Laugavegur Packing List: Essential Gear for Iceland’s Iconic Trail

ByJen Dunlop

Everything You Need for Your Laugavegur Packing list

A good Laugavegur packing list isn’t just about filling a backpack. It’s about preparing for four to six days in one of Iceland’s most unpredictable landscapes. The trail moves through geothermal valleys, black-sand deserts, volcanic ridges, lingering snowfields, and waterfall-filled canyons—often in quick succession. Weather can shift rapidly, and having the right gear plays a major role in how the trek unfolds.

This Laugavegur packing list is designed for the full route from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk and also works for hikers continuing on to Skógafoss via the Fimmvörðuháls extension. Everything included is trail-tested and chosen specifically for Iceland’s variable weather, rugged terrain, and long days on foot. Packing choices can change significantly depending on whether you’re staying in huts or camping along the route, which is why we’ve broken down exactly how camping on the Laugavegur works — including amenities, booking, and what to realistically expect at each stop.

For a broader foundation, start with our Backpacking Essentials guide, which breaks down core backpacking systems that apply to most multi-day trips. For a detailed look at terrain, logistics, and daily stages, our full Laugavegur trail guide walks through what to expect on the route. If you’re planning to hike the full traverse, our Laugavegur–Fimmvörðuháls combo guide explains how the extension changes both mileage and conditions.

If you’re still unsure if you want to continue on to Fimmvörðuháls after the Laugavegur, this guide on should I add Fimmvörðuháls to the Laugavegur walks through the factors to consider before committing to the extension.

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Carry System

Backpack (50–65L): 

A 50–65 L pack is ideal for the multi-day combination of Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls, with space for layered clothing systems, shelter, food for 4–6 days, and rain gear. Choose a pack size you’ve tested at or near your expected loaded weight to avoid surprises on trail.

Top Picks

Budget Alternative

Dry Bags

Use dry bags to protect electronics, spare clothing, and your sleep system from Iceland’s frequent rain. Sustained wet weather is common on the Laugavegur, and keeping critical gear dry is essential.

Shelter System

Tent (if camping): 

Camps on Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls are often exposed, with wind and rain arriving quickly. A tent that prioritises stability and weather protection makes a noticeable difference in comfort and sleep quality.

Wind stability: Choose a low-profile design with strong pole structure and multiple guy-out points to handle frequent gusts.
Setup: A simple, fast pitch is valuable when conditions deteriorate quickly.

Top Picks

Budget Alternative

📌 Pro Tip: Always secure every guyline. Even on calm evenings, winds can rip through camp overnight.

Repair Kit

Pro Tip: Bring a small repair kit — Iceland’s rocky soil and relentless wind are hard on tents.

  • Pole Splints 👉 Buy at: Amazon
  • Fabric Tape 👉 Buy at: Amazon
  • Extra Guy Lines 👉 Buy at: Amazon
  • High Strength Y Pegs 👉 Buy at: Amazon

Sleep System

Sleeping Bag (0°C to –5°C comfort rating)

Temperatures on Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls can dip below freezing even in summer, especially at higher-elevation camps. A 3-season sleeping bag with a comfort rating around 0°C to –5°C (32–23°F) works well for most hikers.

If you’re staying exclusively in huts, nights are typically warmer than tent camping, and some hikers are comfortable using a slightly lighter sleeping bag. Tent campers should plan for colder, wind-exposed conditions.

Synthetic insulation offers better performance if damp, while down is lighter and more compressible but must stay dry.

Top Pick

  • REI Co-op Magma 30 👉 Buy at: REI

Budget Alternatives

  • Qezer Down Sleeping Bag (Options for all seasons)
    • 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
    • Note: We haven’t used this one personally, but the reviews and specs look good on it

Sleeping Pad (if camping)

Cold ground is a factor on Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls, even in summer, especially at higher-elevation camps. An insulated sleeping pad helps reduce heat loss and improves recovery over consecutive nights.

R-value: Aim for R 3.5–4.5+ for Iceland conditions.
Pad type: Air pads pack smaller and weigh less; foam pads add durability but take up more space.
Durability: Volcanic ground can be abrasive. A groundsheet—or pairing a thin foam pad under an air pad—adds protection.

