Packing for an expedition is never fun. And this has been quite the ordeal as far as I am concerned.

Having the correct clothes for a vacation has always been a big deal for me, and over the years I like to think I have perfected the art of selecting the perfect wardrobe for any trip. Antarctica is simply not that easy,

First of all there is a limit of one suitcase weighing less than 50lbs, and one piece of hand luggage weighing less than 17 lbs. This would work for the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, but then when you look at the suggested packing list there is no way that everything is going to fit into just one suitcase, and one carry on. I check all of the social media sites to see how on earth you can do this. There are 2 schools of thought. Those like me who are in a mad panic, and those who say that is way more space than you will actually need. We do a test run, packing everything into our suitcases, and you guessed it. Way overweight. So I reviewed my jewelry case and rejected a couple of necklaces, but I don’t think that will make a big difference. Something else will need to go.

So what do they say you need to take?

PACKING CHECKLIST

Base Layer

Long underwear: Provides warmth without bulk. Two sets.

Insulation Layer

Expedition stretch top and bottoms: A lightweight layer worn over your base layer with tapered legs to fit into boots.

Loft vest: Provides extra warmth when an additional layer is needed.

Outer Layer

Hooded parka: Windproof, waterproof and custom-designed for polar travel is provided onboard, compliments of Silversea.

Waterproof pants: Essential. Wide enough to fit over boots with knee-high side zippers.

Rain jacket: Pack this piece in your hand luggage so that you have a windbreaker ready when you deplane.

Footwear

Boots: Essential. At least mid-calf high (12-15 inches / 30.5-38 cm in height). Preferably insulated.

Hats, Gloves & Socks

Hat: Fleece hat with a visor and ear flaps is recommended.

Socks: Extra heavyweight socks made of wool or wool blend.

Minimum two pairs.

Sock liners: Thin sock liners, worn under your socks for extra warmth. Pack as many liners as you have socks.

Neck gaiter: Preferred to scarves for Zodiac travel.

Gloves: Windproof and waterproof ski gloves or mitts.

Glove liners: Provide extra warmth on cold days.

Accessories

Backpack: A water-resistant backpack is provided on board, compliments of Silversea, for carrying items ashore and keeping your arms free for embarking/disembarking the Zodiacs.

Waterproof backpack: Recommended if you have a lot of camera equipment.

Binoculars: Compact with at least 10X power and 25mm objective diameter for wildlife watching.

Trekking poles: Provides a sense of security, increased balance, and confidence when walking on rugged terrain.

Seal-proof waterproof bags: To store your electronics.

Foot/Hand warmers: For extra warmth.
Sunglasses or goggles: U.V. filter protection to cut the glare.

Sun and wind protection: Lip balm and waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum).

I mean that’s a lot of stuff when you also have to have clothes for actually being on the ship when you are not off exploring in zodiacs. After all there are only 5 expedition days out of 17 days away from home. And the expeditions only take a few hours a day. Oh the challenge of it all. However, we have risen to bigger challengers before. No duct tape, or over the door shoe holders, or extra shower caddies, and I will limit the number of novels I bring along. I know we can do it! Oh, and what about a swimsuit? Is there a polar plunge in my future?