Packing for a Windstar cruise in Iceland comes down to one essential strategy: layering. Temperatures typically hover around 50°F, and the weather can shift from sunshine to rain and wind within minutes, so you'll want thermal base layers, a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell as your foundation. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are critical since shore excursions often involve muddy meadows, steep trails, and rugged terrain, and touchscreen gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf will make a big difference during outdoor time. Since Windstar is smart-casual rather than formal, you only need one or two nicer outfits for evenings onboard, and because the ship offers a laundry package, you can pack lighter and rely on rewearing your versatile layers throughout the week. Don't forget swimwear for Iceland's famous thermal pools, and if you're prone to seasickness, come prepared — as a small ship, you'll definitely feel the ocean on Windstar.

Clothing — The Key is Layering

Iceland's weather is unpredictable, so the layering system is your best friend.

Base Layer

2–3 thermal/moisture-wicking long-sleeve tops
2–3 thermal leggings
Camisoles or undershirts

Mid Layer

1–2 fleece pullovers or sweaters
1 light cardigan
1 insulated/down packable jacket

Outer Layer

1 waterproof, windproof rain jacket (hood essential)
Rain pants are worth considering — popular waterfalls can sit behind soggy meadows with mud rising around your shoes with every step. Rick Steves Travel Forum

Everyday Wear

2–3 pairs of versatile pants (e.g., athletic/travel pants)
1–2 casual tops for warmer moments onboard
1–2 smart/dressy outfits for evenings (Windstar is smart-casual, not formal)

Swimwear

1–2 swimsuits — thermal pools are a highlight in Iceland, and you'll want to be prepared.

Footwear

Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must, as excursions often involve icy paths or rugged terrain.

Waterproof hiking boots with good traction
Comfortable walking/training shoes
Flip-flops or sandals for onboard use/pool
Smart shoes or flats for evenings

Accessories

Warm wool or fleece hat
Touchscreen-compatible gloves
Scarf or pashmina (doubles as a head covering)
At least one hiking pole is recommended for more energetic Windstar shore excursions with steep and muddy segments. Rick Steves Travel Forum

Health & Wellness

Motion sickness remedies — Windstar is a small ship, and you will feel the ocean. A scopolamine patch prescription is worth considering if you're prone to seasickness.
Seasickness bands
Sunscreen (sun can be strong even when cold)
Lip balm with SPF
Hand lotion (wind is very drying)
Any personal medications

Gear & Accessories

Waterproof day bag or backpack for excursions
Reusable water bottle
Camera + extra memory cards
Binoculars (great for wildlife — puffins, whales, seabirds)
Portable charger/power bank
Universal power adapter (Iceland uses European Type F plugs)
Sunglasses

Practical Tips

Windstar ships have no self-serve laundry, but offer a laundry package (around $100 for the week with 24-hour turnaround), so you can pack lighter and rewear layers. Rick Steves Travel Forum
Pack your swimsuit in an easily accessible spot for spontaneous thermal pool stops.
If you're visiting the Blue Lagoon before or after the cruise (near Keflavik Airport), keep swimwear and toiletries accessible.

This list should set you up well for everything from rugged shore excursions to cozy evenings onboard. Have a wonderful trip! 🧡

You’ve booked your cruise and now it’s time to start thinking about what to pack. A little advance planning can go a long way to ensure a carefree voyage.

To help guide your packing, here is our Destination Specialists’ list of what to pack for your cruise. Note that it’s helpful to have booked your excursions beforehand so you have an idea of what you’ll be doing ashore.

Women’s Packing List

As you may know, Oceania Cruises has an elegant casual dress code. This simply means you should pack:

• Cocktail dresses or skirts and blouses for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Blouses and nice shorts for evenings at Terrace Café • Sundresses – great for transitioning from day to evening with a wrap or cardigan • Casual shirts and tank tops to pair with shorts, capris or comfortable pants for excursions • A light cardigan, pashmina or wrap, especially for dining and ashore • Small clutch or crossbody bag

Men’s Packing List

Packing for men is even easier. Essentials include:

• Dress pants, collared shirts and a sports jacket or blazer for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Khakis or nice shorts with cotton shirts for Terrace Café • Casual shorts or pants and lightweight tops for excursions – quick-drying shirts are great for the tropics

Packing List for Everyone

• A bathing suit and quick-drying cover-up (bring more than one if you plan on swimming a lot) • Sleepwear • Undergarments and socks • Variety of shoes: dress shoes, comfortable walking shoes, sneakers and sandals • Reef sandals or water shoes for the Caribbean and South Pacific • Light jacket or fleece • A waterproof jacket for Alaska and regions with changeable climates • Sun hat or visor • Sunglasses • Sunscreen • Workout attire • Daypack or comfortable tote for excursions ashore • Dry pack if planning on boating excursions or water activities • Mosquito repellent for tropical destinations

Packing Essentials
These items may seem difficult to forget, but here are a few essential things that travelers sometimes leave behind.

• Passport • Driver’s License • Cash • Visas, if necessary • Credit cards – be sure to notify them of your travels • Cash – small bills are helpful • Copies of emergency numbers • Copies of important documents such as the front page of your passport, airline tickets and hotel confirmations • Medications • Toiletries • Necessary technology, like your phone and tablet • Charging cables for all devices • Portable phone charger • Camera, extra SD card and batteries

Travel with taste,

Rhonda

Layer Up, Sail On: Everything You Need to Pack for a Windstar Cruise in Iceland