How to Pack for an Antarctica Cruise
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If you are going to the bottom of the world, one would think you are simply packing the warmest stuff you can find – but there’s much more to an Antarctica packing list than warm clothes!
I’ve been to Antarctica THREE TIMES, and each time I was surprised to find out the weather wasn’t as cold as I expected it would be. In fact, most days it was warmer in Antarctica than it was in South Dakota in the winter! You do need to be prepared for the cold storms, but a mix of layers is the key.
Most cruises to Antarctica go as far as the Antarctic Peninsula (the northernmost part of mainland Antarctica), which experiences milder temperatures than coastal or inland Antarctica.
However, I’ve also been to Eastern Antarctica and that had a bit of a different environment. It’s much more exposed. The temperatures in and around Antarctica vary. The peninsula ranges between 20 to 40 degrees F, while Eastern Antarctica is more like 0 to 32 degrees F.
But it’s not just about the cold — it’s also wet, windy, bright, and unpredictable. And when the wind blows, those average temperatures are meaningless!
Here are the most essential pieces on my Antarctica packing list.
Table of Contents
Antarctica Packing List Essentials
Packing for an Antarctica cruise is not easy. You are going to one of the most extreme places in the world – and that requires some extreme gear.
Packing Do’s
You will definitely need warm weather gear for being outside, however you will also need special items that are required on zodiac rides, and don’t forget the items you’ll need for time on the ship. You’ll want to pack with layers in mind, since you’ll be going in and out of cold outdoor environments and warm indoor ship environments. And don’t forget that you will need to also protect things like your camera gear in these harsh environments!
There are often things that you might not consider when you think about your Antarctica packing list – like what do you need for your downtime on the ship, things that make life in your cabin easier, items that are good for indoor/outdoor transition, and whatever you do, don’t forget the sea sickness drugs!
Packing Don’ts
Try to avoid items with a lot of velcro. I know that sounds weird – but there’s a good reason for this. the small hooks on velcro can easily trap seeds, dirt, and other organic material from your clothing, potentially introducing invasive non-native species to the continent’s delicate ecosystem, which is strictly protected against such contamination; therefore, all gear, including velcro, must be thoroughly cleaned before entering Antarctica to prevent environmental damage
Here’s the good news – since I’ve been to Antarctica 3 times, I’ve got my complete Antarctica Packing List honed and ready for you!
Outdoor Gear for Antarctica Cruises
Gear for Landings and Zodiac Rides
This is where you’ll need your most extreme gear against cold and wind and snow. Things that are completely waterproof and windproof. It will need good insulation, and you have to make sure all of your extremities are covered.
Boots for Antarctica and Zodiac Rides
Waterproof boots or Wellies – Make sure you check to see what your boat supplies first. Some cruises, like mine, supplied us with Wellies which made packing much easier. The boots must be completely waterproof as often times when you are getting out of a zodiac raft and onto shore you will have to step in water that can be ankle-deep.
In addition the boots should be comfortable. Often times you do longer hikes in these boots so make sure they fit well!
A fun tip is if the ship is providing the boots, then bring a set of arch support inserts to help with the fit. You spend a lot of time in the boots when on landings and you want to be as comfortable as possible.
Mens/Womens waterproof Wellingtnon boots, insulated for Antarctica travel. You'll need these for zodiac rides and landings when you often have to step out into water. These are heavy duty and have great traction for walking around at your landing site.
These are great to put in the klunky wellington style boots the ship often gives you for landings. You spend a lot of time in those boots while on landings, and have a bit more support in them is welcomed.
Socks
This is where wool is your friend. Layers of wool socks are best for drying quickly and keeping you warm. I suggest a liner sock and then bulky wool socks to keep warm in the boots. If the ship provided boot, find out if they are insulated or not. Ours were not insulated and the wool socks were my main insulation – I used tall ski smartwool socks under my Wellies. Take multiple pairs in case they don’t have time to dry out between zodiac outings.
Another option for warmth is heated socks. I have a pair of Gobi heated socks and they are a really great piece of gear to have for Antarctica. The batteries are easily rechargeable, they warm up fast, and they last about 10 hours. They are long socks so they are great for in your boots.
