You cannot afford to be unprepared in the world’s harshest and most inaccessible environment. However, unless you are a research scientist, you should only visit Antarctica during the austral summer, which lasts from the beginning of December through the beginning of March (which is, of course, winter in the northern hemisphere). Temperatures often hover around thirty degrees Celsius on the Antarctic Peninsula (Fahrenheit). You will be happy you took your sunscreen with you.
So, what should you bring for your trip to Antarctica on the cruise ship?
1. Travel Backpack
Begin with the container you put it in, a backpack designed for travel. The process of boarding and disembarking ships and navigating narrow corridors and cramped staterooms makes it challenging to use roller luggage. When you travel with a travel bag the size of a carry-on, you will have plenty of capacity to pack the things you need without compromising your ability to move freely.
2. Clothes for Regular Use While Traveling
Wear something cosy and relaxing on board. Quick-changing shoes are recommended, so remember to include these. You may see all sorts of exciting species and beautiful landscapes from the deck. If you stop to tie your shoes, you can miss a pod of orcas. Get the essentials together with a Carry-On Packing List before you leave. Unless you have a special occasion to attend, you need only bring two pairs of shoes with you: a pair of waterproof boots and shoes that are suitable for wearing inside and outside the ship. Wearing sneakers indicates an intention to visit the fitness center if one is provided. If I could help it, I’d steer clear of lace-up shoes.
2. Footwear
Regular hiking footwear won’t cut it for an Antarctic expedition. If you plan to be out in the snow and ice, you should wear a pair of muck boots instead of regular shoes so that your feet stay warm and dry. During your trip, we will provide you with some muck boots.
Also, bring some sneakers for lounging around the ship and a pair of runners in case you decide to use the fitness center.
3. Gloves
While you’re in Antarctica, it’s ESSENTIAL you take care of your fingers, head and ft. Frostbite isn’t enjoyable. We propose layering up your gloves with a polyester mix base, and a water-proof prime layer (it’s price getting two pairs of every, in case a pair goes lacking or will get moist. When you’re a photographer, take into consideration packing a fingerless pair too, or investing in gloves with sensor fingertips so you’ll be able to nonetheless use your cellphone or digicam display.
4. Neck gaiter
It would help keep your neck covered on land excursions or on the ship’s deck. If you’re tired of your scarf falling off or getting caught in the Velcro on your jacket, you might want to try purchasing a heated neck gaiter instead. It will keep you warm and snug as a bug in a rug.
5. Socks
We propose sporting two pairs of socks every time you head out: a skinny, poly-blend towards your pores and skin and a thick woollen outer layer. When doubtful, pack extra socks. Your thicker socks will get moist whilst you’re out on shore visits, so having a number of pairs to rotate is an effective transfer. Your thinner socks are good for while you’re ship-bound. You’ll be heat and sheltered when consuming within the eating room, listening to lectures and studying in your cabin, so your thick woolly socks are overkill while you’re not exterior.
6. Solar safety
Yep, the solar shines in Antarctica and also you’ll be mighty sorry in case you get burned by it. Don’t overlook to pack your sun shades (with UV safety), broad-spectrum sunscreen, and SPF lip balm.
7. Moisturizer
If you do not apply moisturizer, your skin will look like a lizard’s if the weather is particularly windy and dry. Apply it generously and frequently abroad unless you want to return home looking like Rango. If that’s the case, don’t.
8. Seasickness treatment
Many worry about seasick on an Antarctic cruise, especially during the Drake Passage crossing. Seasickness doesn’t care if you’re a seasoned sailor used to rough seas or a first-time passenger on a commuter ferry that hasn’t even left port yet. Although anti-nausea medication is hit-or-miss, it is helpful to have options on hand if you ever have nausea.
If you’re worried about getting seasick or anything else, it’s best to talk to your doctor before you set sail. Don’t forget to bring any regular medications you may need if you have asthma, diabetes, or any chronic condition. While your ship may carry some necessities, it is not a floating pharmacy, so make sure you have your medication with you before sailing. All the same, this holds for feminine hygiene products.
9. Renting gear
Rental equipment is now available from a few Antarctica tour operators. Awaiting your onboard are the answers to the online form you filled out. Despite the high price, this solution eliminates the need to transport heavy rubber boots across the globe. When you move to a warmer climate, buying brand-new equipment that you might only use once can be costly.
It is possible to travel light and take only a carry-on bag on gear-intensive expeditions by renting equipment instead of buying it. It may make sense to hire equipment if your Antarctic expedition is just one leg of a much longer trip.
