BASE LAYERS

Never underestimate the power of long underwear. A thermal base layer is the most important – and it’s important to bring a couple of sets. There are a few options such as thin Merino wool, polypropalene or a mix of the two. These are great for warmth, moisture wicking and are also quick drying. Thermal layers can be found in most outdoor shops. Opt for both long pants and long sleeved for full coverage. The bonus is t hat you can also sleep in them as well and remain toasty warm!  

FLEECE 

Once you have your thermal base sorted, you will need a fleece layer. You can wear several second layers which will function well over the base, however fleece is one of the warmest and most versatile. Personally, I would recommend at least one second layer and then the fleece layer. A fleece is great to wear on its own on warmer days, or around the ship. It also keeps you super warm as a top layer under your wind breaker jacket on the coldest days or when you are out on the glaciers / zodiac cruising

THICK SOCKS

Do not underestimate the power of sock layering! Heat escapes through your feet, so having warm tootsies will in turn keep the rest of your body warm. Use thin woollen socks as a base followed by a thicker pair to trap air and keep you warm. Bear in mind your footwear when planning to wear sock layers to make sure your boots still fit! 

SUNGLASSES 

Antarctica is actually a very sunny place and sunglasses are crucial with a lot of glare coming off the snow and ice. You will need a good paid of polarised sunnies to reflect the glare and protect your eyes. Polarised sunglasses also help you spot wales, seals and other wildlife in the water! 

CAMERA & WATERPROOF BAG

You will undoubtedly want to take a gazillion photos while on your Antarctica cruise so don’t forget your camera! Whether you are using a professional DSLR or just your phone camera, it is important to also bring with you a waterproof camera to prevent splash from rough waters while on the zodiac – which you will get! For those using professional cameras, you may want to bring several different lenses as the glare can make exposure and white balance tricky. An anti-glare lens will help.

WATERPROOF WALKING SHOES WITH TRACTION 

Tall, waterproof boots are crucial for exploring the mainland, but you’ll want comfortable, warm walking shoes/boots for the towns you visit farther north and the hikes you may go on in the Falkland Islands. They are also great for going out on deck where it may be a bit wet. There’s likely to be ice wherever you are, though, so make sure they have good traction. 

​UNDER LAYER GLOVES

​Gloves are essential, but what you will also need to prevent your pinkies from snapping off, if a glove under layer. They keep you hands warm i na similar way to your feet, by trapping air. A thin woollen glove layer will help under your main bigger gloves to give more dexterity in your fingers when flicking between camera settings. 

FACEMASK / BALACLAVA

Winds in Antarctica can be intense, especially when you’re cruising along the water in a Zodiac. Make sure you bring a face mask or balaclava to help keep you warm – and prevent some serious wind burn. 

SUNSCREEN

Antarctica may be cold, but it’s the highest continent on Earth and is located under a relatively thinner layer of ozone than most places. Make sure any exposed areas of your skin (most likely your face) are covered in a protective layer of sunscreen to prevent burns. 

HAT 

This one goes without saying – in such a cold climate, you’re going to need a good warm hat that ideally covers your ears as well. 

MOISTURISER AND LIP BALM

Due to Antarctica’s low temperatures and high altitude, the air is pretty dry. Your skin and lips may get a little scaly, so be sure you have plenty of moisturisers on board. Paw Paw ointment is great for dry lips and all other kind of skin conditions too so its very versatile! 

SEA SICK TABLETS

Crossing the Drake Passage is not for the faint hearted and you are more than likely going to experience the “Drake Shake” than the “Drake Lake” (Unfortunately). So sea sickness tablets will be a life saver. They are also sold on board if you don’t bring any with you. But don’t worry, the ships are built to handle to worst of seas! 

MISCELLANEOUS

As well as the Antarctica specific items above, you will also need to take with you the basics such as:

• Passport
• Credit Cards / Cash
• Journal – Antarctica is a unique experience so you many want to remember as many details as possible
• Toiletries
• Warmer clothes for Buenos Aires

If you think this packing list looks a little like the one you made for your last ski vacation, you’re not alone – packing for the two are actually pretty similar. Our last bit of advice? Try not to over​-pack – this is one adventure you don’t want to be bogged down during!

If Antarctica is on your bucket list – CLICK HERE to look at our array of expeditions at a great price!