Packing for Antarctica asks for a different mindset. Peninsula summer days usually sit around freezing, the wind makes it feel colder, and the weather changes by the hour. Yet you're also packing for a warm ship with fine dining and lounges. It's a fun puzzle.
What should you pack for Antarctica? Layers, not cotton: merino or synthetic base layers, a fleece or light down mid layer, and waterproof shell pants. Add waterproof gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, a dry bag for the Zodiacs and spare camera batteries. Most ships provide the parka and lend boots.
Key facts
- Weather: Peninsula summer days usually sit around freezing, and the wind makes it feel colder.
- Season: voyages run from about November to March.
- Usually provided: an expedition parka, waterproof boots on loan, a life jacket for Zodiacs and walking poles. Check your own voyage's list.
- Dress code on board: comfortable by day, smart casual at dinner.
- Caviar trip:The Antarctica Expedition aboard SH Minerva, where Swan Hellenic gives you an expedition parka and lends you boots.
The Layering System
Layers are everything. Skip cotton, which holds moisture and leaves you cold once it's wet.
| Layer | Job | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Base layer | Keeps sweat off your skin | Merino wool or synthetic |
| Mid layer | Holds in warmth | Fleece or a light down jacket |
| Outer layer | Blocks wind and water | Waterproof shell pants (most ships give you a parka) |
| Feet | Dry and warm | Thick wool socks. Many ships lend waterproof boots. |
| Extras | Hands, head and neck | Waterproof gloves, liner gloves, a warm hat, a neck gaiter |
Photo: Bob Brewer / Unsplash
Photography Gear
The light, the ice and the wildlife make Antarctica a dream for photos. Cold drains batteries, and moving between the cold deck and the warm cabin can fog your lens.
| Item | Why | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Weather-sealed camera | Spray and snow on Zodiacs | A good phone also does more than you'd think |
| Telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer) | Wildlife from a respectful distance | 100-400mm is even better |
| Wide-angle lens | Glaciers and icebergs | Shows the scale |
| Spare batteries | Cold drains them fast | Keep them in an inside pocket |
| Dry bag | Zodiac spray | Non-negotiable |
| Polarizing filter | Cuts glare off ice and water | Small and worth it |
To avoid fogging, put your camera in a sealed bag before you come inside and let it warm up slowly.
Photo: Birger Strahl / Unsplash
What the Ship Usually Provides vs What You Pack
Ships differ, so check your own voyage's list. On our trip, Swan Hellenic gives you an expedition parka and lends you waterproof boots.
| Often Provided | Pack Yourself |
|---|---|
| Expedition parka | Base layers (3 to 4 sets) |
| Waterproof boots (on loan) | Fleece or down mid layer |
| Life jacket for Zodiacs | Waterproof pants |
| Walking poles | Warm hat, gloves and scarf |
| Sunscreen and sunglasses (the glare off snow is strong) |
Onboard Dress Code
The ship is warm and relaxed. Pack comfortable clothes for the day and smart casual for dinner. A pretty top or a soft knit dress is plenty, so bring the outfit that makes you feel like yourself.
Still deciding when to go? My month-by-month guide will help, and my Antarctica luxury expedition guide covers the ship and the Drake Passage. This list is part of our Antarctica Expedition. Start planning your expedition.
Travel Tips
Travel Tips
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