25 Best Things to Put on Your Iceland Packing List

This Iceland packing list will help get you ready for your trip with ideas for jackets, boots, and other things you need to add to the suitcase.

Wondering what to wear in Iceland? The question alone makes me want to grab a sweater and some fuzzy socks! In the weeks leading up to my fall trip, I pored over endless Iceland packing lists, weather reports, Instagram photos and jacket reviews to try to nail down exactly what Iceland clothing I would and would not need.

And it was challenging, since I’d see some pictures of people bundled up in heavy parkas and earmuffs and others with just a flannel shirt and some cute boots. A pretty drastic difference!

Here's the thing, Iceland is not as frigid as it sounds. The temperature in the lowlands stays fairly mild throughout the year, topping out in the 50s in summer and mainly dropping below freezing only in winter (which, admittedly, is a very long season in Iceland).

It can feel drastically colder or warmer, though, depending on factors like whether the sun is out, how close you are to the coast, how windy it is, whether it’s raining, whether you're riding a boat on a glacial lagoon, or climbing to the top of an Iceland waterfall. And since all of these variables can change within a day, or even a few minutes, you always need to be prepared to shed and add layers accordingly. It was almost like a game every time we got out of the car to guess which jacket, hat and gloves combo I would need for each site.

I visited in early October and was blessed with scarce rain and several sunny days, which is not always the norm for what's typically considered "early winter." The items on this Iceland packing list should have you covered pretty well, though, whether you're visiting Iceland in spring, summer or fall. Read on for what to wear in Iceland.  

Read Next: These are 50 of the Best Items for Your Road Trip Packing List

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What to Wear in Iceland Packing List

 The Iceland packing list below is full of both practical items and outfit inspiration for your trip.

Coats and Jackets for Iceland

Parka | You'll want your outermost layer to be warm, waterproof and have a hood. If you already own a heavy-duty windproof and waterproof jacket (like The North Face) and a packable down or fleece to wear under it, you could get by without a parka, but if you're standing outside at night watching the Northern Lights or visiting in winter, you'll probably want something insulated.

I wore my Obermeyer parka a lot more than I anticipated and it was super handy to throw on when we were hopping in and out of the car a lot for photo stops, instead of bundling up with a lot of separate fleece/down/jacket layers. My parka has a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm (which this article helped me to understand) and it kept me dry just fine in the light rain and waterfall mist that we experienced. 

Packable down jacket | Wear this when it's not as cold, or for longer hikes. Since it folds up small, you can throw it in your backpack when you warm up and pull it back out if the wind picks up (which happens a lot). I like that this puffer jacket has a bag you can roll it up and store it in.

Down vest | These are great for days when the sun is out and you want to shed your jacket, or as an extra layer that doesn't constrict your arms. Plus they're cute!

Boots for Iceland

Boots | If you only have room for one pair of boots for Iceland, make sure they are waterproof and comfortable enough to hike in. I decided on snow boots for the extra warmth and the look, and tried out two pairs. These suede leather Sorel boots with removable fleece lining (handy if they somehow get wet inside) were very comfortable and passed my bathtub waterproofness test, but I ultimately went with these ones in the wheat/black color instead since they cost less than $40 and I don't get to wear snow boots that often in Texas.

Paired with wool socks, they were extremely comfortable and I loved how light they felt on my foot. The side zipper made them really easy to get off and on, but unfortunately made them not completely waterproof either. I still recommend them though if you need something budget-friendly or aren't planning on doing any hiking through water, as they held up just fine in snow, rain and waterfall spray.

Extra shoes | No matter how well you plan, sometimes you end up walking through two feet of freezing cold ocean because you misjudged the tide, and in case that happens, you'll be really glad to have something not soaking wet to throw on your feet. If you have the room, pack a shorter pair of hiking boots for Iceland, and if not, at least a small pair of comfortable shoes you can throw on while your boots dry. (Pro tip: Take off your wet shoes in the car and blast the foot heating vents on them for a quick dry.)

Outfits and Sweaters for Iceland

Cozy sweaters | I brought a couple of oversized ones so that I could layer underneath them. Wool sweaters are popular Icelandic fashion, so next time I'll pack one of those, too. They also make a great (but pricey) souvenir if you want to buy one there.

Flannel shirts | These are perfect for layering and pack pretty light. I brought one in black and white that worked for layering, too, and in red to pop against the nature backdrops.  

Fleece lined leggings | I took four pairs in a variety of colors and layered two each day. Not only are they super comfy and easy to adventure in, they're also nice and warm! 

Waterproof pants | I basically lived in leggings, but we also were lucky to not have too much rain. To be safe, I'd bring along some hiking pants that are water resistant or quick drying. I packed a pair of insulated pants that ended up being a little too warm for most activities, but we also had pretty mild weather. If you're visiting in the middle of winter and doing Northern Lights tours or glacier walks, you might want to bring some of these along. They're so warm and come in petite, regular and tall lengths! (Pro tip: If you're under 5'7", you might fit the youth sizes that are a bit cheaper and come in some fun, bright colors.)

Dark jeans | You might want a pair of these if you're staying in Reykjavik or for going out to dinner at night. Stick to leggings or hiking pants for day trips though because no one wants to be stuck in wet jeans all day (and you'll be hanging out with lots of waterfalls). 

Pajamas and Thermals for Iceland

Long sleeve tops | Layer these over your thermals and under a sweater on colder days. 

Thermal tops and pants | You'll only need a couple of pairs because you can wash them out and let them dry overnight. I packed one black and one white thermal top. I skipped the bottoms and doubled up on fleece-lined leggings instead, but I'd recommend bringing thermal leggings for extra warmth. I would have been too cold in just my fleece ones some days but I had a long parka and taller boots that covered most of my legs. 