Check out my packing list for extreme temperatures
A base layer for sock layering. WICK Dry technology quickly draws moisture away from your skin so your feet stay dry and comfortable. Removing the moisture build up reduces hot spots and friction that causes blisters
The cozy merino wool cushioning next to the skin insulates the foot from hot spots. Now featuring...
Out of all of the heated products out there - I find the socks work the best.
They use a steel fiber heating technology and dual slim 2,400 mAh Lithium Polymer batteries allow for extended heat during longer day trips. They warm up within 30 seconds so feel more comfortable immediately!
10 hours of Heat | Battery and Charger Included
Outer Layer for Antarctica Landings
Waterproof pants and a heavy duty parka that is wind proof and waterproof are essential on any Antarctica trip.
Waterproof insulated pants are absolutely necessary for getting in and out of the zodiac in deeper water. This is why water repellent isn’t enough – you need waterproof because you will be standing in water on nearly every landing. In addition, if you are in a zodiac when it starts to rain or snow you’ll be happy you have them!
A good parka is a must. Once again, some cruise companies provide this which make it mush easier to travel. But if they don’t, then be sure to get something that is warm and windproof. It should be longer than a regular jacket and have a good hood and insulation, and be waterproof. This is the typically the warmest, toughest jacket you can get! I have an Outdoor Research parka that ticks all of these boxes and I absolutely love it. Perfect for Antarctica or Alaska winter travel!
A lighter waterproof jacket comes in handy as wind protection you are doing other Subantarctic or other island stops that get more rain than snow.
A great outer layer for extreme cold environments. Seam-sealed 2-layer DryVent™ fabric provides waterproof/breathable protection from the elements
The ultimate down parka for the coldest weather. I love this coat with 700+ fill to keep you toasty warm. It's made of Gortex which means it's waterproof and windproof. However, the best thing about this coat is all of the pockets! I also like how you an cinch it as the waster for a little more flattering look. The arm cuffs fit snuggly so no cold air is sneaking in!
Layering for Changing Temperatures
The most important thing is making sure you don’t overheat when you are on a landing. To avoid that, it’s good to have layers. Wicking, breathing fabric is essential, or else you will end up very cold if your sweat is trapped next to your skin.
Wool (or any natural fiber) is nature’s ultimate travel companion. Lightweight and highly breathable, wool keeps you cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool, all while naturally wicking moisture away. Whether on a plane, train, veranda, or hiking trail, wool adapts to your body temperature, helping you feel fresh and comfortable wherever you roam. I love Smartwool base layers because they are not only odor-free and totally warm, but they are also fashionable. I use these for my base layer – the starting point to staying warm in Antarctica.
I wear this crew everywhere. I wear it as a baselayer for snowshoeing, and often I just wear it alone because I love the design. Comfortable against your skine - it'll make the perfect baselayer for cold temps!
These are the best base layer pants I have! You'll conquer the cold with more confidence than ever. I use these for snowshoeing, sleeping, and sometimes I just lounge around in them because they are so darn comfortable!
Midlayers can be a variety of things as long as they help you trap the heat yet are breathable: wool, fleece, down, or synthetic. The flipside of fleece, though, is that wind blows right through, which can steal warmth. That’s why you need to have an outer layer wind protection with you if you’re going with a fleece middle layer.
If it’s really cold, I will use my Fjallraven puffy jacket as a middle layer, and I’ll use a wind jacket as a top layer over it. However, if I’m doing something active, then I’ll use it as a top layer because being active outdoors will keep you warm in general… so you normally don’t need a top layer! Some of my other mid-layer favorites are my favorite Smartwool Smartloft jacket or other Smartwool half zips – I have a variety of them!
A great puffy jacket for staying warm when the temperatures dip. It's lightweight, but very insultating! I use this for camping and hiking trips in the evening. Made from 100% recycled polyester free-fiber insulation provides down-like puffiness and loft—and continues to insulate even when damp!
