What to pack for Antarctica.
Showing up poorly equipped ruins the experience. The right clothing is the difference between enjoying it and just surviving it — and it's not the same gear you'd bring for a Patagonian trek.
This is one of the most practical parts of the guide — and one that a lot of people underestimate. It comes down to one word: layers. Three layers with different jobs, tall rubber boots, and a handful of accessories that make all the difference when you're outside, on a landing, with the Antarctic wind in your face.
By Matias Puga · 20 years organizing expeditions to the white continent · Updated August 2026
Synthetic or merino wool. Never cotton.
Holds in heat.
Waterproof against water and wind.
For getting out of the Zodiacs. Many ships lend them.
What clothing do I need to travel to Antarctica?
It comes down to one word: layers. You need a thermal base layer against your skin (synthetic or merino wool, never cotton), a second fleece layer of 200-300 grams to hold in heat, and a third outer layer that's windproof and waterproof — not just "water-resistant" — because in Antarctica it rains, it snows, and sea spray gets you wet. Add tall rubber boots, waterproof gloves, a hat, high-UV sunglasses, and sunscreen.
How does the layering system for Antarctica work?
Three layers, each with its own job. The first layer wicks moisture away from your body — synthetic fabric or merino wool, never cotton, which absorbs sweat and then freezes you. The second layer, a good-quality fleece, holds in heat and on sunny, windless days can double as an outer layer. The third layer, windproof and waterproof, is what protects you from actual weather: rain, snow, and wind. Many operators lend expedition parkas onboard — worth checking before you buy one.
Trick: many operators lend expedition parkas onboard. Check if yours does before you buy one — it can save you a real expense.
Do I need to buy rubber boots or does the ship provide them?
Many ships lend rubber boots, but it's worth confirming before you travel. They're the most important item after your outer layer: you use them to get out of the Zodiacs, where you often have to step through 10 to 20 cm of freezing water to reach dry land, and they need to be tall enough for that crossing. If you can, bring your own with a thermal liner — it makes a real difference on long stretches ashore. Cold gets in through your feet: pack at least 3 or 4 pairs of thick wool socks, minimum.
When you get back to the ship, your boots get washed and disinfected with a jet system using chemical solutions — so diseases don't travel from one wildlife colony to another. It's part of the protocols behind the IAATO certifications. More on this in the Antarctic Treaty.
Want this plus the rest of the complete guide in PDF?
13 chapters: how to get there, choosing a ship, itineraries, and the wildlife guide covering 28 species. 10 USD, instant download.
What should I not pack for Antarctica?
Cotton as a base layer is the most common — and most expensive — mistake. Cotton absorbs sweat and moisture instead of wicking it away, and once wet it freezes you instead of keeping you warm — exactly the opposite of what you want against your skin in polar weather. Always use synthetic materials or merino wool for your first layer.
| Accessory | Why |
|---|---|
| Waterproof gloves | Not just warm — waterproof. You'll be handling wet Zodiacs. |
| Wool or fleece hat | A lot of heat is lost through your head. |
| High-UV sunglasses | The glare off the ice and water is intense. |
| Sunscreen | Yes, in Antarctica. UV radiation is high and the reflection multiplies it. |
| Neck buff / gaiter | Protects against wind — the single biggest factor in wind chill. |
The complete checklist
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Outer layer | Waterproof jacket / expedition parka · Waterproof outer pants · Fleece · Thermal leggings or base pants · Long-sleeve thermal shirts (x2) · Tall rubber boots · Waterproof trekking shoes for onboard |
| Accessories | Waterproof gloves · Wool or fleece hat · Neck buff / gaiter · High-UV sunglasses · High-SPF sunscreen |
| Base layers | Thermal underwear / leggings (x2) · Thermal undershirts (x2) · Wool socks (x5 or more — cold gets in through your feet) |
| For inside the ship | Comfortable clothes (joggers, t-shirts) · Indoor shoes or slides — the ship is heated |
| Other essentials | Seasickness medication (see Drake Passage) · Camera + spare batteries (cold drains them fast) · Moisture protection for your camera · Binoculars · Valid passport and insurance documents |
Cold gets in through your feet. Pack at least 3 or 4 pairs of thick wool socks, even if the ship lends boots.
Sorted-out gear is one less problem on boarding day.
Pick the level of support you need.
Complete guide in PDF
All 13 chapters with full detail. Self-service, 10 USD, instant download.
Buy the guide →1:1 Consulting
60-minute video call + complete itinerary with booking links. 100 USD.
Plan with Matias →20 years organizing expeditions · ~50 Spanish-speaking travelers advised
Antarctica without mistakes — the complete guide
30 pages: how to get there, choosing a ship, real costs, itineraries, and wildlife. A4 + mobile versions, instant download.