What to wear to the Blue Lagoon: swimsuit and packing tips

For the Blue Lagoon, the only thing you need to bring is swimwear. Every admission includes a towel, and the showers are stocked with Blue Lagoon Skin Science shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, free for you to use. The water won’t ruin your swimsuit or damage your hair, though leaving conditioner in before you enter helps keep hair soft. Pack a waterproof phone case, and leave jewelry in your locker. 

Less to pack than you think 

Packing for the Blue Lagoon is simpler than most people expect. Towels, shower products, and lockers are all taken care of, so the list comes down to swimwear and a few small extras. Here’s what to wear, what to bring, and what you can leave at home. 

What should you wear to the Blue Lagoon? 

You need swimwear. It’s required in the lagoon and in all the areas around it, including the sauna and steam cave. Swimsuits, bikinis, swim trunks, and burkinis all work. 

If you forgot yours, or would rather not travel home with a wet one, you can rent a swimsuit at reception or buy one in the shop. 

Will the Blue Lagoon ruin your swimsuit? 

No, the water itself won’t ruin your swimsuit. Give it a rinse in the shower after your visit, with a little soap if you like. As with any swimwear, very old or delicate fabrics may show wear sooner. If you’re unsure about yours, you can rent one when you arrive. 

What’s included, so you don’t need to pack it 

Every admission includes a towel, and some admissions also include a bathrobe. The showers are stocked with Blue Lagoon Skin Science shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, free for you to use before and after your time in the water. 

When you arrive, you get an electronic wristband. It locks your locker and works as payment in the lagoon, so there’s no need to bring a wallet or card into the water. 

How to protect your hair at the Blue Lagoon 

The Blue Lagoon doesn’t ruin your hair. Its minerals can dry hair out for a little while, though, and some hair types turn stiff or frizzy, much like after a day in the ocean. This passes, usually within a few washes. 

A few simple steps help: 

Wet your hair in the shower, apply conditioner, and leave it in before entering the lagoon. 

Tie long hair in a bun to keep it out of the water. 

For extra protection, wear a swim cap. You can buy one in the shop. 

After your visit, rinse with fresh water, then shampoo and condition again. 

What else should you bring? 

A waterproof phone case. You’ll want photos, and a case keeps your phone safe in the water. 

Sunglasses. On bright days, the milky blue water reflects a lot of light. 

Hair ties. These are useful for keeping long hair up and out of the water. 

Flip-flops, if you like. The changing rooms lead straight into the lagoon through an indoor entrance, so you barely walk outside and flip-flops aren’t needed.

What should you leave in your locker? 

Leave your jewelry in the locker. Rings, necklaces, and bracelets are easy to lose in the water, and the silica, algae, and minerals can damage them. The same goes for anything else that shouldn’t get wet. 

Do you need to shower before entering the Blue Lagoon? 

Yes. All guests shower without a swimsuit before entering the lagoon. This is standard practice at bathing places across Iceland, and it helps keep the water clean. If you’d like more privacy, there are private shower cubicles. Our guide to shower and changing room etiquette in Iceland explains how it works. 

What to wear on the way there 

Dress for the Icelandic weather, not just for the lagoon. Conditions on the Reykjanes Peninsula change quickly, so bring a warm, windproof layer at any time of year. In winter, add a hat and gloves for the walk from the car or bus. Clothes that are easy to change in and out of help too. If you’re visiting in the colder months, our guides to autumn in Iceland and the Blue Lagoon in winter cover what to expect. 

Blue Lagoon packing checklist 

Bring: swimwear, a waterproof phone case, hair ties, sunglasses, flip-flops (optional), and warm layers for the journey. 

No need to pack: a towel, shampoo, conditioner, or body wash. All are provided, though you’re welcome to bring your own favorites. 

Leave in your locker: jewelry and valuables.

Keep it simple 

Swimwear is all you really need. Everything else just makes the visit a little easier. Pack light, give yourself time, and see our guide on how long to spend at the Blue Lagoon to plan the rest. Ready to go? Book your day visit.