Ultimate Antarctica Packing List

Woman standing on balcony of expedition ship in Antarctica taking a video of the stunning snow covered glaciers.

 CLOTHING ESSENTIALS

Tops

  • Base layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool or synthetic)

  • Mid layers: Fleece pullovers, lightweight down vest with a hood

  • Outer shell/insulated parka: Wind and waterproof with a hood (most cruise lines provide this)

  • Long-sleeve shirts: Quick-dry materials, flannel, or thermal

  • Short-sleeve shirts and long-sleeve sweaters: For layering and wearing inside the ship

Bottoms

  • Waterproof pants: Required for zodiac excursions

  • Jeans/Chinos: For ship activities and casual evening wear

  • Joggers and base layer bottoms

Footwear

  • Rubber or plastic slide sandals: Helpful for wearing before/after changing into muck boots

  • Sneakers, comfortable shoes for walking around the ship

  • Socks: Wool or synthetic for layering

Accessories/Other

  • Beanie or other warm hat with earflaps

  • Gloves: Waterproof outer, and tech-friendly glove liners

  • Neck gaiter, balaclava

  • Polarized sunglasses with UV protection, croakies for sunglasses

  • Swimsuit for polar plunge

  • Cozy pajamas

OUTDOOR & ACTIVITY GEAR

  • Belt bag: For zodiac excursions (Nothing can touch the ground in Antarctica.)

  • Binoculars: Wildlife viewing

  • Reusable water bottle or tumbler (Some ships provide these)

  • Trekking poles (optional but helpful if hiking; many ships provide these)

  • Dry bags/waterproof pouches: For electronics and valuables (many ships provide these)

 TOILETRIES & PERSONAL CARE

Basic Toiletries

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss

  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (ship provides basics, but you may wish to have your own)

  • Deodorant, razor, and shaving cream

  • Face wash and face, hand, and body lotion moisturizer: Antarctica is VERY dry

  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties/hair clips, hydrating hair mask

  • Hairdryer (most ships provide this in your cabin, but you may wish to have your own)

  • Sunscreen: SPF 30+, Lip balm with SPF

  • Prescription medications (bring extras, in original containers)

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Contact lens solution, case, glasses, wipes for glasses

  • Earplugs and an eye mask

First Aid & Medications

  • Motion sickness remedies: Dramamine, ginger tablets, and patches

  • Pain relievers: ibuprofen, acetaminophen

  • Anti-diarrheal medication

  • Bandages and blister treatment

  • Saline nasal spray

 

ELECTRONICS & DOCUMENTATION

Electronics

  • Cell phone and charger

  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

  • Power bank/portable charger

  • Laptop and/or tablet

  • Universal power adapter: Cruise ships usually have standard outlets

  • Headphones or earbuds

Important Documents

  • Passport (at least 6 months and one day validity beyond the end of your trip)

  • Driver's license or government ID

  • Cruise tickets and boarding documents

  • Travel insurance information

  • Credit cards and cash

  • Hotel/tour confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Copies of important documents: Keep separate from originals

  • Ensure you have all necessary Visas or other travel documentation for all legs of your trip

CRUISE-SPECIFIC ITEMS

  • Luggage tags provided by the cruise line

  • Reusable tote or duffle bags for packing souvenirs purchased, extra luggage tag if checking the bag

  • Magnetic hooks or clips for metal cabin walls

  • Small travel noise machine

  • Deck of playing cards

MISCELLANEOUS

  • Sewing kit

  • Laundry detergent packets for ship laundry, if available (some ships provide this)

  • Clothespins or clips to dry clothing

OPTIONAL BUT RECOMMENDED

  • GoPro or another type of action camera

  • Waterproof phone case with an attachment to connect to what you’re wearing

  • Compression socks for long flights

Start Planning