Clothing

Scotland’s weather is known for its unpredictability, with days that can start cold, turn beautifully hot, and then shift to cold winds and heavy storms. Therefore, it’s crucial to have the right clothing to stay safe and warm. We recommend the following clothing items:

Merino baselayer: This provides excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties to keep you comfortable.

Insulating layer: Opt for a warm insulating layer, but be cautious about down jackets, as they lose insulation when wet.

Wind and waterproof hardshell: A sturdy, waterproof hardshell jacket is essential, preferably one made with Gore-Tex Pro for top-notch protection.

Hiking trousers and waterproof trousers: Pack both hiking trousers and waterproof trousers, as the weather can quickly turn cold when it starts raining.

Shoes: Choosing the right footwear is critical for your comfort on the trail. We completed the hike wearing Altra Lone Peaks, which worked well for us due to their ideal fit and quick drying capabilities. There are numerous river crossings on this trail, and we appreciated not having to constantly remove our shoes. 

Sleeping Kit

For your sleeping gear, we recommend the following:

Four-season tent: Given the variety of weather conditions you might encounter, a four-season tent is a wise choice. We experienced a storm at a campsite on the Laugavegar trail, and some nearby tents suffered damage, such as broken poles or collapsing in the wind.

Warm sleeping bag:  Bring a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, as you may encounter nights where the temperature drops below freezing. A comfort rating of at least -5 degrees Celsius is advisable.

Insulated sleeping mat: Even with a warm sleeping bag and well-insulated mattresses, we still had some cold nights. Consider a sleeping mat with excellent insulation to enhance your comfort and warmth.

With the right clothing, footwear, and sleeping gear, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the diverse and challenging conditions that Iceland’s wilderness has to offer during your hike.

 

Our full gear list can be found here