What to Pack for Antarctica and South Georgia

To help plan your expedition, we’ve put together the ultimate South Georgia and Antarctica cruise packing list.

Make sure you know exactly what to wear on an Antarctica cruise – and what not to wear! – before you head down to South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula. 

It’s always best to be prepared. So, as veterans of polar exploration, we have put together this South Georgia and Antarctica cruise packing list, answering all our guests’ pre-expedition packing questions. 

As well as what to wear on an Antarctica cruise, this guide includes our top 10 things to take to Antarctica and South Georgia, including advice on cameras, bags, and more. 

What to wear on an Antarctica cruise or South Georgia cruise

Well said, Mr Wainwright. 

What to wear on an Antarctica cruise is one of the first questions our guests ask after booking their Expedition Micro Cruise with us – along with what the weather will be like. 

The weather dictates what to pack for Antarctica cruises and South Georgia explorations. 

Expedition cruises only run to Antarctica and South Georgia in the Southern Hemisphere summer, which spans from December to February. 

Temperatures in Antarctica during this time typically range from -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F). The weather can vary widely but generally remains cold and is unpredictable. 

Antarctica experiences an extreme polar climate characterised by freezing temperatures, strong winds, and unique weather phenomena. Conditions can be harsh, and wind chill can make it feel much colder. It's not uncommon to encounter snowfall, blizzards, and fog during this time.

During the summer months in South Georgia, the weather is generally cool but is similarly unpredictable. The island experiences a subpolar oceanic climate due to its southern location and proximity to Antarctica.

Temperatures on South Georgia Island during the summer typically range from around 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F). However, it’s important to note that weather conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should be prepared for a wide range of weather patterns, including rain, wind, fog, and occasional snowfall.

Antarctica and South Georgia cruise clothing 

• The base layer

Layering is key when it comes to combating the ever-changing Antarctic weather. Dress in loose, roomy layers to trap heated air between them, creating insulation. Start with thermal underwear (silk or polypropylene), multiple pairs of tall, warm socks, and thinner polypropylene or merino wool socks.

• The mid-layer

For mid-layers, go for turtlenecks, fleece tops and bottoms, wool sweaters, or medium-weight polar fleece jackets. Don’t forget waterproof trousers or ski trousers – Gore-Tex is your friend. 

• The outer layer

Top it all off with a fleece neck buff, waterproof mittens with thin polypropylene gloves underneath, a hat, a shell anorak with an attached hood, and sturdy shoes with rubber waffle soles.

South Georgia and Antarctica cruise accessories

Our top 10 things to take to Antarctica: 

• Sunglasses with UV protection and strap (so they don’t fall off)

• Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and moisturiser 

• Binoculars 

• Camera (30mm lens minimum, with extra memory cards/film, cleaning kit… and an extra camera in case of accidents)

• Small waterproof backpack (for camera and water bottle on shore walks and Zodiac cruises)

• Seasickness medication (particularly when crossing the Drake Passage)

• Walking sticks

• Chargers and extra batteries for all your tech

• Earplugs and eyemask (to ensure some shut eye even when the sun doesn’t set)

• Bathing suit (in case you decide to take on the polar plunge!)

If you take any regular medication, make sure to bring more than enough with you to allow for any delays.

What’s included in an Antarctica and South Georgia cruise? 

With Secret Atlas expeditions, some gear is supplied for you. This depends on your particular expedition but can include rubber boots for shore landings and floatation suits. 

In addition, there’s no need to bring towels or bedding.

For a full rundown on what’s included, get in touch. 

Considerations when packing for Antarctica and South Georgia

Even when planning what to pack for Antarctica and South Georgia, it is possible to purchase from brands moving towards sustainability. 

One such example is the clothing brand Patagonia. As well as making some of the highest-performing Antarctic-ready clothing, they are known for their ethical practices and environmental activism. Like Secret Atlas, they are members of the 1% for the Planet initiative, donating a portion of their profits to environmental causes. 

We recommend all our guests consider the environmental impact of the items they buy and bring to Antarctica and South Georgia. When exploring these pristine environments, you will feel the urge to protect them, to protect our planet. Be one step ahead and pack for Antarctica and South Georgia with this in mind.