The first rule of packing for Antarctica is that we have already packed the hard part. Every guest receives an expedition parka — insulated, waterproof, windproof, and yours to keep — plus insulated boots for the Zodiac landings. The bulkiest items never touch your luggage allowance.
What remains is a philosophy: layers, not bulk. Merino against the skin — two sets, so one is always fresh. A fleece or light down mid-layer. Windproof trousers for the Zodiacs, where spray is a certainty and discomfort a choice. Two pairs of gloves, because one pair will get wet doing something wonderful, and a liner pair for photography.
For the ship: expedition vessels are elegant inside, and the dress code is "smart, warm, unhurried." Knitwear, not black tie. The binoculars matter more than the evening wear; the waterproof dry bag for your camera matters more than both.
And pack light in spirit. The continent provides the spectacle; you provide only your attention. Everything else — from the parka to the hot chocolate that appears on the Zodiac like sleight of hand — is already aboard.