Top Picks

  • NEMO Tensor All Season Sleeping Pad 👉 Buy at: Amazon | REI
  • Big Agnes Sleeping Pad 👉 Buy at: Amazon | REI

Budget Alternative

  • Aksoul Sleeping Pad 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada |
    • This worked for our first backpacking trip, but we upgraded it before we did our second trip.

📌 Pro Tip: Your entire sleep system should be packed in a waterproof dry bag or stuff sack to keep it dry if you encounter heavy rain.

Optional Sleep System Add ons

Pillow

A purely comfort addition, but it could make a big difference to your sleep at night.

Top Pick

Budget Alternative

Mini Pump

Not an essential since most pads come with a pump sack, but it does make the process quicker and easier, and it’s super light, taking up almost no space in your pack.

Cooking System

A simple, efficient cooking setup works best on the Laugavegur & Fimmvörðuháls, where conditions can be windy and wet and most cooking happens at camp or in huts.

Essentials

A lightweight canister stove, food thermos, and long handled spork are the building blocks of any backpacking cooking system.

Top Picks

Budget Alternative

  • Zlwena camp stove 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
  • Kuvik Titanium Spork 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA |
    • This item is only a budget option for American shoppers as it is similar price to the Sea to Summit version on Amazon.ca

Optional Kitchenware

Add these items for more complex meals or if cooking for a larger group.

Top Picks

Budget Alternative

  • MalloMe Camping Cookware 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
    • Note- We haven’t used this set, but it looks like it would be ok for a budget, starter set.

Food

Carry all food needed for the hike. There is no reliable resupply between trailheads, though some huts sell limited snacks or meals at a premium.

  • Dehydrated meals
  • Instant oats, rice, pasta sides, wraps, cheese
  • Snacks: protein bars, dried fruit, jerky, chocolate, trail mix, granola bars

Water System

Water is readily available at huts along the route, making hydration straightforward with a lightweight system.

Hydration Bladder or Water Bottle

Top Picks

Budget Alternative

  • Nevo Rhino Hydration Bladder 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
    • Bonus- This bladder is included with the Nevo Rhino day pack

Water filtration (optional)

We did not use a filter on this trip, as hut water was reliable and sufficient between stops. But if you prefer to carry less water and top up from streams, bring a lightweight filter.

Top Picks

For Group Use:
For Individual Use

Notes:

  • Hut water is potable.
  • Stream filtering is optional but useful if spacing between huts feels long or conditions change.

Navigation & Safety Essentials

Even on well-marked trails, accidents and unexpected weather happen. This section covers the gear and mindset that keeps you safe and ready for anything on the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trails.

Navigation Tools

Satellite Communicator

Safety & Emergency Essentials

Multitool or knife

Top Pick

Budget Alternative

Clothing

When it comes to the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trails, your clothing can make or break your experience. Iceland’s Highlands are famous for throwing all four seasons at you in a single day, and the key to staying safe and comfortable is layering smartly. Every piece you pack should earn its place—lightweight, quick-drying, and built to handle wind, rain, sun, snow, and everything in between.

The suggested clothing choices in this section reflect what we personally wore and found comfortable across a wide range of conditions. They’re not the only good options. There are many quality brands and budget-friendly alternatives that work just as well, depending on what you already own. A broader explanation of how layers work together — and guidance on choosing alternatives can be found in my guide on how to layer clothes for hiking.

These suggestions reflect the conditions typically encountered on the trail, which are described in more detail in our full Laugavegur planning guide.

📌 Pro Tip: All clothes should be packed in waterproof bags to ensure they stay dry in heavy rain.

Base Layers

Your base layers manage moisture and regulate temperature.

Moisture-Wicking Base Top (merino or synthetic)

I found a lightweight merino long sleeve combined with a t-shirt and quality mid and outer layer was perfect.

A mid weight base with a lighter fleece would have worked also.

Thermal Leggings (light or midweight depending on the season)

I packed a pair of Costco fleece lined leggings. However, our temperatures on the trail were pretty mild, so I didn’t need to use them as a base layer. Instead they became my camp pants- fresh, dry clothes when we arrived each day felt like a little slice of heaven.

  • Women’s Merino Base Layer Set 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
  • Men’s Merino Base Layer Set 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
    • We didn’t use this set, but it looks like it has good review and is a solid budget set.

Hiking Clothing

Comfort and quick-dry performance matter more than style.