Warm pajamas | You should have a heater at night if you're staying at a guest house or hotel, but if you're stuck with a broken one (like we were one night) or bunking down in a camper van, you'll be glad you brought some cozy PJs.

Wool socks | These were worth every penny for how warm and dry they kept my feet. I'm fully convinced they could make any pair of shoes comfortable too. I also snuck these ones in my cart because of how cute they are, even though I didn't bring them to Iceland.

Check out these unique places to stay in Iceland

Accessories for Iceland

Beanie | Fleece-lined knit caps give a little extra warmth, but mine weren't lined and worked just fine. Bring a couple of colors to easily mix up your look.

Scarf | I always travel with a blanket scarf as it serves so many purposes. In Iceland, it was my plane blanket, car blanket, towel, picnic blanket … oh and cute scarf on occasion. I wore this one in black and white, but it comes in lots of colors and costs less than $10. 

Gloves | Look for something waterproof and touchscreen compatible. I brought these ones along but they were a little too bulky for most activities (i.e. taking lots of pictures). They were very warm though and would be great for skiing and snowball fights! I ended up wearing my touchscreen pair much more, but since they aren't waterproof they would get quite damp at times. Luckily gloves dry out pretty quickly!

Sunglasses | Believe it or not, the sun occasionally makes an appearance in fall. Actually, we had three very sunny days in the week we were there. So definitely bring some sunglasses. You'll especially want them at the Blue Lagoon, where the sun reflects brightly off the water. I was dumb and left mine in my locker and regretted it the whole squinty time. 

Backpack | If you plan to do any hiking, bring along a daypack for your snacks, water and all the layers you will inevitably want to shed. On our hike up the Glymur waterfall, I went from wearing fleece-lined everything and an insulated jacket, to wishing I was wearing shorts and a t-shirt two miles in with the sun beaming, to desperately bundling back up into my puffer and gloves when it started raining at the top. 

Swimwear for Iceland

Bathing suit | If you know anything about Iceland, you probably have heard of the Blue Lagoon. You'll want to go there. Plus, there are other hot springs and public pools along the Ring Road where you might want to take a dip.

Quick dry towel | You can use this when you visit the Blue Lagoon, or for those days when the rain or a waterfall soaks you. You'll definitely need a towel if you're staying in a camper van and these microfiber ones pack lighter and dry faster than whatever you keep in your bathroom at home. 

Extras

Water bottle | The water in Iceland is clean and so yummy, so no need to stock up on bottles at the store. Just bring a couple of refillable ones and enjoy all the free tap/spring water your heart desires.

Plug adapter | This one is my new favorite because you can charge three things in one outlet (one plug, two USB ports). It also has four internal plug adaptors, so it covers A LOT of countries. We also brought a car charger to make sure our phones stayed powered up on the go since I use mine instead of a camera all the time. 

Memory card | We maxed out a 64 GB memory card with all the video we took on our GoPro so either take backups, a larger card or plan to do a lot of picture and video transferring at night. 

Drone | This is the No. 1 item we wish we had brought with us to Iceland. I think we would have left our jackets behind to bring a drone instead, but we didn't own one yet. If you're thinking of buying a drone, definitely do it before you go to Iceland! And if you have one, leave your recommendation in the comments because we're shopping around.

Need an itinerary for your Iceland vacation? Try this six-day, self-drive option.

5 of the Best Unique Places to Stay In Iceland

Some of the best places to stay in Iceland are out in the wilderness with lakes, waterfalls and the Northern Lights for neighbors.

Lakefront cabins under the Northern Lights, guesthouses on sheep farms, boutique hotels with waterfall views — these are just a few of the many unique places to stay in Iceland.

If you’re planning a road trip around the Nordic island, you may be wondering where to stay in Iceland outside of Reykjavik. While there are a few Icelandic chains like Fosshotel, Icelandair Hotels and Kea Hotels in populated areas, it’s just as common to encounter hostels, family-owned inns and scenic campgrounds, perfect for campervan road trips around the island.

For an October visit to Iceland, we decided to try out a few different styles of accommodations along a route that stretched as far east as Höfn and as far west as the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which is a little less than halfway around the Ring Road that circles the island. We wanted spots away from light pollution, for the best chance to see the aurora borealis.

Overall, we had positive experiences at each place and can recommend them all for being safe, clean and moderately priced for Iceland. We averaged less than $150 a night for accommodations in the low season. You might pay more in summer.

Check out these five unique places to stay in Iceland and scroll down to the bottom for tips on searching for and booking Iceland accommodations.

Read Next: This Iceland Packing Checklist Will Help You Prep for Your Trip

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5 Unique Places to Stay in Iceland

These unique places to stay in Iceland are scattered around the island and include everything from private cottages on a lake to historic hostels.

Arnanes Country Hotel in Höfn

Just off the Ring Road less than 5 miles before Höfn, Arnanes Country Hotel boasts incredible views of the Vatnajökull glacier. Its countryside setting means dark skies ideal for Northern Lights viewing.

The cozy cabin vibes are strong here, with wood planked walls and minimalist decor, though you’ll still enjoy modern amenities like WIFI and a TV in most spaces. There are several accommodation sizes to choose from with and without private toilets, ideal for everyone from singles to small families. Bathrooms have soap, shampoo and hair dryers, and our room even had extra pillows.

On top of free tea and coffee in the rooms, there’s a complimentary, basic breakfast buffet in the hotel’s intimate seasonal restaurant. Additional places to eat are just a few minutes away in Höfn.  

