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Here’s everything you need for a trip to the White Continent, including expert travel tips.
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Travel + Leisure
Packing for Antarctica isn’t quite like prepping for a typical vacation.
But don’t fret!
“Your trip operator has the experience and makes the decision easy for you.
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Just pack what’s on the list and leave the rest at home.”
And, beyond what’s on this list, there’s one thing you absolutely need to bring.
“Pack thermal layers, mid-weight, wool, and synthetic sweaters,” says Byus.
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If you want to bringa heated jacket, choose one that is lightweight and packable.
Sweaters and light fleeces are very much common shipboard fashion choices.
Opt for a packablepuffer jacket, which you might also wear onboard if you find yourself cold.
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If you already have a parka, it will likely come with its own hard shell.
Find it in both womens andmens options.
Helly Hansen makes this lightweight fleece with all recycled materials.
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Plus, it comes in a wide range of colorsfor menand women.
Shop it in a range of colors with womens andmens sizing.
Again, wool or synthetics are your best bet both for comfort and for multiple wears.
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SmartWool is an expert on all things wool, and in particular, soft merino wool.
The womens andmens thermal base layer pantsare nice and thin, making them easy to wear under a mid-layer.
But they’re still highly insulating to keep you warm, of course.
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You’ll likely have to wade through shallow water to get ashore, too.
Pro tip: wear these pantsoutsideyour boots.
If you tuck them into your boots, the water will run down themintoyour boots.
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(Select sizes are also availablefor menas well as full-zip versionsfor womenandfor men.)
Best Fleece Pants for Women
L.L.
If you run cold, choose a thicker material, like fleece.
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Bean’s Mountain Fleece pants are super soft and breathable, all the while keeping you warm.
I recommend wearing a one-piece to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions.
“Antarctica has strict biosecurity protocols to keep wildlife safe from illness such as avian flu.
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I’ve worn these muck boots as rentals, and they were well-insulated and waterproof.
If you have narrow feet, I’d recommend bringing wool inserts to reduce the roominess inside.
Bogs is another great brand for insulated, waterproof boots.
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I’ve also worn awomen’s versionin Antarctica as well, and I liked the support in the sole.
This pair also comes inmens sizing.
You’ll get bonus points if you choose a waterproof hat, like this multi-layer one by Sealskinz.
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Plus, you could always use your parka hood for additional warmth if necessary.
This earmuff headband by Outdoor Research is made with Gore-tex material that’s designed to be windproof.
Best Gloves
EnergeticSky Waterproof Winter Gloves
Waterproofing is key when it comes to gloves.
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But something else to consider is the fact you’ll probably be using a phone to take photos.
One warning: there’s a limit to their waterproofing.
They’re also quick-drying in case they get wet.
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But they’re especially useful for covering your face to protect against the wind during a Zodiac ride.
This one by Icebreaker is made out of soft, warm merino wool.
“Dont skimp on your wool socks,” says Byus.
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“Pack plenty to keep your toes nice and warm while youre hiking across the last great wilderness.”
I’ve worn Darn Tough socks many polar adventures, and they’ve always kept my feet warm.
Don’t be one of them don a pair of eyewear retainers to keep them attached to you.
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Overall, the fewer bags, the better.
“Minimize the size of your baggage,” says Brokvist.
Having a light and reasonably sized bag makes the process far easier.”
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This Samsonite bag is ourtop pick for checked luggagefor its durability and expandable storage system.
Plus, it’s more affordable than some of the trending bags on the market.
For me, that spot is in a folding duffel, namely this lightweight, easy-to-pack bag from REI.
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Most ships will have high-end binoculars that you’re able to borrow while you’re onboard.
And they’re small enough to you guessed it be put into a parka pocket.
To protect my phone on extra soggy days, I simply tuck it into my parka.
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In addition to whatever facial moisturizer you use, pack some heavy-duty hand cream.
This one by Fenty is designed to be used overnight as a hand mask for maximum restoration.
(Some ships will provide lotion for you but always ask ahead).
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“Some ships offer laundry service, too.”
And if there’s any item that has a chance of being lost at sea, bring a backup.
“I actually recommend guests bring two pairs of sunglasses with them,” says Byus.
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“On my first trip, I only brought one pair and sadly I lost them.”
Cotton, on the other hand, gets wet and stays wet it’s not a good insulator.
Bringing a packable duffle bag can also help solve that problem.
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I’ve found that tossing a backpack over one causes you to become very bulky and lose some mobility.
Plus, some operators require you to also wear your lifejacket while you’re walking around onshore.
And, in that case, it needs to be waterproof.
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“I definitely recommend renting gear you wouldnt use regularly in your daily life back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like in Antarctica?
What clothing do cruise lines typically provide?
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