As an avid traveler, I’m always on the lookout for the next family adventure. This time, my sights are set on Iceland, the land of fire and ice. Planning a trip for the first week of September feels like the perfect time. The summer crowds are starting to thin, and there's a chance we'll witness the magical Northern Lights. With Reykjavik as our home base, we are gearing up for an exciting journey.

Planning Our Icelandic Itinerary

I can't wait to immerse myself and my family in the vibrant city of Reykjavik. We plan to meander through the city's colorful houses, sample local delicacies, and capture our journey's first memories at the Sun Voyager sculpture. A trip to the National Museum of Iceland will satiate our curiosity about Iceland's history from its Viking origins to the present day.

From Reykjavik, we're also planning some exciting day trips:

  • Golden Circle: This iconic 300km loop includes Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall. All these sites are easily accessible and family-friendly.

  • South Coast: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the quaint coastal town of Vik are on our must-visit list.

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often dubbed 'Iceland in Miniature,' this peninsula offers a diverse range of sights, from the iconic Kirkjufell mountain to charming fishing villages.

  • The Blue Lagoon: A trip to this famous geothermal spa will undoubtedly be a highlight. While pre-booking is essential, the warm, mineral-rich waters promise a delightful experience.

  • Silfra Fissure: The only place on Earth you can snorkel or dive between tectonic plates.

Packing for Iceland in September

As the old Icelandic saying goes, there's no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. With September temperatures ranging from 4-10°C (39-50°F), packing right is essential.

  • Layers: I'm packing thermal underwear, fleece or down jackets, and waterproof/windproof shells for the family.

  • Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are a must. They'll keep our feet dry during our adventures, regardless of the weather.

  • Accessories: We won't forget our gloves, scarves, and hats. And swimsuits for the hot springs and thermal pools are a must!

  • Other essentials: Sunscreen, lip balm, reusable water bottles, and a first-aid kit are on my list.

  • Camera Gear: To capture the unforgettable moments we're sure to have!

Fitting It All In A Carry-On

While it's a challenge, I've learned a few tricks on packing efficiently for a family trip. We have learned to limit the “what if I might need…” so that we can fit everything we need in a carryon suitcase.

  • Rolling Clothes: This trick not only saves space but also helps to prevent wrinkles.

  • Packing by Outfit: I'm considering our activities and packing outfits for each day, focusing on layerable items in forgiving fabrics that we can wash easily or rewear.

  • Limiting Shoes: Shoes take up a lot of space, so I'm limiting us to two pairs – hiking boots and casual shoes.

  • Utilizing Every Space: I'll be filling our shoes with socks, underwear or small items to maximize space.

  • Investing in Packing Cubes: These have been a lifesaver to keep our clothing organized and compress them to fit more. It also keeps the kiddos from throwing everything out of their bag on the first night.

The planning phase is always exhilarating for me, and as our Icelandic adventure begins to take shape, the anticipation is building. It's exciting to envision our family creating lifelong memories amidst the stunning landscapes of Iceland this September. We can’t wait!