  • 1–2 hiking shirts (merino or synthetic)
    This is my favourite hiking t-shirt-lightweight, moisture wicking, & ultra packable
    • Women’s Outdoor Research Echo T-shirt 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | REI
    • Men’s Outdoor Research Echo T-shirt 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA
  • 1 pair of hiking pants
  • Sports bra and underwear (quick-dry only)
    Why: Wet clothing in Iceland rarely dries overnight—pack fabrics designed to perform in moisture.

📌 Pro Tip: Keep one dry, warm outfit you never hike in—pure comfort for evenings. Pack it in a ziplock or dry bag, so it doesn’t get soaked if you get caught in a downpour. Trust me- you’ll thank me for this!

Mid Layers

For Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls, I found that one mid layer combined with a high-quality base layer and a reliable outer shell was more than enough. I actually brought both a fleece and a down jacket—but ended up leaving the down jacket in the car.

Fleece or Hoodie

Perfect for hiking in cooler temperatures and ideal as your everyday warmth layer on trail. Fleece is lighter and less bulky in your pack, but if you’re looking for a budget option a hoodie will work.

Insulated Jacket (synthetic or down)

Although I didn’t take my down jacket on the Laugavegur hike, I used it on several other Iceland hikes- both as an outer layer with my fleece and as a mid layer with my rain jacket, depending on the weather.

  • Women’s Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | REI
  • Men’s Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | REI
    • Some Outdoor Research items are highly inflated on Amazon.ca. I would recommend ordering directly through the retailer or another retailer

Outer Layers

Your outer layers are your armour against wind, rain, and Iceland’s unpredictable mood swings—and they’re absolutely non-negotiable on the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trails.

Waterproof Rain Jacket

A proper rain jacket is the single most important clothing item you’ll pack. Mine kept me completely dry through the hours-long downpour on Fimmvörðuháls, and I wouldn’t hike these trails without it. Plus, it has excellent breathability and packability.

If you’re on a budget, a 2.5-layer waterproof shell can be enough. But after learning the consequences of inadequate rain gear a few years ago on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand, a high-quality 3-layer jacket became my top priority.

Craig and I both wore the Outdoor Research Aspire, which isn’t available on Amazon in a men’s fit, but this jacket looks comparable

Waterproof/Windproof Rain Pants

Rain pants are essential—even in clear weather. Storms hit fast, temperatures drop quickly, and once your hiking pants are wet, they rarely dry in the Highlands.

Cold-Weather Accessories

Small items that make a huge difference.

  • Warm beanie/toque & Gloves or Mitts 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
  • Buff or neck gaiter 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
  • Waterproof over-mittens (optional but excellent in storms)
    • 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
      • Note: These are not designed to be warm—they are meant to go over your regular gloves or mitts. They do fit large for that reason, making them a little bulky.
        But they are excellent at keeping your mitts dry, which makes a huge difference when hiking through heavy rain or storms, like we experienced on Fimmvörðuháls.

Socks

Your feet carry you the whole way—treat them well.

  • 2-3 pairs Merino Socks 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
  • CoolMax Toe Socks 👉 Buy at: Amazon USA | Amazon Canada
    Why they matter: Merino socks are a trail favourite because they prevent blisters, stay warm even when damp, and hold their shape over multiple days.
  • Personally, I wore toe socks for the entire Laugavegur, while the rest of the family stuck with regular merino socks. I had excellent success with no blisters, and most of the family did as well.
  • I like CoolMax toe socks if I know my feet will get wet—like during river crossings—because the technology wicks moisture away, keeping your feet feeling dry even when wet. Some hikers layer toe socks under merinos for extra protection, but I find that bulky. With well-fitting socks, both approaches work well for multi-day hikes.

Footwear

Your footwear can make or break your Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls experience. These trails take you across lava fields, snow patches, river crossings, loose ash, slippery mud, and rugged volcanic terrain, often all in the same day. The right shoes will keep you stable, comfortable, and blister-free—while the wrong ones can turn every kilometre into a battle.

⚖️ Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners

Hiking Boots

Best for: hikers who want ankle support, extra stability, and strong protection from rough terrain

  • ✔️ Better ankle support on uneven volcanic rock
  • ✔️ More durable and protective
  • ✔️ Great for muddy sections and snow patches
  • ✔️ Often more water-resistant
  • ❌ Heavier
  • ❌ Take longer to dry if they get soaked
  • ❌ Can feel hot during steep climbs

Trail Runners

Best for: hikers who prefer lighter footwear, faster drying, and more flexibility.

