The Travel BuddhaTraveling Iceland’s Ring Road is one of the most thrilling and scenic road trips in the world. The 1,332 km (828 miles) loop that circles the island offers unparalleled views of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and the stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a novice looking to explore Iceland’s rugged terrain, knowing what to pack is crucial to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and comfortable journey.
Camping while traveling Iceland’s Ring Road allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty, providing flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. However, because the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, your packing list should cover a range of conditions—from sunny days to sudden snowstorms. In this article, we’ll outline the 10 best items to pack for camping on Iceland’s Ring Road, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for this unforgettable adventure.
1. Durable Tent for Iceland’s Ever-Changing Weather
When camping along Iceland’s Ring Road, your tent is your shelter from the elements. Iceland’s weather can change in a heartbeat, with rain, snow, and wind frequently making an appearance even in summer. That’s why you need a high-quality, durable tent that can withstand these conditions.
Look for a four-season tent that’s both waterproof and well-ventilated. It should be designed to handle strong winds and heavy rain, which are common when camping in Iceland. A tent with a double-wall system is highly recommended, as it will provide extra protection against moisture and keep you warm on chilly nights.
Top Features to Look For:
- Waterproof rating of at least 2000mm.
- Strong, durable poles to handle Iceland’s winds.
- Good ventilation to prevent condensation inside.
- A solid footprint for protection against sharp rocks or the cold ground.
With these features, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever weather conditions Iceland’s Ring Road throws your way.
2. Warm and Waterproof Sleeping Bag
Iceland’s Ring Road takes you through various climates, from mild coastal temperatures to cold highland conditions. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing at night. To ensure you stay warm while camping, invest in a high-quality sleeping bag rated for at least 3-season use, preferably one designed for extreme conditions.
The sleeping bag should be down or synthetic insulated, with a temperature rating appropriate for Iceland’s cool nights. Make sure to choose a waterproof sleeping bag liner or a sleeping bag that includes a moisture-resistant cover to protect against dampness in case of rain.
Be sure to bring a decent inflatable sleeping pad too!
Key Considerations:
- Temperature rating: Choose a sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F) to ensure warmth in the colder regions of Iceland’s Ring Road.
- Moisture resistance: Iceland’s weather can be wet, so a waterproof bag or liner will keep you dry and comfortable.
A warm and waterproof sleeping bag will help you get a good night’s rest, so you’re ready for the next day of exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.
3. Portable Cooking Gear
Camping along Iceland’s Ring Road often means cooking your own meals, and having the right cooking gear is essential. A portable stove or camping cooker is a must-have item for preparing hot meals in the wilderness.
Look for a lightweight, compact stove that runs on gas or multi-fuel cartridges, depending on the type of camping you’re doing. A good stove should allow you to cook your meals quickly, even in windy conditions.
Recommended Items:
- Portable stove: A stove that uses isobutane or propane gas is ideal for Iceland.
- Camping cookware: A lightweight set of pots and pans, along with utensils, will make meal prep easier.
- Windshield: If your stove doesn’t have one built in, a small, collapsible windshield will help keep your flame steady on windy days.
Having the right portable cooking gear ensures that you’ll enjoy hot, nutritious meals on your camping journey around Iceland’s Ring Road.
4. Layered Clothing System
Iceland’s Ring Road is known for its unpredictable weather, where you could experience sunshine, rain, and wind all in the same day. Layering your clothing is the best way to stay comfortable and prepared for these shifts in temperature.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that will keep sweat off your skin, followed by an insulating layer for warmth, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against rain and wind. This system allows you to adjust your clothing to match the changing weather conditions.
Key Clothing Items:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (e.g., merino wool or synthetic fabrics).
- Insulating layer (e.g., fleece or down jackets).
- Waterproof outer layer (e.g., a durable rain jacket or shell).
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf: Essential for colder evenings or unexpected storms.
By packing a well-considered layering system, you’ll ensure comfort and protection while camping around Iceland’s Ring Road, no matter what the weather brings.
5. Power Bank and Solar Charger
While camping along Iceland’s Ring Road, it’s likely that you’ll want to stay connected and powered up, whether for navigation, photography, or emergencies. A portable power bank is an essential item to keep your devices charged.
In addition to a power bank, a solar charger can be an excellent backup, especially if you’re camping in more remote areas where access to power is limited. Solar chargers are lightweight, durable, and can be used to keep your phone or camera ready for the road ahead.
The Flex Solar panel was awesome for hiking and around the camp. You’ll still want to have a backup battery since Iceland’s weather (and sunlight) can come and go rather quickly.
