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Antarctica - How to Pack! A guide to Gear for your Polar Expedition Cruise.

Updated: Oct 6

With Antarctica only a couple months away, I've received numerous questions about how to pack for this unique and exciting expedition. I thought the simplest way to address this would be to create a packing guide outlining all the necessary gear for an Antarctic Expedition, along with my top recommendations and the items I personally use. I have made an effort to provide multiple options for each essential item, with a range of suitable options from top of the line gear to more budget options.


Alongside my recommendations, I have compiled an Amazon Ideas List for both Antarctica and Patagonia through the Amazon Influencers program. This serves as a convenient one-stop shop for all the gear I suggest and personally use, making it easier for you to find and purchase everything you need. Purchases made through my Amazon store or any of the affiliate links I provide below will credit me with a small commission, which helps fund my own gear purchases and supports me in organizing these amazing trips.



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ANTARCTICA


Challenges of Packing for Antarctica

Antarctica is a polar desert, characterized by its extremely cold and dry conditions. This unique environment presents significant challenges for anyone preparing for a trip to the continent. The vast expanses of ice and the harsh climate mean that packing wisely is crucial for comfort and safety.


Polar Desert Conditions

As a polar desert, Antarctica experiences very low humidity levels and minimal precipitation. The cold temperatures can be deceiving; while one might expect freezing conditions, the weather on the Antarctic Peninsula in December can be surprisingly mild. Daytime temperatures can hover around freezing, but this does not mean it is warm. Instead, it requires careful layering to adapt to the changing conditions throughout the day.


Importance of Waterproofing and Windproofing

Most excursions in Antarctica are conducted on zodiacs, small inflatable boats that allow access to remote areas. This means that waterproofing and windproofing are essential considerations when packing. The combination of cold water splashes and strong winds can make for an uncomfortable experience if you are not adequately prepared. High-quality, waterproof outer layers, along with insulated inner layers, will help keep you dry and warm during these excursions.


Layering for Variable Weather

In December, the weather can change rapidly, requiring travelers to be versatile with their clothing. A good packing strategy involves bringing multiple layers that can be added or removed as conditions dictate. This allows for adjustments from the chilly morning air to warmer afternoons, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Essential layers include:

  • Base layers for moisture-wicking and insulation

  • Insulating mid-layers for warmth

  • Waterproof and windproof outer shells to protect against the elementsW PACK!



Outer Layers

Outer layers are your water and wind-proofing layers, and are critical to comfort and warmth while exploring the Antarctic landscape. For this cruise, it is important to note that Quark Expeditions provides a polar Parka for all expedition guests, which was already included in the pricing of this trip. Thus, you're already equipped with your upper body outer layer! These Parkas are pretty comfortable and are very warm, and most clients tend to use them on most outings. You are welcome to wear your own outer layer as well, but it is important to note that Quark enforces that all outer layers are fully waterproof, so many ski jackets or outer shells are not permitted. Any outer shells recommended below DO meet Quarks waterproofing requirements, so they are an option for those that would like to avoid a puffy parka.


Quark Expeditions also provides rubber boots for all guests, so you are not required to bring your own Muck Boots.


This leaves just the Waterproof Pants and waterproof gloves to consider! It is absolutely critical that you have the correct waterproof pants for zodiac excursions. In Fact, Quark will not allow you to leave the ship if you do not have proper rain pants or sailing pants. If there is any piece of gear worth investing in for this trip, its this one!


My Recommendations:


Waterproof Bibs & Sailing Pants:

These will be your MOST CRITICAL gear for zodiac operations, and will keep you warm and dry on your excursions! Its important to note that most ski and snow pants are NOT suitable for Antarctic conditions. The critical feature you are looking for is top-notch waterproofing, which is a feature of the below options, but not many snow pants. This is the biggest mistake many travellers make coming to Antarctica.


Bibs

  1. Helly Hansen Skagen Offshore Sailing Bib - Womens Option - Guides Choice and worn by most Quark guides. Good sailing bib that is suitable for heavy ocean spray and high wind.

  2. Gill Apex Pro-X Mens Fishing Bib - Womens unavailable - Top notch waterproof bib with superior waterproofing to any of the other options! Better than Skagen offshore for tough conditions.

  3. Gill OS2 Offshore Sailing Trousers - Womens Option - Another solid option comparable to HH Skagen Offshore.


Pants

  1. Helly Hansen HP Foil Pants - Womens Option - Great inshore sailing pants designed for ocean spray protection.

  2. Grundens Neptune Fishing Pants - Commercial fishing work pants designed for heavy ocean spray. Probably superior to the more expensive sailing pants for waterproofing, just less stylish.