The ultimate cold-weather jacket and perfect for a mid-layer in cold environments or an outer layer for autumn temps. It uses a recycled wool insulation to offer lightweight, packable warmth wherever you go. A DWR finish helps protect you from the elements, with a stretchy and soft Merino-blend fleece on the inside. So you’re free to move through any chilly adventure in total comfort.
A super warm Alpaca crew sweater makes a perfect midlayer for cold conditions. Plus, it's pretty enough to wear on it's own too! Made from Alpaca from the Andes in Peru. PAKA is a sustainable brand - another plus!
This Outdoor Research fleece is is a great midlayer for colder weather. Wicking, quick-drying and breathable! I love the kangaroo pocket!
The great thing about your midlayer gear is that it’s also perfect for lounging around the ship when you are moving from place to place!
Sunglasses and/or Ski Goggles
The combination of water, snow, and sun creates deadly glare so be sure to pack sunglasses and heavy-duty sunscreen!
Or consider going the ultimate route, ski goggles which are really super for the windy days of which there are many in Eastern Antarctica. They provide more face protection too and that’s always a bonus!
Outdoor Master has a great variety of snow goggles that are great for skiing, snow shoeing, and snow mobiling. Many have interchangeable lenses for different conditions, and they have over-the-glasses goggles too. But the best part - they are a reasonable price - Outdoor Master goggles are a great value!
Sunscreen
Don’t forget that snow can cause an awful sunburn. Don’t forget to protect your face from a snow sunburn! Sunbum mineral sunscreen is my favorite. And bring a few chapsticks too while you are at it!
Sunscreen is a must when going to Antarctica - think lots of white snow and sunshine! But all you really need is a face sunscreen since you'll be fully covered everywhere else.
Gloves
There are lots of options for keeping your hands warm and dry while on Antarctica Landings. From regular gloves to heated gloves, to hand warmer muffs! You want to treat your hands the same way as you do your body…use layers!
Lets start with the base layers – these need to be breathable fabric and it’s really nice if they also have touchscreen fingertips – that way you don’t always have to take them off for photos, etc.
A warm windproof/waterproof glove over that is necessary! Here you have many options – you can do just a regular glove, or a heated glove, or even a heated muff. Or you may opt for electric rechargeable hand warmers to carry in your pockets for extra warmth. And if you want a simple (easier on the budget) great waterproof glove I’ve got an answer for that too
For a warm weatherproof glove, there are a number of great brands out there that specialize in only gloves like Gordini, Dakine, or Hestra. And I also really like the Outdoor Research heated winter gloves.
These are a great baselayer glove to use in Antarctica that will allow you to be nimble with your camera, zippers, clasps, etc. And they'll work with your phone!
These are perfect for Antarctica travels. They will keep you dry and warm when riding the zodiacs. Most expeditions companies require waterproof gear and these are perfect and low cost. They even work with phone screens and have great grip!
Cold Weather Waterproof Gore-tex Insulated Gauntlet Snow glove.
DAKINE Sequoia GORE-TEX mittens feature water-repellent and durable shells backed by GORE-TEX inserts with GORE® Warm that bolsters warmth and waterproofing.
These warm mittens will stay warm for hours thanks to it's battery! These heated gloves are great for the frigid temps of Alaska or Antarctica. They are fully waterproof.
This is it...I finally found the best solution for keeping my hands warm in extreme cold environments like Antarctica or aurora chasing...this muff is the best! I use it primarily for doing photography in the winter - it's better than any other gloves I've tried before. The inside is lined with warm fur and the heat settings are incredible. It also has a little zip pocket where you can keep your phone and camera batteries warm. The muff's battery life is good for staying out for hours waiting for aurora!
Electric Pocket-Sized Handwarmers with 3 heat settings will keep your hands toasty warm in the cold temps. These are ultra light and thin and will easily fit in your pockets. In addition they heat up really fast, and will last for aproximately 4 to 8 hrs.
Perfect for Antarctica! These rechargeable penguin hand warmers will keep your pockets toasty as you view the penguin colonies in Antarctica!