Nearby attractions: Höfn swimming pool (4 miles), Vestrahorn/Stokksnes Peninsula (6 miles), Hoffellsjökull glacier (8 miles), Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (45 miles), Vatnajokull National Park (80 miles, visitors center in Höfn, 4 miles)

Search for deals at Arnanes Country Hotel on Booking.com.

Hotel Katla in Vik

Modern Hotel Katla Hofdabrekka is also on Route 1, just a couple of miles from the black-sand beaches of Vik. It has a little pond onsite and scenic surroundings of hills and the ocean off in the distance.

The hotel has more than 100 rooms in few different sizes, including large suites for families or groups. In-room amenities include desks, TVs, WIFI, tea kettles and a range of shower supplies (shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion and a hairdryer). There are a few buildings on the property with differing room styles. Some have a woodsy cabin look and others are more sleek and modern.

A free breakfast buffet is served in the hotel’s spacious restaurant and features a spread of meats, cheeses, baked goods, waffles and juices. With Vik nearby, you’ll have a handful of eatery options if you don’t want to dine from the hotel’s locally sourced menu, though you’ll definitely want to spend some time on the property soaking in the geothermal hot tub outside.

Nearby attractions: Reynisfjara Beach (10 miles), Dyrhólaey (15 miles), Skogafoss (25 miles), Laufskálavarða (21 miles), Eldhraun Lava Field (30 miles), Fjadrargljufur Canyon (40 miles)

Search availability at Hotel Katla on Booking.com.

Hotel Hella in Hella

Hotel Hella's location about midway between Reykjavik and Vik on the Ytri-Ranga river makes it a convenient stopping point for South Coast adventures. A couple of popular waterfalls are nearby, and the Golden Circle isn’t too far.

The style of this property is an interesting blend with some sleek and modern areas, and others designed classically with floral wallpaper, sconces and antique-looking furniture. The long, narrow hall lined with bedroom doors even reminded me a bit of the hotel from “The Shining.” You can choose from single, double and triple rooms with WIFI and private baths (soap and shampoo provided but no hairdryer in our room), or book twin rooms with shared baths for a lower-budget option.

The hotel’s dining room serves a free breakfast buffet in the morning with delicious pastries, fresh bread, creamy spreads (like pepper and salmon), cereal and the typical Icelandic selection of meats and cheeses. There’s also a coffee and tea station you can help yourself to throughout the day. The gas station right next door has a dining area and a Quiznos (of all places) plus a selection of quick-fix meals and sandwiches. There’s also a supermarket steps away to stock up on picnic supplies.

Nearby attractions: Kerid crater and the Golden Circle (30 miles), Seljalandsfoss (21 miles), Skogafoss (38 miles), Haifoss (55 miles), Landmannalaugar (62 miles)

Search for deals and discounts at Hotel Hella on Booking.com.

Lake Thingvellir Cottages in Thingvallavatn

Sitting on the centerpiece lake of Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir in Icelandic), Lake Thingvellir Cottages have jealousy-inducing views of the water and surrounding mountains. A little deck and wall of windows on each is perfect for soaking up the scenery indoors and out. Plus, with no towns around to provide night pollution, there’s great potential to spot the Northern Lights when they’re active.

Four fully equipped cottages with a tiny-house feel are available with a choice of one or two bedrooms, perfect for families and small groups. Towels and linens are provided, and there are cozy places to lounge and dine in the open and airy living space. Special touches like matching decorations and dishes and a guestbook to sign really put this place over the edge.

Each cabin has a mini kitchen stocked with just about anything you need to cook a toaster oven or stovetop meal. Supplies include everything from pots, cutting boards and can openers to olive oil, spices and hot drinks. If you grab some groceries in Reykjavik on the way here, you can stick them in the fridge and use the property as a home base for exploring the popular Golden Circle.

*Note: This property does not have a reception building, you have to call a phone number to check-in upon arrival.

Nearby attractions: Thingvellir National Park (2 miles), Silfra fissure (5 miles), Geysir (39 miles), Gullfoss (45 miles), Glymur (32 miles), Reykjavik (22 miles)

The Old Post Office Guesthouse in Grundarfjordur

With views towards the ocean to one side and a mountain range to the other, the large bedroom windows at the Old Post Office Guesthouse are a welcome surprise. Kirkjufell Mountain is just a couple of miles down the road, visible from a few rooms and a small balcony where you can pop out in the middle of the night to check for the Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky over the pointy peak.

Rooms for one to three people are clean and white, with amenities like desks, TVs and free WIFI. Some have shared baths and other private facilities. Our accommodations had a sink in the room and cute tote bags stuffed with a towel to carry your things back and forth to the shower. Ask for a room facing the ocean if possible.

Breakfast is not included here, but the shared kitchen downstairs is available to cook your own meals. We were definitely tempted to make some new friends when we woke up to the smell of bacon. The little seaside town of Grundarfjordur also has a handful of restaurants plus a grocery store with a hot dog counter (they were delicious).

Nearby attractions: Kirkjufellsfoss (1 mile), Skarðsvík Beach (25 miles), Saxholl Crater (27 miles), Djúpalónssandur Beach (36 miles), Londrangar (36 miles), Búðakirkja (23 miles), Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge (29 miles)

Check out deals at the Old Post Office Guesthouse on Booking.com.

Tips for Where to Stay in Iceland

1. When you’re looking for accommodations in Iceland, you’ll notice that many use third-party reservation sites and may not even have their own website, so try searching on places like Booking.com.

2. Accommodations tend to be more expensive and book up fast in summer, and you won’t always have a lot of choices in a particular locale. So if you find something you like, reserve it while you can (and pay attention to available cancellation policies in case you find something better).

