Heading to Antarctica?

Packing for Antarctica isn’t your average checklist. It’s not just about warmth—it’s about surviving the wind, embracing the snow, and being ready to photograph a penguin dive-bombing a glacier. When we boarded our cruise from Ushuaia to the White Continent, we learned quickly: the right gear can mean the difference between magic and misery. Here’s everything we brought (and wished we had) on our once-in-a-lifetime expedition to the bottom of the Earth.

Clothing: Layer Like Your Life Depends on It

Antarctica may look like a winter postcard, but wind chill is serious business. The golden rule? Layers. Lots of them.

Base Layers (Thermal/Insulated)

• 2–3 pairs of moisture-wicking thermal tops and leggings (merino wool or synthetic)
• Avoid cotton—it traps moisture and chills you down

Mid Layers (Warmth Trap)

• 1–2 fleece jackets or wool pullovers
• A light down jacket is perfect under your shell

Outer Layer (Wind & Waterproof)

• Waterproof parka (usually provided by the cruise company)
• Waterproof trousers/ski pants for Zodiac rides and landings

Accessories

• Thermal gloves + waterproof outer gloves (you’ll need two layers)
• 2–3 beanies or thermal hats
• Neck gaiter or buff (not scarves—they flap too much in wind)
• Wool socks (3–5 pairs; Smartwool or similar)
• Swimsuit for the polar plunge (you’ve been warned)

Some dreams feel too big… until you stand inside them. Antarctica was ours. Don’t just chase your dreams—suit up, show up, and live them.

Footwear: Dry Feet = Happy Feet

• Waterproof insulated boots – Most cruises provide these, but confirm beforehand, but we still recommend you take a waterproof, well insulated one as you would be walking outside for wildlife sightings, photography etc
• Comfortable shoes for onboard (slippers, trainers)

Camera Gear: For Capturing That “Nat Geo” Shot

Antarctica is a photographer’s dream. But cold, wet conditions can challenge your setup. Here’s what to bring:

Essentials

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with weather sealing (Sony Alpha, Canon R, Nikon Z, etc.)
• Zoom lens (e.g., 100–400mm) for wildlife
• Wide-angle lens (e.g., 16–35mm) for landscapes & icebergs

Must-Have Accessories

• Sturdy tripod or travel monopod (essential for time-lapses, low-light)
• Extra batteries (cold drains them fast—store close to your body)
• Dry bag or camera rain cover
• Memory cards (bring more than you think you’ll need)
• Lens cloths & anti-fog wipes

Optional

• GoPro or action camera for Zodiac rides
• Drone – You need special permission for this, check with the cruise operator way before you’re trip, the cruise providers do share the drone pictures later. They would have someone with the license who would fly it.

Tech & Power

• Universal adapter (cruise ships may have various sockets)
• Power bank (cold = dead devices)
• Laptop or tablet for photo backups and journal entries
• Waterproof phone case (for Zodiac selfies)

Personal & Medical Items

• Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF 30+ (yes, you’ll need it)
• Moisturiser – Your skin will thank you
• Prescription meds & seasickness tablets
• Hand warmers – Pocket lifesavers during long Zodiac outings
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack or dry bag for excursions

Documents & Logistics

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Travel insurance certificate (check if it covers polar regions)
• Cruise documents, medical clearance forms
• Cash in USD (for tipping the crew and optional purchases)

Extras That Came in Handy

• Binoculars – Great for spotting wildlife from deck
• Notebook & pen – Journal your daily adventures
• Snacks – Energy bars for excursions
• Ziplock bags – For organizing small stuff & keeping things dry
• Laundry bags or compression sacks for managing space

Final Tips:

• Don’t overpack clothes—you’ll wear the same outerwear daily.
• Pack smarter, not heavier—space in your cabin will be tight.
• Leave the fancy wear at home. Comfort and function win in Antarctica.

Antarctica will test your gear, your endurance, and your love of nature—but in the best way possible. With the right packing list, you’ll spend less time shivering and more time soaking in one of the planet’s last untouched frontiers. Trust us, you don’t want to miss the shot of that orca breach because your fingers were too frozen to click.

Now it’s your turn—would you dare to polar plunge?

FAQ – Planning an Antarctica Expedition

1. How do you get to Antarctica?

We departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, aboard the Ocean Endeavour, one of several expedition ships offering trips to the Antarctic Peninsula.

2. Are kids allowed on Antarctic cruises?

Yes, but most expedition cruises have age restrictions, usually 8 or 10+ years. The trip involves cold conditions, long travel days, and physically demanding landings, so it’s better suited to older children and teens who can handle the experience.

