Antarctica & North Polar Regions
"What to Pack" List
General Considerations
Pack comfortable and casual clothing in quick-drying, "breathable"
fabrics (waterproof breathable where appropriate) — the secret to keeping
warm is to stay dry. Choose versatile styles that can be easily layered as
you "heat up" and "cool down."
Here is the list of Essential Items you should plan on taking with you on
your A&K adventure to Antarctica. Should you need to purchase any of them
for your upcoming trip, simply click on the item in the list below, and you
will be directed to the appropriate item in A&K’s Travel Outfitter
online store. There you’ll be able to purchase it, and all the items
you may need, in a convenient "easy to use, one-stop shop." Simply
keep this list open for reference as you go back and forth between the list
and the Travel Outfitter and enjoy getting ready for your trip of a lifetime.
- A pair of knee-high, well insulated, waterproof boots (approx.
20 inches high) with high traction soles:
Arctic
Sport Boot
- Waterproof Pants:
Rampart Waterproof Pants
- 2 or 3 pairs of warm, casual trousers to fit under your waterproof
pants. It is recommended that at least one pair be made of "expedition-weight"
polyester/ spandex blend material as this is the fabric that is best at providing
warmth while also being breathable. Wool or DWR-treated nylon are also recommended,
as are ski pants, if you have them:
- 2 or 3 warm, woolen sweaters or a medium-weight polar fleece
jacket (preferably windproof):
- 2 or 3 warm turtlenecks or long-sleeved shirts (wool and/or
flannel suggested):
- 1 full set of thermal or silk long underwear:
- 3 or 4 pairs of tall warm wool or wool-blend socks:
Expedition
& Walking Socks by Tilley (Men's & Ladies' sizes)
- 3-4 pairs of thin socks (such as silk or polypropylene sock
liners) to wear with them (these are unnecessary if you purchase and use a
pair of the Arctic Sport Boots detailed above):
Hydroskin
Wetsocks (Men's & Ladies' sizes)
- 2 pairs of waterproof ski mittens or ski gloves. If you also
bring a pair of thin glove liners, you can take your mittens (or gloves) off
to photograph without exposing your hands to the elements. Clips to keep your
mittens or gloves attached to your parka are also recommended:
- 1 polypropylene, fleece, or wool ski cap to protect your ears.
(If it's not long enough to pull down to protect your neck, pack a scarf too):
- A pair and a spare (two pair) of sturdy polarized sunglasses
or goggles with 100% UV protection:
- Sunblock (with SPF 30 or higher is recommended) for lips hands
and face:
- (optional) A lightweight, collapsible, walking stick (trekking
pole):
Ultra
Lite Ti Trekking Staff by LEKI
- (optional) A swimsuit (full coverage) and an old pair of canvas
tennis shoes:
- Back Pack / Day Pack (waterproof is preferred):
Dry Peak Ultralite Waterproof Day Pack
- (optional) Heat-treated foot warming insoles and hand warmers:
- (optional) Heavy-duty, zip-close plastic bags for storing your
camera, film, binoculars, etc., in your backpack.
- A waterproof rain jacket or poncho:
Suggestions for non-expeditionary wear:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- One or two changes of comfortable, casual clothing
- A jacket and tie (and for ladies, one or two casual evening outfits)
- A sweat suit or similar workout clothing (for fitness center)
- (optional) A travel alarm clock