Backpacks
You’ll need some sort of backpack to bring on landings. Mine was always filled with camera equipment, sunscreen, hat, and had warmers! However – since zodiac landings can be wet, you want to make sure that your backpack is waterproof. I have seen people drop their camera in the water or their backpack in the water when it was a rough landing. Better be safe than sorry – use a dry bag or SealLine dry backpack! the 18L was big enough to fit my camera and a couple of lenses.
I hate those waterproof phone bags where you have to shoot through a piece of plastic. I refuse to use them, instead - I took this versatile hip pack to Iceland with me. I stored my phone in it and then got it out to shoot pictures. This is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, and any rainy environment - like riding a motorbike in Vietnam in rainy season!
Waterproof protection in a backpack! This is for the ultra rainy adventures such as my Iceland trip - it kept all of my day pack gear and camera gear completely dry while hiking to waterfalls or doing whale watching. In addition it's also great for expedition cruising and riding in splashy zodiacs. The backpack straps evenly dispurse weight making it much better than a regular dry bag.
Hiking Poles
Hiking poles really do help with uneven surfaces. Many of our landings included hikes on pretty rocky/boulder-covered ground. It was nice to have a little extra balance.
Gear for the Ship
This includes items for your cabin to make it more livable, and items you’ll need to ‘move’ around the ship and be safe. In addition, I even have some of my favorite books for lounging on the ship between landings!
Clothing for the Ship
You’ll spend a lot of time lounging around the ship in between landings so bring comfortable clothes and shoes. I packed leggings, joggers, long-sleeved t-shirts, and fluffy fleece pullovers – all easy going items. You typically don’t need any ‘nice/fancy’ clothes on an Antarctic journey – at least none that I’ve ever gone on, or want to go on! Layers on the ship are also nice because many times you have to run outside all of a sudden to see a whale or an iceberg – so it’s good to have things that will work for that. I really loved having some sturdy slip on shoes/slippers that I could use while on the ship.
Here are some of my favorite items I took with me on the ship. For the upper half I normally wear my base layers or a smartloft jacket that I use as a mid layer.
I love these pants! These comfortable joggers were perfect for lounging and staying warm on the ship! They had a warmth and comfort that never quits! Made of 50% recycled wool insulation, with two different insulation zones, plus a finish to help protect you from the elements. Perfection!
The ultimate cold-weather skirt! I love to wear this over a cute base layer legging that gives it a whole new look! Made from recycled wool insulation to offer lightweight, packable warmth. And the best part...pockets!!!
Swimsuit – yes, you read that right. Many of the expedition ships have a sauna or hot tub you might want to use. But the main reason to take a swimsuit is to take a polar plunge! Are you brave enough?
I love Carve Designs. They have a super lineup of swimwear - 1 pieces, 2 pieces, and rashguards!
Other Ship Items I recommend
Phone Strap
This is a lifesaver! No longer do I have to worry about losing my phone or misplacing is somewhere on the ship. PLUS – this is perfect for the ship because you always need to be walking around the ship with free hands. Having my phone tethered on me let me have my hands free for navigating the moving ship! I used this on and off the ship. In zodiacs it was a way I could ensure that I wouldn’t drop my phone in the water when trying to film a leoopard seal! This was probably the piece of gear I used the most!
This is a travel game changer - never be in fear of dropping your phone again. I find this especially great for adventure travel where I find myself frequently taking pictures in high risk-of-drop situations. This is also a great item for expedition cruising. It was easy to adjust, durable with metal rings and clasps, and no messy hanging ends.
Bird/Wildlife Watching Reference
The ships normally have this type of reference material, but if you want to take notes or have complete access to the guide all the time, then bring your own!
Binoculars
I didn’t have any and I wish I did. I normally just used my telephoto lens as my way to get a closer view, but a good pair of binoculars would have been a real help.
Compact Nikon Prostaff P7 8 x 42 binoculars. They have a spectacular bright and wide field of view that reveals more of the scene and is easy to hold steady. Small but powerful!
Things for your Cabin
Power Strip
If you have a lot of stuff to plug in and charge (heated socks, mittens, coat, and more), then you’ll want to bring a power strip so that you can charge multiple items at once.
