I always stress out about packing, no matter where I go. I insist on being well-prepared and overthinking the contents of my suitcase for days before I travel, but it’s usually worth it. Living in Montana, I already had most of the essentials for an adventure in Antarctica, but I was still anxious about being cold, so I purchased a couple extra base layers and a good pair of waterproof mittens. Much of the advice I received from colleagues who’d already been to the white continent was the most valuable. They suggested:
Ski goggles: While you won’t need them all the time, you’ll be grateful that you brought them on the days when the wind is blowing. They keep your face warm and make it easier to see. Sunglasses would be the next best thing, but many travelers who had them were still jealously eyeing our goggles.Karen and Meg all bundled up in Antarctic gear (Meg Giddings)
Wool, wool, wool: Try to bring a wool hat, a wool neck gaiter, wool socks, and wool next-to-skin layers. Wool is that magic fabric that keeps you warm, is breathable, and somehow doesn’t stink. Many synthetics would probably work as well, but don’t even think about cotton.
Heavy, warm socks: Don’t let your cold feet put a damper on your excursions, when it’s so easily preventable. Layer with a good liner and a heavy hiking or mountaineering sock (again, wool!). Try that out, and if you’re still a bit cold after the first excursion, add another layer. You can also try hand and foot warmers, but I didn’t find that I really needed them if I just had warm enough socks and mittens (also layered with a glove liner).
Shoes that are easy to slip on: Wildlife sightings can happen at any time, and you don’t want to miss something because you have to lace up your boots every time you leave your room.
An extra of almost everything, in case it gets wet: There isn’t enough time for mittens and such to dry out in between a morning and an afternoon excursion, so avoid the moist and chilly unpleasantness of putting back on a wet glove and just bring an extra pair.
Was there anything I wish I brought but didn’t?
If I went again, I would bring more comfortable clothes just to wear around the ship. I packed heavily for the Antarctic weather outside, but you’re also on the ship quite a bit, with the days on the Drake and evenings after excursions. The temperature was kept quite toasty inside, so I wish I would have brought a few more light shirts and pants just for lounging. Karen and Meg prepped for kayaking in their dry suits and life jackets (Karen DiGangi)
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
