What to Pack for Antarctica: A Complete Checklist

Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination marked by untouched landscapes, drifting icebergs, and thriving penguin colonies. I recently returned from the “frozen continent,” traveling on the inaugural Sail and Fly the Drake Passage itinerary with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. While the experience was extraordinary, it also came with logistical challenges, including two nearly 24-hour flight routes with multiple layovers between the U.S. and South America, plus strict luggage weight limits for the one-way charter return flight to Chile from King George Island.

As someone who tends to overpack for cold-weather destinations, I knew I had to be extra strategic and conducted extensive research to find the most functional and reliable clothing, gear, and accessories to withstand demanding weather conditions.

Packing Checklist for Antarctica

Clothing and Shoes

Accessories

Bags and Gear

Clothing and Shoes

The most essential items for an Antarctic expedition are proper clothing and footwear. Without them, survival in Antarctica's extreme conditions would be nearly impossible. Start with base layers made from moisture-wicking materials such as Merino wool, or opt for synthetic fabrics like polyester if you’re sensitive to wool. The design of your base layers also matters, as features like partial zippers, U-neck collars, and thumbholes can contribute to greater comfort and functionality. For moisture-wicking fabrics to work effectively, they must fit snugly and be in direct contact with your skin. Mid-layers, such as fleece or wool, provide additional insulation, while a waterproof and windproof outer shell protects against harsh winds and wet conditions. For footwear, most expedition cruises offer passengers muck boots for rent or as an inclusion to wear during landings on the continent but you'll need shoes with good traction to wear onboard as well.

Be sure to pack a reliable pair of flip-flops and a swimsuit for onboard amenities such as saunas and hot tubs, which are available on some ships. These items are also necessary if you plan to take part in the polar plunge. Additionally, most ships offer laundering services, so plan to launder a few items during your trip to reduce the amount of clothing you bring.

I chose Cotopaxi’s Fuego Hooded Down Jacket because it’s warm, stylish, and incredibly lightweight. It also features a well-fitted hood that helps seal out cold air and is sustainably made from 100 percent recycled polyester. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions provided each passenger a signature, branded orange parka, which served as my outer layer during landings. Knowing I would receive this parka, I opted not to pack one of my heavy outer coats, and the Fuego jacket served as my mid-layer and was warm enough for short outings on the ship’s outdoor decks. I found the jacket’s fit to be true to size, and a similar version is available for men. If your ship does not provide you with a parka, a Gore-Tex skiing jacket will do the trick. Keep in mind that the outer layer jacket you choose must be totally waterproof and windproof.

A base layer top is a staple piece of clothing for any Antarctic expedition cruise. Smartwool’s version (also available in men’s) is made from 100 percent Merino wool that is incredibly soft and non-itchy, plus functions well in extreme environments. Its slim fit, featuring a quarter-zip, makes layering easy and allows you to wear it comfortably under a mid-layer and outer shell without feeling restricted. Whether I was outside in freezing temperatures or inside the ship in a more controlled climate, this base layer adapted well and proved to be one of my most reliable and frequently worn pieces of clothing on the journey.

Smartwool’s classic thermal Merino base layer bottoms were one of the unsung heroes of my Antarctic expedition (and also come in men’s sizing). They kept my legs warm and dry as I transitioned between the icy outdoors and the cozy interior of the ship—no small feat in such extreme conditions. The fit is firm but never restrictive, giving me full range of motion whether I was hiking icy terrain or climbing back into the zodiac. Additionally, Merino wool resists odors far better than synthetic fabrics, which is a huge advantage when laundry facilities are limited. I wore this base layer every other day. It’s easy to layer it under insulated pants or waterproof shells, and I never once felt overheated or clammy.

I wore a version of the Lenado pants from The North Face, but they’re often hard to find in stock. A great alternative is the Burton Summit pants. They’re made with two-layer Gore-tex, so you’ll stay dry and comfortable in wet, windy conditions. The fit is roomy enough to layer thermal leggings underneath, and the zippered vents come in handy when you’re heating up during things like zodiac landings or glacier hikes. These sleek pants come in several modern colors—because who wants to wear plain black in every epic penguin photo? Realistically, most ski pants will work for Antarctica, but be sure they’re fully waterproof, not just snow-resistant. Men can opt for the Men’s Swash Gore-tex 2L Pants.

