Travel Light!

It is crucial to travel as light as possible! Excess baggage can be a burden both for you and the support personnel. Book your international flights in time because flights to Greenland tend to be sold out early.

Luggage Allowances

  • International Flights to Iceland: Most airlines allow one piece of luggage, max 44 lbs (20 kg)—check your airline for specific policies.

  • Flights to Greenland: Max check-in luggage 44 lbs (20 kg).

  • Excess baggage fees are the traveler’s responsibility, and airlines may refuse overweight luggage.

  • Pro Tip: Wear heavier expedition clothes (hiking boots, Gore-Tex jacket, etc.) on the flight to conserve weight limits.

Luggage Checklist

✔ Duffel Bag (medium-sized, water-resistant, approx. 14”x30” or 15”x36”)

✔ Daypack (1500-2000 cubic inches, doubles as a carry-on, max weight 11 lbs / 5 kg)

✔ Small Dry Bag (for camera, wallet, small valuables)

✔ Plastic Bags (8 large trash bags & 10 various-sized zip-lock bags for organization)

Clothing

  • Layering system (synthetic, quick-drying materials)

  • Base layers: Lightweight & medium-weight long underwear

  • Outerwear: Gore-Tex rain jacket & pants, fleece or pile jacket

  • Headwear: Sun hat, wool cap, mosquito head net

  • Gloves: Optional paddling gloves, medium/light gloves

  • Footwear: Durable, water-resistant hiking boots (no hiking paths in Greenland!)

Sleeping

  • Sleeping bag: Rated to 0°C (32°F)

Essential Travel Accessories

✔ Water bottle (1.5-quart, leak-proof, heavy-duty plastic)

✔ Steel thermos (1 quart, for hot drinks during hikes)

✔ Toiletries & biodegradable soap

✔ Insect repellent (35% DEET recommended)

✔ Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses & SPF lip balm

✔ Fast-drying towel & washcloth

✔ Small first-aid kit, personal medications, pain relievers

✔ ACE bandage or knee/ankle brace if needed

✔ Swiss Army knife (not allowed in carry-on luggage!)

✔ Reading/writing material, favorite snacks (limited quantities)

Important Travel Information

  • Hotels in Iceland: Not included in the trip price, but we can assist with booking at Hotel Odinsve in Reykjavik.

  • Laundry: Available at Hotel Odinsve, but not onboard the expedition ship.

  • Electricity: Iceland & Greenland use 220V AC (bring adapters for your devices).

  • Time Zones: Greenland is 2 hours behind GMT; Iceland is at GMT.

  • Medical & Health Precautions:

    • Medical issues must be disclosed before departure.

    • Evacuation can be expensive; travel insurance covering search & rescue is required.

    • Consult your doctor about required medications or vaccinations.

Traveler Responsibilities

Participants must:

  1. Understand the conditions & itinerary before booking.

  2. Bring the required equipment & clothing.

  3. Maintain hygiene to prevent illness within the group.

  4. Follow social & cultural norms in visited areas.

  5. Complete the scheduled itinerary or leader-directed changes.

Insurance Requirements

  • All participants must have travel insurance covering search & rescue in remote areas.

  • Greenland rescue teams may charge for full evacuation costs (including helicopters).

Important Notices & Limitations of Liability

  • The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and unforeseen circumstances.

  • Leaders may remove a participant from the trip if their actions endanger the group.

  • No refunds will be issued for trip disruptions due to health, behavior, or missed flights.

  • VHF Expeditions assumes no liability for personal loss, injury, illness, or travel delays.

By booking this expedition, you agree to all stated terms and conditions.