Just got back from Antarctica and wanted to share a few packing things I really didn’t fully get until I was there.
Biggest takeaway: wind and water matter way more than cold. Zodiac rides and wet landings mean waterproof gear is everything. Wind decides how cold you feel, not the temp.
Layering really is key, but sweat is the enemy. Wool or synthetic only. I lived in merino base layers and often didn’t need much more when active. Cotton would have been miserable.
Rain pants and a waterproof shell are non negotiable. Nothing fancy needed, just dry. Under rain pants, fleece was plenty for me. I brought long johns and never used them, but conditions vary.
Gloves are tricky. I wish I brought variety instead of two identical insulated pairs. Thin liners were my most used. Waterproof but flexible gloves would have been perfect for Zodiacs.
Boots just need to be tall and waterproof. I bought Muck Boots and they were great, but honestly renting would have been totally fine and easier.
Around the ship, slip-on shoes with decent grip were clutch. I underestimated how annoying laces would be. Also bring one or two nicer outfits. There were a couple of social nights and I wished I had packed slightly more normal clothes.
Sunglasses are mandatory. A wool neck gaiter was way more useful than I expected. Trekking poles were nice to have for some people, less needed for others.
Overall, absolutely life changing trip.
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