3. What grade of cruise was it—luxury or basic?

The Ocean Endeavour offers a comfortable expedition-style cruise—not ultra-luxury, but well above basic. Think warm cabins, excellent meals, a lecture theatre, wellness amenities (yoga, massage, sauna), and a casual, adventure-first vibe. Some cruises focus on luxury with butlers and suites, while others (like ours) balance comfort with exploration.

4. What kind of food is served on board?

Surprisingly good! We enjoyed:

• Daily buffets with hot and cold options
• Themed dinners (like Argentine BBQ night)
• Decadent desserts and fresh bread
• Hot drinks and snacks always available
  Vegetarian and dietary needs were well catered. You won’t go hungry in Antarctica!

5. Is there medical support on the ship?

Yes. There’s a dedicated medical clinic onboard with a licensed doctor experienced in remote medicine. They can handle common illnesses, injuries, and seasickness. For anything serious, evacuation is possible but weather-dependent.

Antarctica doesn’t just test your gear—it tests your spirit. Pack wisely, dream wildly.

6. What should I pack for an Antarctica trip?

Layering is key! Here’s the essentials:

• Base layers (thermal tops & bottoms)
• Mid layers (fleece or wool)
• Outer shell (waterproof jacket & pants)
• Insulated gloves & liners
• Wool socks & beanie
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Waterproof boots (usually provided)
• Camera gear + dry bags
  Also bring sunscreen, motion sickness meds, and reusable water bottles.

7. What wildlife did you see?

A ton! Penguins (Gentoo, Chinstrap, Adélie), whales (Humpbacks, Orcas), seals (Weddell, Crabeater, Leopard), and birds like Albatrosses and Petrels. We even saw Orcas hunting a whale—an unforgettable real-life Nat Geo moment.

8. What activities are available on expedition cruises?

We hiked, kayaked, paddleboarded, camped on the ice, and visited scientific bases. Some ships also offer snowshoeing, photography workshops, and citizen science programs.

9. How rough is the Drake Passage?

It varies. We had a classic “Drake Shake”—a wild ride with big waves. Motion sickness medication is a must. But once you arrive, the calm Antarctic waters are magical.

10. Is the Polar Plunge safe?

Absolutely! It’s optional and carefully monitored. You jump from the ship into icy water, swim for a few seconds, then rush back into towels, hot drinks, and bragging rights.

11. Is Antarctica a budget-friendly destination?

Not really. Trips start around USD 7,000+ per person, depending on the cruise style and season. However, early-bird deals or last-minute sales can help. Flights to South America are another cost to consider.

12. Is it worth it?

Without a doubt. Reaching our seventh continent wasn’t just a bucket list tick—it was a deeply humbling experience. Antarctica reminds you that the world is still wild, and that some dreams are worth chasing.

13. Did you really sleep on the ice?!

Yes—we camped on actual Antarctic snow, and it was one of the most unforgettable (and slightly ridiculous) experiences of our lives.

The crew provided expedition-grade sleeping bags, bivy sacks, and insulated mats. It was cold, but manageable—and since it was December, we had no darkness, just a soft golden glow hovering over the ice all night.

There were no tents (to follow Antarctic conservation rules), and yes, the toilet was a bucket system with a privacy shield—not glamorous, but hands down the best toilet view on Earth. Add in the soundtrack of penguins and fellow passengers snoring, and you’ve got a night to remember. It’s uncomfortable, surreal, and 100% worth it for the bragging rights alone.

14. Should I choose an expedition cruise or a luxury cruise?

We say: go with expedition-style. While luxury cruises offer more pampering and plush interiors, expedition cruises are all about getting off the ship—zodiac landings, kayaking, ice camping, station visits, and wildlife encounters. It’s immersive, hands-on, and full of adventure. You still get great food, warm cabins, and creature comforts, but the real luxury is in the experience—not the thread count.

15. When is the best time to visit Antarctica?

We went in December, which was perfect—long daylight hours, great weather, active wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. But each month in the Antarctic season (November to March) offers something unique:

• November (Early Season) – Fresh snow, pristine landscapes, fewer ships. Penguins are nesting. Great for dramatic photography and snow-covered scenes.
• December (Mid-Season) – Peak wildlife viewing. Penguins are hatching, whales start appearing, and you get nearly 24 hours of daylight.
• January (High Season) – Warmest month. Best chance for whale sightings, penguin chicks galore, and easy landings on melting snow.
• February – Excellent for whale watching. Penguin chicks are active, and seal sightings are more frequent.
• March (Late Season) – Fewer visitors. Wildlife is still present, but it’s quieter. Great for photographers seeking moody skies and golden sunsets.

No bad time—just different kinds of amazing.