Planning a trip to Iceland in the fall means preparing for a truly unforgettable experience filled with dramatic landscapes, crisp air, and the potential to witness the Northern Lights. But before you pack your bags (because really, what to wear in Iceland during the fall?!), you need to master the art of layering. Fall in Iceland—September, October, and November—brings unpredictable weather that demands smart, functional, and warm clothing.
This guide will break down what to wear in Iceland during the fall, provide detailed outfit suggestions for each month, and explain why layering is your best friend.
What to Wear in Iceland in the Fall: Iceland Outfit Ideas for September, October, and November
Understanding Icelandic Fall Weather
Fall in Iceland transitions from the milder end of summer into the cold, often snowy early winter. You can expect wind, rain, and dropping temperatures as the season progresses.
- September: Average temperatures range from 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F). Weather can still be relatively mild with longer daylight hours.
- October: Temperatures drop to 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). Rain and wind are more common.
- November: Cold and darker with temperatures between -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). Snow becomes more likely.
The Importance of Layering: Essentials Explained
Layering is the foundation of dressing appropriately in Iceland’s fall. Here’s how to build your outfits:
Base Layers: These are worn directly on the skin and are crucial for moisture management and warmth.
- Merino Wool Tops and Bottoms: Soft, insulating, and moisture-wicking.
- Thermal Underwear: Especially useful for November.
- Long-Sleeve Performance Tees: Great for September.
Middle Layers: These insulate and trap heat!
- Fleece Jackets or Pullovers: Lightweight but warm.
- Wool Sweaters: Stylish and practical.
- Insulated Vests: Add core warmth without bulk.
Outer Layers: Outer layers protect against wind, rain and snow.
- Waterproof Shell Jackets: Look for windproof and breathable materials like Gore-Tex.
- Insulated Parkas (for November): Essential for colder days.
- Waterproof Pants: Especially important for hikes and wet days.
What Shoes to Wear for Iceland in Fall
ar is just as important as your clothing when preparing for Icelandic terrain and weather.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: These are a must. Look for good ankle support, insulation, and a strong grip. Here’s an article on the best hiking boots for Iceland!
- Wool Socks: Keep feet warm and dry.
- Casual Waterproof Shoes: Good for walking around Reykjavik.
- Slip-On Boots or Thermal Winter Boots: Ideal for colder, snowier days in November.
Tip: Avoid sneakers unless they are waterproof and paired with wool socks.
Iceland Fall Outfit Ideas By Month
September Outfit Ideas
For Visiting Iconic Sites Like the Golden Circle or Snaefellsnes Peninsula
September in Iceland offers a fantastic blend of autumn beauty, which means it only makes senes to enjoy the outdoor adventures and stunning sights. Whether you’re doing a tour around the Golden Circle or exploring the Snaefellsness Peninsula, you’ll want to be prepared for fall colors, national parks, lava fields, fishing villages and more.
Base Layer: Merino wool long-sleeve top and leggings
Middle Layer: Lightweight fleece jacket
Outer Layer: Waterproof shell jacket, rain pants
Why it Works: This fit is perfect for September’s mild but changeable weather; fleece insulates without overheating, so when you’re doing those outdoor adventures at the iconic sites, you’ll be comfortable!
For Exploring Fishing Villages, Towns and Cities
We love September in Iceland and how the fall brings a new life to the urban areas. Check out local festivals, like the Reykjavik International Film Festival, or other food or music events! Go visit cozy cafes, museums, and enjoy all the local cuisine!
Base Layer: Long-sleeve tee and thermal-wicking leggings
Middle Layer: Wool Sweater
Outer Layer: Lightweight Down Vest, stylish parka, or waterproof trench
Why it Works: This outfit is perfect for urban exploring, but also offers weather protection. As you bounce from restaurant to museum and continue to explore, you can stay warm and stylish. Add your fashion flair with cute accents like felt berets, patterned sweaters and earrings.
Engaging in Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re taking a boat tour among the icebergs, or enjoying a last chance to kayak in the glacier lagoon, you’ll want to be flexible and warm. But also avoid overheating! Hiking trails are so popular in the highlands, but be ready for them with:
Base Layer: Thermal Base Top and Hiking Tights
Middle Layer: Softshell hiking jacket and rain pants
Outer Layer: Rain poncho, waterproof windbreaker, or shell jacket.
Why it Works: This outfit is ideal for things like waterfall hikes! Mist and rain are common at this point in the year, so consider staying warm when exploring outside. And also keep layers easy to get on and off so you don’t overheat in the highlands, while kayaking, and more. Pro tip? Also bring extra socks!
October Outfit Ideas
For Hunting the Northern Lights
October is the prime time to see the Northern Lights due to longer nights and relatively clear skies! When opting in for a guided tour, you’ll go to dark locations away from the city so you can see them better. But warning, it will be chilly and you’ll be standing there for a while!
