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 and/or domestic flights in time.

Gear list

For a 5-day sailing and hiking trip in Hornstrandir, Iceland, you’ll need to pack efficiently for changing weather conditions, rugged terrain, and limited access to supplies.

Essential Gear & Clothing

✔ Backpack: ~30-40L for carrying daily essentials on hikes.

✔ Dry bags: Waterproof bags (small & medium) for valuables and extra clothes.

✔ Sleeping bag: Rated to at least 0°C (32°F).

✔ Trekking poles: Optional but helpful for stability on uneven terrain.

✔ Headlamp (Optional)

Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking)

✔ 2 pairs of merino wool or synthetic long underwear (top & bottom).

✔ 3-4 pairs of quick-dry hiking socks (wool blend preferred).

✔ Sports bra/underwear (quick-dry, synthetic or merino wool).

Mid Layers (Insulation)

✔ Fleece or down jacket (essential for warmth).

✔ Lightweight insulated vest (optional but useful).

Outer Layers (Weather Protection)

✔ Gore-Tex or similar waterproof rain jacket with hood.

✔ Waterproof rain pants (essential for hiking in wet conditions).

✔ Softshell hiking pants (quick-drying, breathable).

Footwear

✔ Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in).

✔ Light shoes or lightweight sandals (for onboard the boat).

Headwear & Gloves

✔ Warm beanie or wool hat (for cold evenings).

✔ Buff or neck gaiter (for wind protection).

✔ Sun hat or cap (for sun protection).

✔ Light gloves (for hiking).

Personal Items

✔ Sunglasses (polarized for glare on water).

✔ Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 50+; the sun is strong in Arctic waters).

✔ Personal medications (plus painkillers, antihistamines, anti-diarrhea, and blister pads).

✔ First-aid kit (small, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.).

✔ Water bottle (1-1.5L) & lightweight thermos (hot drinks for hiking breaks).

✔ Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes (no showers in the wild!).

✔ Quick-dry towel & washcloth.

Additional snacks

(Aurora provides all meals)

✔ Energy bars, trail mix, or lightweight snacks.

✔ Electrolyte tablets or powder (for hydration).

Other Optional but Useful Items

✔ Binoculars (for spotting wildlife like Arctic foxes and seabirds).

✔ Camera (waterproof or with a dry bag).

✔ Small packable book (for relaxing on the boat).

Final Packing Tips

• Pack light but prepare for cold, wet, and windy conditions.

• Everything must be waterproofed (use dry bags & plastic liners inside your backpack).

• You do not have access to stores in Hornstrandir, so bring everything you need.

• Consider layering over bulk – lightweight, high-quality gear is better than heavy items.

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.