For those who prefer the cold to the heat, the call to snowier destinations grows strong! Whether you’re setting sail on an unforgettable Southern Explorations expedition of Antarctica aboard the world-class and state-of-the-art National Geographic Endurance, the deluxe, all-suite Sea Spirit or the cozy, modern and intimate Magellan Explorer, these vessels are guaranteed to whisk you away on an adventure like no other.
But before you can get to the awe-inspiring glaciers and aww-inducing penguins, you’ll need to pack!
Your Antarctica Cruise Packing List
To ensure you’re fully equipped yet comfortable, without packing nearly your entire closet “just in case,” here’s a comprehensive list so you can pack smart, light, and be able to fully focus on the wonders of the frozen continent with peace of mind. You will also receive a detailed packing list specific to your ship once you’ve confirmed your dream trip to Antarctica.
Documents and Identification
- Passport & any other needed identification
- Visa, if required
- Expedition Booking & Boarding information (hard copy &/or saved electronically for easy access)
- Credit Card and/or Cash
The most obvious items on must-pack lists can also be the most forgotten ones in the excitement and rush of packing to get out the door. But, when you’re about to be in the most pristine and remote wilderness our world has to offer, proper documents are best not left to being an afterthought.
No matter how long or short a trip you may be planning, we recommend your passport be valid for at least six months past your return date. Depending on your country of residence, you may also need a visa to enter Chile or Argentina, where most Antarctica trips begin. Check with your local government or embassy, then streamline the process if needed with an official visa service.
For any on-board purchases or emergency purposes, consider obtaining an international-friendly credit card, especially one that waives out-of-country transaction fees. Cash is also widely accepted and convenient, ships accept US Dollars and in some cases Euros. You may also consider obtaining some local currency depending on your point of departure for pre and post-expedition expenses.
Luggage
- Your preferred Checked Bag and/or Carry-on Bag
- Small Backpack for excursions, waterproof preferred
You can generally use your preferred luggage but we recommend selecting bags that are easy for you to carry and offer some degree of water resistance. Fly-Cruise expeditions may need to transport your luggage via zodiac from the pier and may be exposed to seaspray.
If you’ve selected a Fly-Cruise expedition there will be stricter luggage weight limits to ensure the plane isn’t overloaded. Your Southern Explorations travel expert will inform you of the exact limits on your chosen trip.
Footwear
- Boots for shore landings (often provided by your ship)
- Merino wool or synthetic-blended socks for excursions
- Normal socks for all other times
- Comfortable shoes for time onboard
The most important foundation of any Antarctic trip – besides booking your expedition – is taking care of your feet. Exploring the vast, chilly wilderness requires proper footwear and socks for not only comfort and warmth but also your safety.
While most of our expedition vessels provide knee-high, waterproof boots for on-shore exploration, you will also need to bring your own comfy, close-toed, slip-proof shoes for wear aboard the ship. Many spectacular wildlife sightings take place from the decks of the ship so you want to be ready to dash outside!
When it comes to your socks, you’ll want to pack several pairs of thick Merino wool or synthetic-blended socks. A thinner, moisture-wicking liner sock can also help keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Base Layers
- Silk, wool, fleece or synthetic blend base layers
Think of your expedition clothing system in terms of an onion, you want to dress in layers.
Your base layers should be comfortable enough to move in and wear for long periods while also regulating your temperature without feeling sticky, sweaty or, of course, cold.
Synthetic blends, silk, and merino wool – with moisture wicking properties – will be your best friend by keeping you warm while also not making you feel smothered in your own perspiration. Packing a few base layers of different weights, or thickness, can help you better dress for each day’s weather forecast.
Middle Layers
- Comfortable warm pants for excursions (If not bringing insulated waterproof pants)
- Sweaters, turtlenecks, fleece tops
- Onboard attire, at your preference
When packing shirts and sweaters, keep in mind that these items will often be doing two things at once: going over your tighter, moisture wicking base layer and under thicker, warmer jacket layers. You’ll want to try your layers on in advance to make sure everything fits comfortably without bunching.
Turtlenecks are great choices for neck warmth and coverage, while others may prefer a scarf or neck gaiter with a standard shirt.
Pants should be warm and allow for unrestricted mobility. Fleece or soft-shelled hiking pants are good options for layering.
Outer Layers
- Weather/waterproof parka (shell or insulated – often provided by your ship)
- Insulated down/puffer-type jacket
- Waterproof shell pant, or insulated pant (worn over your boots)
- Warm hat (that can cover your ears)
- Insulated Gloves or Mittens
- Thin glove – touch screen capable, if using your phone for photos
- Scarf or Neck Gaitor
- Polarized Sunglasses and/or Ski Goggles
When people think about what to wear in the polar regions, jackets are typically top of mind.
Most expedition ships will provide you with an expedition jacket/parka, but if you are bringing your own, the best elements of a jacket to look for are waterproof (Gore-Tex or similar), windproof, warm, and with a proper, comfortable hood. Some insulated parkas have all of these qualities in one jacket, but if not, you may consider a separate insulated jacket or a waterproof shell to layer on top. For your insulating layer, we highly recommend a down jacket, which generally offers the greatest warmth with the least weight and bulk. If you need to add a waterproof shell, sizing is essential to make sure your waterproof layer fits easily over your insulated jacket.
Waterproof pants are essential (and required) to keep you warm and dry. A sturdy pair of waterproof shell pants over your mid and base layers is an efficient, easily packable, option, but similar to your expedition jacket, you can find an all-in-one insulating and waterproof pair of pants (insulating layer needs to fit inside boots / waterproof layer goes over the top of boots).
Some ships may provide jackets, parkas, or waterproof pants for your use, check with your Southern Explorations travel expert for offerings.
Don’t forget warm, waterproof gloves or mittens along with a light-weight glove you can wear underneath – or on their own during less extreme weather or activities and while snapping photos.
On top of your head, a warm hat that can cover your ears is essential. For eye protection and comfort, polarized sunglasses are essential, and you may consider bringing ski goggles as well. Ski goggles provide more protection from sea spray and other natural elements that come with exploring polar regions.
The Essential Extras
- Camera
- Cell Phone with waterproof case
- Chargers
- Adapters, if needed
- Sunscreen
- Motion Sickness meds for the Drake Passage – if desired
- Warm Hands/Warm Feet packets – if desired
- Moisturizers for skin/eyes/nose/lips – if desired
- Any medicine or other personal essentials
Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for most travelers and you’ll want to capture every moment. Don’t forget to pack your camera, chargers, and extra memory cards. If you prefer taking photos on your phone, a waterproof case, possibly with a lanyard, can offer extra security.
Along with your standard toiletries you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of sunscreen and lip balm to protect yourself from the intense sun rays common in the Antarctic summer. The region is also extremely dry, so lotion, eye drops, and nasal spray can all prove very useful.
Some passengers experience seasickness, and others do not. It is advisable to come prepared by packing motion sickness remedies. All ships also have doctors onboard, and these medical professionals are extremely adept at assisting passengers with any seasickness concerns.
Onboard Your Antarctic Expedition Ship
As mentioned above, wildlife sightings can happen anytime, so you’ll want to be prepared to step outside when the captain announces a pod of whales approaching.
Most expeditions do not have a dress code and your casual, comfortable clothes are appropriate onboard throughout the day. However, there are some truly spectacular luxury Antarctic vessels that will have a minor dress code, particularly for dinner service or special evenings. Your travel planner will help you navigate these options and find the perfect trip!
Ready to Plan Your Adventure First?
Get in touch with our travel experts to curate your dream adventure across Antarctica!
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