic food. I’m a brave and experimental foodie and love sampling new things. When I travel, I love trying local cuisines and indigenous foods. With that said, the food in Iceland was great, no need to be afraid.

There are tons of familiar options (burgers – one even served while cows graze below you) with a somewhat British influence (lots of fish and chips). Plus, they have their own delicious high-protein yogurt called Skyr which is a staple in the Icelandic diet.

Since the country is an isolated island just south of the Arctic Circle you can imagine warm, hearty soups are popular as well as lamb and other things found in a cold climate. Be sure to sample the famous Friðheimar tomatoes either at their restaurant on the Golden Circle or from one of their store partners. If you’re adventurous, give their fermented shark – an OG staple – a try, and their licorice-infused vodka (my first duty-free purchase ever!).

Reservations Are Your Key To Success! Know Before Your Go And Book Ahead

Book everything you can in advance as many things will sell out or fill up. Even if you think it won’t – book it as soon as you can. Most places have generous cancellation policies and offer a prepaid discount. The bottom line is even if you’re not a planner, be a planner and book your top choice tours and reservations in advance.

The Mint Chip Mama’s Iceland Know Before You Go Tips Work for Winter in Iceland and Summer in Iceland:

Be sure to check out The Mint Chip Mama‘s entire Family Friendly Iceland Vacation series, my travel gear, and my full itinerary here where you can book everything directly in one place!

Part 1: Iceland – Know Before You Go, Part 2: What To Pack For Iceland, Part 3: Reykjavík, Part 4: South Iceland & West Iceland, Part 5: The Golden Circle

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