  • ✔️ Lightweight and comfortable right out of the box
  • ✔️ Dry quickly after river crossings or rain
  • ✔️ Great for long days when every gram matters
  • ✔️ More breathable on hot climbs
  • ❌ Less ankle support
  • ❌ Less durable on sharp volcanic rock
  • ❌ Usually not waterproof (though this is often an advantage—wet Gore-Tex shoes dry very slowly)

Bottom Line:

  • If you prioritize comfort, speed, and fast drying, trail runners are usually better.
  • If you want support, structure, and durability, go with boots.

Toiletries, Hygiene & Misc.

The bathrooms at the huts on both Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls are well maintained. Although thdy are fully stocked with toilet paper, water, and soap, there are no facilities between huts.

Practicing Leave No Trace is critical: pack out used toilet paper and bury human waste at least 6–8 inches deep and 200 feet away from any water source or trail.

Sun Safety

Optional / Nice-to-Have

Packing and Organization Tips

A little planning goes a long way on a multi-day trek like Laugavegur. How you pack your bag can be just as important as the gear you choose to bring. These simple habits keep things organized, protect your essentials from Iceland’s unpredictable weather, and help you stay comfortable through long climbs and uneven volcanic terrain.

Pack Light (But Prepare for Iceland’s Weather)

Weight matters on this trail. A lighter pack makes each day’s elevation changes feel more manageable, especially on long descents into places like Þórsmörk.

Try to keep your base weight reasonable while still making space for the layers you’ll need in cold, wind, and rain. Do not skip your base or waterproof layers to try to reduce weight.

Use Stuff Sacks to Stay Organised

Keep similar items together in lightweight stuff sacks or packing cubes. Clothes, toiletries, food, and small essentials each deserve their own spot. This makes it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything in the wind or rain, and it helps protect key items from moisture.

Test Your Gear Before You Leave

Iceland can be a tough place to discover gear issues. Set up your tent at least once, test your stove, check your headlamp, and confirm your sleep system is warm enough.

Make sure your layers work comfortably together under your waterproof shell. Ensure your waterproof layers hold up in steady, driving rain. Iceland tests waterproofing like few other places.

Breaking in your footwear ahead of time is also essential.

Repackage Food and Toiletries

Cut down bulk by repacking meals, snacks, and toiletries into smaller bags. Icelandic huts and campsites don’t offer much extra space, and compact packing makes your bag easier to manage as the days go on.

Balance the Weight in Your Pack

Keep heavier items—like your food bag, stove, or extra water—close to the centre of your pack and near your back. This helps maintain balance and reduces strain on your shoulders during long climbs and uneven sections of trail.

Hikers planning to continue beyond Þórsmörk can find additional route-specific planning and logistics in our Laugavegur–Fimmvörðuháls combo guide.

Final Thoughts on Laugavegur Packing List

Hiking the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls combo trail is more than just a backpacking trip—it’s a journey through some of Iceland’s most dramatic and varied landscapes. From geothermal valleys and black sand deserts to glacier views and high mountain passes, the trail delivers day after day. But even with careful planning, it’s a demanding trek that tests both preparation and patience.

Cold nights, strong winds, wet gear, and long days on foot have a way of exposing weak spots in your setup. While nothing can take away from the beauty of this route, packing the right gear, understanding the conditions, and planning for Iceland’s unpredictable weather can make the difference between simply pushing through and truly enjoying the experience.

Whether you stop at Þórsmörk or continue on to Skógafoss via Fimmvörðuháls, this trail comes with real challenges—but it also offers quiet moments, vast open spaces, and a deep sense of awe that stays with you long after the hike is over.

Use this Laugavegur packing list to prepare well, travel thoughtfully, and stay focused on what matters most out there. You’ll finish tired and weathered, but grateful for the opportunity to walk through landscapes shaped by fire and ice—and for the beauty of the world God has placed before us to explore.

Hi, I’m Jen, the voice behind Carpe Diem Home and Abroad. I create practical travel guides based on firsthand experience, with a focus on outdoor adventures, hiking, active travel, and well-planned itineraries.

Each guide is shaped by real trips, careful preparation, and lessons learned on and off the trail — including what worked, what didn’t, and how to plan with confidence. Whether travelling together, solo, or in smaller groups, for us it’s about connection with nature, family, and the beauty of God’s creation, which we’re blessed to explore together.

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