Survival Essentials & What to Pack

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent on Earth. Even in the relatively mild Peninsula summer, conditions can turn dangerous quickly. Proper gear and physical preparation are not optional -- they are survival requirements.

The Layering System

Effective Antarctic clothing follows a three-layer system:

Base Layer (Moisture Management)

• Material: Merino wool or synthetic (polypropylene, Capilene)
• Never: Cotton. Cotton absorbs moisture, loses all insulating value when wet, and can cause hypothermia
• Quantity: Pack 3-4 sets for rotation and drying

Mid Layer (Insulation)

• Material: Fleece, down, or synthetic insulation (Primaloft)
• Options: Fleece jacket + down vest is a versatile combination
• Quantity: 2 mid-layer options allows adjustment for variable conditions

Outer Layer (Wind & Water Protection)

• Material: Waterproof, windproof, breathable shell (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
• Features: Hood, sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, pit zips
• Note: Many operators provide an expedition parka. Confirm before purchasing

Essential Gear Checklist

Provided by Most Operators

• Waterproof expedition boots (sized on Day 1)
• Expedition parka
• Life jacket for zodiac operations

You Must Bring

• Waterproof pants (over-trousers with full side zips)
• Warm hat covering ears
• Neck gaiter or balaclava
• Waterproof gloves AND warm liner gloves (bring both)
• Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
• Ski goggles for high-wind conditions
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (ozone hole increases UV dramatically)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Backpack (20-30L, waterproof or with dry bag liner)
• Dry bags for electronics
• Headlamp (for early/late landings)
• Reusable water bottle (dehydration is a real risk in cold, dry air)

For Interior Expeditions (Additional)

• Extreme cold weather boots rated to -40 C (Baffin, Sorel)
• Expedition-grade down parka rated to -30 C
• Vapor barrier liner socks
• Chemical hand and toe warmers (bulk supply)
• Ski goggles (mandatory for wind)
• Glacier glasses with side shields

Physical Preparation

For Ship-Based Expeditions

• Fitness level: Moderate
• Key demands: Climbing in and out of zodiacs (stepping over inflatable sides), walking on uneven rocky terrain, standing on ship in rough seas
• Preparation: Regular walking on uneven ground, core strength exercises, practice stepping over obstacles

For Interior Expeditions

• Fitness level: Excellent
• Key demands: Skiing with heavy sled (40-80 kg), altitude up to 2,835m, 8-10 hours of exertion per day, extreme cold
• Preparation: 6+ months of sled-pulling training, altitude acclimatization, endurance cardio, strength training

Cold Injury Prevention

Hypothermia Signs

• Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination
• Action: Inform expedition team immediately. Get to warm shelter. Remove wet clothing. Warm slowly

Frostbite Prevention

• Keep extremities covered at all times in wind
• Wiggle fingers and toes regularly -- if you lose sensation, warm immediately
• Never touch metal with bare skin
• Watch for white or waxy patches on exposed skin of fellow travelers

Seasickness

The Drake Passage is one of the roughest ocean crossings on Earth. Prepare with:

• Prescription scopolamine patches (apply before departure)
• Over-the-counter motion sickness medication
• Stay on deck watching the horizon when possible
• Stay hydrated; avoid heavy meals before the crossing