3. Reception desks won’t be open 24/7 in most locations, so when you book, look for check-in instructions that tell you to arrive before a certain hour or call a number when you get there.

4. All of the unique Iceland accommodations above come with the basics like towels and bedding, but if you opt for a hostel, they might charge you a rental fee for linens.

5. Booking a property with a kitchen or free breakfast will help you save on one of the pricey parts of visiting Iceland — eating out. If you get creative, even just a coffee pot or electric kettle works for basic meals like ramen noodles, mac and cheese in a cup, or oatmeal.

10 Summer Vacation Destinations to Escape the Crowds

The uncrowded summer vacation destinations include Caribbean beaches, Italian villages and islands in Southeast Asia.

For many people, summer is the most convenient time to travel, thanks to busy school and work schedules. Unfortunately, this means that popular vacation destinations see inflated crowds and higher prices during this season, not exactly the ideal situation for a relaxing summer vacation.

So how do you escape the hoards of tourists during a summer holiday? Look no further than these 10 uncrowded summer destinations recommended by travel bloggers around the world.

Some are calmer in summer because the high season falls at a different time of year. In the Caribbean and Florida, winter getaways are typically the most popular choice, and in Brazil, the summer months of the Northern Hemisphere are actually winter down south. Others are popular in summer but are still a quieter alternative to their famous neighbors, like an island in the Philippines next to another so busy that it recently underwent a temporary closure to visitors.

Keep reading for ideas on where to travel this summer for a fun and refreshing vacation without the crowds.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one or buy something, we might receive a commission for telling you about it, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

(Photo credit: Allison/She Dreams of Alpine)

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

By Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Tucked away in the Caribbean, Virgin Gorda is home to crystal blue waters, beautiful white beaches and quiet coves. The third-largest of the British Virgin Islands, it is most well-known for the Baths, a beautiful area where giant granite boulders have come together to make sheltered sea pools that you can walk around in beachside.

Virgin Gorda is also famous for its rock climbing, and avid climbers come here to scale all the unique boulders that are scattered across the island.

One of the best parts about the island, though, is that it is a really great place to get away from the craziness of summer. You can spend time on the beach and snorkeling in the waters without running into many tourists at all. 

So, whether you want to explore the rock climbing, spend some time sunbathing on the beach, go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, or charter a sailboat for tours around the island, Virgin Gorda is a gem of quiet summer getaways.

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Assisi, Italy

By Michelle of Harbors and Havens

The famous Italian cities of Rome, Venice and Florence burst at the seams with summer crowds, but the country has tons of other historic towns and villages to explore away from the hustle and bustle. In the Umbria region, hilltop Assisi welcomes visitors to its ancient streets, where Roman ruins mix with well-kept churches.

Assisi was the birthplace of St. Francis, so his namesake basilica here is a popular place to tour, filled with frescoes from medieval artists. The Basilica of Saint Clare is also open to visitors and has a Gothic design adorned with paintings inside. A Roman amphitheater, castles and a temple round out the impressive historic sites around town.

Though Assisi is a pilgrimage site, thanks to its patron saints, it isn’t nearly as busy as Rome or Florence, though both cities are only about 100 miles away. Whether you want to walk the stone avenues soaking up the historic atmosphere, grab a slice of pizza near the town center, or relax on the balcony of your rustic hotel, looking out over fields of green in the valley below, Assisi is sure to please.  

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Find incredible deals on Assisi hotels at Booking.com.

(Photo credit: Maria & Rui/Two Find a Way)

Kotor Bay, Montenegro

By Maria & Rui of Two Find a Way

If you are looking for a magical destination to visit in the Summer, then Kotor Bay is the place! The region is breathtakingly beautiful, with views to the southernmost fjords in Europe. Even though the area is growing in popularity, it is still easy to visit while avoiding the crowds, which are mostly located in the main square of the Old Town of Kotor. There are countless activities to do in the area — enjoy your time by the beach, hike the city walls or to nearby towns, visit an island, or just enjoy the history, the beautiful architecture and the delicious food!

Kotor Bay really is the dreamy summer destination we’ve all been looking for, although it almost looks too good to be true. After our four days in the area, we can absolutely confirm that it is true indeed! This is a slice of paradise right in the middle of the Adriatic Sea.

There are many ways to get to the area and you don’t need a car to explore the surroundings. It is very affordable when compared to similar destinations and is still a hidden gem for most people.

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(Photo credit: Katherine & Hali/Tara Lets Anywhere)

Carabao Island, Philippines

By Katherine of Tara Lets Anywhere

Think about summer destinations in Southeast Asia, and Boracay almost always comes to mind. This island in the Philippines is so popular that hundreds of thousands of tourists come here to beach bum and get a tan. But talk to the locals, and they’ll tell you a secret – there’s another island close by where you can dip in clear, blue waters without all the crowds.

Carabao Island lies in the province of Romblon, just a one-hour ferry ride away from Boracay in Aklan. This island is often overshadowed by the popularity of Boracay, hence few people come here to stay. Carabao Island has a long stretch of sandy beach where you can lounge all day. There’s also a diving spot in the island, accessible via a boat or habal-habal ride.

With minimal development, there are only a number of homestays and resorts on Carabao Island. Activities include beach bumming, diving or visiting some of the island’s features – coconut plantations, a view deck and a cave. It’s best for people who simply want to relax and chill in a tropical location.

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(Photo credit: Lori/Naples Florida Travel Guide)

Marco Island, Florida, USA

By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

If you’re looking for uncrowded summer destinations in the U.S., Marco Island in southwest Florida is a great choice. When summer and the daily afternoon thunderstorms arrive (which last just an hour or so), the seasonal snowbirds and most of the tourists have gone.

