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

12/11/2025

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 or to our clothing partner, Alpkit. We've used Alpkit for a few seasons now, and their gear has proved tough, durable, weatherproof, and protective against penguin poop, so we are thrilled to recommend them.

When you shop with UKAHT, you support our conservation work in Antarctica. 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 hold moisture and is never waterproof.

• Kepler Long Sleeve base layer – long-sleeved tops worn next to your skin
• Katabatic insulated jacket*
• Definition waterproof 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 on board the ship

*Cruise ships should supply a waterproof expedition parka and insulated waterproof boots, but we still recommend taking a lightweight waterproof for onboard.

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 – our Map & Tartan neck warmer is ideal
• Sun hat – either our Antarctic Ski Club Baseball Cap or Damoy Baseball Cap
• Liner gloves 
• Gabbro waterproof gloves 
• Liner socks  
• Thick socks 
• Swimsuit
• Glacier glasses (should be Cat-4)
• 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 one of our sustainable t-shirts?
• A warm poncho or wool scarf – view our Antarctic Tartan range
• Jeans, trousers or fleece leggings
• Trainers or comfortable shoes
• Maps – explore our comprehensive collection of Antarctic maps
• Books – enjoy your time at sea with some Antarctic-inspired reading
• 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