Coat/ pack list Iceland school trip

[isitfridaay]

It's a long way yet but in Feb 2025 we are going on a school trip to Iceland

I'm specifically interested in recommendations for a long warm good value coat and boots

Also anything else that springs mind That would be good to take

We have yak track, hats, rechargeable hand warmers gloves, long johns snd thermal tops plenty of snacks and juice.

I live in Iceland and I don't recommend a massive coat.

It is much better to have a good insulating mid layer (e.g. a thick woollen jumper), possibly two mid layers, and a thin outer layer which is fully water- and windproof. You probably already own rain jackets that will do fine. And then don't forget your legs. A pair of thin water- and windproof trousers.

The outer layers do not have to be anything extremely expensive or fancy but they must fully keep out the wind. The actual temperature is rarely that low and it's not an extreme climate at all. You don't need to dress like you're going to the North Pole. But the wind chill is what will make you cold and unless you're very lucky in February it will be extremely windy at least some of the time.

Mittens are a lot better than gloves. Two pairs of woollen mittens is what I recommend. A merino wool tube scarf thing is usually very handy.

Snow boots will probably be a good choice. I wear Ecco snow boots in winter and they are brilliant.

Ah thanks @Puffinshop this is fab!

I did read today that it was between -2 and 4c in feb with a wind chill which is nowhere near as cold as I thought it would be. I fact the article said more or less what you said!

I have some sorrel snow boots and a decent waterproof.

Thanks

I'm sure @Puffinshop's answer is far more comprehensive than anything I can say but just to add that my son went on a school trip there this year at the same time of year as you're planning and a) had a whale of a time and b) said the same, that sensible base layers were all that was needed and I was making an awful fuss. He didn't even wear his waterproof/windproof trousers so they've come home unworn if you would like to purchase a nearly new pair - he did of course remove the tags so I couldn't return them 🙄. Send me a message if you would like me to send you the details of them.