What to pack for your polar expedition
Packing for the polar regions doesn’t have to be a challenge, and to make things easier for you, all our expeditions include a parka that you get to keep and waterproof insulated boots on loan. Additional items may include:
WHAT TO WEAR ON LANDINGS
• Wool or synthetic base layer shirt (first layer)
• Wool or synthetic base layer pants (first layer)
• Warm shirt or fleece (second layer)
• Warm or fleece pants (second layer)
• Warm wool or synthetic socks (bring a spare pair and bring several pairs to layer)
• Thin gloves for lining
• Waterproof or mittens (extra pair)
• Scarf, buff, or other face protection
• Warm hat that covers your ears (one extra)
• Waterproof pants (required for any zodiac trip)
• Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry bag
• Polarized sunglasses with UV protection (one extra pair)
• Ski goggles (provides extra protection for adventure activities and zodiac cruises on snowy or windy days)
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
WHAT TO WEAR ON BOARD
• Complimentary 3-in-1 parka
(waterproof outer layer on deck and removable inner lining)
• Comfortable everyday clothing such as light sweaters and pants or jeans, etc.
• Comfortable, closed-toe, non-slip shoes without heels
(for safety reasons, flip flops, sandals, and slippers should not be worn on board)
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
• Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge! Some ships have a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and/or steam room.)
• A light warm jacket
• Sports equipment (for the fitness center)
• Binoculars
• Hand and foot warmers
• Camera with charger and spare batteries
• Extra memory or laptop with sufficient storage space (for saving photos)
• Waterproof case for your cell phone or rain cover for your camera
• Cloth for cleaning camera lenses
• Earplugs and eye mask for sleeping
• Voltage converters and plug adapters
• Personal alarm such as a cell phone, watch, or alarm clock
• Moisturizer for face and hands (polar air can be dry)
• An extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
• Reusable waterproof zipper bags (for storing small items and keeping your camera dry)
• Medication for seasickness, indigestion, migraines, or other medications
• Hand sanitizer
• Passport, visas, immunization, vaccination, and travel documents, etc. (as required)
• A small amount of local currency
• Water container (a reusable collapsible container will be provided on board)
WEATHER CONDITIONS & TEMPERATURES
Polar weather is extremely variable, temperatures can fluctuate around freezing, and winds can be strong. Extended daylight can warm sheltered areas, where you may sometimes feel warm enough to wear a T-shirt. However, rain, snowstorms, fog, and polar blizzards with zero visibility can occur during the expedition, and you must be prepared for all conditions.