Antarctica packing list: everything you need for your first trip south

04/11/2024

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, driest continent on Earth. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way since the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration at the end of the 19th century. These days, you’ll be much more comfortable than the likes of Amundsen, Scott and Shackleton. That said, it’s worth getting the basics right. As such, we’ve put together our detailed Antarctica packing list drawn from over 30 years of experience on the great white continent.

Where appropriate, we’ve linked through to items we sell in our online shop. When you shop with UKAHT you support our conservation work in Antarctica, help us share the continent’s ever-evolving stories and inspire others to experience this precious place through innovative technology, art and culture. Plus, our merchandise is now 99% free from plastic.

As ever, thank you for all the support and have a wonderful time in Antarctica. We’ll see you down there!

Expedition clothing

The key to staying toastie in Antarctica is to follow the layering system so you can adapt your clothing to suit the conditions. Make sure you pack a mix of layers including base, mid and outer layers. Avoid using cotton layers as it holds moisture and is never waterproof.

• Base layer tops – long-sleeved tops worn next to your skin
• Midlayer tops 
• Outer layers – could be thicker down or sailing jacket*
• Base layer bottoms – long pants or leggings worn next to your skin
• Midlayer trousers – could be hiking trousers
• Waterproof trousers or snow pants
• Walking boots*

*Cruise ships should supply a waterproof expedition parka and insulated waterproof boots.

Accessories

Essentially, this section is about keeping your head, hands and feet warm whether you’re on a Zodiac cruise or a continental landing.

• Warm hat – such as our Port Lockroy Woolly Hat
• Warm neck buff – like our Arctic Edge Neck Gaiter 
• Lightweight neck buff – either our Map & Gentoo or Map & Tartan are ideal
• Sun hat – or Port Lockroy Baseball Cap perhaps? 
• Liner gloves 
• Waterproof gloves 
• Liner socks  
• Thick socks 
• Swimsuit
• Sunglasses
• Underwear
• Nightwear

Onboard

Evening dress code on an expedition cruise is generally casual. There’s no need for top and tails, but if you do don a shirt, our Antarctic Tartan Bow Tie or Antarctic Tartan Tie would complete the outfit! 

Instead, we suggest dressing for comfort on board – think fleeces, jumpers, gilets and hoodies. Trainers and walking boots are also acceptable.

• Casual tops – how about a pop art-inspired Gentoo or Penguin Post Box t-shirt?
• A warm poncho or wool scarf – view our Antarctic Tartan range
• Jeans, trousers or fleece leggings
• Trainers or comfortable shoes
• Maps – we have Peninsula and South Georgia maps among others.
• Enjoy your time at sea with some Antarctic-inspired reading:
• Endurance: The Discovery of Shackleton's Legendary Ship
• Madhouse at the end of the Earth
• Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects
• Operation Tabarin
• Ship beneath the ice
• Browse all our Antarctic books and maps.
• Be ready to write your postcards with a responsibly sourced wooden pen.
• Are you an artist? Consider taking one of our Watercolour Sketch Pads. 

Toiletries

Don’t forgo the sunscreen. Antarctica may be cold and windy but the sun is deceptively intense. Use biodegradable toiletries where possible.

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Sunscreen
• Moisturiser
• Lip balm
• Seasickness medication
• Hand sanitiser
• Eyemask
• Ear plugs

Miscellaneous

• Camera and accessories
• Phone and charger
• Power bank
• Power adapter
• Water bottle
• Suitcase
• Day pack
• Dry bag
• Insurance
• Passport