Glistening, groaning icebergs. Playful Adélie, gentoo, and emperor penguins. Sunbathing Weddell seals and spouting sperm whales. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, driest continent on earth, and for many travelers, the final frontier.
Since the “Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration” at the end of the 19th century, people have longed to follow in Shackleton’s footsteps and explore this polar desert. Fortunately for modern adventurers, more opportunities than ever are available for tourists to check the most elusive continent on Earth off their bucket lists. However, to do that, you must have the right gear.
What to Pack for a Voyage to Antarctica
Most expeditions to Antarctica are on scientific research vessels that also transport tourists. Unlike a traditional cruise, however, you won’t need fancy formalwear. Dress on board is casual and comfortable, focusing on safety. Ships typically ban any footwear that’s open-toed or high-heeled, but your tuxedo t-shirt will be just fine for a penguin theme night. While on board, your best bet is comfortable, layered clothing and slip-resistant shoes for walking the damp decks. Wildlife sightings are a popular pastime at sea, and this is a perfect opportunity to give your camera and snow gear a test run, since the wind on deck will give you a taste of Antarctic cold. Binoculars also come in handy for spotting far-off whales and birds from the boat.
Be Prepared for Seasickness Crossing Drake Passage
Before you step foot on the southernmost continent, you’ll have to brave the Drake Passage. Those who make the crossing frequently refer to it as the “Drake Shake” or the “Drake Lake,” depending on the swell of the sea. If it’s the former, you’ll want to be prepared with seasickness medicine. This could include pills, patches, wristbands, or a combination; if you’re particularly susceptible, talk with your doctor about prescription medication before your departure.
Packing for Shore Excursions in Antarctica
As you approach your first landing, the ship’s crew will check your outdoor wear and camera gear, like tripods, for any tiny stowaways. Everything will be inspected, vacuumed, and brushed to remove foreign particles like dirt and seeds to protect Antarctica’s pristine environment.
Getting from your ship to Deception Island, South Shetland Islands, the Falkland Islands, and other popular Antarctic landings requires you to ride in an inflatable motorboat.
A waterproof dry bag or backpack is useful for keeping your camera gear dry, and a waterproof pouch on a lanyard will secure your phone for quick photos. The extreme cold can drain your batteries faster than usual, so bring extras and keep them in an inner coat pocket to benefit from your body heat.
How to Protect Yourself in This Harsh Environment
Sunglasses with a UV filter are essential for exploring in the blinding southerly sunshine, as is sunscreen. Some people bring ski goggles to help combat the wind, especially if they have prescription lenses. Moisturizer and lip balm are also necessities in the Antarctic atmosphere; due to low temperatures, the polar air contains about one-tenth of the water vapor found in temperate latitudes, leading to quick skin dryness.
While it may seem tempting to pack your bulkiest clothes to stay warm, you’ll fare better with layers of moisture-wicking, windproof fabrics. Top these with waterproof snow pants (a requirement for most Antarctic trips), but remember not to tuck them in, as that will allow ice and snow to enter your boots, leading to damp socks and cold toes.
Preventing Contamination of This Pristine Environment
Many operators provide rubber boots for excursions to prevent contamination of the Antarctic snow and soil. However, layering thin, moisture-wicking socks underneath a thicker, warmer pair will keep your toes warm, particularly if you drop some air-activated heat packets into your boots. The same layering approach is effective for your hands, with a thin liner pair of gloves topped with a thick, waterproof pair of ski-type gloves.
A balaclava offers an all-in-one approach for keeping your head warm and your face protected from Antarctic winds. Alternatively, you can opt for a snug-fitting beanie and a neck gaiter that will fit under the hood of your coat.
Stay Warm and Dry… Except for the Polar Plunge
Despite freezing temperatures, bring a swimsuit. The polar plunge is a fun opportunity to shed your outer layers for a quick dip in the sub-zero salt water. Once back on board, keeping your swimsuit on allows you to take advantage of the ship’s sauna to warm up after the swim.
How to Protect Your Camera Gear in Antarctica
You’re likely to take more photos in Antarctica than many other travel destinations, therefore ensuring your gear is ready is essential. Consider a rubber housing to protect your camera body, a rain sleeve to keep out snow and spray, and a lens hood to combat the icy glare. An external hard drive will help free up space on memory cards, and a power strip comes in handy for charging all your devices at once in your cabin. Additionally, you may require outlet adapters, so check before your journey.
Miscellaneous Items You Also Need for Your Antarctica Voyage
If you’re bunking in a shared cabin, don’t forget to bring essential items such as a sleep mask, earplugs, and a bag lock. If you plan to visit Port Lockroy or Vernadsky Station, keep some U.S. currency handy to purchase items from the gift shop.
The most surprising item you likely won’t need to pack is a coat as most cruise operators provide one. This serves both branding opportunities and safety reasons, facilitating easier identification of guests on excursions. Double-check before you leave to ensure it’s included.
Antarctica Packing Essentials at a Glance
- Synthetic, silk, or wool base layers
- Waterproof snow pants
- Moisture-wicking socks
- Wool or insulating socks
- Swimsuit
- Close-toed, slip-resistant deck shoes
- Waterproof boots
- UV-protected sunglasses
- Dry bag
- Beanie or watch cap
- Neck gaiter
- Waterproof gloves
- Light windbreaker or jacket
- Binoculars
- Extra batteries
- Camera + chargers, lenses, accessories, etc.
- Motion sickness medication
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen + SPF chapstick
