Antarctica: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

Packing the right clothing and gear is an important part of preparing for a trip to Antarctica. Please  follow the packing list below to make sure you have everything you need to be prepared and have an enjoyable trip.

• Life jackets are provided for offshore trips
• Clothing or gear that can shed or pill, or possibly leave a trace (such as pom-poms on hats) cannot be worn on offshore landings.
• Clothing needs will vary in weight and warmth whether you are inside the warm ship, on the windy viewing deck, or in freezing temperatures offshore. Layering clothing will be key to making sure you are comfortable wherever you are during this adventure.

The following 3 items will be provided with only the insulated inner jacket to be kept by Travelers after the trip.

• Expedition Parka (provided on loan during trip)
• Muck Boots (provided on loan during trip)
• Insulated Inner Jacket (yours to keep)
  
  

 CLOTHING

•  Shoes - Comfortable, non-slip footwear for wearing inside the ship
  
  
•  Multiple thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) - Provide insulation and moisture-wicking properties
  
  
•  Short sleeve tops and long sleeve tops - Combine with thermal layers to stay warm but also comfortable when you come back to the warm ship and take off your outside clothes
  
  
•  Mid-layer fleece or down jacket - For added warmth
  
  
• Jacket - A windbreaker or water-resistant/waterproof jacket for an outer layer and wind protection when on the ship's deck 
  
  
•  Waterproof and windproof outer pants - Protect against the elements
  
  
• Waterproof ski pants - For  added warmth
   
• Walking/Hiking Trousers - To wear onboard the ship or during your time in Argentina
  
  
•  A tight-fitting warm hat - Warm woolen or synthetic hats that cover your ears (non-pilling/shedding) and that fit your head. Loose hats are NOT recommended
  
  
•  Scarf, snood, gaiter, or balaclava - Keep your head and neck warm!
  
  
•  Insulated/waterproof gloves or mittens and glove liners - Packing two pairs of gloves/mittens is recommended in case one goes missing or gets wet. Waterproof is a must, and a thinner inner pair is recommended to help stay warm in case you need to remove your larger waterproof glove to take pictures, etc.
  
  
•  Thick thermal socks and thinner socks - A few thick pairs for shore visits and thinner pairs for wearing around the ship
  
  
•   Sweater - A warm layer for onboard
  
  
• Hooded sweatshirt - Another lighter layer option when onboard
  
  
•  Jeans - To wear on the ship
  
  
•  Nice shirt/top - For smart casual dinners onboard
  
  
•  Swimsuit - Enjoy the ship's pool and saunas
  
  
•  Gym clothing - Comfortable and useful for the ship's gym
  
  
•  Pajamas - The temps inside the ship are very comfortable so you don't need heavy sleepwear
  
  
•  Always pack extra underwear!
  
  

EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES

•  Walking/trekking poles - For walking on the icy landscape offshore
  
  
•  Waterproof backpack or dry bag - Protect your camera, equipment, and personal belongings during shore excursions
  
  
•  Reusable Water Bottle - Staying hydrated is a recipe for success. You will have access to drinking water onboard for refilling
  
  
•  Sunglasses/ski goggles - With UV protection to shield your eyes from the bright sunlight reflecting off the snow and ice
  
  
•  Sunglasses cord - In case your glasses fall off!
  
  
• Wrist strap for devices - Keep your camera, phone, etc. safe and secure
  
  
•  Sunblock with SPF 50+ - Protect exposed skin from intense UV rays
  
  
•  Binoculars - Great for wildlife observation
  
  
•  Power adapters or converters - Plugs are standard European two round pin plugs
  
  
•  Travel Pillow - A soft place to rest your head after a long day
  
  

 HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE

•  Prescription medications - If applicable, along with copies of prescriptions
  
  
•  Seasickness medication - The journey to Antarctica can involve crossing rough waters
  
  
•  Personal toiletries and any necessary personal care items - Toothbrush and toothpaste, tissues, deodorant, hairbrush hairbands, eye drops, etc. *eco-friendly shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel are available in all cabin bathrooms, and use is encouraged to minimize environmental impact
  
  
•  Basic first aid kit - Packed with essentials like band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, and any specific medications you may need
  
  
•  Protect Your Tummy - Pack some Pepto Bismol, Imodium, and rehydration salts
  
  
•  Face and hand cream - Cold and windy conditions can make your skin dry
  
  
•  SPF Lip balm - Protect your lips too
  
  
•  Ear Plugs - Light sleeper? Nice to have in case of a snoring roommate
  
  

DOCUMENTS AND MISC

•  Passport - With necessary visas and travel documents
  
  
•  Travel insurance information - Including emergency contact numbers
  
  
•  Cash and/or credit cards - USD or major credit cards for onboard expenses or purchases
  
  
•  Waterproof document pouch - Keep important documents safe and dry
  
  
•  Laundry Soap - Single packets are perfect for sink washes when you're running low on clean clothes
  
  
•  Laptop or tablet & charger
  
  
•  GoPro & charger/batteries
  
  
•  Mini tripod
  
  
•  Phone & charger
  
  
• Headphones
  
  
• Multi-plug power board - Keep those devices charged
  
  
•  Camera & waterproof case - Capture memories on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, and keep them protected
  
  

 OPTIONAL

•  Waterproof phone case - It may be wet and windy on the deck of the ship
  
  
•  Sleep eye mask - Block out the light and get some rest
  
  
•  Ziplock bags - Keep your accessories and small travel essentials organized
  
  
•  Slippers/moccasins - Great for walking around your cabin
  
  
•  Traveling snacks - There will be plenty of food on the ship, but feel free to bring some of your own favorite snacks for your cabin