best gift for travel to antarctica

Antarctica Bound Gifts

November 16, 2017

Best Antarctica Gifts

Gifts for all your polar bound friends, (or for cold weather, the polar dreamer, or even yourself), *** updated 2023***.

Your best friend? Your brother? Your neighbor? You know someone going to Antarctica? A polar dreamer? (or even looking for a gift for yourself before the big trip?) Get something that shows you are as excited as they are about their Polar adventure (its is a once-in-a-lifetime trips after all). Below I’ve gathered small gift ideas – perfect for stocking stuffers or for any time you  need a small gift for your polar explorer friends.  Give them any of these and they will love your forever (its the small stuff that can make or break a trip)

Great New Read: Shackleton’s Ship FOUND!

As if Shackelton’s story wasn’t amazing enough, the storyabout the amazing discovery of his ship, the Endurance, more than 100 years later nearly matches his own tale. Chief Archeologist Mensun Bound recounts in his book, The Ship Beneath the Ice: The Discovery of Shackleton’s Endurance , the amazing effort in finding this historic ship. For more book suggestions check out our other two book guides: Antarctica Fiction and the Best of Antarctica Books

Best Ice Cubes Ever

How can you resist Penguin ice cubes or Titanic ice cu bes complete with icebergs!? Basically you can’t resist. Perfect for the pre-trip party and then again for the party to share photos of the trip.

MUST READ: Shackleton

The definitive Antarctic Adventure Story – make sure your friends have read Shackleton’s’ story . Drama, disaster, leadership, human perseverance. Its all there and its all real and everyone lives – its truly amazing. Get one for yourself as well if you haven’t read it yet. For more book suggestions check out our other two book guides: Antarctica Fiction and the Best of Antarctica Books

Capture Your Adventures: Weather Proof Journal

Go down in history right alongside Shackleton and Amundsen – write your o wn accoun t of your journey – There are apps and twitter and Instagram, but something about an Antarctic Journey and the lack of constant media and technology invites one to take pen to paper to record the immensity of the experience. There may even be times during the trip to site alone watching the icebergs drift and what better time to break out a journal and capture the moment. But, not any journal. The R ite in the Rain Journ al is exactly what Nature requires – water proof – you can write on the paper when wet. It’s the book of choice for all whose work in the field from biologists in the middle of the Jungle to farmers in the field to military units in the middle of the dessert. These have been the go to all weather books since 1916.

All Weather Pen

If you bring a weather proof journal, then you need the best of weather proof pens. The All-We at her Pen has pressurized ink, so you can write in the rain, upside down, or where ever you need to jot something down. It also comes with a very convenient key ring to attach to a backpack and a comfy rubber grip. And the ink will never explode in your pocket. This pen is a must have for travelers.

Hand Warmers

Standing on deck watching whales, sitting in the dinghy marveling at icebergs. But trying to take in all this beauty when your fingers are freezing? There is a simple solution – hand war mers . There are two type – the low tech variety that are cheap and easy, but only one time use or the latest versions that are charged by USB and can act as a back up battery bank as well. Which ever way you choose to go it will make watching those whales and icebergs infinitely more enjoyable.

ECO FRIENDLY Jacket Refresh: Repair Tape!

No need for a new jacket, when GEAR A ID Tenacious Tape does such a good job at repairs.  Do your wallet and the environment a favor and keep your current down jacket, rain jacket…. and even tent going a few seasons more.  The tape comes in clear, colors, reflective, and fun shapes!  Don’t be shy!  This is the best gift your friend, spouse (yourself) never knew you needed, but will soon be your best friend.

(PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER!)

SPF Lip Balm

Lip balm with SPF is a MUST for all polar travelers. Most time is spent on the water or the snow two of the highest reflective surfaces in a part of the world with higher than average ozone levels.

(Also excellent stocking stuffer!)