 It’s definitely hot and humid in the summer along the Paradise Coast, but there are still plenty of things to do. Beaches are no longer crowded and parking is much easier. The Gulf of Mexico is warm, refreshing and typically clear straight to the bottom — perfect for swimming and shelling.

 With the reduced crowds, you hardly need reservations at the best restaurants. Tours are smaller and easier to access, which is especially nice for families who appreciate more flexibility on vacation. Boat rentals on Marco Island are less expensive and a better value, often giving you a full day for the price of a half-day rental during the high season. Summer is also a great time to go out with the Dolphin Explorer eco-tour, when dolphin sightings are everywhere.  

 If you’re in SWFL for nature, you’ll love the green season for better wildlife viewing. The summer rains replenish Rookery Bay and the Everglades, which means sightings of many bird species, manatees, sea turtles, dolphins and alligators are almost guaranteed.

(Photo credit: Jacky/Nomad Epicureans)

Finnish Archipelago

By Jacky of Nomad Epicureans

To me, the only place to really escape the crowds in the summer is Finland. Most people associate snow, Santa Claus and northern lights with the country, but in my opinion, Finland is at its best in the summer. And the place to be is the Finnish Archipelago.

By some definitions, the Finnish archipelago is the largest in the world and consists of thousands of islands littering the Baltic Sea. The larger islands, such as the Åland Islands, are connected by ferries. Åland can easily be reached in a few hours from either Stockholm, Turku, or Helsinki. The more adventurous may even cycle their way across bridges and ferries from Turku.

Mariehamn is the best place to make your base and explore the islands further as it is the biggest city in the region. Go cycling, fishing, swimming or even hiking and simply appreciate the pure Finnish nature far away from the tourist crowds elsewhere in Europe. The Finnish Archipelago is the place to do it!

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(Photo credit: Aneesha/Om Nom Nirvana)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

By Aneesha of Om Nom Nirvana

When you think of a quiet summer destination, Dubai is usually one of the last places you'll have in mind. That's because when you hear about its sweltering temperatures in the 100s, it hardly sounds like a holiday!

However, this may just be the best time to see the city and take advantage of amazing deals. Most tourist attractions and hotels offer massive discounts during the summer, which makes Dubai a much more reasonable destination in this season. One of these places is the luxury resort called Bab Al Shams. This property is nothing short of beautiful and stays true to Emirati heritage. Plus, the pool is gorgeous and perfect to fight the sweltering heat.

With most locals away during the summer, you can escape some epic traffic jams. The holy month of Ramadan occasionally also takes place during the summer months, which means that there are far fewer queues across attractions. In the evenings, when it's cooler, go to the old areas of Dubai and experience how locals break their fasts with dates and water. It's an amazing communal feeling. It may be worth noting that doing a desert camp in the evening is much more comfortable and cooler at this time. 

Everything from the metro to the bus stand is air conditioned, but don't forget to stay hydrated here (however, be mindful of drinking water during the fasting hours). Many restaurants are open for day dining and provide a comfortable environment.

The malls of Dubai are an excellent option for escaping the sun. The city is home to some amazing shopping centers, such as Mall of the Emirates, with its indoor ski slope for ski lovers, and the Dubai Mall, with an ice skating rink. Visit the Burj Khalifa during the peak heat — you'll have safety indoors from the sweltering temperatures.

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(Photo credit: Shivani/The Wandering Core)

Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India

By Shivani of The Wandering Core

Sangla is a quiet village in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Touching one corner of the Indian border with Tibet, Sangla Valley is a captivating destination for beating the summer heat. The start of summers overwhelms the famous hill-stations including Shimla, Manali and Napa Valley. Sure, those are great too, but why face crowds when you can have all the place to yourself?

Our family planned an impromptu trip to Sangla Valley and en route to Sangla, we covered some of the world’s deadliest roads.

There are a number of places to see in Sangla, including the centuries-old Kamru Fort. It is rumored to house 33,000 gods, and no one but the priests can enter the main fort. Tourists can, however, visit the Kamakshi Devi Temple in the Fort premises. Apart from the Fort, Sangla also has a gorgeous Bering Nag Temple with marvelous wooden architecture and impressions of Buddhism.

The untouched Baspa River and a monastery are some of the must-visit places from Sangla. A day trip to nearby stunning Chitkul will take you to the Indo-Tibet border and the last village of India. For me, the highlight of the trip was a trip to Kanda Lake as recommended by a local.

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Kauai, Hawaii, USA

By Michelle of Harbors and Havens

Believe it or not, winter is the busiest season to visit the Hawaiian Islands, and though summer comes in at second, you can still escape the tourist crowds by avoiding the most popular islands of Oahu and Maui in favor of beautiful Kauai.

Known as the Garden Island, Kauai is the northernmost inhabited island of the archipelago and has a diverse natural landscape of lush rainforests, red canyons and gushing waterfalls. Towns here are small and laid back, full of locally owned shops, farmers markets and food trucks.

There’s plenty to do on the island, whether you prefer relaxing on sandy beaches listening to the waves or tackling challenging hikes like the bucket list Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast. And not only is summer a little quieter than winter here, but it also brings dryer weather and calmer waters, making everything from hiking and snorkeling to beach lazing all the more enjoyable!

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Paraty, Brazil

By Christine of The Uncorked Librarian  

If you live in the northern part of the world, heading to the Southern Hemisphere for the summer awards you with quiet cobblestoned streets, tiny cafes and local shops all to yourself, especially in Paraty, Brazil.  

Nestled between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, this colonial town of whitewashed, colorfully latticed buildings is home to aquamarine colored beaches — many only reachable by boat — and stories of greedy pirates. With a Portuguese influence in a tropical setting, a mix of ancient churches and forts, kitschy shops, bountiful crepes and the freshest seafood welcomes guests.

