Earplugs– Especially if you’re a light sleeper – expedition ships can be noisy environments as interior walls are not all that soundproof
Cargo pants– Cargos and tracksuit pants are great options to be worn under your wet-weather gear. We find jeans a little too restrictive, although any pair of comfortable walking pants will do. Fight the urge to take stretchy pants, however, as you’ll want plenty of air pockets in all your layers to allow for better insulation
L/Sleeve tops– 3 x tops should do the trick on a two-week expedition cruise
Polar fleece zip-jacket– That divine warm layer between your long-sleeve top and your parka
Warm, slim-fitting parka– Considering you’ll have wet-weather outer layers, your parka need not be waterproof. It should be warm (lined) but not too bulky. You’ll be doing a lot of moving in and out of Zodiacs, so you need to be comfortable and not restricted a-la-Michelin man
Thin thermal pants and top– Warm undergarments are great as they take up little space but can add quite a few degrees of warmth
A tight-fitting beanie, scarf & gloves –Ideally, you should wear two pairs of gloves: a thin pair with which you can operate your camera and get things out of your day-pack, and an outer waterproof pair that’s thick and warm and will keep your hands dry if you accidentally end up face-palming the ice. It’s been known to happen. A woolly beanie is a godsend, and one with ear flaps particularly so, even if your outer jacket has a hoodie. A woolly scarf is invaluable to keep your neck warm.
Binoculars– Binoculars are fantastic to have when wildlife spotting from the ship’s viewing terraces. Although many wildlife encounters are up-close in Antarctica, some will not be. It pays to have a pair of binoculars even just to be the first to yell ‘thar she blows!”
Zip-lock bags– Small and medium-size to keep all your bits and bobs dry
Medication– Whatever your usual medication is, as well as Ibuprofen, Aspirin and sea-sickness tablets (just in case)
Pack a spare pair of sunglasses/reading glasses– Trust us on this: even if you’ve never sat on a pair of glasses in your entire life, chances you will do so in the one place on earth where you can’t get a replacement, are huge. It’s Murphy’s Law. Play it safe and bring spares
Camera Equipment – Decided what to take? Now don’t forget to pack it!
Extra SD cards and batteries – Don’t hold back, the penguins and sea lions aren’t shy! You will be taking infinitely more photos than you may imagine, so always have spare cards and batteries in your daypack and make sure to recharge everything at night
Books, crossword puzzles, media device – There will always be plenty of time to chill out and unwind on Antarctica cruises so packing some light personal entertainment is a really good idea
Heavy-duty water bottle– One that doesn’t weigh a ton
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