More electronics mean more need for plugs when you travel. This compact travel power strip serves as the perfect charging station for any country and situation. It has a 3 ft. wrapped cord, 4 AC outlets, 2 USB-C chargers, and 2 USB-A ports to power up to 8 devices!
Laundry Bag
Most ships do offer laundry service – however – it’s pretty expensive. So if you just have a few things you want to wash out – like socks, underwear, a baselayer – and it’s not too bulky, then I recommend using the Scrubba. I LOVE this travel item as its a lifesaver for travel.
This hand 'washing machine' for hotel and travel means I never have to do sink laundry again! This large bag has solved so many travel problems for me. The bumps inside the bag provides a wash board effect and cleans your clothing better than you ever could by hand. Plus - the bag doubles as a dry bag! If you are a sink laundry traveler - you must try the Scrubba!
Clothesline
Now that you’ve done a little Scrubba laundry – you have to have a place to hang it! Each ship is different – but it is nice to be able to string up a clothesline in your cabin and let clothes dry from your landings or from any handwashing you do in the sink.
On my month-long Eastern Antarctica expedition, I had to hand wash things all the time in my room, so it was great to be able to dry them easily as well. Don’t forget a little bag of laundry powder too if you are planning to do sink washing!
Magnetic Hooks For Organizing your Cabin
A great way to organize your cruise cabin. These magnetic hooks will afix to the wall easily and you can hang gloves, scarves, jackets or whatever you'd like! Each hook will hold up to 30 lbs!
Eye Cover for Sleeping
Remember you’ll be in the land of midnight sun and that means it’s hard to sleep since the sun never really sets. Bring along a good eye cover for sleeping
Sling Bag for Carrying Things Around the Ship
Bring a medium sling bag or nylon bag to carry things important to you to lounge and other parts of the boat. By packing your book, phone, and headphones in my slingbag, it allowed me to keep your hands free in case the ship pitches.
Bring a little slingpack like this one to carry your stuff around the ship. I would put a book in it, my camera, and headphones. That way I could go anywhere on the ship and have the stuff I need with me.
Travel Coffee/Tea Mug
Most all ships have an endless supply of coffee and tea. However they also have traditional coffee mugs which can be hard to carry on a moving ship with coffee sloshing around. Plus – it just doesn’t stay as warm. That’s why I bring a insultated coffee/tea container that has a lid. It’s just nice to have one of these along so you can have hot beverages that are easy to carry. You can even take it out on deck and enjoy the view of a iceberg with a cup of Joe!
One of the things I like about Klean Kanteen is that they have a system where you really just need to purchase one insulated bottle and then use their interchangeable caps for your different needs; caps for sipping drinks, straws lids for cold drinks, or chug caps. One bottle is really all you need!
Compression socks for travel: what, why, and how
Water Bottle
For shore excursions, it’s great to have a reuseable water bottle. It was especially important for my Eastern Antarctica trip since we were often on land for 3 to 4 hours at a time thanks to our small ship numbers and the lack of other tourist boats there.
Medications to Pack for Antarctica
Most expedition ships come with highly qualified medical staff and supplies since you’re traveling around remote destinations. However, the most frequent medical issue is seasickness. Crossing through the Drake Passage or Southern Ocean is rough, and both left me feeling pretty queasy and sometimes just awful.
Be sure to do your research and talk to a doctor before you go and take seasickness meds or patches – different things work for different people, so my advice is to take more than one. Most ships also provide this too if you forget yours.
I started off using the Scopolamine Patch (prescription necessary from the US), I really disliked the dry mouth and weird dreams it gave me. Then switched to Stugeron/Cinnarizine (only found in the UK over the counter), and that seemed to do better for me.
On my most recent trip I tried yet another option for combating sea sickness – the Relief Band. This rechargeable device looks like a watch you wear on your wrist. Once activated, this anti-nausea band releases a specific pattern of pulses that stimulate the median nerve under the skin. The pulses normalize the nerve messaging from the brain to the stomach, and rapidly relieves nausea and vomiting symptoms without any side effects. You can set the strength of the pulses. I normally turned it up when we were in rougher water. It did help overall, however on the really bad sea days, I still was sick. But for average days – it worked really well. I grew to depend on it!
