Pack Your Bags for Antarctica and Check Off Your Last Continent
Visit Antarctica on the cruise of a lifetime
February 21, 2023
4 minute read
What to Pack for a Cruise to Antarctica
If you’re preparing to venture to the edge of the world, knowing what to pack for an Antarctica cruise is one of the most important steps in getting ready for your journey. The aptly named "White Continent" is the coldest, driest, windiest, and most remote part of the planet. And because Antarctic conditions can change quickly, being over-prepared is far better than being underprepared — especially since there's very little opportunity to purchase forgotten items once your expedition begins.
Antarctica Packing List:
Base Layers
Thermal long sleeve shirts (wool preferred)
Short sleeve shirts
Long johns or thermal leggings
Polyester base gloves
Mid-Layers
Poly-blend insulating layers
Fleece jackets or pullovers
Outer Layers
100% waterproof jacket or parka
100% waterproof pants
100% waterproof insulated gloves
Footwear
Muck boots or tall waterproof boots
Comfortable walking shoes
Long, warm socks
Cold Weather Accessories
Tight-fitting beanie
Neck gaiter
Health & Personal Care
Sunscreen and UV protection
Skin moisturizer or lotion
Seasickness medication
Electronics & Accessories
Camera or phone
Extra batteries and charging cables
SD cards
Waterproof bags or cases
Reusable water bottle
Miscellaneous Essentials
Entertainment for downtime onboard
Garbage bags and Ziploc® bags
Ear plugs
Layers
The more the better when it comes to packing layers. Although you might have the urge to pack your thickest sweaters or warmest sweatshirts, a combination of long sleeves and tee-shirts (thermal and not thermal) is the ideal strategy when it comes to a cruise to Antarctica. Temperatures in the boat’s main rooms or cabins are often warm to compensate for the temperatures outside. When packing your base layers, stay away from materials like cotton as it tends to hold in moisture and cool your body down. Instead, pack wool or a wool blend to keep your body heat regulated.
More Layers
Once you pack up your base layers, you’re ready for those mid-layers to come into play. The best material to use as your mid-layer is fleece or a polyester blend. Having multiple thin layers over your thermal base (rather than one thick layer) is more ideal for adjusting to temperature conditions throughout the day. Make sure these layers don’t fit too snug around your base layer to avoid feeling constricted whilst moving.
Even More Layers
The most important rule for outer layers is to make sure they’re 100% waterproof. This is imperative to your comfort and should not be overlooked whilst you pack. Depending on which expedition ship takes you through the Drake Passage to Antarctica, you may be provided with a parka to keep or borrow. Along with a warm and completely waterproof jacket, you’ll need some pants to match. Insulated, waterproof pants are a must when packing to keep you warm and comfortable outside of the boat.
Must Haves
Don’t forget long (and warm) socks, gloves, tight-fitted beanies, or tall waterproof boots if you’re not planning on renting gear during your trip. It’s also important to have a neck gaiter to protect yourself from harsh winds whilst spending time on the ship’s deck or exploring on land. Whilst it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, the sun does shine in Antarctica – so sun protection should also be a priority. Another relevant item to check off your packing list is moisturizer – and plenty of it. In dry conditions with heavy winds like these, your skin will thank you.
Basics
If you’re prone to seasickness (especially when it comes to crossing the Drake Passage) you’ll want to pack some anti-nausea medication to relieve your discomfort. And if you’re prone to boredom, you might want to pack some entertainment (books, headphones, journal) of your own for those longer portions of the journey. Looking to capture the moment? Make sure you pack your camera and plenty of spare batteries or charging cables. Wet bags and waterproof cases are also helpful depending on how ambitious you become during exploration time.
What Gear Is Included on an Antarctic Expedition?
One of the nice things about Antarctic expeditions is that you won't need to pack every piece of heavy-duty outdoor gear yourself. Most Antarctic cruises provide specialised equipment designed specifically for polar conditions, including:
Waterproof expedition boots for Zodiac landings and shore excursions. These remain onboard for the duration of the cruise.
An insulated, windproof expedition parka built for Antarctic weather. In many cases, the parka is yours to keep after the voyage.
With these essentials provided, you can focus on packing the right layers underneath to stay warm and comfortable.
Electronics and Battery Planning
Cold weather impacts electronics more than many travellers expect.
Phones, cameras, and batteries drain significantly faster in freezing temperatures, especially during long periods outdoors. Packing extra batteries or a portable power bank helps keep your devices ready throughout the day.
Accessibility matters, too. Wildlife sightings and dramatic scenery can happen suddenly during Zodiac cruises and shore landings, so keeping your camera or phone within easy reach is important. Waterproof bags or dry cases can also help protect your gear from snow, sea spray, and unexpected weather.
What People Tend to Overpack
Even experienced travellers tend to overpack for Antarctica.
The most common mistakes include bringing too many heavy sweaters, excessive cold-weather layers, and far more onboard outfits than necessary. Life onboard the ship is typically casual and comfortable. A few pairs of pants, casual tops, and a fleece or light jacket for time on deck are usually enough.
Many travellers say that if they returned, they would pack lighter and focus more on practical layering than bulky clothing options.
If you’re thinking about taking this once-in-a-lifetime journey, there’s no better time than now to start planning — and we can’t wait to show you the way.