Dont’ Lose your Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must – again for the sun and snow and water. But the reality is as you want to take great photos you take them on and off to see the view finder. From experience its best to have sunglasses s traps / holders . These float – Just in case… most floating glasses covers can be quite bulky – but these are a happy medium – float, but also streamlined! 

Plug Adaptor for Every Continent (Including Antarctica)

A universal adapter , while bulkier than a single use adapter ensures that you are ready for where ever and whatever. Travelling to Antarctica one will likely pass through Chile and / or Argentina. These two countries already have two different plug types. Once onboard a cruise ship usually has European or American plugs. The only way to be ready is to have on adapter that has it all. This one also has 4 USB slots as well – SUPER convenient, even at home to charge USB devices.

Travel Med Kit

A good travel Med kit such as this one specifically for travelers has the basics of what you might need, especially on a polar cruise when you don’t have the option to walk down the street to the local pharmacy. The kit comes with the essential meds for pain, plus blister care to keep you in your boots exploring the penguin colonies. Insider tip: add any other meds you might use regularly and your seasickness meds!!!

24 Hour Sun: Eye Mask

Its Antarctica. Its summer. There is light nearly 24/7. Even in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas the sun goes down late and comes up VERY EARLY.  Hopefully the rooms have light darkening shades, but if they don’t? Eye m as ks are a simple must. This can often be overlooked, so do your Antarctic bound friends and family a favor and pick one up for them, so they can start their action packed day after a full night of restful and darkened sleep. This one is highly recommended for its comfort and darkening abilities.

Great Antarctic Reads

For more book suggestions check out these posts: 

Best Antarctica Books

Antarctica in Fiction

This guide includes “affiliate links” for readers who want to buy. While all the products are independently chosen, Quixote Expeditions may earn a commission on purchases through the affiliate links

Share This Post :

Explore more....

5 things to consider when traveling to Antarctica

5 things to consider when traveling to Antarctica: A journey to the ends of the earth Traveling to Antarctica: Embarking

How to choose the Antarctica cruise

The best cruise for your perfect trip to Antarctica Choosing your trip to Antarctica, which cruise to take it on

Magnificent glaciers in Antarctica

Exploring antarctica’s glaciers: A comprehensive guide Glaciers in antarctica: known for its stark beauty and frozen expanses, is home to

Hans Hansson – Fly In & Out

Ocean tramp – sail in & fly out, ocean tramp – fly in & out, meet our fleet.

• Ocean Tramp
• Hans Hansson

Our Newsletter

Suscribe and receive all of our news!

Terms & Conditions apply on all our trips – Information provided on this website is for marketing purposes only

Interested in one of our trips?

Please fill out the form, and we’ll be delighted to have you join our next trip. We look forward to seeing you!

Subscribe to our newsletter!

Signup for news and special offers!

I Accept receive news and updates.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

You have made a penguin happy :)

Thanks for your message. An advisor will contact you shortly. Feel free to follow us on our social media channels!

53 Best Travel Gifts for Every Globetrotter on Your List

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When it comes to choosing the best travel gifts, there are many routes to take: You can get your go-to vacation companion something practical that they'll reach for every time they take out their carry-on . Or, you can gift something to encourage them to start planning their next trip (and hopefully invite you along). There are also gifts that bring travel to them, making the space between adventures feel a bit more like a vacation, and experience gifts to make their next trip even more exciting. No matter the occasion, or the traveler, we've rounded up over 50 travel gift ideas from brands we love, so you can find something for each person on your list.

For even more specific gift guides, be sure to check out all our recommended gifts for travelers, which we've gathered for you here . And keep an eye on the calendar—the sooner the better if you're shipping presents straight to a giftee, or mailing to yourself to wrap. Standard free shipping deadlines end as early as December 13 for delivery by Christmas, so aim to order by that date if you're hoping to avoid shipping costs.

What do you get someone who is always traveling?

