What to Pack for Antarctica—and What to Leave Behind
Packing for Antarctica may sound daunting, but a Seabourn expedition is designed to make preparing for the voyage far simpler than you might expect. With expert guidance, purpose-built gear, and thoughtful amenities provided on board, you can focus on comfort, exploration, and the experience itself. Here’s a practical look at what to bring—and what you can leave at home.
Five Things to Pack
1. Portable Luggage Scale
With multiple flights and transfers along the way, a compact luggage scale helps avoid airport surprises.2. Compression Packing Cubes
Compression cubes keep layers organized and maximize suitcase space—especially helpful when packing bulky cold-weather clothing alongside everyday essentials.3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
From long-haul flights to airport transfers, noise-canceling headphones help create calm moments along the way, making travel days more comfortable and restorative.4. UV Protection
Antarctica’s bright snow and reflective ice can intensify sun exposure. High-quality sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF are small but essential additions.5. Versatile Merino Wool Layers
Merino wool pieces are ideal for polar travel: warm yet breathable, naturally odor-resistant, and easy to layer. A few well-chosen items can adapt seamlessly from ship to shore.
Five Things You Don’t Need to Pack
1. A Water Bottle
Seabourn provides a complimentary reusable water flask, so there’s no need to bring your own.2. Binoculars
Each suite includes access to SWAROVSKI OPTIK binoculars on loan, offering exceptional clarity for wildlife viewing without adding extra weight to your luggage.3. A Parka
Guests receive a Complimentary PolarShield Parka by Helly Hansen—a state-of-the-art, custom-designed, two-in-one hooded parka. Windproof and waterproof, it features an outer shell and insulating inner jacket that can be worn together or separately—and it’s yours to take home.4. A Waterproof Daypack
Included with your parka order is a WaterShield Waterproof Backpack by Helly Hansen, ideal for Zodiac landings and shore excursions.5. Boots and Walking Sticks
Seabourn provides expedition boots and walking sticks for use during the voyage, removing the need to pack bulky specialty footwear.
With so much provided on board, packing for Antarctica becomes far more manageable. Focus on smart layers, a few practical travel accessories, and the excitement of the voyage ahead—Seabourn takes care of the rest. Find out more about packing for Antarctica (and beyond) on our packing guide page on seabourn.com.
For more information about voyages to Antarctica, contact a complimentary Seabourn
Personal Cruise Consultant,
your Travel Advisor or call Seabourn