Have you ever wondered how you would feel if you had the chance to set foot on Antarctica one day? In February this year, I had that very opportunity. Some say Antarctica is a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime, as the experience can change your life. I can’t say whether that applies to everyone, but for me, visiting Antarctica truly gave me a lot of insights and added a remarkable chapter to my travel journey.
Related Introduction:【Watch the Video】Step into Antarctica and Feel the Beauty of Nature
Travel Recommendations – Jetour –
22 / 25 / 37-Day Antarctic Exploration Tours
Before I officially share my Antarctic journey, let me first share some practical information and tell you about the gear you need when heading to Antarctica. Let’s start with the most important item — clothing.
Before you depart, be sure to check the cruise arrangements carefully, as some cruises provide windproof jackets, and some even give you the jacket as a gift. However, policies vary by company, so it's essential to pay attention before you go. The cruise I took this time was called the Ocean Nova. Its highlight is that you can take a charter flight from Chile to Antarctica, avoiding the roughest sea journey and saving a lot of time.
Many friends ask, is it very cold in Antarctica? The Antarctic temperatures range from approximately -5°C to 0°C during the continental spring and summer months from November to February each year. Nights are colder, but you’ll mostly be on the cruise ship, so no need to worry.
Speaking of the cruise, be aware that there’s a significant temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, so layering is the best approach. This time, I wore thermal underwear first, then a shirt, and on top, a waterproof and windproof outer jacket.
This outer jacket has two layers — one is fleece-lined and the other is windproof. They can be separated when needed, which is very convenient. Since the weather in Bolivia before heading to Antarctica wasn’t too cold and I didn’t need the fleece layer, and carrying an extra jacket would have taken up too much space, this two-in-one jacket was perfect.
Besides the jacket, gloves are also very important. They must be waterproof, but breathability is also key. Like the jacket, these gloves use Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable technology, which blocks any moisture penetration while offering high breathability.
As for shoes, since the landings involve walking on snow, the cruise company will provide waterproof boots for you, so no worries there. Just remember to bring an extra pair of slippers and light shoes to wear on the ship, otherwise, it might be uncomfortable to wear the boots onboard all the time.
Get fully prepared for Antarctica — next time, I’ll share what cameras and lenses you should bring with you.
Text and Photos by Dan @ A Story of a Half Travel Journalist
Acknowledgments: Jetour, Columbia
(Editor’s Note: The tours mentioned in this article were sponsored by Jetour, and the clothing was provided by Columbia. I did not receive any fees or compensation from Jetour or Columbia.)
Travel Recommendations – Jetour –
22 / 25 / 37-Day Antarctic Exploration Tours
Related Introduction:【Watch the Video】Step into Antarctica and Feel the Beauty of Nature