Iceland's Sky Lagoon Is a Wellness Haven — Here's What to Pack For It

Carmex Classic Lip Balm Medicated Tube ($4)

When going through Sky Lagoon's seven-step ritual, you aren't permitted to carry anything beyond your phone or camera into the geothermal pools, which can make for a long experience for lip balm junkies (like myself). I recommend dousing your lips in a medicated and nourishing lip balm beforehand, and this option from Carmex is my personal favorite. You'll be glad to have your lips feeling moisturized before going into the sauna or steam room, and you'll be able to easily pull it out of your storage locker — provided with ticket entry — once your treatment concludes.

Kitsch Open Shape Claw Clip ($7, originally $9)

Among the many differences between Iceland's Sky Lagoon vs. Blue Lagoon is that Blue Lagoon has famously strict hair-care policies while Sky Lagoon visitors are encouraged to get their hair wet. Throughout your treatment, you'll see some people immersing themselves under water or basking below the waterfalls in the geothermal pools, while others (including myself, as I had a dinner reservation immediately afterwards) simply style their hair up in a claw clip or ponytail to prevent it from getting wet. This durable accessory from Kitsch was my hair accessory of choice, and it helped pull back even my most unruly pieces.

Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream ($9)

After Sky Lagoon's seven-step ritual, your skin will be glowing — but that doesn't mean it's totally immune to dryness (especially during the fall and winter months). I recommend keeping this nourishing cream handy at all times, as it's designed for all skin types, perfect for use on the whole body (even your face), and will remedy any cracked or flaky skin patches as they pop up during your trip. Plus, it's editor-approved; read our review of Weleda's Skin Food Ultra-Rich Cream to learn more.

Editor Quote: "A little goes a long way with this formula (although there is a light version if you prefer). A small, pea-size amount on the fingers is enough for a full face's worth of moisture. However, it can be used on any part of the body that's exceptionally dry, including rough areas like the elbows and feet. If you choose to use this moisturizer as a highlighter, a tiny dot (smaller than a pea) on the fingers will be plenty to rub into areas of your skin that you'd like to shine." — Haley Lyndes, former assistant editor, Shopping

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch ($10, originally $20)

If you want to fully lean into this Icelandic wellness treatment, I recommend leaving your phone behind in a locker. But if you (like me) can't resist documenting the experience, this waterproof phone pouch will be your most important buy prior to landing on the island. It conceals your phone in an airtight pouch that's designed to mitigate water damage, while still giving you the ability to use your device through the material. I kept my iPhone tucked in this pouch throughout my whole treatment, and still had no trouble taking photos or videos. It also features a wrist strap, which is especially helpful if you choose to get a drink while in the geothermal pools (I recommend the juice) and find your hands full.

Stojo Collapsible Water Bottle ($20)

Sky Lagoon has an in-water Gelmir Bar built into the area of its geothermal pools where visitors can indulge in some wine, water, or refreshing juice and pay via their wristband (no loose cash needed). But after the treatment, you might experience a little dehydration, which is why having this water bottle tucked into your travel bag will be so essential. It has a cool collapsible design, so when you're finished drinking from it, you can squeeze the bottle down and maximize your packing space. Plus, Iceland has some of the cleanest tap water on Earth, so you can fill this bottle in a standard sink and skip having to pay for a new one throughout your trip.

Beyond this collapsible water bottle, I have also tried and reviewed Stojo's collapsible coffee mug.

Uniqlo Heattech Ultra Warm Leggings ($30)

As for your Sky Lagoon outfit, comfort is the way to go. You'll obviously wear your swimsuit for the entirety of your treatment, but when you're traveling to and from the property, it's important to prioritize warmth, coziness, and something that you can easily change in and out of. These thermal leggings are a staple in my wardrobe come winter; I love that they're lightweight (so they didn't feel too bulky over my swimsuit), but still insulated enough to keep me warm in chillier temperatures. For the full product details, check out my review of Uniqlo Heattech.

Editor Quote: "If you tend to run cold and rely on extra layers to stay comfortable, then Uniqlo Heattech gear is a worthwhile buy. There are a handful of different pieces to choose from, so you can find the best style for your wardrobe and comfort needs." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Shopping

Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush ($34)

Between the geothermal pools, steamy sauna, and cool misting room, your hair is likely to look a little frazzled after your Sky Lagoon treatment — even if you don't get it completely wet. I recommend packing a hair brush in your bag that you can use to comb through your mane after you complete the ritual. Even better: The property has on-site, private showers that visitors can use before and after their treatment, along with attached changing rooms that are equipped with mirrors and blow dryers, so you can clean yourself up before leaving. This proved to be especially helpful for me, as I departed Sky Lagoon and went straight to my dinner reservations in downtown Reykjavík.

Andrea Iyamah Tiaca One Piece Swimsuit ($60, originally $185)

Of course, the most important thing to bring to Sky Lagoon is a bathing suit. You'll be popping in and out of cold pools and saunas, so I recommend something that's comfortable and easy to move around in, like this convertible swimsuit from Andrea Iyamah. And for even better photos, opt for something bright and vibrant like a sunny yellow shade — it contrasts beautifully against the lagoon's blue-gray and charcoal color palette.

Koolaburra by UGG Koola Ultra Mini Platform Boot ($95)

Shoes are not permitted in Sky Lagoon's locker room or shower areas, so you can anticipate spending most of your treatment barefoot. I recommend opting for an easy slip-on shoe like this cozy UGG boot that you can quickly take on and off as needed, especially when you're exiting the spa area where the traffic is typically heaviest.

Orolay Thickened Long Down Jacket ($150)

I call this: the perfect Iceland jacket. It's warm, protective, stylish, and perfect for virtually every activity on the island — whether you're chasing the Northern Lights or settling in for an afternoon treatment at Sky Lagoon. To see what makes this the ultimate all-weather jacket, read my review of the Orolay Thickened Long Down Jacket.

Editor Quote: "If you're looking for a practical, stylish, and long-lasting jacket that you can trust will be a wardrobe staple for years to come, you can't go wrong with this Orolay jacket. It's designed with all types of travelers and environments in mind, with a fit that's flattering for all body types. I love that it combines the benefits of a windbreaker, rain coat, and winter jacket all into one multifunctional style, while still boasting a relatively accessible price tag." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Shopping

MZ Wallace Metro Quilted Nylon Crossbody Bag ($155)

While you can't carry any bags with you throughout your treatment, you'll still want something that can hold all of your essentials (like your wallet or hair brush) and easily fit into the property's storage lockers. I love this sporty option from MZ Wallace because of its quilted design and spacious interior. I frequently use MZ Wallace travel bags when I vacation, and personally reviewed the MZ Wallace Metro Tote.

Kyley Warren (she/her) is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.