Since muck boots are required and typically available to rent for Antarctic shore excursions, there’s no need to pack specialized expedition footwear. Onboard the ship, you can wear almost any type of shoe, but a reliable, waterproof hiking shoe like The North Face Hedgehog 3 is a smart and versatile option. Hiking shoes provide stability for navigating slippery decks or climbing stairs when the ship is swaying, especially while crossing the Drake Passage. They’re also perfect for pre- and post-cruise adventures in rugged destinations such as Ushuaia, Argentina, and Torres del Paine in Chile. The North Face Hedgehog 3 has become my go-to for most outdoor adventures, thanks to its comfortable cushioning and durable construction. The North Face sells a men’s version of the shoe as well.

Accessories

Accessories may seem like a minor detail, but they’re just as important as main clothing layers when traveling to places like Antarctica. Insulated gloves are critical for keeping your hands warm and functioning during zodiac landings and when handling gear in freezing temperatures. Look for pairs with touchscreen compatibility so you can take photos without removing your gloves.

A thermal hat that covers your ears is key, as a significant amount of heat is lost through the head. For additional protection from biting winds and blowing snow, a balaclava or neck gaiter helps shield your face and neck, while sunglasses with UV protection and polarized lenses reduce the intense glare from sunlight reflecting off snow and ice.

Gloves are one item I can never seem to have enough of—though it's usually just one from each pair that sticks around, as the other inevitably goes missing. For the expedition, I packed a pair of no-longer-available Columbia gloves which featured a thermal lining and the brand's proprietary Omni-heat technology for enhanced heat retention. They were also touchscreen-compatible, a small but helpful feature when you want to snap a photo or check your phone without peeling off your gloves in the cold.

However, the next time I participate in an extreme, cold-weather adventure, I’ll be bringing along a pair of heated gloves instead—turns out my hands just aren’t built for freezing temperatures. This exact pair is next on my list as they are also touchscreen compatible, but have three heat settings for even warmer hands and keep out the snow and wind with adjustable wrist straps.

The hat I wore in Antarctica is an old favorite from The North Face that has been with me on countless adventures around the world, but unfortunately, it’s no longer available online. Now, I’ve discovered a new go-to: White + Warren beanies like the Cashmere Plush Rib Beanie. This ultra-soft cashmere hat feels great against the skin, offers plenty of warmth, fits easily under a hood or helmet, and is light enough to stash in a pocket or daypack. The only trade-off is that it requires a bit of extra care, as it needs to be hand-washed or dry cleaned, but for the comfort and quality, I find it well worth it.

When you’re wearing muck boots, you’ve really only got your socks for insulation and comfort, so they need to be both warm and moisture-wicking. I’ve found the Fits Light Ski Sock to be an excellent choice. Made from a high-quality Merino wool blend, they offer a snug, over-the-calf fit that stays in place without slipping or bunching. Thoughtful features, such as the dynamic toe cup, which molds to the shape of your foot, and the heel lock system, provide added support and significantly reduce the risk of blisters when paired with well-fitted boots. The socks are also unisex, so they work well for just about anyone. After long days in wet, cold environments, having socks that perform this well really makes a difference.

One surprisingly practical accessory to pack for an Antarctic expedition is a gaiter. I highly recommend the Buff ThermoNet Neckwear Gaiter, which is made from recycled materials and can be worn multiple ways—I’ve used mine as a neck warmer, face covering, and even as a makeshift hat. Incredibly lightweight and compact, it dries quickly and adds an extra layer of protection against biting wind and blowing snow. Lightweight and compact, the gaiter dries quickly and provides an added layer of protection, making it a far more practical choice than a traditional scarf. In fact, I’ve all but replaced scarves with this gaiter in cold climates. Its versatility and performance make it a must-have item on any Antarctica packing list. Best of all, it’s one-size-fits-most, so there’s no need to worry about sizing.

For my eyes, Ray-Ban’s Chromance sunglasses were a fantastic choice. The polarized lenses provided greater visual contrast and sharpness while also blocking out UV rays. What I especially appreciated was how lightweight and comfortable these sunglasses were. I wore them for hours without any pressure points or irritation. Even in strong, cold winds and after physically demanding climbs on icy terrain, they never fogged up and offered excellent protection from the wind and the brightness reflecting off the snow and ice. They fit nicely, and I never had to worry about them slipping during active excursions. They also looked stylish, so I didn’t feel like I was wearing bulky expedition gear.

Bags and Gear

With unpredictable weather, limited storage space, and the need to stay organized during landings and long days at sea, the bags and gear you bring to Antarctica must be rugged, reliable, and well-designed. Look for bags made from durable, weather-resistant materials, with smart organizational features that help you separate wet and dry items or access key items quickly. Versatility is also key, and gear that can handle both shipboard living and shore excursions will make your experience far smoother.

