PREPARATION

Whether traveling to the Polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica or sunny Galapagos you will need to make sure you are prepared. Below is a suggested packing list.

Antarctica

• Long underwear: Breathable, light-weight tops and bottoms provide warmth without bulk. We recommend high performance capilene or merino wool.
• Expedition stretch top and bottoms: This lightweight layer is worn over your base layer and under your waterproof outer layer. Warmth and flexibility are important for comfort when sitting in Zodiacs. Expedition stretch tops and bottoms are flexible. The legs taper to fit into boots and the tops have articulated sleeves that fit easily over the base layer.
• Loft jacket, pullover or vest: The loft traps heat with remarkable efficiency, even when wet. It is feather light and compacts for easy packing. Loft garments are water repellent and windproof and double as outerwear in mild weather.
• Hooded jacket: Windproof, waterproof and large enough to fit over layers. Jackets are insulated or designed to add a loft jacket under the outer shell.
• Waterproof pants: Breathable and wide enough to fit over boots. Knee-high side zippers are preferred so you can get your boots on and off easily. Buy a size larger than your base layer to ensure you are comfortable sitting in the Zodiac with one or two layers under your pants.
• Rain jacket: Packable, lightweight, waterproof rain jacket. The fabric should be breathable so that moisture from your body can escape.
• Boots: Flexible, pull-on boots with sturdy soles that are suitable for Antarctica. As you will step into icy water during Zodiac landings, boots are essential and must be at least mid-calf high (12-15 inches / 30.5-38 cm in height).
• Socks: Extra heavyweight socks made of wool or wool blend.
• Sock liners: Thin sock liners, worn under your socks for extra warmth. Pack as many liners as you have socks.
• Hat: Fleece is excellent because it is lightweight and extremely warm. Wool is also recommended. Choose a hat with a visor to shade your eyes and flaps to protect your ears, the best choice for Antarctica.
• Neck gaiter: A practical and stylish way to protect your neck. Neck gaiters are more flexible than balaclavas and don't fly around like scarves. You can wear a neck gaiter around your neck or use it as a headband.
• Gloves: Windproof and waterproof ski gloves. Gloves that keep your hands warm are expensive but are absolutely necessary and a great investment.
• Glove liners: Recommended as they provide extra warmth on cold days. Some glove liners are wind-resistant and will protect your hands when you slip off your glove to take photos.
• Backpack: Lightweight and water-resistant backpack for carrying items ashore and keeping your arms free for embarking/ disembarking the Zodiacs. If you have a lot of camera equipment and do not intend to use plastic seal-proof bags, pack a waterproof backpack.
• Trekking poles: A lightweight, collapsible, walking staff (also called a trekking pole) provides a sense of security, increased balance, and confidence when walking on ice, snow and rugged terrain.
• Seal-proof waterproof bags: Heavy-duty plastic to use to store your camera, film, binoculars and more in your backpack.
• Foot/Hand warmers: To put between your feet and your socks and to slip into your hands for extra warmth.
• Also recommended: A pair of good sunglasses or goggles with U.V. filter protection and protective lotion for lips, hands and face.

Galapagos

• Shirts: Protect yourself from sun, heat and bugs. Choose light colors. Dark shades draw mosquitoes. Pack quick-drying, breathable shirts to stay cool.
• Rash Guard or Ozone Top: Keep your core warm while snorkeling and stay safe from sunburn, no-see-ems and stingers.
• Pants/Shorts: Travel with ease and flexibility in lightweight, fast-drying convertible pants.
• Pareos/Sarongs: Don't forget the most versatile garment of the tropics: a skirt, wrap or picnic blanket in a pinch.
• Hat: Shade your face from sun with a large brim and a chin strap to secure your hat on Zodiac rides
• Boots: Walk with ease in sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots.
• Tevas: Fasten these sturdy sandals that don't chafe when wet. Add socks by night to avoid bugs.
• Aqua Socks: Protect your feet while near coral and sharp stone beaches.
• Backpack: Free your arms with a lightweight, waterproof pack when going ashore and guarding camera equipment.
• Mosquito Head Net/Body Net: Avoid insects with an ultra-fine head or a body net.

Below is a list of common items travelers need.

Clothing

• Warm clothing including a hooded parka or rain jacket
• Rash Guard or Ozone Top
• Rain Jacket/Poncho

Footwear

• Boots
• Water sandals
• Leech Socks

Accessories

• Hats and gloves
• Trekking poles
• Sun protection