Antarctica is a destination most only dream of. For many, it is an adventure-of-a-lifetime and is found at the top of many’s bucket lists. Packing for such an extreme destination can seem a bit daunting to anyone, especially when there are little-to-no clothing stores in the area you are traveling to. Between the wild elements and lengthy journey, you’ll also need to prepare clothing for time on the ship and for excursion time on the shore. No need to worry, we have curated the perfect list to help get you ready for any time of weather Antarctica might bring you: 

Comfortable Jeans

Most likely you’ll be dressed in official clothing when you are in the cold doing land excursions. When you have free time on the ship you will want casual and comfortable pants that you can easily lounge around in. No need to get fancy, jeans are suitable for wearing to dinner or the bar. Hiking pants are also a great comfortable option to slip on in-between excursions.

Bathing Suit

No. We are not kidding around with this one. Many visitors’ favorite Antarctica experience includes participating in the exhilarating polar plunge at Deception Island. For those who are brave enough to say yes, you’ll want to have a bathing suit just in case you choose to dive into the frigid waters.

Beanie

Making sure your head is warm and protected is one of the most important things when experiencing extreme cold climates. Invest in a high quality and thick beanie to keep your heat trapped in.

Warm Socks

Pack plenty of socks as odds are yours will get your pair wet many times throughout your trip. Wet socks mean cold feet and nobody wants that ever, and especially not when they are traveling throughout one of the coolest destinations in the entire world! Invest in some quality socks that are durable and warm like Smartwool. If you need to minimize your packing, you can always do quick laundry in your sink while traveling.

Thermal Underwear

If you haven’t realized already, you’ll be doing a lot of layering while in Antarctica. The perfect first layer is a good quality pair of thermal underwear. Wool leggings seem to be the best makeup when facing the cold.

Knee-High Waterproof Boots

Look to bring warm and insulated boots that are high enough that will keep your feet dry. There aren’t many docks in Antarctica and so often times you may be stepping in the water when disembarking smaller inflatable boats.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses with a good UV filter are essential as you will be squinting a ton from the glare off of the ice. If you wear contacts, possibly consider wearing ski goggles to prevent them from drying out with all of the cold air and wind.

Sunscreen

High SPF sunscreen is necessary as the ozone layer is the thinnest above Antarctica. You would not want to get sunburnt off the strong glare reflecting off the white ice and snow.

Seasick Medication

Be prepared if any stormy seas come your way with some remedies if you are prone to seasickness. There are many different options out there, some prefer Dramamine, ginger, or acupressure bands. Be prepared for the rockiest weather conditions along the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica if it is on your itinerary.

Camera

Antarctica has so much to photograph, most visitors are looking to bring along a DSLR camera with around 2 different lenses that will lead you to the perfect shot. Invest yourself in taking a photo class beforehand! It will definitely help you throughout your travels. Do remember that batteries tend to die much faster in the cold weather so be sure to bring along your charger and spare batteries as well.

Adapter

This may vary from ship to ship but make sure your plugs are matching your outlets while onboard. If they don’t align, make sure to invest in an outlet adapter so you can keep your electronic devices charged and ready for use. Invest in a universal adapter so you can continue to use it throughout your future travel destinations as well.

Portable Charger

Keep your devices charged and ready for use with a portable charger. This technology will be great for excursions since batteries tend to die a lot more quickly in the cold. Just don’t forget to charge the portable charger every night so it is ready for use the next day.

Binoculars

Grab a pair of binoculars for an up-close view of all the stunning whales and seabirds that you’ll spot from the ship. Marvel at these creatures in their natural frigid habitat. A small and packable pair should suit well for your arctic expedition.

Book

There will be days at sea where you won’t leave the ship. Take advantage of this free time as you are isolated from the rest of the world to cozy up and read a good book. If you are feeling a bit seasick, you should avoid this activity until you are feeling better. If looking to save space and weight while packing, bring along your Kindle to load up on an infinite amount of books.

Backpack

You’ll want a lightweight day backpack for all of your camera equipment, hats, gloves and your pair of binoculars. The more pockets, the better! As most of this packing list, make sure it’s waterproof. 

Congratulations! You are now prepared to embark on one of the most extraordinary adventures in the world in one of the most remote areas. Utilize this list and take the stress off of packing. Get ready for an incredible Antarctica experience that will change your life forever.

Post written by: Kirsten Cusack, @kirqsak