How I Packed for My Babymoon in Iceland

My husband and I are expecting our first baby this summer and, amidst all the excitement and the growing pile of baby items slowly taking over our living room, I knew one thing: Our travel life was about to change. Enter: the babymoon. We both wanted to get one final trip in as a couple before becoming a travel pack of three, but deciding on the destination was tough. I wanted it to feel significant, which often translates as international in our book, yet I also cringed at the thought of cramming my growing belly into a tiny airplane seat for 7+ hours. Finally, I didn’t want to feel like I was missing out on the essence of a place, which meant excluding destinations where alcohol and late nights were part of the allure. It was a well-timed email from Icelandic low-cost airline Play offering an incredible round-trip deal to Reykjavik that helped our decision fall into place. Iceland promised an international adventure a mere five hour flight from Boston, with a playground of unlimited magical landscapes to explore. If you’re looking for a getaway that truly feels otherworldly, plan a trip to Iceland ASAP—and make sure to bookmark these packing essentials to help you get there.

The North Face ThermoBall pull-on insulated boot

$125.00, Amazon

Gibly ski jumpsuit with removable fur collar

$160.00, Amazon

Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant sunscreen SPF 40

$50.00, Dr. Loretta

Sensyne iPhone Tripod stand with remote

$16.00, Amazon

Eden and Elie Andromeda stud earrings

$95.00, Eden ad Ellie

Think! high protein bar

$28.00, Amazon

Earth Pak waterproof dry bag

$24.00, Amazon

Where I stayed:

Hotel Rangá with incredible views of the Northern Lights behind it.
Hotel Rangá with incredible views of the Northern Lights behind it.
Stefan Lierbermann/Hotel Rangá

Hotel Rangá’s prime location in south Iceland makes it the perfect hotel choice for travelers looking to step outside of the capital. Only 90 minutes outside of Reykjavik, this four-star hotel offers a rural adventure where you are guaranteed warm service, incredible amenities, and a fantastic food and drink program. You’re an easy drive to some of Iceland’s must-see attractions like the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss and Vík´s famous black sand beaches. Plus, its remote location leaves it free of light pollution, making it a perfect spot to view the Northern Lights. Speaking of, they even have a complimentary Northern Lights wake up service for all guests. Simply press a button on your in-room phone and the Hotel Rangá team will notify you should the lights appear, no matter the time of day.

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Originally Appeared on Condé Nast Traveler