Frequent travelers are probably well-stocked with the basics, so I'd recommend thinking outside the box. The next time they're filling you in on their travels, make a mental note of any pain points they mention—if they regularly fly in economy, maybe they could use a foot hammock . If they're heading somewhere for a long-term stay, send them a duplicate of something they love from home but likely left behind, like a robe or cozy pair of slippers.

What is the best way to gift travel?

Gift cards are the easiest option. For the travelers in your life who are keen on staying in a rental, Airbnb gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $25 up to $500, so you can chip in (or cover) their next stay. Calling rideshares while traveling can quickly add up; a gift card to Lyft or Uber helps relieve any back and forth over whether a car is worth it or not, making it a great gift for younger travelers heading out on group trips or gap years. Most airlines sell gift cards too; or, if you're rolling in points, consider transferring some to a friend or family member in lieu of a physical present. (For more inspiration, consult this list of the best presents our travel editors have ever received.)

What are the best travel gifts for new travelers?

For new and aspiring jet-setters, consider the basics. A nice leather passport holder will be appreciated; this one from Mark & Graham can be personalized with your giftee's initials. If they're heading abroad, a universal travel adapter will come in handy, as will a phone case with a compartment to keep cards, cash, or an ID easily accessible.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Happyluxe travel pillow

For travelers who just can't find a neck pillow they like, consider gifting a travel-size pillow instead. This one comes with the absolute softest pillowcase (it's made of wood-based Tencel fabric), and is small enough to squish into a tote bag or backpack. It recently accompanied me on two 14+ hour flights, and I was very happy to have it with me.

Tumi Pickleball bag

For the friend who has started researching which hotels and cruise ships have pickleball courts, only the best gear bags will do. This nylon one from Tumi holds two paddles and a few balls, with room for a spare change of clothes or other accessories you want on hand. Like the brand's luggage, it's tricked out with helpful features—a key leash, an exterior slip pocket with a magnetic closure to hold your phone, and a hideaway hook to attach to a fence among them.

Cuyana Travel Beauty Roll

Upgrade your giftee's makeup kit with this gorgeous leather roll-up case from Cuyana. An Allure Best of Beauty winner, it has loops to hold four brushes (and a flip cover to keep powders from getting all over the place), a slip pocket, a slim zippered pocket, and a detachable zipper pouch. It's an especially great gift for beauty lovers with one of Cuyana's System or Easy Zip totes, as the removable pouch snaps right into those bags.

Louis Vuitton Marrakech City Guide

For over two decades now, Louis Vuitton has been rolling out slim, cloth binded city guides curated by journalists, writers, and major figures in art and culture. Designer-minded friends with big travel plans ahead will appreciate an elevated roadmap to exploring cities like Marrakech, Reims , or Rio de Janeiro .

Friend + Folk Girls Gone Mild Classic crewneck

I'll always be team loungewear when it comes to in-flight attire. Get in on the tenniscore trend with this preppy crewneck from Friend + Folk, emblazoned with its Girls Gone Mild collection logo. Gift it to the bestie you'd happily couch rot with, no matter where in the world you may be.

Pink Moon Over the Moon Gua Sha Duo

A gua sha set is a great in-flight tool—not only does it help decrease puffiness, encourage lymphatic drainage, and relieve muscle tension, but the ritual of it can also be a nice distraction for nervous fliers, and a good way to wind your body down if you're on an overnight flight and trying to get some sleep.

Longang Digital Hanging luggage scale

Help out the overpacker in your life with this handy digital luggage scale —it'll keep them honest when it comes to what's in their suitcase. If they do need to rearrange items, better to do so from the comfort of a hotel room or Airbnb than in the baggage line.

Brooks Ghost Max 2

A nice gift for the runner in your life, Brooks's new sneaker comes recommended by travel writer and marathon runner Rachel Chang . She describes it as “the ideal hybrid of my other top picks: the comfort and cushion of Lululemon’s Blissfeel with the stability and support of Hoka Clifton, plus the durability and dependability of Brooks Adrenaline. That, to me, is a winning combo.”

