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Patagonia - A guide to packing for Torres Del Paine and the W Trek

Updated: 6 days ago

Packing for a hiking trip in Torres del Paine National Park means preparing for one of the most breathtaking yet unpredictable landscapes on Earth. The park is a dramatic mosaic of granite spires, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and wind-swept pampas—an adventurer’s paradise where the weather can turn from sunshine to sleet in a matter of minutes. Be prepared for a mix of terrains, from rocky trails and muddy forest paths to steep mountain passes and open plains where strong winds are the norm. Layering is key: moisture-wicking base layers, a warm insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof shell are essential to stay comfortable in the park’s cool, volatile climate. Add sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, trekking poles, and a reliable rain cover for your pack, and you’ll be ready to experience the raw beauty and elemental power that make Torres del Paine a true bucket-list destination for trekkers worldwide.


In this post, I'll detail the needs for those hiking the W-trek, utilizing a mix of park Refugio's and pre-established tent sites along the trail. With pre-established and well equipped sleeping locations, you will be spared the hassle of packing your own tent, sleeping bag & pad, pillow, camp stove, etc. This means you are only left responsible for packing the clothes on your back, water, and a few handy accessories.


Below you will find the essential gear you'll need, as well as my top recommendations for gear that I find helpful when hiking in these conditions. Alongside my recommendations, I have compiled an Amazon Ideas List for 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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Overview of Suggested Packing Items


  • 30 - 50 Liter Backpack - 1

  • Windbreaker/Rain Jacket with adequate waterproofing* - 1

  • WIndbreaker/Rain Pants - 1

  • Packable Down Jacket or warm Fleece- 1

  • Hiking fleece or light Softshell Jacket - 1

  • Hiking Vest - 1 (Optional)

  • Wool Base Layer (upper body) - 1 or 2

  • Wool Base Layer (lower body) - 1 or 2

  • Hiking T-shirt - 2 or 3

  • Long Sleeve Hiking Shirt - 1

  • Hiking Pants (ideally wind resistant) - 2

  • Hiking Shorts - 1

  • Hiking Socks - 3 or 4 pairs

  • Underwear - 4 or 5

  • Camp Clothes - I recommend having a clean, dry, cozy set of clothes designated to your time at the refugios.

  • Light Pajamas - 1 (Optional - could be your camp clothes)

  • Winter hat - 1

  • Sun cap - 1

  • Neck Warmer or Buff - 1

  • Microfiber Towel - 1 (optional but recommended)

  • Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boots or Sturdy Waterproof Hiking Shoes - 1

  • Camp shoes - 1 (optional)

  • Shower Shoes - 1 (optional)

  • Sunglasses - 1

  • Water Bottles - 2

  • Pocketable Camera - 1

  • Binoculars - 1

  • Medications

  • Toiletries

  • Sunscreen


Layering

Layering is the key to staying comfortable and safe in Patagonia’s rapidly changing weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, followed by a warm insulating mid-layer—such as fleece or down—for retaining body heat. On top, add a waterproof and windproof outer shell to protect against rain, snow, and the park’s famous gusts. Depending on the season, you may also want a lightweight windbreaker, insulated jacket, and thermal leggings for cold nights. The goal is flexibility: you can easily add or remove layers as conditions shift throughout the day.


Base Layers

A moisture-wicking base-layer is the key to staying warm and dry. For those continuing to Antarctica, this will overlap with your needs there. Merino Wool is the go-to option as it is moisture and sweat wicking, and doesn't get smelly with consistent use. I recommend 2 tops and 2 bottoms that can be alternated (especially in Antarctica.


Base Layer Tops:



Base Layer Bottoms:




Mid Layers

Mid-layers are essential for warmth. Many of the recommendations overlap with those for Antarctica, and can be used for both legs of the trip. Some are slightly different, but would still be useful in Antarctica as well.


Wool and Fleece Mid-layers:

Great hiking layers as they are breathable and moisture-wicking. The options below offer various levels of insulation and warmth, and it is really personal preference which ones you choose. I recommend having one of these layers to carry with you.


