Iceland — travel photo

🇮🇸 Iceland · Winter (Nov–Mar)

What to wear in Iceland in December

By PackTheLook · Updated 28 October 2026

Highs3°C (37°F)
Lows-2°C (28°F)
Rain/snow days~15
Daylight3.5 h
CrowdsModerate

December averages for Reykjavík. Source

December has the shortest days (about 4 hours of light), Christmas lights in Reykjavik and huge New Year's Eve fireworks. Insulated parka, thermals, waterproof boots and a hat for the fireworks.

☀️ By day

A full winter kit, with only four to five hours of daylight.

🌙 Evening

A festive wool sweater and warm coat for New Year's Eve bonfires.

What's on in December

Typical dates. Many festivals follow lunar calendars, so check this year's dates before you book.

The 13 Yule Lads

December 12–24

Each night a mischievous Yule Lad comes to town, and the shops fill with festive lopapeysa. Reykjavík's Christmas markets are cosy, so wear warm layers.

December packing essentials

Your December outfit list

Also pack

Showing more covered picks for travellers from India.

Dress code

  • Layering is everything: thermal base, fleece or wool mid-layer, waterproof and windproof shell.
  • Waterproof hiking boots with grip — paths are wet, icy or volcanic rock most of the year.
  • Swimsuit required for lagoons and pools, and you must shower naked before entering (public pools enforce this).

Full dress code, activities and common mistakes →

Good weather elsewhere in December

All destinations →