Laugavegur Packing List
What to pack for the Laugavegur — hut kit, river-crossing gear, waterproof layers and food for Iceland's 55 km highland trek.
Hiked by Lee
Self-guided
Last verified
FI no-electricity packing
Laugavegur — essentials because huts have no power
Defensible asset — first-hand data, not a generic best-of list
Hike north → south only (Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk). FI confirms no electricity and no device charging in Laugavegur huts — pack accordingly.
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag | FI huts provide no bedding |
| Power bank (10,000 mAh+) | No hut electricity or device charging (fi.is FAQ) |
| Headlamp | Dark dormitories; no plug-in lighting |
| 4 days of food | Self-cater in hut kitchens — no shop on trail |
| Waterproof layers | Highland sun, wind, rain and snow same day |
| Cash (ISK) | Showers ~1,000 ISK; backup if card fails |
| Sleeping bag liner | Hut hygiene; lightweight warmth |
FI hut FAQ (official) · Full packing list · Huts & booking guide
The Laugavegur crosses volcanic deserts, glacial rivers and moss valleys — often in sun, wind, rain and snow on the same day. FI huts provide a roof and kitchen, but no bedding, no electricity and no device charging — you carry your sleeping bag, power bank, food and layers for 4 days and 55 km.
FI books hut packages north → south (Landmannalaugar → Þórsmörk). If you camp at hut sites, prepay campsites in the same FI portal — see the FI hut FAQ.
Also read: Complete Guide · Huts & accommodation · Cost guide · Trek overview
Build your list: Packing List Builder
Packing rules for Laugavegur
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| FI direction | Hut packages book north → south only — FI FAQ |
| No hut electricity | No charging in any Laugavegur hut — bring fully charged power bank(s) |
| Prepaid camping | Campsites at huts should be booked and prepaid — not assumed walk-up |
| Sleeping bag required | Huts provide bunks only — no bedding |
| Waterproof everything | Iceland weather shifts in minutes |
| River-crossing shoes | Glacial rivers have no bridges |
| Trekking poles | Balance in rivers and on volcanic sand |
| Carry all food | Hut shops are limited and expensive |
| Earplugs | Shared dorms, world-class snorers |
| Cash (ISK) | Showers, hut snacks; cards can fail when highland internet drops |
Backpack
40–60 L fits hut hiking with food for 4 days. Rain cover and dry bags are non-negotiable.
Footwear & river crossings
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Waterproof hiking boots | Broken in, ankle support |
| Sandals / neoprene shoes | For glacial river wading — Lee crossed three times for video |
| Gaiters (optional) | Snow patches and wet sand |
Clothing & waterproofs
- Merino base layers — no cotton
- Fleece or light down mid-layer
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Gloves and beanie — even in July
- Quick-dry hiking pants and shirts
- Extra warm socks
Sleep kit
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag | Rated for near-freezing hut nights |
| Sleeping bag liner | Hygiene in shared bunks |
| Earplugs | Best investment on the trail |
| Headlamp | Required — no hut electricity for lights |
Trekking poles & navigation
Essential for river crossings and steep volcanic descents. Trail is marked but weather can hide signs — see navigation guide.
Food & water
- Freeze-dried meals + snacks for 4 days
- Stove and fuel if self-catering in hut kitchens
- Reusable bottle (1–2 L)
- Comfort treats — chocolate, crisps, whiskey (Lee's trail morale)
Hut kitchens have stoves and cookware — you bring food.
Camping option
Only if you prepaid FI campsites at hut locations (booking portal):
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| 4-season tent | Wind and rain at highland camps |
| Sleeping pad | Required for camping comfort |
| Stove + fuel | Hut kitchens are for dorm guests; campers cook outside |
No wild camping on Laugavegur. Don't arrive without a confirmed hut or campsite booking.
Electronics & extras
- Power bank — required; FI confirms no electricity in Laugavegur huts (FAQ)
- Cash (ISK) — showers ~1,000 ISK, hut extras; backup if card payments fail
- First-aid kit with blister plasters
- Emergency bivy / blanket
What to leave home
- Cotton clothing
- Heavy books (learned on trail)
- Expectation of dry feet all week
Related planning
- Itinerary — 4-day stages
- Huts guide — FI booking system
- Food guide — what to cook
- Difficulty — river crossings and weather
Next guide
Getting to Laugavegur: Buses, F-Roads & Trailheads
How to reach Laugavegur — Reykjavík highland buses to Landmannalaugar, 4×4 F-roads, Þórsmörk exit and hiker bus passes.
Next step
Build your packing list
Use the interactive planner — same trek data as this guide cluster.
