Surviving Iceland Winter with Florida Clothes

As a Floridian, my idea of winter clothing is nothing like what is necessary for Reykjavik, Iceland. I could not even find wool clothes to buy in Florida so here is how I survived:

Boots: My $20 H&M boots were a last minute addition that became the only shoes I wore in the snow. These were more fashion than function, but still kept my feet dry. I recommend bringing boots with serious tread to walk on the ice. Carry the fashion shoes in a bag and change at the door if necessary.

Tights: Target had grey ribbed tights that were not thick but very warm. I brought two pair and wore these daily.

Silk ski underwear: Years ago I purchased two piece silk ski underwear that I have worn when traveling north in the winter for conferences. The silk is paper thin, yet warm and easy to wear under dress clothes.

Jeans: The jeans were my warmest pants which, with tights, worked well. Dark blue or black jeans are dressy enough to go anywhere.

Black dress pants: Mine are light weight, so tights and a coat made it possible. My black knit skirt never left the suitcase - too cold for skirt.

Fleece Pajamas: Before leaving, I found a fleece pajama set at Target. Warm pajamas are essential.

Water proof coat: My mid-calf length London Fog with zip out lining is my all purpose travel coat.
Having a waterproof coat or jacket is necessary since snow/sleet/rain can occur in the same day.
What I needed was a waterproof hood or hat. My knit hat was warm, but had to be dried each evening. Unless your winter coat has a hood, bring a light waterproof jacket to wear under the coat.

And a few other items. . .

Umbrella: Forget it.  Even in rain, the wind is practically tropical storm force so an umbrella is useless. I learned that Icelanders do not even bother with umbrellas.

Converter and electric cord adaptors: The plug for Southern Europe with adaptor worked well. The only casualty was my flat iron. I usually let it heat for five minutes, however after that time on Iceland current it was hot enough to fry a section of my hair.  Thankfully it was only a small section, so I did not attempt to use it again.

Bottled water: No need - - this is the rare place on the planet where water from the kitchen spout is as pure and delicious as anything purchased. Clean, safe water is an Iceland highlight.

Vitamin C & D: The lack of sunshine n the winter means minimal C&D. I was told that Icelanders are notably low in Vitamin D and take supplements. I brought a supply of chewable Vitamin C and extra Vitamin D tabs.

Waterproof computer case: To keep Baby Mac (my new MacBook Air) safe and dry, I kept it in a waterproof tote. Also be careful to keep iPhone from getting wet. Gale force rain and sleet are not kind to electronics (or to Floridians!).