What to Actually Pack for a Glacier Tour

Crampons and a helmet are provided on every tour, so you don't need to buy specialist glacier gear. What you bring is mostly about staying warm and dry for a few hours outdoors.

Layers beat one thick coat — a base layer, a mid layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell will handle Iceland's weather better than a single heavy jacket. The same logic applies to your legs: waterproof trousers over a warm layer.

Footwear matters more than people expect. Crampons attach to your own boots, so you need something sturdy with ankle support — trainers won't hold a crampon properly and your feet will be cold and wet within the hour. Waterproof hiking boots are the minimum.

Bring gloves you don't mind touching ice with, and a hat that covers your ears. If you're bringing a camera, a spare battery is worth it — cold drains batteries fast.