  1. Fjallraven Expedition Fleece Hoodie - Womens Option - Great insulated and quick dry trekking fleece option that is also good for Antarctica. As a heavier, insulated fleece, it can be worn as an outer layer when not raining, and provide some wind protection.

  2. Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie - Womens Option - A more technical and trekking focused mid-weight fleece with reinforced shoulders for backpacking and a wool blend for moisture-wicking and odor control. Note that this is a less warm option than the expedition fleece above, and is designed for more active use.

  3. Fjallraven Absiko Grid Fleece - Womens Option - This is a light fleece option compared to the expedition fleece, but a great option for trekking! Grid fleece is generally more breathable, and is considered a light mid-layer. It is very practical for long distance hiking and exertion, but wont provide the warmth that the above expedition fleece will.

  4. Fjallraven Stina Fleece - Womens Option - Another light fleece mid-layer without a hood. This may be a good option for the fact that many insulated down jackets already have hoods, so it could be nice to have a mid-layer without one.

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


Insulated Down Jackets:

This is something you will wear every day. If not while hiking, you will likely want them at night when it cools down. Most Pacific Northwest residents have a few of these already, but if you dont, here are some good options. I recommend having one of these for both legs of our trip.


  1. Arc'teryx Atom Hoody - Womens Option - Guides Choice. This is what I use in the polar regions. I like it because it is light weight and very warm, and it stuffs very small into a bag.

  2. Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt Jacket - Womens Option - Another excellent option from my favorite brand. This is a lighter and more flexible version of the "expedition pack down jacket" from my Antarctica post. It is preferable for hiking but still suitable as a mid-layer for Antarctica.


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 fleece mid-layer. I often wear just a base-layer with a vest when hiking in temperate environments.


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

  2. Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt Vest - Another great down vest to match your X-Latt Jacket.

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


Hiking Shirts:

Im sure everyone has good hiking shirts so I wont do too many here, but below are some of my preferred options.


  1. Rhone Atmosphere Tee - Extremely comfortable and soft, moisture-wicking and quick dry UPF T-shirt.

  2. Rhone Atmosphere LS Shirt - Long sleeve version of above.


Hiking Pants:

Hiking pants are going to be essential and worn every day, so you will want a comfortable option the provides warmth but also breathability. I recommend having 2 sets of pants fo the W-trek. You might want to choose two options that offer different advantages.


  1. Fjallraven Keb Agile Trousers - Womens Option - Guides Choice. Hands down my favorite hiking pants, and my top recommendation for those attending the Patagonia trekking extension. Great mobility and ventilation. In Antarctica, this is also what I wear as a mid-layer on warmer days, or when there is a landing with hiking.

  2. Fjallraven Keb Agile Winter Trousers - Womens Option - Insulated trekking trousers. A warmer version of my favorite hiking pants (recommended above). Good for insulation combined with mobility for hiking. If you get cold easily, these may be a good option. Also a great mid-layer option for Antarctica.

  3. Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers - Womens Option - Guides Choice. Another great option, this one is constructed entirely of G-1000 fabric, which is windproof and water-resistant. However, It has good ventilation zippers. This option has less stretch than the others, but is more wind resistant and provides better isulation. I am bringing one of these, and one of the above Keb trousers.

  4. Fjallraven Absiko Pro Trekking Tights - A good option for women who prefer leggings.


Shorts:

You will likely wear pants most of the time, but on long hikes I often prefer to where a pair of shorts over my base-layer (ie long underwear). If you think you will do this as well, here are some options:



Socks:

Good hiking socks are very important for comfort and can be useful in blister prevention. I recommend having atleast 2-3 pairs.


  1. Unisex Wrightsock Coolmesh II Crew Hiking Socks - Excellent option that helps with blister-prevention.

  2. Unisex Wrightsock Coolmesh II Running Socks - Same as above, but meant for running shoes. So a good option if using trail runners.

  3. Darn Tough Hiker Midweight Micro Crew Socks - Womens Option - Great Merino blend Option

  4. Darn Tough Vermont Merino Boot Socks - Womens Option - Another variant that is slightly heavier on Merino, which is good for moisture-wicking and odor.