  3. Grundens Neptune Thermo Fishing Pant - Same as the above, but with a *fleece lining for extra warmth.


Less expensive, "acceptable options" that can be worn over ski/snow pants (not preferable)

  1. Helly-Hansen Mens Dubliner Rain Pant - Womens Option - Cheapest option and not recommended. Note that this option provides no thermal protection and has much lighter waterproofing, so you must have a warm mid-layer if choosing this option and be prepared for leaking in heavy spray.



Waterproof Jackets:

Remember, these are optional as you will have a Quark Parka as well. However, some people prefer to have a nice outer shell as it is lighter and allows more mobility.


  1. Arc'Teryx Mens Beta AR Jacket - Womens Here - Guides Choice. Top end outer shell - Worn by many Quark guides.

  2. Arc'Teryx Mens Beta Jacket - Womens Here - Excellent outer shell. Next tier down from Beta AR above, but also worn by many Quark guides

  3. Helly Hanson Odin 9 Worlds Shell Jacket - Womens Here - Reputable sailing brand. Top notch outer shell with great waterproofing and breathability.

  4. Grundens Neptune Fishing Jacket - Womens Option - Budget, but equal protection. This is a commercial fishing jacket designed for heavy rain and ocean spray. It is less stylish than the other options, but does the job of keeping you dry well.


Gloves:

Gloves are the other most essential piece of outerwear. Your hands WILL be exposed to splahes/spray, and you will also have opportunities to pick up ice out of the water, so having waterproof gloves will make you a lot more comfortable on the water. Luckily, there are some great cheap options for this, thanks to the commercial fishing industry. Of course, there are also higher end gortex gloves you can use.


Low Cost Fishing Gloves (I recommend everyone bring at least one pair of these)

  1. Showa Temres 282 Insulated Gloves - Medium, Large, X-Large - Guides Choice. These are inexpensive commercial fishing gloves that many guides (including myself) use. Rated for around 20°F, they have PVC coating for waterproofing, are dexterous, and surprisingly warm. Good for most Antarctic conditions.

  2. Showa Atlas 460 Insulated PVC Coated Gloves - Guides Choice. A warmer version of the Atlas 282 gloves. Rated down to -4°F, these are a good option for people who's hands get cold easily. I like to carry a pair of each (282 and 460)

  3. Showa Temres 282-2 Insulated Gloves - Same as the first option, but with extended wrist protection from water.


High-end Gloves/Mittens

  1. Outdoor Research Alti II Gore-Tex Mits - Womens option - Warm option and mittens tend to be better for keeping fingers warm.

  2. Outdoor Research Prevail HEATED Gore-Tex Mits - Heated Gore-Tex Mittens.

  3. Outdoor Research Prevail HEATED Gore-Tex Gloves - Same as above, but heated gloves.  



Mid-Layers:

Mid-layers are going to be essential for providing adequate warmth. These layers include sweaters, jackets, vests, sweatpants, etc.


Insulated Jackets:

This is something you will wear every day, and likely on the outer decks of the ship. Most Pacific Northwest residents have a few of these already, but if you dont, here are some good options.


  1. Arc'teryx Atom Hoody - Womens Option - Guides Choice. This is what I use in the polar regions. I like it because it fits well underneath my waterproof outer-layer, its very warm, and it stuffs very small into a bag.

  2. Fjallraven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie - Womens Option - Another excellent option from my favorite brand. Very warm and packable into pocket.

Vests:

I find vests useful because they fit well underneath a jacket without the sleeves rolling up. It can add extra warmth on top of a sweater.


  1. Arc'Teryx Atom Vest - Womens Option - Great, very warm vest. This is great for anyone on the hiking extension as well!

  2. Fjallraven Buck Fleece Vest - A fleece option if preferred


Wool and Fleece Mid-layers:

Great for cold days. Good for use under Quarks Parkas or your own Outer Shell.


  1. Fjallraven Expedition Fleece Hoodie - Womens Option - Great fleece option that fits nicely under expedition gear.

  2. Minus33 Expedition Heavyweight Merino Wool Sweatshirt - Womens Option - 95% merino wool sweatshirst. Very warm and moisture wicking mid-layer.

