Spring Break Packing List

To download a printable version of this packing list, click here.

The average temperature in Reykjavik in February and March ranges from 15-35 degrees, with rain 50% of the days, but it can be colder or warmer than that at times. We will be doing most of our work indoors, though we will be walking outside extensively on one day and touring the countryside on another. Layers are crucial, and you will need a thick waterproof winter jacket (or a thick winter jacket that you can put a raincoat or poncho over). We recommend checking the weather forecast prior to the trip but keep in mind it can change on a dime.

We will be in Iceland for eight full days with two travel days on either side.

We will attend church on both Sundays in Iceland/You will have the option to attend church on both Sundays. Dress is a step up from everyday clothes and should be respectful but does not need to be formal dress attire. Ensure you have at least one outfit you feel comfortable wearing for a church service.

Do not plan on doing laundry while in Iceland. You will be able to shower. To help save space on packing, plan to wear a travel outfit that consists of items on this list.   

FEET:

  • 1-2 pair everyday shoes (tennis shoes, sneakers, sport casual, athletic shoes, etc.)

  • 8-9 pairs everyday socks

  • 2-3 pairs warm socks (wool is recommended)

  • 1 pair winter (water proof/resistant) shoes good for walking outside in cold weather/slush (i.e. Duck boots or similar)

  • Optional: Ice grippers to put on your shoes

LOWER BODY:

  • 9-10 pairs underwear

  • 1 pair warm, wool or synthetic fleece pants (no cotton or jeans)

  • 2-3 pair every day pants (jeans or otherwise)

UPPER BODY:

  • 4–6 everyday shirts

  • 1-2 sweatshirts

  • 1 warm jacket/coat (not cotton; preferably with a hood and water resistant; packable without much bulk)

  • 1 lightweight jacket/coat (optional, but if you get cold easily it is nice to have as a layer)

  • 4-5 bras

  • 1 raincoat or rain suit (nylon or GORE-TEX)  

HANDS AND HEAD:

  • 1 cap that covers the ears

  • 1 pair light gloves or mittens

  • 1 scarf (optional)

BED, BATH AND BODY:

  • Bath towel and a small hand towel /washcloth

  • One sleeping bag (needs to be compact! Remember you’re just bringing a carry-on This $27 sleeping bag on Amazon works great for the purposes of this trip.)

  • Set of pajamas/sleepwear

  • Pillow with pillowcase

  • Small toiletry kit (trial sizes): toothbrush/paste, floss, lotion, chapstick, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, body wash, hand sanitizer, feminine supplies

  • Extra glasses; contact lens supplies (if applicable)

  • Prescription medicine (with the script or pharmacy labeled container)

  • Over-the-counter medicine (Compass has a few on hand but bring any you take regularly)

  • Shower shoes (i.e. flip flops)

MISCELLANEOUS:

  • 1 reusable water bottle

  • Camera/Cell phones (If you plan to use your electronic devices enough to require recharging, you’ll need an adaptor such as these. Compass has some, but they are reserved for program essential devices, so it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to use them.)

  • Spending money (optional, suggested amount: $60­-90, a debit/credit card is easiest— currency exchange is costly and hard to access, but you would need to alert your bank of your travel plans before leaving)

  • Personal item-sized backpack (optional, but recommended)

  • Bible (small and durable)

  • Passport

  • Pens/pencils

  • Your Compass journal notebook

  • Melatonin or similar over-the-counter sleeping aid if you’re worried about the jetlag (Most Compass students beat the jetlag in the first day, especially during the winter when perpetual sunlight isn’t an issue.)

  • Ear plugs these work great to block out most sound, including snoring (remember you will be sleeping in a room with others)

  • Eye mask to block light

ADDITIONAL PACKING NOTES

Each person is allotted one personal item (22 lbs, 42x32x25cm) they can take on the plane with them and one checked bag (44 lbs) that will go under the plane.

Packing for Iceland shouldn’t be much different than preparing to visit another region of the United States. Generally speaking, Icelandic culture is somewhat reflective of American culture and you can plan your clothing and packing accordingly.

Layers, Layers, Layers

It’s called Iceland for a reason. You’ll want to dress in layers. Raincoats are an absolute must. Comfortable jeans and hiking pants will work very well. We will be mostly indoors, but there will be several occasions where we will be outside walking.

Church Worship Services in Iceland

You will have the option to attend church worship services while in Iceland, so bring a nice outfit, something you would wear to church here in the States. Church is fairly casual in Iceland but we want to look respectful.

Travel-Size Containers

If you plan to take liquids, gels, and aerosols to Iceland in your carry-on bag, keep in mind that airlines limit the size of liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags. Containers must be 3 ounces or less, and it is best to carry them in a separate plastic bag.