Outer (Shell) Layers

In late November, Torres del Paine’s W Trek brings classic Patagonian spring conditions—rapidly shifting between sun, rain, and fierce wind. Daytime temperatures hover around 40–60°F (5–15°C), but strong gusts and sudden downpours can make it feel much colder. High-quality rain gear is essential, as weather can change in minutes and persistent wind-driven rain can quickly soak through lesser layers. A durable waterproof jacket and pants will keep you dry, warm, and comfortable, making all the difference between an enjoyable trek and a miserable one.


Windbreaker Jacket:

Picking the right outer shell for hiking is difficult due to the unpredictability of weather in Southern Patagonia. If you want something that is durable in both Patagonia and Antarctica and that can withstand heavy rain showers for sustained periods, you might opt for a 3-layer gortex shell like the Arc'Teryx Beta AR, which is suitable for hiking and zodiac operations. If you prefer better packability and affordability, you can go with a 2 or 3 layer light or mid-weight shell that is easier to pack and carry (Note that these are not considered by Quark to be suitable outer layers for Zodiac Operations, but you will have your Quark Parka for that). I have included a variety of options below.


  1. Arc'Teryx Mens Beta AR Jacket - Womens Here - Top end Gortex outer shell with 3-layer construction - Worn by many expedition guides in tough conditions. Good for hiking in cold and windy environments, but not as lightweight and packable as other options.

  2. Outdoor Research Foray 3 layer Jacket - Womens Aspire Option - Guides Choice for this trek. Lightweight but durable and very water/windproof. Great for trekking and solid wind protection.

  3. Outdoor Research Stratoburst Stretch Rain Jacket - Womens Option - Great mid-weight 2.5 layer option with greater mobility, stretch, and packability than the above options.

  4. Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket - Womens Option - This is a high-end, ultra-light (less than half the weight of other options) rain jacket that is very packable. It is an excellent option for backpacking, but the lightweight and minimalist design sacrifices some protection and is not suitable for the Antarctic portion of the trip.

  5. 33,000ft Packable Rain Jacket - Womens Option - Budget option. Very lightweight and packable, but sacrifices protection in heavy rain and wind. Highly rated on Amazon.


Windbreaker pants:

Possibly less important than a good rain jacket, but still highly recommended due to unpredictable weather.


  1. Arc'teryx Beta Pants - Womens Option - Top of the line Gore-tex mountaineering pants with side zip and 3 layer construction.

  2. Outdoor Research Foray 3 layer Rain Pants - Womens Option - The matching pant to the above Foray/Aspire 3-layer jacket.

  3. Outdoor Research Stratoburst Rain Pants - Womens Option - Great mid-weight rain pants equal to Stratoburst rain jacket.

  4. Helly-Hansen Mens Dubliner Rain Pant - Womens Option - Basic, reputable rain pants that are superior in protection and quality to other cheaper options.

  5. 33,000ft Packable Rain Pants - Womens Option - Budget option. Very lightweight and packable, but sacrifices protection in heavy rain and wind. Highly rated on Amazon.



Head Gear


Hats:

Bring your favorite baseball cap for the sun. 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. Danish Endurance Merino Blend Beanie - 50% Merino, cheap and well-rated beanie.


Neck Warmers and buffs:

Great wind and face protection. High winds are common in Torres del paine, so these might come in handy.


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

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

  3. GOT Sports Fishing Gaiter - A cheaper, high UPF version for wind, sun, dust protection.


Headbands:

A great addition for ear protection and breathability when hiking.

 


Sunglasses:

My favorite sunnies 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 Embark Sunglasses - Great more casual and less expensive option with side protection.



Hiking Shoes

For the W Trek, sturdy and waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes are essential. The terrain is rugged and varied, with rocky paths, muddy sections, and steep ascents that can become slippery in rain or snow. Choose footwear with excellent grip, ankle support, and weather resistance to handle long days on your feet and ever-changing trail conditions. Waterproofing is something that should be prioritized as hiking can become very uncomfortable if rainy or wet conditions cause your feet to get wet.


Waterproof Lightweight Hiking Boots:

I highly recommend light weight, waterproof hiking boots with good soles and ankle support. I personally use the Danner Mountain 600 boots, but all the options below are solid.