Base Layer: Merino wool base top and thermal leggings
Middle Layer: Thick fleece zip-up and jeans or heavy pants
Outer layer: Waterproof Parka (with a faux-fur hood?)
Why It Works: This offers warmth and protection! It’s perfect for those longer tours: you can take off the parka and zip if needed when you travel to and from, but the layers will ensure you don’t freeze and that any damp air will be kept out. Don’t be cold while looking for beauty!
For Participating in Tours Along the South Coast
Exploring the dramatic black sand beaches and even the basalt columns off the South Coast will have you marveling at Icelands beauty. Plus you can go explore waterfalls nearby like Seljalandsfoss!
Base Layer: Lightweight thermal shirt and wool tights
Middle Layer: Insulated Vest or Knit Sweater
Outer Layer: Gore-Tex Shell
Why it Works: Layering helps with adapting to varied conditions from sunny afternoons to windy evenings. Plus, when you’re on the tour, you may want to be comfortable and have the chance to slip in and out of layers as needed!
For Cozy City Days
For Cozy City Days
Cities like Reykjavik and beyond have attractions and cozy activities for you to explore. You can got concert halls, explore vibrant downtowns, walk through old harbors, and more. So when doing this, channel Icelandic street style!
Base Layer: Warm long-sleeve tee and thermal pants
Middle Layer: Wool hoodie or thick cardigan
Outer Layer: Wool coat, rain jacket, or waterproof trench (depending on weather!).
Why it Works: This outfit is Versatile enough for hiking or Reykjavik day trips! So if you’re going somewhere outside the city, you’ll be prepped for any weather, but if you stay in the city you can also be ready to conquer walks to local churches, explore festivals, and more.
November Outfit Ideas
For Relaxing in Geothermal Baths
It may seem strange to recommend water-based adventures during the late fall months, but places like the Blue Lagoon are a classic choice for relaxing! The contrast of the hot water against the cool November air is to die for, and there are tons of springs around!
Base Layer: Swimsuit
Outer Layer: A parka or warm hoodie
Accessories: Slip on shoes or flip flips, and a quick-dry towel
Why it Works: Slip on your parka or warm hoodie before and after taking a dip. The easy on and off shoes make getting into the water quick, and a quick-dry towel will ensure you stay warm when you’re out of the warm water! And then your clothes don’t get damp too!
For Winter Adventures like Ice Caves and Glacier Hiking
Exploring the stunning glaciers on foot with guided hike is a must! The colder temperatures make the glaciers even more impressive with their clear crevasses and ice formations! Same thing for ice caves: places like the Katla Ice Cave are a must see, especially since they’re only open during the colder months.
Base Layer: Heavyweight merino wool thermal set
Middle Layer: Insulated down jacket
Outer Layer: Windproof and waterproof parka with fur hood (faux fur!)
Why it Works: This outfit helps combat the cold, wind, and any snowfall: this is essential for outdoor tours. It will keep you warm and prepared for the walk, exploring, and more!
For Experiences like Snow Moibiling and Seeing Winter Landscapes
If you are in for adventures like taking thrilling rides across glaciers on a snowmobile, you may want to check out Iceland’s other winter landscapes too! Frozen waterfalls, dog sledding, whale watching, and more are so fun during this time of the year.
Base Layer: Base thermals (top and bottom)
Middle Layer: Sherpa-Lined Hoodie or jacket
Outer Layer: Heavy duty snow jacket with hood
Why it Works: This outfit is designed for those longer tours, or those more outdoor adventures that will have you in the icy, snow, rain, wind and more. Keep yourself warm with those freezing temperatures as you explore the winter landscapes in fun and unique ways!
What to Pack for Iceland in the Fall: Other Essentials to Add to Your Packing List
Power bank and adapter – Cold weather drains phone batteries fast.
A small daypack/hiking backpack – Even if you have limited time to explore due to diminishing daylight, you’ll want to tackle some of Iceland’s spectacular hiking trails. A small backpack allows you to bring along the essentials.
Reusable water bottle – You’ll never taste better water than Icelandic tap water. It’s fresh, pure, and free! Turn the faucet all the way to cold and enjoy the best water in the world.
Camera and tripod – Iceland is a source of inspiration for photographers. You’re presented with spectacular landscapes after spectacular landscapes. Whether capturing the Northern Lights, or a rainbow arcing over Gullfoss waterfall, you’ll be glad you brought your camera and tripod for those iconic, postcard-worthy shots.
Final Thoughts: Packing for Iceland in the Fall and What to Wear to Iceland in the Fall
Iceland in the fall offers some of the most magical and surreal landscapes you’ll ever see. By dressing smartly and layering correctly, you can enjoy every glacier hike, waterfall trek, and aurora chase without worrying about the cold or getting wet. Use these outfit ideas to pack confidently and focus on creating unforgettable memories in the Land of Fire and Ice.
14 Best Fall Foliage Weekend Getaways in the USA