Bringing a waterproof backpack or dry bag is essential for protecting gear, such as electronics and large camera lenses, from the elements. National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions provided me with a dry bag, but if I had to bring my own, I would have chosen the Ortlieb Velocity PS Pack 17L. This compact roll-top backpack is fully waterproof and very comfortable to wear, thanks to its padded back panel and adjustable straps. 

Even when it’s not actively raining or snowing, there’s plenty of moisture, sea spray, and condensation that can seep into your gear and cause issues. The great thing about investing in a quality dry bag is that you can use it beyond Antarctica in numerous scenarios, including biking or hiking in damp conditions.

If you're looking for something small, stylish, and super handy for landings or just hanging out on the ship, the Cotopaxi Allpa X 1.5L Hip Pack is the perfect companion. Though small in size, it offers just the right amount of space for everyday essentials like your phone, lip balm, sunscreen, and hand cream—which I found myself reaching for constantly in the dry, polar desert climate of Antarctica. It has water-resistant fabric, durable construction, and Cotopaxi’s signature vibrant colors. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to wear either around the waist or across the chest, and it stays securely in place and never feels cumbersome, even during more active excursions.

The Cotopaxi Allpa Getaway 70L Duffel is a dependable, high-capacity bag that easily accommodates all your expedition gear. It’s spacious and built from rugged, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the demands of adventure travel. One of my favorite features is the exterior pockets for quick-access items. I also appreciate that you can wear it as a backpack or carry it by hand, depending on what’s most convenient in the moment. The padded handles make it comfortable to transport, even when fully packed, and because it lacks the rigid frame of traditional luggage, you get more usable space. It's also lightweight, compared to similar-capacity bags, which was one of my top considerations.

With its clean, modern look and cleverly designed compartments, the Allpa 65L roller bag made it easy to keep my gear organized. I primarily used it to store undergarments, base layers, accessories, and any other items I didn’t want to part ways with. The bag was especially handy in the tight quarters of my cabin, where efficient packing really matters.

One thing to keep in mind is that this bag doesn’t have 360-degree wheels, which makes maneuvering through tight spaces a little more challenging. That said, 360-degree-wheeled bags are less ideal on a swaying small ship, so this trade-off didn’t bother me too much.

One often overlooked but incredibly useful item is a waterproof phone case. The Nite Ize Waterproof Phone Case kept my phone completely dry during zodiac rides and shore landings. I love its airtight construction, lanyard, and touchscreen compatibility, which allowed me to use my phone and snap quick photos without removing it. However, since image quality is noticeably better without the case, I usually removed the phone for photos during landings and when conditions allowed. I especially liked the integrated attachment point, which made it easy to clip the case securely to my pack or jacket, keeping it accessible but out of the way.

I’ve long been a fan of La Roche-Posay products, and the Anthelios Melt-In Milk Lotion Face and Body Sunscreen quickly became part of my daily routine. Given the tilt of the Southern Hemisphere, the sun in Antarctica can be surprisingly intense, even on overcast days. While I’ve used this company’s moisturizer before, this trip was my first time trying their sunscreen. It offers broad-spectrum, high-SPF protection that holds up well in the harsh polar conditions.  Non-greasy and oil-free, it absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast, and it didn’t clog my pores, irritate my sensitive skin, or interfere with makeup application. If you have reactive skin like I do, this sunscreen is definitely one to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is not allowed in Antarctica?

To protect Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has established strict regulations for travel to the continent. Among them are that you cannot bring food or drinks ashore during landings to prevent contamination and avoid attracting wildlife. Additionally, all gear—especially boots and outerwear—must undergo biosecurity checks to prevent the introduction of non-native species, seeds, or bacteria. This often includes disinfecting boots and brushing off any soil or plant material.

What is the weather like in Antarctica?

Antarctic summers are milder than you might expect. During the cruise season from November through March, coastal temperatures typically range from 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, though recent years have seen record highs reaching 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit. The early season (November to early December) offers striking icy landscapes and the chance to witness penguin courtship, but it also tends to be colder and windier. Mid-season (December through January) is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours, abundant wildlife activity, and easier access to landing sites. Late season (February to March) is excellent for whale watching and usually sees fewer visitors, though snow may become slushier. Mid-season is the best time to visit for active wildlife and optimal weather conditions.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Taryn White is a freelance travel writer and luxury travel advisor, always looking for her next adventure. With nearly 100 countries under her belt, she has ventured to the volcanic terrain of Iceland, the otherworldly landscapes of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats, and the frozen wilderness of Antarctica. A self-proclaimed fleece fanatic, she has a talent for turning any packing list into a cozy-meets-chic wardrobe for every climate. Her favorite travel companions? Her husband and children, who’ve been packing their own bags since they were old enough to choose their favorite hiking boots.

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