Lunya washable silk pajama set

Washable silk pajamas? Say no more. For the traveler who could use a little luxury in their life, Lunya's matching set—which we've raved about time and time again—will get plenty of use at home and on vacation.

Dreamegg White Noise Machine

This sound machine fits into the palm of a hand and weighs less than five ounces. It's perfect for travelers with small children or who find it hard to fall sleep in new environments. It has a rechargeable USB battery, features 21 different sounds, and has an easy-to-use timer setting.

Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

We could wax poetic about what our office has dubbed “the foot hammock,” but it all comes down to this : for those roughly 5'7" and under, it'll transform your in-flight economy experience. Sling it around your tray table and enjoy stretching out your legs (or curling up to sleep) throughout your next flight.

Noshinku refillable pocket hand sanitizer

A practical, but extremely useful travel accessory: hand sanitizer. Noshinku gets bonus points for its slim profile, aesthetically pleasing colors, and refillable design. File this under gifts that will most definitely be used.

Comrad Knee High Ombre compression socks

Socks have a reputation as a boring gift option, but for travelers, these ones are an actually thoughtful pick. Comrad is known for bringing comfort and style to the world of compression socks, which are designed to help regulate swelling and keep the blood pumping through the legs. They're perfect for long flights, road trips, or just walking around sightseeing.

FP Movement quilted micro pouch

When you're headed down to the hotel lobby or grabbing a coffee near your Airbnb, you don't need a huge tote bag, just a small purse that holds the essentials. This quilted micro pouch is so fun and chic, while being practical enough to hold your phone, cards, and a lip balm.

Allbirds Tree Dasher

Traveler readers went wild for Allbirds' first running shoe when it debuted in 2020 , and again when a higher-ankle version was released last year. Share the wealth of comfortable kicks this holiday season—they come in nearly a dozen colors, are lightweight and pack down well, and look sufficiently non-sporty enough to wear throughout a trip, not just while exercising. (For those who live in cold-weather climates, the newer Wool Dasher Mizzles are a good option, too.)

Bellroy Tech Kit

Every organized traveler needs a good tech kit. We like Bellroy's for its many pockets and loops that will fit any size cord and offer a safe place to stash AirPods, portable chargers, and work-from-anywhere accessories like a mouse or Wi-Fi extender.

1,000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe

For the traveler who doesn't know where to go next, this National Geographic book will give them plenty of inspiration across Europe, Asia, North America, and more. It is filled with 36- to 72-hour weekend guides to places around the world, with itineraries meant to tack onto existing trips or use as a weekend getaway from home (tags let readers know what hub the destination is within six hours of). Inside, you'll find ideas for beachy escapes, nature parks, food and wine-focused trips, even pet-friendly vacations. Also mixed in: helpful insights like wheelchair-friendly beaches to visit in the US.

Simo Solis Portable Hotspot

When it comes to working outside of your home, we all know how unstable Wi-Fi can be. Instead of struggling through Zoom meetings on an Airbnb’s outdated router or a hotel on a crowded line, invest in your own hotspot. This one has a better bandwidth than the one you find on your phone, lasts longer, and won't run down your phone battery.

Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow makes a whole bunch of nap-friendly designs , but we're partial to the classic Go Neck pillow for long-haul flights or lengthy road trips. It is made with a supportive (and compressive) memory foam, and has a Velcro close for an easily adjustable fit. Plus, it comes with a carrying case.

Mzoo contoured sleep mask

A good sleep mask is a travel essential for overnight flights. This one is made of memory foam and has raised sections over your eyeballs for added comfort, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to thoroughly block out light.

Lay-n-Go drawstring toiletry bag

Travelers who are also regulars at Sephora or Ulta will appreciate this cool makeup bag : Instead of having to dump out all your products to find what you're looking for, the bag opens up by way of drawstrings, and can be laid out as a circle on any surface, allowing every product to be on display.

Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World's Most Iconic Hotels by Alia Akkam

Written by Traveler contributor Alia Akkam , Behind the Bar takes readers to 50 iconic hotel bars around the world, offering recipes and historical tidbits from each. Perfect for the consummate host in your friend group, they'll have a good time recreating classics and discovering new cocktails from home.

Béis The Weekender Bag

A real text I got from a friend after writing about this Béis weekender : “BÉIS CONVERT FOREVER. You did not oversell this. Truly a miracle.” It has plenty of room inside for clothes, accessories, and toiletries, and a bottom compartment for shoes, dirty clothes, or anything else you want to keep separate.

Cadence The Bestsellers

These toiletry travel bottles have changed the game when it comes to bringing your own products with you—they are entirely leak-proof, and are magnetized, making them snap together to minimize they space they take up in your Dopp kit and the hotel shower.

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

This is a niche gift, but there's someone on your list who will absolutely love it. Nixon's insulated beverage sling fits six cans at once; they can bring it along to picnics, camping trips, tailgates, or hikes to keep drinks cold and avoid the clunkiness of a tote bag or backpack.

Skims Classic Cotton Fleece hoodie

Gift the traveler in your life their new favorite in-flight hoodie. Made with Skim's signature Cotton Fleece, this ultra-soft pullover feels like a dream and offers that perfect lived-in feeling.

Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum

Diptyque candles are always a welcome gift, but for something a little more unique, go for one of the brand's eau de parfums. This one was formulated to recreate the scent of a ’60s Parisian bar—the woody scent smells great spritzed around the home.

Ember Travel Mug 2

The charge on this mug can last up to three hours, but lasts all day when combined with the charging coaster. When left unattended, it automatically goes into sleep mode, but can keep the cup warm for up to two hours with the help of its thermal hardware.

Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

This Ralph Lauren set is a travel accessory you'll use again and again, especially when headed out on long flights for international travel. It comes with a large shawl that can be used as a blanket, a small pillow, and a soft eye mask—all made from cashmere.

Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp kit

Ahead of the holidays, Dagne Dover released a new slate of items in its eco-friendlier collection. The Seoul Dopp kit, much like the rest of the collection, is made from 100 percent recycled polyester while the interior is made from a spill-proof recycled poly lining.

Pak Réve The Wilder Bundle

Trying to make it out of the house as a new parent can be stressful to stay the least. The Wilder Bundle, designed by Traveler contributor Jordi Lippe-McGraw , can fit everything you need and more. On the exterior, we see a full-size backpack, but its included attachments—a mini backpack, wristlet, and insulated lunchbox—easily snap off to lighten your load when you don't need them, or to be used separately.

Filson x Chris Stapleton Traveller Bag

Country music star Chris Stapleton recently collaborated with Filson on the Traveller collection that features both clothing and travel gear. One of the standout pieces is the rereleased archived duffel. The Traveller Outfitter Bag is one of Stapleton’s favorites and we understand why: It has an adjustable shoulder strap, a large main compartment for a few days' worth of clothing, and a comfortable leather grip handle. The leather on the handle won’t transfer any color and with each wear, the leather gets softer.

Aman x 111Skin nourishing gold algae eye mask

Perfect for the skincare routine queens on your list, these eye masks blend the expertise of Aman and 111Skin. A set comes with eight Nourishing Gold Algae Eye Masks to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area. They’ll come in handy after long-haul flights, or just the post-holiday drive home.

Four Seasons velvet slippers

Slippers are a no-fail gift option for pretty much anyone on your list, and this velvet style from Four Seasons will bring a touch of luxury to their day. The elastic back makes them easy to slip on and off, and the recycled rubber sole adds some durability to them.