People also had used, ginger tablets, and Dramamine.
Want anti-nausea solution that has no side effects? Try the Reliefband. Once activated, this anti-nausea band releases a specific pattern of pulses that stimulate the median nerve under the skin. The pulses normalize the nerve messaging from the brain to the stomach, and rapidly relieves nausea and vomiting symptoms without any side effects. I used it to ward off seasickness and it worked well...except for REALLY bad days at sea - then I combined it with other drugs.
Entertainment (Digital and Non-Digital)
You will have a fair bit of free time on the ship as you make the journey, so bring things to do. Books, videos, movies, and podcasts are great for entertainment. But don’t forget it’s also nice to unplug and have some other hobbies too, such as knitting, painting, writing, etc.
Check out some great Antarctica reads before your trip!
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Photography Equipment for Antarctica
For most people, this may be the most important gear, since you will be sharing your amazing experience when you return home. Make sure you have tested out all of your equipment before you go and know how to use it. And bring extra batteries and SD cards – you can never have enough in Antarctica!
Batteries will deplete quickly in the cold temperatures. This is when the heated hand warmers come in handy as you can store your camera batteries in your pocket with the hand warmers and they will have a longer life. I used a Sony Mirrorless camera and lenses and they worked great for my trip.
What Photo equipment should you bring for Antarctica?
See my complete list of Travel Photography Gear
One of the most important things when on zodiacs and the ship is that you keep your hands free in case there is a big swell, etc. I use my Cotton Carrier Harness to carry my camera on landings, the zodiac, and around the ship. I wore this thing everywhere! Not only does it allow you to be hands free, but it’s helps distribute the weight evenly across your shoulders and back when you are carrying heavy camera equipment. This is a lifesaver for any photographer in Antarctica!
I don't go on a trip without this harness! It allows me to be hands free when hiking and snowshoeing. I've also used it while horseback riding. It has saved my neck and back and it a secure, healthy way to carry my camera!
10% off coupon code for readers - OTTSWORLD
Don’t have a telephoto lens for those penguin and whale close-ups? Then consider renting a lens before you go! Places like BorrowLenses.com allow you to rent by the week.
Rain/Snow Gear for Your Camera
Just like you are waterproofing your clothes, you’ll want to protect your camera too. I use a simple raincoat from LensCoat which is great for this type of outdoor shooting when the weather quickly changes.
Plus you can also get LensCoat Lenscovers that will protect your lenses from weather and most importantly – salt water spray. These neoprene covers are made specifically for various lenses from all major brands and easily slip right onto your lens. In addition to protecting your gear, it’s also nice because it helps you grip your equipment and keep it warm.
Don't let the weather stop your photography! This innovative cover provides protection for your camera and lens from the elements like rain, snow, salt spray, dirt, sand and dust while allowing you easy access to the camera and lens controls.
LensCoat® lens covers offers your valuable equipment some protection from scrapes and bumps, preserving its resale value. It also help break up the shape of your lens, making it less noticeable to wildlife.
Non-Cloud Backup
Take some way to backup your photos while you go (laptop, iPad, or notebook). You don’t want to risk losing them!
Be prepared for not having any ‘cloud’ storage/backup availability as the internet access is only available via satellite from the expedition ships and it can be VERY expensive to use. This is continueing to change as things like Starlink becomes available on more ships, but it’s always good to be safe and have extra backups.
I use this small SanDisk external solid state drive. You can get a lot of storage (for all of those photos and videos) in a small package!
This small, lightweight external storage is easy to take traveling. USB-C, Water and Dust Resistance, External Solid State Drive
Emergency Evacuation Insurance
Most Antarctica expeditions require proof of Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance. This is pretty much the norm on these types of remote trips. Getting proof of coverage was easy for me to do. I just called my insurance provider and made sure I was covered and then had them send me the paperwork that provided my proof of coverage. If you don’t have emergency evacuation insurance under your normal medical insurance, then you’ll need to look into travel insurance plans that cover you separately. I used Allianz Travel Insurance to determine my choices and choose a plan that worked for Antarctica.
