Putting together a packing list for Antarctica doesn’t need to be a challenge. But we’ll admit, our first time to the great white continent, we overpacked. We brought stuff we didn’t need or use, and all it did was take up space.
We were worried about being cold, when all we really needed to worry about was packing the right combination of things.
Fast forward, and we’ve now been to Antarctica 7 times. We have a clear idea of what to pack for a trip to Antarctica, and even more importantly, what to leave behind.
Below you’ll find our core packing list for every expedition trip we take to Antarctica.
Essential Packing List for Antarctica
When we’re building our Antarctica packing list, we like to start from the inside and work my way out with layers. So that’s how we’ve have structured this packing list.
If you need to buy items, please check out our Amazon store! We have curated many of the items from this packing list for easy purchase! Click to view our Divergent Travelers Amazon Store.
Base Layers for Antarctica
Wool is the name of the game when it comes to base layers in Antarctica. It will keep you warm and dry by wicking sweat away. Yes, you will sweat at times during your expedition.
- Wool hiking socks – we prefer Smartwool, but any brand works
- Wool base bottom – at least 250 merino
- Wool base top – at least 250 merino
Mid Layers for Antarctica
This is the layer that will insulate your core warmth. So, you’ll want to have mid layers that are either fleece or down.
- Down or fleece pants – we prefer down layered over the wool baselayers
- Fleece top – we like the Eddie Bauer brand fleece pullovers with a ¼ zip
- Thick socks – this is a second sock layer, and we prefer to use Heat Holders over our merino hiking socks. Our feet are never cold!
Outer Layers for Antarctica
It is mandatory by all Antarctica operators that you have a completely waterproof layer if you want to leave the ship. Which you do!
- Parka – This is typically provided by most Antarctic operators and will be available in your cabin when you embark the ship at the start of your expedition. They are usually 3 in 1, with a waterproof outer shell and some sort of insulated jacket that attaches to the interior.
- Waterproof pants – we prefer to bring rain pants, as this leaves more flexibility for layering and they usually fit more generously which makes moving around on land and in the zodiac easier.
- Snow pants – some people prefer to pack snow/ski pants as their waterproof pants. This is fine too.
- Waterproof boots – every expedition ship provides insulated waterproof boots for your use onboard. They are fantastic, and usually MuckBoot company or similar. You do not need to pack any heavy or waterproof footwear.
- Warm hat – we usually bring 2-3 hats each for Antarctica. You may need 2 per day, especially if you get wet during the morning outings.
- Gloves – we usually bring 2-3 pairs of gloves of varying weights. If you’re planning to use a camera, we recommend you get gloves that have index and thumb openings. This makes operating camera gear much easier. We never use heavy gloves, but having a thinner insulated pair for on the outer decks and a medium pair for off-ship activities always works great for us. That said, we’ve seen plenty of people with thick winter gloves. It’s a personal choice, just make sure you bring multiple pairs.
- Warm Neck gaiter – this is essential. You’ll want something to cover your neck and pull up over your face in the Zodiac. We both have fleece Eddie Bauer neck gaiters, and they work great.
- Sunglasses/Goggles – also an essential item. You’ll want something to protect your eyes. We always bring sunglasses and prefer polarized lenses. Also pack some kind of tether so you don’t lose them.
Onboard Clothes for Antarctica
You don’t need to pack a lot of onboard clothes. You won’t spend a lot of time in them, and it’s easy to rewear outfits between outings. Most ships also offer onboard laundry service, or you can do your laundry in your bathroom. The key is not to overpack.
- Pants/leggings – comfy pants for around the ship. I prefer leggings as I can throw my rain pants over top to be on deck. We don’t recommend jeans.
- Lined leggings/pants – micro fleece lined pants are also a nice item to have onboard. Especially if you like to be on deck.
- Tops – we usually bring tops we’d wear hiking in either wool or synthetic materials. They are easy to wash and don’t hold smells
- Sweaters – the ships are usually warm! So, you won’t need heavy sweaters, and I recommend you save space by not bringing them. Your layers can double duty on the ship, too.
- Long-sleeve tops – you’ll want some lighter-weight long-sleeve tops for around the ship. We like to bring sun-shirts and layer them under down vests.
- Down vest – this is personal, but we always bring a down vest to use for layering both on and off the ship.
- Shoes – sneakers are a great option, but I prefer to wear UGG boots onboard. This is because I spent A LOT of time out on the decks. They keep my feet warm.
- Swimsuit/Swin Trunks – for the polar plunge! But also for the onboard spa, if your ship has one.
Everything Else for Antarctica
This list is for some of the other things we consider essential, in addition to the right clothing.
- Camera gear – this is personal, but you’ll want some kind of camera for a trip like Antarctica. We see many people using only phones, and this is still a fantastic option! Carrying a lot of camera gear is cumbersome. So, you want to be light with gear.
- Dry bag – if you plan to bring cameras off the ship, you’ll want to have a good dry bag to protect them from the elements.
- Phone lanyard – just get one. This will ensure your phone isn’t lost if you drop it!
- Motion sickness meds – if you get seasick, you’ll want some sort of medication. We prefer meclizine, as it works better than Dramamine.
- Lotion – Antarctica is a desert! Your skin will get dry. Stay hydrated and use lotion daily.
- Sunscreen – surprisingly, yes, you will need this. You’ll be visiting during the southern summer, and the sun reflects off the snow. It’s very easy to get sunburnt in Antarctica!
- Compression bags – you will be shocked at how much space these will save you!
Some Personal Notes on this Packing List
Beyond the essentials for adventuring off the ship, what your packing list for Antarctica looks like will be personal. Everyone has different preferences and needs. No matter what, be sure to pack as light as possible.
You don’t need as much gear as you think. Keep it simple. You can and will wear things multiple times. The rule of thumb is doubles for all base layers and outer items. Two sets of base layers and two sets of hats and gloves, in case you get wet or sweaty.
For a standard 12-day trip to Antarctica, you’ll likely wear one base layer set for the entire time you’re in Antarctica. You have to remember you’re there for four or five days, not the entire 12 days.
If you’re on a longer trip, like the 21-day trips that include South Georgia or a 28-day trip to the Ross Sea, then you’ll need 2 base layer sets to rotate.
We do not recommend the use of hand warmers. They create unnecessary waste.
If you need to buy items, please check out our Amazon store! We have curated many of the items from this packing list for easy purchase! Click to view our Divergent Travelers Amazon Store.
You might also like:
- Antarctica Travel Guide
- How to Visit Antarctica Responsibly: Antarctica Tourism Deep Dive
- The Epic Ross Sea of Antarctica with Heritage Expeditions
- 21-Day Antarctica & South Georgia Expedition (Full Trip Overview)
- Ross Sea vs Antarctic Peninsula: From Someone Who Has Been