Oui The People Body Renewal set

Oui The People has been bringing some heat to the skincare world, with formulas that produce an unmatched glow. The brand's holy trinity includes the new Clean Slate body wash, Cheat Sheet body exfoliant, and Featherweight body oil. The trio work together to achieve visibly smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can improve any journey, whether they're blocking out a snoring plane neighbor or immersing you in movie after movie on a long car ride. This popular option from Sony offers multi-device Bluetooth pairing, so you can connect to two devices at once and switch between them seamlessly.

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

Amazon’s best-selling, waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for bookworm travelers—its battery lasts for weeks, it can hold more than 2,000 e-books, and the adjustable warm lighting emulates actual book pages.

Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit

This is the ideal stocking stuffer for the traveler who is always squirreling away shampoo and body wash minis from hotels. They'll be treated to a full swath of toiletries—face cleanser and moisturizer, body wash and lotion, shampoo, and conditioner—all with the delicious scents Malin + Goetz is known for.

Shinola denim duffle

The denim duffel travel bag is Shinola Detroit's spin on an American classic. It's made from American denim and reimagines the brand's traditional cotton duffel with a more elevated flare. Accompanied by a striped band, you can carry it as a crossbody, over the shoulder, or opt to tuck the strap in and use the elegant arched handles.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole mini hip pack

We love a good fanny pack here at Traveler , and Patagonia's is ideal for any frequent hikers (or bikers) on your gift list. Given its size—it stuffs into its own small pocket when not in use—and light weight (3.5 ounces), it's great to throw into your suitcase to use on city trips, too.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

When it comes to luggage, Away is a solid choice—you can find this bag and many other Away styles in the closets of many a Traveler editor. Treat the graduate, new traveler, or family member in need of a suitcase upgrade to this larger-than-average carry-on bag.

Carbone print

Created by a former New Yorker editor, All the Restaurants offers limited-edition, hand-drawn sketches of iconic restaurants in New York, London, Paris, and Napa Valley. Order one to commemorate a special meal with a loved one, or one you’re still dreaming of visiting together.

1Mii Bluetooth 5.0 adapter

Sometimes, the best gifts are the most practical. This pocket-size Bluetooth transmitter lets you watch in-flight entertainment with your AirPods, or any other cordless headphone you may use. Never stress about forgetting that second pair of earbuds again.

Nodpod eye mask

An eye mask is a light sleeper's travel essential, and Nodpod took things up a notch by creating a weighted version. Best for long-haul flights where you'll be in a lay-flat seat, or to use in bed—the mask can be secured with its pull-through slit, but is best used simply draped over your eyes—it adds a bit of weight to your eyes, promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.

Parachute Waffle Robe

A comfy robe is always a winner in our book, and Parachute makes some of the best. This classic waffle robe will remind them of days spend luxuriating at the hotel spa.

Papier travel notebook

You're either a journal person or you're not, but if you are, you know you can never have too many notebooks on hand. This pretty Papier pad will be a welcome addition to the stack, and is customizable: choose lined, plain, or dotted sheets, and either a hard or soft cover.

Upoy charging station

Gadgets like these are a great way to keep things running smoothly when on the road. This multi-port charging station is a gift for the whole family—or for one very tech-obsessed traveler who need to juice up a phone, AirPods, smart watch, and Kindle all at once.

Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag

A re-imagination of Mansur Gavriel's popular Lady Bag, the Soft Lady Bag was released to celebrate the original's five-year anniversary. It's softer and slouchier than its predecessor, meaning it'll pack down better in your suitcase. With room for daily essentials (a phone, wallet, keys, earphones, and even an iPad) and interior compartments to keep you organized, it's a polished crossbody you'll use for years to come.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad (set of four)

Paravel's packing cubes—which helped turn Traveler editor Lale Arikoglu into a more organized packer —are a practical gift any traveler will appreciate. They now come in a set of four, with two small cubes, a medium, and a large; for an extra touch, have them personalized with your giftee's initials.