Power Charging Options:
- High-capacity power bank (10,000mAh or more).
- Solar charger: Portable, foldable panels that charge during the day.
- Car adapter: To recharge devices while driving along Iceland’s Ring Road.
A fully charged phone or GPS device is critical when traveling Iceland’s Ring Road, ensuring you can easily navigate and stay connected during your adventure.
6. Food and Snacks for the Journey
While Iceland offers some great restaurants and food trucks, you may want to stock up on food supplies before heading out on your camping trip. Bring along non-perishable items that are easy to cook and nutritious.
Consider lightweight, freeze-dried meals that only require hot water, along with energy-dense snacks like nuts, trail mix, jerky, and energy bars. These will keep you fueled and energized throughout your travels along Iceland’s Ring Road.
Essential Food Items:
- Freeze-dried meals: Compact and easy to cook with minimal cleanup.
- Energy bars and snacks: Perfect for a quick snack during a scenic stop.
- Instant coffee or tea: Essential for that early morning pick-me-up.
Having a variety of food options will make camping along Iceland’s Ring Road more convenient and enjoyable, ensuring you have plenty of energy to explore.
7. Water Filtration System
Freshwater is plentiful in Iceland, but you’ll still need a reliable water filtration system to ensure that the water you drink is safe. Whether you’re getting water from a stream, river, or lake, a portable water filter or purifier will ensure that you have access to clean drinking water while traveling Iceland’s Ring Road.
Consider a compact water filter or a water purification system that can easily be used in the wild. Many filters are small and lightweight, making them ideal for camping, while also providing fast filtration when you need it.
- Portable water filter: A pump or gravity filter for drinking water.
- Purification tablets: An easy and compact option to treat water in emergency situations.
- Collapsible water container: For carrying extra water in your vehicle.
Having a water filtration system is essential to stay hydrated and healthy while traveling Iceland’s Ring Road, especially in remote areas where fresh water sources may not be readily available.
We saw far too many sheep grazing near rivers & streams to even consider drinking directly from those sources in the lowlands.
8. Headlamp or Flashlight
When camping in Iceland, especially during the summer months when the days are long but the nights can still be dark, a good headlamp or flashlight is essential. It will be your best friend when setting up your tent at night, cooking dinner, or taking a midnight stroll under the midnight sun or auroras.
Choose a headlamp for hands-free use, especially when you’re setting up your campsite or navigating around camp in the dark. It’s also a good idea to pack extra batteries to ensure that your light source doesn’t run out unexpectedly.
Key Features to Look For:
- Adjustable brightness to save battery.
- Waterproof design to handle Iceland’s wet conditions.
- Long battery life for multiple nights of use.
A reliable headlamp or flashlight ensures that you won’t be left in the dark while camping along Iceland’s Ring Road.
9. First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen anywhere, especially when exploring remote areas like Iceland’s Ring Road. Having a well-stocked first aid kit will help you address minor injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, or sprains, while you’re on the road.
Pack a compact, lightweight first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. If you plan on hiking or exploring more challenging terrain, consider adding additional supplies like an emergency space blanket or splints.
First Aid Essentials:
- Bandages and gauze.
- Antiseptic wipes or cream.
- Pain relievers.
- Personal medications.
- Blister treatment.
A well-prepared first aid kit ensures that you’re ready for minor emergencies while camping along Iceland’s Ring Road.
10. Iceland’s Ring Road Guidebook or Map
Lastly, having a detailed guidebook or map of Iceland’s Ring Road is indispensable. While GPS is helpful, having a physical map or guidebook ensures that you won’t get lost, especially in remote areas with weak signal. A good guidebook will also highlight key attractions, camping spots, and services along the route.
Look for a road map that outlines the Ring Road and major detours, as well as a travel guidebook that provides information on the best places to camp, eat, and explore.
Top Features:
- Detailed road maps of Iceland’s Ring Road.
- Campsite locations and facilities.
- Recommendations for off-the-beaten-path sights.
With a reliable guidebook or map, you can confidently navigate Iceland’s Ring Road, ensuring you don’t miss any of the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Get on Down The Road!
Camping along Iceland’s Ring Road offers the ultimate adventure, allowing you to experience the country’s unique landscapes up close. To ensure you make the most of your journey, packing the right gear is essential. From a sturdy tent and sleeping bag to a reliable power bank and headlamp, each item on this list will help make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, glaciers, or volcanic landscapes, the right gear will ensure that you can embrace the unpredictability of Iceland’s weather and enjoy all that this incredible country has to offer. So, pack smart and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime around Iceland’s Ring Road!