For a day trip, hop on a friendly steed for a personal horseback tour through the luscious countryside dappled with cottages and farms in search of hidden waterfalls. If you love the water, charter a private or group boat tour to enjoy a day of food, drinks and beach hopping with frequent stops to admire the misty mountain backdrop.  

At night, grab a fleece or sweater and wander the traffic-free streets as solo guitarists gently strum love ballads. Enveloped by history, jagged mountains topped with fluffy clouds, and waters that sparkle like champagne, Paraty is truly the perfect summer retreat.

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Iceland Excursions: Hjalparfoss, Haifoss and Gjain

If you want to escape the heavy tourist spots in Iceland, look no further than this scenic inland day trip to the Thjorsardalur Valley, where just a few miles from the popular Golden Circle you’ll find an untouched landscape of waterfalls, rivers and plains near the Hekla volcano. The path isn’t overrun because it’s several miles off the Ring Road (Route 1) and reaching a couple of the main attractions here requires a bit more effort, so you won’t find hordes of buses running through.

All you need is a four-wheel drive and a little patience to steer carefully down the bumpy paths that lead off the main, paved road and you’ll be treated to some wonderfully quiet natural attractions. In fact, we saw no more than half a dozen people at any of these stops, and it was mainly the same few travelers on repeat. Scroll down when you’re ready for directions, and check out these three spots where you must spend some time on this route.

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Iceland Excursion to Haifoss, Hjalparfoss and Gjain

 Hjalparfoss

Just off the main road, Hjalparfoss is the easiest site on this list to reach. The twin waterfalls here might not be as massive or impressive as some others in the country, but the area is quite scenic, tucked in a valley with hills all around and close to the reconstructed Viking farm of Thjodveldisbaerinn.

The falls feed into a round pool with a little wooden dock near the water’s edge. I could almost imagine visiting here on summer weekends if I lived nearby for a swim and a picnic on the quiet shore.

Haifoss

Haifoss aptly means “high waterfall,” as it is the third tallest in Iceland. It used to the be the second before the discovery of a glacier waterfall a decade or so ago that bumped it down. Haifoss rings in at about 400 feet, and you can see the whole thing from top to bottom with a visit to the upper rim here. After making your way down a bumpy little road with a whole lot of power lines strung above it, you’ll leave your car in a designated parking lot and walk the rest of the way on rocky paths until you catch a glimpse of Haifoss and her neighboring waterfall, Granni (which literally translates to neighbor).

The two flow into a river valley and the craggy canyon walls are pretty cool to look at, too, displaying lots of colors and covered with patches of green moss. You can walk for quite a ways along the rim, looking down the valley to a scenic landscape of rolling hills for miles.

Gjain

Iceland has a lot of big ideas about trolls and fairies – things I generally find to be hogwash (unless I’m at Disney World). Gjain, though, had me singing “I do believe in fairies! I do! I do!” over and over again. This site sits in a valley and driving here along a barren, rocky plain gives no clues about what you’re about to encounter when you walk down the steps into this wonderland.

Gjain, Iceland, is a true natural playground, where countless waterfalls flow into pools and streams, some with little wobbly wooden bridges and others you have to rock hop across. There are all sorts of features to explore here, from lava caves and basalt columns to an abundance of flora I could never identify. We visited in fall, when even the ground produced a golden hue, but in summer the valley is covered in lush green.

Since there are so many nooks and crannies to check out here, plan to stay for a couple of hours. It was so quiet and peaceful when we went that we never ever wanted to leave.

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How to Get There

From Reykjavik, drive about 40 miles along the Ring Road to Route 30. You’ll know you’re getting close when you pass through Selfoss, which is a little less than 10 miles from your turn. In another 11 miles, turn again on Route 32 to the right, just past a turn for 31 to the left. Route 32 is the main road for all of the attractions above, so when you get done, you can either come back the same way or continue driving until you reach Route 26, which will take you all the way back down to the Ring Road a little further east near the town of Hella.

All of the roads above are paved, it’s only the ones off the beaten track leading to Gjain and Haifoss that you’ll want a 4WD vehicle for. Hjalparfoss is just off the highway and you should see a small sign for it nearly 20 miles from the start of Route 32. For the other two, look for a road labeled 327 for Gjain and 332 for Haifoss, both left-hand turns if you’re heading northeast. Either one will actually get you to both, as they connect. We choose to go to Haifoss first, so we hopped on 332 and then backtracked to 327 to Gjain. Leaving, we followed 327 back to the main road, which turned out to be the bumpiest part of the ride (I swear we went flying off a hill at one point), so you might want to just drive back to 332 to get on 32 if you were able to handle that part.

The good thing is, all of these sites show up on the map – just screenshot your route in case you lose service and you should be good to go. Like most paths along the Ring Road, you don’t have a whole lot of options for where to turn, so if you see a road, it’s likely the one you want.

Where to Stay

If you’re adding this excursion onto a longer road trip, you’ll probably want somewhere close to stay in Iceland so that you’ll have a least half a day for these sites. Before our visit here, we spent the night in the little riverfront town of Hella, where you’ll find a handful of businesses, including a gas station and restaurants. We stayed at Hotel Hella, which had classically designed rooms and an included breakfast with some yummy pastries. Selfoss also is close to this route and is a bigger hub with several options for accommodations. Since Reykjavik only is about 2 hours from the farthest point you’ll drive here, you could also do this as a day trip from the capital city.  

Use this packing list to figure out what to wear in Iceland. 