Polaroid Hi·Print pocket photo printer

Now that we all walk around with high-quality cameras in our pocket, fewer of our photos actually make it to print. This pocket-size printer from Polaroid spits out vibrant 2"x3" photos, so you can instantly hand over that new family portrait to grandma or share physical photos with a travel companion. 

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

Another great coffee table book, Atlas Obscura's new tome is made for travelers who plan their trips around food. Inside, readers will find a  guide to food experiences around the world, with chapters on every continent (including Antarctica!), as well as features on foodies like Tom Carvel, events like the Chicago World Fair,  and “how to try it” tips. Just a few noteworthy inclusions: Jeju Island's free-diving sea women in South Korea, the world's largest edible mushroom in Zambia, and the great fruitcake toss in Colorado.

Bokksu snack box subscription

There is no shortage of subscription boxes out there, but we're particularly fond of the edible ones. Bokksu, a Japanese snack service that recently launched an online Asian grocery store , sends recipients an assortment of sweet and savory snacks, candies, and teas on a monthly basis, sourced from small, family-run businesses in Japan.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Commemorate a special trip with a photo book from Artifact Uprising. Whether it's your first big trip this year or one taken decades ago, your loved ones will appreciate the thought that goes into picking out your favorite memories together.

How to pack for a trip to Antarctica

Apr 7, 2022 • 6 min read

Even travel minimalists can squeeze everything you need to pack for Antarctica into your suitcase © Angela Ballard / Lonely Planet

Glistening, groaning icebergs. Playful Adélie, gentoo and emperor penguins. Sunbathing Weddell seals and spouting sperm whales. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, driest continent on earth, and for many travelers, the final frontier.

Since the “Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration” at the end of the 19th century, people have longed to follow in Shackleton’s footsteps and explore this polar desert. Fortunately for modern adventurers, more opportunities than ever are open for tourists to check the most illusive continent on earth off their bucket lists. But to do that, you have to have the right gear.

What to pack for a voyage to Antarctica

Most expeditions to Antarctica are on scientific research vessels that also transport tourists. Unlike a traditional cruise, however, you won’t need fancy formalwear for the dining room. Dress on board is casual and comfortable and, above all else, keeps safety in mind. Ships typically ban any footwear that’s open-toed or high-heeled, but your tuxedo t-shirt will be just fine for penguin theme night.While on board the ship, your best bet is comfortable, layered clothing and slip-resistant shoes for walking the damp decks. Wildlife sightings are a popular pastime at sea, and this is a good opportunity to give your camera and snow gear a test run, since the wind on deck will give you a taste of Antarctic cold. Binoculars come in handy, too, for spotting far-off whales and birds from the boat.

Be prepared for seasickness crossing Drake Passage

Before you step foot on the southernmost continent, you’ll have to brave the Drake Passage. Those who make the crossing frequently will tell you that it’s referred to as the “Drake Shake” or the “Drake Lake,” depending on the swell of the sea. If it’s the former, you’ll want to be prepared with seasickness medicine. This can be pills, patches, wristbands, or a combination thereof; if you’re particularly susceptible, talk with your doctor about prescription medication before you leave home.

Packing for shore excursions in Antarctica

As you approach your first landing, the ship’s crew will check your outdoor wear and camera gear like tripods for any tiny stowaways. Everything will be inspected, vacuumed and brushed to remove foreign particles like dirt and seeds in order to protect Antarctica’s pristine environment .

Getting from your ship to Deception Island, South Shetland Islands, the Falkland Islands and other popular Antarctic landings requires you to ride in an inflatable motorboat.

A waterproof dry bag or backpack like those used by scuba divers is useful for keeping your camera gear dry, and a waterproof pouch on a lanyard will keep your phone secure and handy for quick photos. The extreme cold will drain the batteries in your electronics faster than usual, so bring extras and keep them in an inner coat pocket to benefit from your body heat until you need them.

