The Antarctic ice is mesmerizing and terrifying at the same time. And if you decide to go to Antarctica, but still fear that you can not cope with the cold, we are ready to reassure you: there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. Also, preparation for a trip to Antarctica is different from packing for a regular cruise – the conditions for sailing in the ice are too variable. Therefore, you should be very careful about buying the right clothes and packing your suitcase.
Think it’s too cold in Antarctica? Not really. The Antarctic expedition season runs from the end of October to the end of March: this is spring and summer in the southern hemisphere.
The temperature in Antarctica during this period almost always stays a few degrees above zero. On some days it can be very cold, very windy, it can rain or snow, on other days the sun shines brightly and warms up, sometimes even up to the desire to strip down to a T-shirt. The most correct solution for Antarctica’s weather conditions is the principle of wearing several layers of clothing.
Quality outerwear
The wind in Antarctica can be very strong and sharp. Therefore, a completely windproof jacket is crucial here. And it is this property that distinguishes polar explorers’ clothing in Antarctica from any sports clothing. As well as non-blowing and waterproof pants, gloves and a windproof hat. Because the parka hood is convenient only in very strong wind, and in other cases it restricts freedom of movement.
Many shipping companies provide Antarctica cruise participants with expedition parks designed for the polar regions. You can keep your expedition parka and it will be a great souvenir from your Antarctic voyage. Check before traveling to see if the parka is included in the tour package.
Brightly colored parkas are great because they are more recognizable in all weather conditions and therefore provide protection in polar habitats. The parkas serve as protection against wind and rain. However, the jacket itself is only partially warming and a warm layer of clothing underneath is absolutely essential.
Totally waterproof pants are of particular importance. Not water-repellent, but specifically waterproof. Quality ski pants are well suited for this. This is essential as Zodiac boat trips can involve heavy splashes and you may have to sit on the wet edge of a rubber boat.
It is advisable to check the waterproofness of your pants before the trip. You can submerge yourself in water to a depth of 20 centimeters at home in the bathtub and see if the pants are soaked with water on the inside – this sometimes happens with snowboard pants.
The pants will need to be worn over the boots to keep water from getting into the boots from above. Therefore, the pants should be wide enough at the bottom to be able to fit around the rubber boots.
Mittens should also be completely non-blowing and waterproof. Keeping your hands warm will be one of the biggest challenges.
Travel tip: Wear wool gloves inside and ski mittens on top. This way your hands will stay warm when you take off the mittens and take photos. Gloves with folded fingertips are good for this purpose.
A fleece or wool hat covering your ears will keep your head warm in the cold climate of Antarctica and protect you from the sun. Practical tube scarves are also suitable as a scarf to fully protect the neck from the wind. Some travelers also purchase wind-protecting face masks.
Inner layer of clothing
Be careful with clothes that are too tight – this will not allow your body to breathe. The lack of heat exchange can cost your body a lot of energy and make it freeze even faster. Fleece is one of the best materials in this case.
A down jacket is ideal as a warming layer under a parka. In cold polar regions, a down jacket is worth its weight in gold. In addition, a quality down jacket folds well, weighs little and does not take up much space in your suitcase.
Fleece is a great material because it can be worn both on board the ship while you are resting and under a parka during the coldest days of your expedition. Plus, it dries quickly when washed.
Wool is also an excellent warming material.
It is desirable to choose not thin thermal underwear, and for the top take with long sleeves.
It is important to keep your feet warm at all times because body heat escapes mainly through the extremities. We recommend wearing a thicker pair of socks over thin wool socks to keep you even warmer. This combination of two pairs will fit in your waterproof boots and keep you twice as warm.
Take enough warm socks because they are guaranteed to get wet.
Some travelers purchase warm insoles beforehand to help their feet stay warm even longer.
Footwear
Expedition waterproof and non-slip boots
Tall waterproof boots are essential for traveling across the mainland. It is highly likely that there will be icy snow everywhere, so the shoes must be non-slip.
Expedition boots are usually provided on the ship. Check before traveling to see if boot rentals are included in the tour package. Unlike parkas, expedition boots are only provided for the duration of the trip. They are ankle-length and made of rubber, with the shank made of neoprene. Since you will often have to go into the water when docking boats, this composition will help keep your feet warm and dry. It is enough to wear thick high socks, ski or hiking socks.
If you decide to bring your own boots for the expedition, you should take seriously the recommendation of transportation companies that the shank of the boots should reach the knees. Because when boarding the Zodiac, you almost always climb right into the water on shore, which will prove to be at least ankle-deep.
Another important criterion is a sole with a good profile. Because on land you are walking on scree, on slippery mud, on snow and ice – you need good traction or you will have to do without some of the most beautiful places because you can’t get there for lack of suitable footwear.
The main problem with rubber boots is their bulk and weight in your suitcase – those who buy boots at home can hardly do without a second suitcase (and the associated excess baggage costs on the flight).
Alternatively, some shipping companies offer a boot rental service in Ushuaia. However, renting them costs almost as much as buying your own boots.
When choosing a size, keep in mind that you will also be wearing warm socks. The boots should not fit too tightly, otherwise your feet can get cold quickly and warm socks won’t help.
Clothing on board the liner
On most liners there is no dress code as such. Everyone wears what they like, the most comfortable clothes.
Even in the evening during dinner you can dress comfortably and casually. Some travelers don’t even change clothes. But you can take your favorite clothes to create a special mood for yourself.
Dressing during the captain’s welcome party and farewell party can be more elegant, but it is not necessary.
Regular shoes can be worn on board. Comfortable trekking shoes or simple sneakers with a warm insole are also great. Fancy shoes are not required for dinner either.
Many travelers wear simple sheepskin lined Uggs, they are warm and perfect for everyday life on board. Both on the outside deck and inside.
Remedies for seasickness
Just in case, ask your doctor about seasickness medications that are right for you. Although the on-board doctor always has plenty of seasickness medication available, medication prescribed by your doctor is usually the best choice, and you won’t have to fear unforeseen side effects that you may find difficult to tolerate.