How to Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach in Iceland

“Iceberg ahead!” I might have said this one too many times as we zipped around the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on a Saturday morning in early October, but something about the cold air striking against my face and the faint odor drifting from my borrowed flotation suit made the *slightly misquoted and somewhat insensitive* “Titanic” reference seem extra amusing. Luckily, no one could really hear me, given the noise from the motor and the fact we were all donning warm, muffling head wear.

There really were icebergs ahead, though, appearing as works of art in their various shapes and sizes and shades. The bluer ones were older, our guide explained in his charming Icelandic accent. (He also shared some amusing stories about sheep herding in the countryside, since he’s a farmer slash glacier boat driver. Double threat!)

If you’re considering visiting Jokulsarlon on your Iceland vacation, read on for everything you need to know about this bucket-list experience and scroll to the end for an iceberg slideshow. 

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What is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

Formed by the retreat of Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet of the massive Vatnajökull ice field in southeastern Iceland, Jokulsarlon is a more than 800-foot deep lagoon that flows out to the Atlantic Ocean. Large chunks of ice are constantly breaking off from the glacier, and if you listen closely, you can often hear them cracking. You might even be lucky enough to see one pop up in the water or flip over! As they melt and get smaller, the icebergs will float out to sea with the tide, but some of them also get washed onto the black sand shore (aptly known as Diamond Beach). Which means you can literally play with, touch, take pictures, or sit on a piece of glacier that’s been hanging around for hundreds of years. Proximity to the ocean also means that sea critters sometimes make their way into the lagoon, like the adorable (but smelly) seal we saw floating on a chunk of ice. 

How do I get to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

Jokulsarlon is about 230 miles east of Reykjavik right off of Route 1, or about a 5-hour drive, though I recommend taking a couple of days to cruise that stretch of road if you want to take time for excursions and to fully appreciate it. If you rent a car as we did and want to stay nearby, there are a couple of guesthouses in Hof, or you may want to continue on to the town of Höfn for more dining and accommodation options. There also are plenty of guided tours available from Reykjavik, if you prefer to have someone else shuttle you around while you sit back and enjoy the incredible views! Driving this stretch along Route 1 is simple, though, and Jokulsarlon is visible from the road and impossible to miss. You'll know you're getting close when you start seeing glaciers in the distance!

(FIND JOKULSARLON TOURS HERE)

What is there to do at Jokulsarlon?

On the coastal side of the road is Diamond Beach, where you can walk around and check out the ice that has washed up on shore. The landscape is always changing, so you never know what kind of formations you'll encounter. Some are the size of ice cubes, and others might tower over your head! The best views of Jokulsarlon are from the inland side of Route 1, where you can walk along the lagoon or hop on two different types of boat tours to get up close and personal with the icebergs. Amphibian boats drive groups of about 20 straight from land into the water for a 40-minute ride around the icebergs. You’ll learn how they formed from an English-speaking guide and have an opportunity to taste a chunk of ice. The zippier Zodiac tours approach the glacier tongue, though as our guide explained, you don’t want to get TOO close and risk a freshly flipped iceberg sneaking up on you. Kids must be at 10 years old for these rides, and able to hold on when the boat is speeding along. We opted for the Zodiac excursion and appreciated how it blended a thrilling speed ride through icebergs (à la James Bond, which has filmed here) with plenty of photo stops. Since you sit on the sides of the watercraft, you'll have unobstructed, up-close views of the 'bergs. 

(CLICK HERE FOR AMPHIBIAN TOURS or HERE FOR ZODIAC TOURS)

How should I dress for the Jokulsarlon boat ride?

You’ll cruise along at a relaxed pace on the amphibian ride, so wear as many layers as you need to be comfortable outside for an hour or so. This depends on the weather any particular day, so check this packing guide for what to bring on your Iceland vacation. The Zodiac tour is colder since you’re going fast, but you’ll be outfitted with a full-body floatation suit that adds quite a bit of warmth. I still wore a puffer jacket, insulated pants, and a knit cap, but my gloves stayed off most of the time because I was snapping so many pictures (my hands were cold though, so definitely bring gloves). You'll don a life vest at all times on both tours.

When should I go to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

Boat tours on the lagoon typically start in May and run through September (Zodiac) or November (amphibian), though it depends on how the weather is faring. Zodiac excursions were still running in early October when we visited, but don't count on booking one past September. You can visit the lagoon any time of year, though. There are large parking lots on either side of Route 1, right next to the lagoon and Diamond Beach, so you can easily explore both sites. A small cafe and souvenir shop by the lagoon remains open year-round and serves a small menu of soups, sandwiches, and hot drinks. Though the boat tours are an amazing experience, if you’re visiting in winter it’s still worth the drive just to see and take photos of the amazing ice formations, especially since there are so many incredible stops along the South Coast on the way. Plus, in winter you can join one of the amazing ice cave tours near Vatnajokull that depart from here. Make sure to book Zodiac and ice cave tours ahead of time, as they can sell out. The amphibian tours run more frequently, so you might be able to snag one onsite.

(FIND ICE CAVE TOURS HERE)

7 Iceland Waterfalls That Will Give You Wanderlust

I could easily share 100 stunning Iceland waterfalls, maybe 1,000. It’s true, Iceland is a waterfall chaser’s dream. Driving the Ring Road — the main highway that loops the island — it seems you just have to glance inland every few seconds to see another towering cascade flowing toward a bucolic pasture or farm.

If your Iceland road trip takes you along the South Coast, make sure you add these seven stunning falls to the itinerary. Some are popular for good reason and easy to get to, others a bit off the beaten path, and a couple so quiet and secluded that you could twirl around with the fairies and not worry about another soul. The best part — they’re all so very different. Read on and try to pick your favorite Iceland waterfall from the bunch.