  1. Hoka Kaha 3 GTX - Womens Option - Great option from Hoka, especially for those recovering from injuries or knee surgeries. Great support and cushion.

  2. Danner Mountain 600 Gortex Hiking Boots - Womens Option - This is what I wear. Great, sturdy, waterproof boots from a reputable brand. Relatively lightweight and good for through-hiking.

  3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot - Womens Option - Great option for Patagonia and highly praised.

  4. Merrell Moab Speed II Hiking Boots - Womens Option - Another popular option. Lighter and faster, with good waterproofing but slightly less support.

  5. Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boots - Womens Option - Less expensive, very popular hiking boot with great reviews. Keen is good for wider feet.


Waterproof Lightwheight Trail Shoes:

Low cut trail shoes are still suitable for Patagonia. It's just important to note that they provide significantly less stability than mid-cut boots. Some good options listed below.


  1. Merrel Moab III Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Womens Option - Very popular and highly rated hiking shoe.

  2. Merrel Moab Speed II GTX - Womens Option - Another Variant of Merrel's Moab line.

  3. Keen Targhee IV Hiking Shoes - Womens Option - Keens most updated low cut waterproof hiking shoe.

  4. Keen Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoes - Womens Option - Previous version of above, but included as they are the top reviewed waterproof hiking shoe on Amazon.


Camp Shoes:

Many people like to be able to take their hiking boots off and relax when they hit the refugios. If you are one of these people, you might be interested in lightweight camp slippers for your time around the refugios. Heres some options for packable, lightweight indoor/outdoor slippers.


  1. Northface Thermoball Camp Shoes - Womens Option - Lightweight water resistant down slippers with rubber soles for outdoor use.

  2. Northface Thermoball Traction Camp Bootie - Womens Option - Same as above but bootie style.

  3. Rock Dove Puffer Booties - Womens Option - More budget


Shower Shoes:

Shower shoes are recommended by the local operator as there are many people using the same showers at the refugios. I would recommend the lightest possible sandals you can find. Many options available.



Backpacks:

For the W-Trek, I recommend a 35 - 50 liter pack, depending on the amount of gear you plan to carry with you. You do not need a huge pack by any means, but something to carry adequate layers, a packed lunch, and all your accessories is required.


  1. Gregory Zulu 45 Backpack - Unisex. Excellent pack with breathable mesh back. Similar to what I will be using.

  2. Osprey Kestrel 38L Backpack - Womens Osprey Kyte Option - Great size and design. Osprey makes good packs, especially for those with long torsos.

  3. Osprey Kestrel 48L Backpack - Womens Osprey Kyte Option - Same as above but 10 liters larger.

  4. Teton Scout 45L Backpack - Budget Option. Unisex.


Backpack Rain Covers:

Needed for rain protection.


  1. Osprey Ultralight Raincover - Choose size large for 50 - 75L packs. Medium if smaller.


Accessories


Water Bottles:

Make sure your water bottles fit in your backpack pockets!



Water Filtration:

Water is generally safe to drink in Torres del Paine, even directly from streams and rivers due to their un-interrupted flow directly from the mountains. However, there is always a small risk of infection from various protozans, bacteria, and viruses. If this is of concern for you, here are some recommendations for water filtration.


  1. MSR Miniworks EX Water Filter - Pump filter that is highly effective for filtering water directly from streams, rivers, etc. Weighs about 1 lb.

  2. Aquatabs - A tablet that kills bacteria, viruses, and cysts. Lightweight and easy to pack.


Towels:

It is optional but recommended to bring a microfiber towel. They can be rented at the refugio's, but they sometimes run out when its busy.


  1. Youphoria Microfiber Travel Towel - Lightweight budget travel towel that comes in various sizes


Headlamps:

You don't need anything special for this trip. Just something to get around if walking around camp at night.


  1. Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

  2. Black Diamond Spot 400

  3. LHKNL Headlamp - Super budget. knock-off brand that comes in 2-pack and well reviewed on amazon.


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:

Small compact camera options great for hiking.


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.

  2. Pentax WG-90 - Even more Budget! Also freeze, crush, and waterproof.



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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