Extra Passport Pages
Make sure you have empty passport pages. Most of the research stations the ships stop at will stamp your passport with a special Antarctica stamp.
Cash
Yes, you can shop in Antarctica! The ships normally stop at various simple research stations along the peninsula and most of the stations sell Antarctica memorabilia. You’ll find hats, postcards, patches, wine, mittens, and even vodka!
You’re all set to visit this magical remote land! Stay warm and Bon Voyage!
More About Antarctica Travel:
- 7 Things To Do In Antarctica (that surprisingly don’t involve wildlife!)
- How to Travel to Antarctica: The Ultimate Guide
- Outnumbered on Macquarie Island
- 4 (Subantarctic) New Zealand Islands You’ve Never Heard Of But Should Explore
A hiking pole is great too for something to hang on to while you try to ease your foot, along with your boot, out of the very sucky mud/pelican poo gumbo between the rocks and on some trails.
SO TRUE!! I actually was just looking at some video footage of me walking through muck in my boots…
My parents had an exciting trip to the Antarctic – their ship crashed into an iceberg and they had to be rescued! As part of their package they were given fabulous water/windproof coats. The coats are fantastic reminders of their adventure but total overkill for Australia! 😉 Thanks for the packing insight. I can’t wait to get to Antarctica myself. Mel
Wow – what an Adventure! They really crashed into an iceberg?!! Crazy. Did they go from Australia/New Zealand or South America?
Great post, Antarctica is an awesome place and have so many good things to enjoy. i really like its beauty and you shared amazing packing list of that place.
My Antarctica trip is still years away and this guide was fascinating to read because at this point I know almost nothing other than: I want to go. I didn’t expect to hear about rain! And I had no idea I could get a raincoat for my camera. Thanks for this list!
Erin – you have so much to look forward to! The rain was mainly in the Subantarctic Islands which is further north. If you go to the peninsula from South America then you probably won’t have that issue. But rain pants are required regardless as you will have wet landings. And honestly a waterproof coat is great for the Zodiacs. Let me know if I can be of any help!
Amazing photography Sherry! I’m a fan 🙂 Antartica is on my list but still years away. I’ll definitely use this article as a resource when the time comes.
Hi, Sherry,
Great meeting you on TripAdvisor, and getting to hear some more about the Spirit of Enderby. I noticed that your next trip is to Norway. Have you been there yet? We’ve done a couple of trips to Norway – the first to hike above the fjords, centered in the most incredible botique hotel not too far from Trollsteigen, and the second to spend 10 days exploring the Lofoten Islands. If you haven’t read it, I suggest a book called Summer LIght, a walk through Norway, which gives a true view of being Norwegian and living Norwegian.
cheers
dick troop
n66784@earthlink.net
Hey Dick – thanks for stopping by! And thanks for the book tip for Norway. This will be my first trip there and I”m really excited. I’ll be in Oslo for a couple of days and then up to Fjordland – however now as far north as Lofoten Islands. However I do believe I’ll be near Trollsteigen. Still working out itinerary. But it’ll be a driving trip – I can’t wait! Let me know if I can be of any help on the Antarctica stuff – you’ll have a wonderful time!!
Mange takk, Sherry [do you have time to learn to speak a little Norsk? The transliterations don’t work at all.]. On our first trip, we flew into Oslo, took the train from the airport into town (the best way to go), and flew the next day to Ålesund, where we rented a car. It’s very easy to drive in Norway, but you do need to pay attention to the ferry schedules as you make your way around. The first place we stayed was the Juvet Landscape Hotel (google it), which was the site used for the movie Ex Machina — spectacular. Our host furnished us with topo’s that we used for our hikes. Then we drove to the Hotel Union Oye, and did some great hikes and side trips around there. I’ll see if my album from that trip is still available online
cheers
dick
I do have my photo album of the trip. If you email me your email address (to n66784@earthlink.net) I can send you a link to it.
d