Stay Warm — Stay Dry — Enjoy Every Moment
Our Antarctica Clothing & Layering Tip Sheet has been designed to take the guesswork out of packing for polar conditions. It provides detailed, easy-to-follow guidance on what to wear — from thermal base layers to outer waterproof shells — ensuring you stay warm, dry, and comfortable no matter the weather.
You’ll find practical advice on layering techniques, recommended fabrics, and how to adapt your clothing for both shipboard comfort and Zodiac landings, as well as tips for managing moisture, choosing the right gloves, boots, and headwear, and caring for your gear throughout the expedition.
Whether it’s your first time in Antarctica or your fifth, this guide will help you pack with confidence and enjoy every moment of your polar adventure in warmth and comfort.
🧦 SOCKS & LEGGINGS
✅ How to Layer for Warmth:
- Wear two pairs of socks.
- First layer: a thin thermal or silk pair.
- Second layer: a thick merino or wool pair.
- Pull your first pair of socks on first, then your merino leggings over the top of the first pair to seal in warmth.
- On colder days, add a second pair of thermal leggings for extra insulation.
- Next, pull your second, thicker socks over your leggings so everything is neatly tucked in — no cold gaps!
- Then, put your trousers on over the second pair of thermal leggings for maximum warmth and comfort.
- Finish with waterproof or ski pants — these act as your outer shell, keeping wind and water out while locking in body heat.
💡 Tip: Avoid tight socks — compression restricts circulation and can make your feet colder.
🧥 TOP HALF LAYERING
✅ Layer smart, not bulky:
- Base layer: Fine merino or lightweight thermal long-sleeve top.
- Mid layer: Fitted thermal top or ski-style polo neck.
- Insulating layer: Stretchy ski zip-top or padded vest for core warmth.
- Outer layer: Polar or expedition jacket (most ships supply these).
This system allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing layers as conditions change.
💡 Tip: Synthetic or merino fabrics are best — they wick moisture and stay warm even when damp.
🧣 HEAD, NECK & HANDS
✅ Essentials for comfort:
- Two merino neck scarves or buffs:
- One can double as a headband or ear cover.
- The other wraps around your neck and can pull up over your face for wind protection.
- Beanie: Choose one with a wool outer and a soft knit liner for warmth and comfort.
- Gloves:
- Wear flip-top mittens with thin liners underneath for dexterity.
- Upgrade to OTEX Photographer Gloves or similar for warmth plus camera control.
- Hand warmers: Bring 8-hour disposable (eco-friendly) ones — perfect for pockets or gloves on cold zodiac rides.
🥾 FOOTWEAR
- Your expedition boots are usually supplied — check with your operator before packing.
- Always wear thermal socks inside waterproof boots.
- Keep an extra dry pair in your cabin to change into after shore landings.
- Avoid cotton — it stays wet and makes your feet cold.
🧳 ACCESSORY TIPS
- Sunglasses or goggles: Protect against snow glare.
- Sunscreen & lip balm: The reflection from the ice can burn quickly, even on cloudy days.
- Waterproof backpack or dry bag: Keeps gear safe from spray and snow.
- Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, even in the cold.
⚠️ WHAT NOT TO DO
Outdoors / On Landings
- 🚫 Don’t wear cotton layers — they trap moisture and lose insulation when wet.
- 🚫 Don’t overdress before heading out — you’ll warm up quickly and then chill as sweat cools.
- 🚫 Don’t tuck your waterproof pants inside your boots — they must go over to stop water getting in.
- 🚫 Don’t bring fur-trimmed or shedding clothing — fibres can contaminate the pristine environment.
Onboard
- 🚫 Don’t dry clothes on cabin heaters — it can damage fabrics.
- 🚫 Don’t leave wet gloves or socks in plastic bags — they’ll stay damp and smelly.
- 🚫 Don’t step outside in slippers — decks can freeze and be slippery!
✅ WHAT TO DO
- ✅ Layer from thin to thick: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid, waterproof outer.
- ✅ Keep extremities covered: hands, neck, ears, and feet.
- ✅ Allow air between layers: trapped air is your best insulator.
- ✅ Change into dry clothes after landings.
- ✅ Pack extra socks and gloves — the sea spray can soak more than you expect.
- ✅ Always carry spare hand warmers on excursions.
🧊 LESLEY’S POLAR PACKING INSIGHT
“It’s all about smart layering — merino next to skin, waterproofs on top, and a smile in between! The cold won’t bother you when you’re dressed right and focused on the moment.”
— Lesley Whyte, IAATO Antarctic Ambassador & Photographer
About Lesley Whyte
Lesley Whyte is a multi-award-winning photographer, adventurer, and IAATO Antarctic Ambassador — and New Zealand’s only female street photography mentor. Having travelled extensively across Antarctica, Lesley combines her expertise in expedition logistics with her artistic vision behind the lens to help others capture the continent’s raw beauty with confidence. Through her Women in Photography retreats, she empowers photographers of all levels to embrace the challenges of shooting in extreme and remote landscape and polar environments—transforming once-in-a-lifetime moments into powerful, print-worthy images. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: respect the environment, connect with the moment, and capture with purpose.