How to protect yourself in this harsh environment

Sunglasses with a UV filter are essential for exploring in the blinding southerly sunshine — as is sunscreen. Some people bring ski goggles to help combat the wind, particularly if they have prescription lenses. Moisturizer and lip balm are also necessities in the Antarctic atmosphere; because of its low temperatures, the polar air contains only about one-tenth of the water vapor found in temperate latitudes, and your skin will dry out quickly.

While you might be tempted to pack your bulkiest clothes to stay warm, you’ll be better off with layers of moisture-wicking, windproof fabrics. Top these with waterproof snow pants (a requirement for most Antarctic cruises), but don’t tuck them in — that will shovel ice and snow directly into your boots, leaving you with wet socks and cold toes.

Preventing contamination of this pristine environment

Many cruise companies provide guests with rubber boots for shore excursions, largely to prevent contamination of the Antarctic snow and soil. But thin, moisture-wicking socks layered underneath a thicker, warmer pair will keep your toes toasty, particularly if you drop some air-activated heat packets into your boots. The same layering approach works best for your hands, with a thin liner pair of gloves topped with a thick, waterproof pair of ski-type gloves.

A balaclava offers an all-in-one approach for keeping your head warm and your face protected from Antarctic winds, or you can opt for a snug-fitting beanie and a neck gaiter that will fit under the hood of your coat and stay put on quick boat crossings.

Stay warm and dry... except for the polar plunge

Despite freezing temperatures, you should bring a swimsuit. The polar plunge is a fun opportunity to shed your snowsuit and strip to your skivvies for a quick dip in the sub-zero salt water. Once you’re back on board, keep your swimsuit on to take advantage of your ship’s sauna to thaw out from the swim.

How to protect your camera gear in Antarctica

You’re likely to take more photos in Antarctica than many other travel destinations, so make sure your gear is ready. Consider a rubber housing to protect your camera body, a rain sleeve to keep out snow and spray, and a lens hood to help combat the icy glare. An external hard drive will help free up space on memory cards, and a power strip comes in handy for charging all your devices simultaneously in your cabin. You may need outlet adapters, too, so check with your cruise line. Speaking of cameras, you can leave your drone at home — you won’t be able to fly it in Antarctica.

Miscellaneous items you also need for your Antarctica voyage

If you’re bunking in a shared cabin to cut costs, then don’t forget to bring a sleep mask, earplugs, a bag lock and other hostel-style roommate essentials.

Heading to Port Lockroy or Vernadsky Station? Carry some U.S. currency with you to purchase items from the gift shop or send a postcard with a penguin postmark to friends and family back home.

The most surprising thing you probably won’t need to pack for Antarctica is a coat. Most cruise operators provide one as part of your package, both for the branding opportunity and for safety reasons. It’s easier to find boatloads of guests on shore excursions when everyone is dressed alike. Double check before you depart, however, to be sure it’s included in your experience.

Antarctica packing essentials at a glance

Synthetic, silk or wool base layers

Waterproof snow pants

Moisture-wicking socks

Wool or insulating socks

Close-toed, slip-resistant deck shoes

Waterproof boots

UV-protected sunglasses

Beanie or watchcap

Neck gaiter

Waterproof gloves

A light windbreaker or jacket

Extra batteries

Camera + chargers, lenses, accessories, etc.

Motion sickness medication

Moisturizer

Sunscreen + SPF chapstick

You might also like: Ask LP: how can I travel to Antarctica? This is your brain on Antarctica: penguins, icebergs, and a lifetime supply of awe Quarantine with penguins: life stuck onboard an Antarctica cruise ship

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Nov 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Pull up a chair at any one of these Montréal eateries and you're in for a treat. Here's what to eat and where to find it in magnificent Montréal.

Nov 7, 2024 • 12 min read

Nov 7, 2024 • 7 min read

Nov 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Nov 7, 2024 • 4 min read

Nov 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Nov 8, 2024 • 10 min read

Nov 7, 2024 • 6 min read