  3. Mens Dale of Norway Vail Sweater - Very warm and reputable sweater from Norwegian Wool.

  4. Womens Dale of Norway Pullover Sweater - Very warm and reputable sweater from Norwegian Wool.

  5. Mens Devold Arktis Sweater - Guides Choice! Limited availability. This is what I wear. Very warm and reputable sweater from Norwegian Wool.

  6. Womens Devold of Norway High Neck Sweater - Very warm and reputable sweater from Norwegian Wool.


Mid-layer Pants:

This is your insulating layer that you'll wear between your base layer leggings and your waterproof pants. If you already own your own ski/snowboard pants, this is where they could come in handy. Just note that they may be bulky under your waterproof layer, so make sure to tray them on before the trip. There are many alternative options for these mid-layers. The most important thing is that they are a moisture-wicking material like wool or fleece, and are not too bulky to wear under your outer layer waterproof pants.


  1. Helly Hansen LifaLoft Insulator Pants - Womens Option - Particularly functional for Antarctica, these 3/4 pants are cut off above your muck boot line, which means they wont be uncomfortably stuffed in your boots like other options. Specifically designed to be worn under sailing pants and bibs.

  2. Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Pants - Womens Option - An extra-warm layer, this is a full down mid-layer that is not too bulky and will be helpful on especially cold days, zodiac cruises, and for those that get cold easily! They might be overkill for some people, and for shore excursions where you will be walking.

  3. Fjallraven Keb Agile Winter Trousers - Insulated trekking trousers. A warmer version of my favorite hiking pants (recommended below). Good for insulation combined with mobility for hiking.

  4. Fjallraven Keb Agile Trousers - Womens Option - My favorite hiking pants, and my top recommendation for those attending the Patagonia trekking extension. In Antarctica, this is what I wear as a mid-layer on warmer days, or when there is a landing with hiking.

  5. North Face Glacier Fleece Sweat Pants - Womens Option - A comfortable, looser fitting fleece option.

  6. KLIM Inferno Snow Mobile Pants - A cheaper option that is suitable for mid-layer insulation and keeping warm.


Socks:

Warm, thick, wool socks are essential mid-layers for comfort and staying warm in Antarctica. Due to the heavy duty muck boots provided by the ship, you will be able to wear thick wool socks underneath, which is the standard recommendation.


  1. Darn Tough Mountaineering OTC Extra Cushion Socks - Womens Option - Guides Choice. Thick, high calf merino blend socks that are comfortable under boots.

  2. Smartwool Mountaineer Extra Cushion Socks - Womens Option - Thick, merino blend socks that are comfortable under boots.



Base Layers:

Base layers are essential for staying warm. You will wear them every day. Merino Wool is the go-to option as it is moisture and sweat wicking, and doesnt get smelly with consistent use.


Base Layer Tops:



Base Layer Bottoms:



Liner Socks:


  1. Unisex Smartwool Liner Socks - Liner socks for extra warmth.



Head Gear

Your head and face are the most exposed part of your body when on excursions or wandering the outer decks of the ship. You need to think about warmth, sun, wind, and spray protection. For me, this means both baseball caps and beanies, head bands, buffs, neck warmers, sunglasses, goggles, etc. Below I have added my recommendations for gear. Of course, there are many options and its all personal preference.


Sunglasses:

For sunglasses, you WILL want wrap around protection (ie fishing, biking, sport glasses). This is because there is a lot of wind in the zodiacs that can cause wind burn in your eyes when moving quick. The ones I use are below.


  1. Smith Guides Choice Polarized Sunglasses - Guides Choice. This is what I wear most days. Good wrap around wind and sun protection, polarization, and great optics.

  2. Smith Pursuit Chromapop Sunglasses - Wider coverage and meant for skiing/snowboarding. Intermediate between sunglasses and ski goggles. I use them when weather intensifies (more spray, snow, etc). There is also a detachable nose protection piece.


Snow Goggles:

These are not required, but they definitely come in handy when weather gets rough (ie high winds, snow, rain, etc).


  1. Smith 4D Mag Goggles - Top of the line ski goggles.

  2. Smith I/O Mag Goggles - Another great, less expensive option.


Hats:

Bring your favorite baseball cap for the sun. Many guides wear a baseball gap with a beanie or a headband to cover their ears. For thermal protection, pick merino or merino blend options for optimal warmth and moisture-wicking.


