How to dress for an Ice Cave & Glacier Tour in Iceland
Exploring an Icelandic glacier or stepping inside a natural ice cave is an experience you’ll never forget. But Iceland’s weather? That’s part of the adventure too. It keeps things interesting! Wind, snow, sun glare, light rain, sometimes all in the same hour. The key is simple: dress smart, stay comfortable, and you’ll be free to fully enjoy every magical second without thinking about the cold.
No proper gear? No problem. You can easily rent high-quality outdoor clothing through IcelandCover (more details below).
And remember, The Sleipnir glacier truck is warm, spacious and sheltered, so you can always step inside, warm up, and relax between stops. Adventure outside, comfort inside. Best of both worlds.
Think Layers (Like an Onion)
The secret to dressing for Iceland? Layers. Not one massive coat. Not five sweaters.
Smart layers that you can add or remove as the weather shifts.
Spring & Autumn
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Warm mid layer
- Thermal base layer if it’s chilly. Weather can change quickly, so flexibility matters most.
Summer
• Light base layer
• Fleece or light insulated mid layer
• Windproof/waterproof outer shell. Even on sunny days, glacier wind can feel surprisingly cold.
Winter
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Warm insulating mid layer
- Proper waterproof & windproof outer jacket. Winter is magical — but definitely colder and windier.
Waterproof Hiking Boots & Warm Socks
Glaciers are icy, sometimes wet and uneven. We provide safety equipment like crampons, but you still need:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Thick wool or thermal socks
Pro tip: Waterproof really matters. Regular sneakers can get cold and wet very quickly.
Build Your Layers Smartly
Base Layer – Stay Dry
- Merino wool or technical synthetic
- Breathable & moisture-wicking
- Thermal top and bottoms in colder months
Your base layer regulates temperature and keeps sweat away from your skin.
Mid Layer – Keep the Heat In
- Fleece jacket
- Light down jacket
- Synthetic insulated layer
This traps warmth while still allowing movement and comfort.
Waterproof & Windproof Outer Jacket
Your outer layer should be:
- Fully waterproof (not just water-resistant)
- Windproof
- Comfortable enough to move in
On a glacier, wind chill can make it feel colder than the temperature suggests.
In spring and autumn, a lighter rainproof shell often works perfectly — especially when layered correctly underneath.
The Little Details That Elevate Your Glacier Experience
- Warm hat & gloves
- Sunglasses (especially in summer — glaciers reflect strong sunlight)
- Fully charged phone or camera – trust us, you’ll want your camera for our tours.
What About Snacks & Drinks?
Bringing a small snack and water is always a good idea, especially if you’re combining our tour with a Golden Circle day.
If you're doing the full Golden Circle plus the glacier experience, having something with you means more time exploring and less time waiting in lines. You’ll have more freedom to enjoy each stop at your own pace.
That said, you absolutely have options along the way. Many guests choose to grab refreshments at Gullfoss Kaffi, where you can buy meals, snacks, and drinks. There are also opportunities to purchase food during other stops throughout the Golden Circle route.
So whether you pack something with you or prefer to buy along the way, both work perfectly.
Travelling Light? Rent Your Clothing in Iceland
If you prefer to pack light, you can rent high-quality outdoor clothing and boots in Iceland through IcelandCover.
They deliver directly to your hotel, making everything easy and convenient. Travel lighter — and still be fully prepared for Icelandic conditions.
We’re so excited to meet you and travel with you. We truly look forward to welcoming you on the tour and sharing this unforgettable experience together. And remember If you get cold, there’s always a warm seat waiting for you inside the Sleipnir truck.
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