Reykjavík Weather by Month and What to Pack

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavík, you’ve probably heard that the weather can be wildly unpredictable. One moment you’re enjoying sunshine in the capital city, the next you’re battling strong winds and rain, and that’s all within ten minutes. You'll be prepared for anything with the right packing list and an understanding of the weather each month. This handy guide will help you know what to expect and what to pack for every month in Reykjavík.

Local Tip: Layering is the key to dressing for a comfortable time in Reykjavík. Icelandic weather can change in an instant, so always bring a windproof and waterproof outer layer, no matter when you visit.

January

January is typically cold and dark, with short daylight hours (4-5 hours). Temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), and snow, rain, and strong winds are common. 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Heavy winter coat (waterproof and windproof)
• Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
• Waterproof pants
• Insulated boots with good traction (for icy city streets)
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Headlamp (optional, but helpful for dark days)

January is best for seeing the northern lights, exploring fascinating museums, going snowmobiling, and enjoying winter landscapes.

February

February’s weather is similar to January’s, but with slightly more daylight (6-8 hours), and snow and wind are still frequent.

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Heavy winter coat (waterproof and windproof)
• Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
• Waterproof pants
• Insulated boots with good traction (for icy city streets)
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Headlamp (optional, but helpful for dark days)

February is best for outdoor winter activities, visiting geothermal pools, and exploring frozen landscapes. 

March

Daylight increases to 10-11 hours. It’s still cold, but typically less extreme than January/February. However, make sure you’re prepared for anything; it’s definitely not springtime. 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Warm layers (fleece and thermals)
• A good winter coat
• Waterproof hiking shoes (if planning outdoor excursions)
• Sunglasses (yes, the sun can be blinding on snow)

March is the best month to see the northern lights before they fade and to experience the transition to longer days with more daylight.

April: A Mix of Everything

April brings more daylight, about 13-15 hours (hello, longer days!), but it’s still chilly (0°C to 7°C / 32°F to 45°F). You can expect unpredictable weather, including sun, rain, wind, and even snow, all in one day.

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Layers (sweaters, thermals, fleece)
• Hiking shoes (great for exploring)

April is best for seeing the adorable puffins return to the island and taking early road trips (but some roads may still be closed).

May

May is on the edge of the midnight sun phenomenon with 16-18 hours of daylight. Travellers can expect mild temperatures (3°C to 11°C / 37°F to 52°F), less chance of snow and more greenery.

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Light layers (but still a warm jacket)
• Raincoat (spring showers are common)
• Comfortable walking shoes

May is ideal for exploring Reykjavík on foot, seeing baby lambs at nearby farms, and enjoying long days. It is also great for road trips, including driving the Golden Circle if you plan on venturing outside of Reykjavík.  

June: Midnight Sun and Warmer Days

June brings the midnight sun—you guessed it, 24 hours of daylight as the sun barely sets! Expect mild temperatures (7°C to 14°C / 45°F to 57°F) and overall pleasant weather (but also be prepared for rain and wind). 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Eye mask (for sleeping in bright nights)
• Light layers (but still bring a rain jacket)
• Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots

June is excellent for hiking under the midnight sun, whale watching, and enjoying long days outdoors.

July

Travellers can expect the highest average temperatures of the year (9°C to 15°C / 48°F to 59°F) and 20+ hours of daylight. Icelandic summer can be breathtaking in Reykjavík. 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• T-shirts and sweaters
• Waterproof jacket (rain is common)
• Hiking boots (for day trips)

July is great for summer festivals, road trips, and getting out of the city, such as visiting Mount Esja. 

August

August is still summer in Iceland, but autumn is just around the corner. There is about 16-18 hours of daylight, and temperatures range from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F).

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Similar to July, light layers, but prepare for rain.

In August, tourists are eager to see puffins before they leave and enjoy late summer walks around the capital city.

September

September brings about 13-15 hours of daylight and cooler temperatures (5°C to 12°C / 41°F to 54°F).

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Warm sweater, rain jacket, and scarf
• Waterproof hiking boots

This month is best for seeing the first northern lights of the season, relaxing in geothermal pools and catching a film at the Reykjavík International Film Festival. 

October

There’s about 8-10 hours of daylight in October, and temperatures average begin to drop (2°C to 7°C / 36°F to 45°F).

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Warmer coat and thermals
• Windproof gear

October is ideal for golden autumn landscapes, cosy coffeehouse visits, and museum-hopping. 

November

Winter arrives in full force in November, with 5-7 hours of daylight and temperatures between -1°C and 5°C (30°F and 41°F). 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Winter coat, gloves, hat, and boots

November is a great month to see the northern lights, go on early winter hikes around the city, and attend the music festival Iceland Airwaves. 

December

With just 4-5 hours of daylight, December is Reykjavík’s darkest month. It can be cold, snowy, and festive. 

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• All the winter gear
• Christmas spirit! 

The last month of the year is best for Christmas markets, northern lights, and winter wonderland vibes.