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Best Waterfalls on Iceland’s South Coast

Haifoss

Haifoss wins the toughest to reach by car award. It’s more than 40 miles off the Ring Road, about 2 hours from Reykjavik, and five miles down a super bumpy gravel road that you’ll want a 4x4 (and some insurance) for.

The effort is well worth it, though, as the landscape quickly changes from a rocky, barren-looking expanse full of power lines to a stunning river valley as you walk the few steps from the parking area to glimpse down into the gorge. You’ll hear Haifoss called the second-tallest waterfall on the island, but actually it was bumped down a peg to third when glacial retreat revealed Morsarfoss, now considered the highest, in 2007.

What’s neat about the 400-foot-tall Haifoss, or “High Falls,” and it’s companion Granni, or “Neighbor,” is that you can see the whole thing from top to bottom clearly as you walk along the rim.

If you’re going to take an inland detour off the Ring Road, this direction — Route 30 to 32 — offers a much quieter experience than the nearby Golden Circle and has a breathtaking oasis called Gjain, along with other smaller waterfalls (look for Hjalparfoss) that you’ll want to explore.

Ready to pack up for Iceland? Use this packing list and tips to plan what to wear in Iceland.

Seljalandsfoss

It’s not surprising that Seljalandsfoss attracts tons of visitors. Only about 75 miles from Reykjavik, and right off the main highway, the easy-to-access waterfall draws South Coast bus tours and day-trippers from the capital city. Don’t let the crowds deter you though, as Seljalandsfoss offers a different experience than many of the other falls in Iceland with a path that takes you behind the gushing water. Be warned: you’ll get pretty wet walking back there. Also be warned: falling rocks sometimes cause the path to close.

These South Coast tours on Guide to Iceland include a stop at Seljalandsfoss.

Gljufrabui

Also called Gljúfurárfoss, this somewhat hidden waterfall is just a few steps away from its popular neighbor Seljalandsfoss — look for a path to the left. For some reason these few steps, and perhaps the fact that you can’t really see if from the main attraction, keep the masses away. We only encountered half a dozen people at any given time.

A cliff conceals most of Gljúfrabúi, with only the top peeking out, so you’ll have to wade or carefully hop rocks through a shallow stream and crevice to see the whole thing. The enchanting, misty aura inside makes the effort worth it, though. Climb the boulder and face the falls to feel surrounded by the haze — your face will get completely soaked in the most invigorating way.

Skogafoss

Visible from the Ring Road, Skogafoss is another popular tourist spot. It’s definitely worth a stop though, as you can easily walk right up to the thundering water, and the mist spraying from it produces dreamy rainbows.

If you have enough time and energy, head up the steps to the top of the falls. We counted 430 of them, but it’s easy to lose track when your thighs are throbbing. If you’re not into climbing, I’d save the effort for a different waterfall. It’s peaceful to sit at the top and watch the water flowing, but you’re basically just staring at a river from the top, and it would feel nice to sit anywhere after taking on that many stairs!

The best view is from the bottom, in my opinion. Plus, it’s said that a Viking hid his treasure down there under the falls so … it might be your lucky day. We felt so lucky to get sunshine and a double rainbow that we forgot to search for the pot of gold at the end!

These bus tours from Reykjavik on Guide to Iceland are an easy way to visit Skogafoss and other waterfalls nearby.

Fjadrargljufur

The main attraction at Fjadrargljufur is a more than 300-foot-deep canyon that spans 1.25 miles. A well-maintained walking path runs along the top and leads to a couple of lookouts where you can stare down into the winding gorge. You can also sometimes walk along the bottom of the canyon, but it requires a bit of wading to get to the end and it seemed to be roped off when we visited in October, so it might just be a summer option.

The upper path offers stunning views of the patchy green cliff walls and almost fluorescent blue water that pools up under a waterfall cutting through the rock cliffs.

Because this attraction is a couple of miles off Route 1 and down a gravel road, it doesn’t get very crowded, and you should be able to drive there in a regular car with ease. Look for the sign for the Hunkubakkar guest house to know where to turn off the Ring Road, as the signage leading up to it is a bit lacking.

This hotel guide includes unique places to stay in Iceland near Fjadrargljufur and other waterfalls.

Systrafoss

If you’re looking for a waterfall where you might not run into another soul, this on is a winner! Located in a little village with almost as many people as letters in its name — Kirkjubæjarklaustur — the falls are named for the sisters (systra in Icelandic) of the Benedictine convent that existed here hundreds of years ago. In particular, for a pair of them, that legend says drowned in the lake at the top.

Overflow from Systravatn lake feeds the falls, so they do sometimes run dry. When it’s gushing, though, it’s worth a climb to the top, which involves some 300 steps made of roots and roots.

At the top, you can cross a cute little wooden bridge over the stream and get up really close to the crest. The views up here are incredible — countryside below, the ocean out in the distance and glacier land to the east.

Svartifoss

This one is a bit popular, due to its location in Skaftafell National Park, but didn't feel crowded since the hike to the waterfall keeps everyone spaced out. Glacier walks and ice cave tours along the Vatnajokull ice field take off from here, so the parking lot stays busy.

An uphill trail from the visitor center runs for about a mile or so to Svartifoss, whose name, translated “Black Falls,” refers to the dark, basalt columns that hug the drop and gather around the base in small, jagged pieces. A guard rail keeps visitors a few yards back from the base.

There are other lengthier paths throughout the park if you want to spend the day hiking. Though Svartifoss is in the Eastern Region, any South Coast itinerary should lead you all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach, and you’ll pass this on the way.

These Iceland tours travel all the way to Skaftafell National Park to visit Svartifoss.