Fimmvörðuháls Packing List
What to pack for Fimmvörðuháls — waterproof layers, hut sleep kit, trekking poles and daypack gear for Iceland's Skógar–Þórsmörk pass.
Hiked by Lee
Self-guided
Last verified
Fimmvörðuháls packs waterfalls, lava fields, glaciers and four seasons into 1–2 days. Lee hiked it after Laugavegur with a 30–40 L pack, hut night at Baldvinsskáli, and gear for wind, rain and snow on the same traverse.
Also read: Complete Guide · Cost guide · Trek overview
Build your list: Packing List Builder
Packing rules for Fimmvörðuháls
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Waterproof everything | Rain, wind and fog are normal on the pass |
| Trekking poles | Steep ash slopes and slippery descents |
| 3-season sleeping bag | Huts provide mattresses only |
| 2–3 L water capacity | Long exposed sections between refills |
| Pack light if one-day | 20–25 L for fast hikers; 30–40 L for 2-day hut |
Backpack
30–40 L for a 2-day hut hike · 20–25 L if pushing one long day from Skógar or Þórsmörk.
Footwear
Waterproof boots with ankle support — wet rock, ash and snow patches. Extra wool socks.
Clothing layers
| Layer | Notes |
|---|---|
| Base | Thermal top + bottoms |
| Mid | Fleece or light down |
| Shell | Waterproof jacket and pants |
| Extremities | Gloves, hat, buff — even in July |
Lee's day: sunshine at Skógafoss, snow on the pass, sideways rain on descent.
Hut overnight kit
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag | 3-season; huts = mattress only |
| Earplugs | Shared dorm at Baldvinsskáli / Fimmvörðuháls Hut |
| Headlamp | Early starts, dim hut evenings |
| Light cook kit | Stove + mug if self-catering |
| Cash/card | Hut snacks and bunk fee |
Trekking poles & navigation
Trail is marked but fog hides markers. Offline GPS backup:
See navigation guide.
On-trail essentials
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hydration | 2–3 L; refill streams where safe |
| High-calorie snacks | Nuts, chocolate, dried fruit — relentless climb |
| First aid + blister kit | Long descent on tired feet |
| Power bank | Cold drains phone batteries |
| Water filter | Backup for stream water |
What to leave at home
- Cotton layers
- Heavy camping kit if staying in huts
- Unbroken-in boots
- Assuming summer = warm (pass can feel arctic)
Related planning
- Difficulty — exposure and elevation
- Itinerary — one-day vs two-day load
- Accommodation — hut sleep setup
- Food guide — what to carry
Next guide
Getting to Fimmvörðuháls: Buses, Skógar & Þórsmörk
How to reach Fimmvörðuháls — Reykjavík highland buses to Skógar and Þórsmörk, shuttle connections and point-to-point logistics.
Next step
Build your packing list
Use the interactive planner — same trek data as this guide cluster.