  1. Smartwool 100% Merino Beanie - 100% Merino, reversible cuff beanie.

  2. Fishers Finery 100% pure Cashmere Beanie - 100% Cashmere Wool

  3. Stormy Kromer Northwoods Trapper Hat - Superior warmth and ear protection

  4. Danish Endurance Merino Blend Beanie - 50% Merino, cheap and well-rated beanie.

  5. Top-X Dryknit Hybrid - I haven't tried this, but its a well-reviewed cheap hybrid option.


Neck Warmers:

A must have for wind protection if not wearing turtleneck or scarf. Great face protection.


  1. Smartwool Thermal Balclava - 100% Merino full face and neck protection.

  2. Smartwool Reversible Neck Gaiter - 100% Merino neck and face protection

  3. Merino Tech Wool Neck Gaiter - 100% Merino neck gaiter. Longer than smartwool option.


Headbands:

A great addition for ear protection and warmth if wearing a baseball cap.



Onboard Clothing

On the ship you will just need your casual, everyday clothes. Some people like to wear a dressier clothes for events like the captains welcome and captains farewell, but this is totally optional. Comfy sweats and slippers are common on sea days. Below is a list of basic items to bring.


  • T-shirts

  • Dress shirt (optional)

  • Comfortable pants

  • Sweat pants or leggings

  • Sweatshirt or hoody

  • Swimsuit

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • light gloves for outer decks




Other Gear and Recommendations

There are a number of other items that are essential or very handy to have for an Antarctic expedition. I have listed my top recommendations below.


Dry Bags:

This is ESSENTIAL for zodiac operations. You should expect that anything not in a dry bag WILL get wet! I highly recommend a rolltop backpack dry bag. The backpack option allows you to carry your gear on shore excursions.


  1. Grundens Bootlegger Roll Top Dry Backpack - Guides Choice. 30 Liter 100% waterproof backpack. This is the newer version of what I use. Big enough to store spare clothing and cameras, and I like the pocket in the back for easy access to store gloves, goggles, etc. The backpack straps make it easy to carry on shore.

  2. Rockagator Waterproof 40L Backpack - A larger 40 liter option that might be useful for anyone with large telephoto lenses or lots of gear. Option to clip on lots of extra gear, and extra handles for easy maneuvering.

  3. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack - More budget-friendly option with various size options.



Binoculars:

Binoculars will greatly enhance your experience in Antarctica and anywhere you travel in the world. Price ranges are wildly variable. I will provide a very high end, high end, mid-range, and budget option.


  1. Swarovski 8x42 NL Pure Binoculars - Highest end, Best you can buy binoculars.

  2. Swarovski 8x30 CL companion Binoculars - High End, Guides Choice. This is what I use. They are extremely compact and lightweight, but still have excellent optics and gather more light than significantly larger options of other brands. You cant go wrong with these.

  3. Nikon Monarch 8x42 M7 Binoculars - Mid-range but great binoculars. This is what I used for years before I could afford Swarovskis!

  4. Nikon Monarch 8x42 M5 Binoculars - Budget option. Might still look expensive compared to other options you find, but I would not go any more budget than this if you want good quality as you will struggle to get enough light or clarity. These are a solid option!


Cameras:

Cameras deserve their own post, but I have a number of options I can recommend so will provide some good options for various levels of photography below.


Professional, interchangeable lenses

  1. Sony A1ii - Best available mirrorless camera for photo and video. I use the A1, which is the previous version of this camera.


Hobbyist, still professional, interchangeable lenses

  1. Sony A7iv - Hybrid mirrorless photo/video camera. Great option for avid photographers and professionals alike. Requires interchangeable Lenses.


Hobbyist, All-in-one, Semi-pro Quality

  1. Sony RX10iv - Hybrid Photo/video camera with fixed 24-600mm lens. This option is more expensive than the previous, but note that it includes a fixed lens with wide focal variability, so you will never need to buy additional lenses.


Traveller, Beginner, All-in-one

  1. Panasonic Lumix FZ 80D - Budget Friendly option with fixed lens 20-1200mm super zoom for beginners.


High end Point and Shoot, Pocketable

  1. Sony Rx100ii - Highest end point and shoot camera with good optical zoom

  2. Sony ZV-1ii - High end Vlogging point and shoot camera with limited optical zoom


Point and Shoot, Waterproof, Budget friendly, Beginner, Pocketable

  1. Olympus Tough TG-6 - Budget Friendly and crush, freeze, waterproof, 4x optical zoom.



Toiletries

There are a couple of toiletries that are especially handy to have in Antarctica. Primarily sunscreen and a good moisturizer. See a list of recommended items below:






 
 
 

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