Summer is a great time to get outdoors after a long and cold winter season and enjoy some of the amazing things life has to offer.
Many people look for the thrill of excitement, but a trip to Antarctica is a great way to take a break from the daily grind and see the outdoor beauty.
For an epic excursion with Quark Expeditions this summer to Antarctica, you’ll need to have several essentials on your bucket list.
Here’s the list of the things you’ll need for the trip:
Backpack
The most basic thing you’ll need is a backpack to put all your essentials in one place. Several options are available on the market; regardless, it’s important to pick a large and roomy bag to fit all your things.
The quality of the bag should be top-notch and preferably waterproof material so that if you get caught in a rainstorm, you’re not out of luck. A backpack is also great for long hikes, overnight camping trips, and days at the sea. A sturdy bag is value for money and can still hold up for many months.
Tent
Any summer trip is incomplete without camping, which is necessary to have fun and see the beauty of nature. It’s home away from home since you leave your comfortable bed and sleep on the iced ground.
It adds to the adventure since you can see the stars in a clear sky and feel the fresh air and cool breeze on your skin. It’s magical to sit in a circle with your friends, tell stories and share laughter. Camping can be as luxurious or as rustic as you want in Antarctica.
To complement your camping, you need a portable tent with you. A good quality tent should be leak-proof with a waterproof floor, sturdy, easy to set up, and well-ventilated. Worth noting that you need special types of tents in Antarctica made from durable material and highly insulated to keep warm.
A Blanket
When thinking about a fun summer activity, you may be tempted to go to the beach or hike through the ice. No matter where you want to go, you need a blanket. Though it may not seem essential, it can make your trip much more enjoyable.
It keeps you warm in the evening as you share stories with your friends or loved ones after a day of activities, and it provides a softer place to sleep, so you won’t have to lay on the hard ground. When lounging by the thin snow, a waterproof blanket can provide a firm surface so that you can chill, count the stars or read a novel under the sunshine.
Durable Knee-high Boots and Comfortable Socks
You’ll need the right pair of shoes for the terrain you’ll be trekking. If you’re going to a hilly place, you’ll need something sturdy and waterproof. Boots can be the difference between having a good or bad time during your trip. Ensure you have enough room in your bag or suitcase for them.
Since you’ll be trekking for many hours, you’ll want something light and breathable. When shopping for boots, also consider the quality of socks. A thin pair of cotton socks are perfect if you are walking around for many hours.
On the other hand, a thicker pair of hiking socks is a better option if you’re trekking through mountains; they’ll protect your feet from freezing and help prevent blisters. It’s best to avoid wearing rubber boots with deep treads as these can be hard to clean up after the expedition.
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are essential items you must carry with you during your summer excursion to Antarctica. They will help you sleep comfortably and safely wherever you are. When choosing a sleeping bag, there are several things to remember. First, make sure it’s appropriate for the weather.
Even though the days are soaring during summer, the nights can get really cold. But if you are camping along the beach, get one made of waterproof material, warm and comfy. Likewise, consider getting a wicking sleeping bag to absorb moisture and keep you warm and comfortable.
Trekking Poles
Research shows that trekking poles can take off the strain on your knees. You shouldn’t miss these poles on your trip as they can help protect against injuries.
Besides, they offer balance on snow or uneven trails. They also provide extra stability and improve your walking posture.
Water Distiller and Water Bottle
Traveling is fun, but it can be trouble if you don’t have clean water. Make sure you always have a good water bottle when you’re traveling. You never know how long your trip will be, and not having enough water will cause dehydration.
Instead of buying bottled water, you can save some money by having a water distiller and reusable bottle. You’ll want a bottle that’s easy to carry in your backpack. Some have a strap attached or a carabiner so you can clip it to your bag easily.
Headlamp
A headlamp is a necessary item to have on a night hike. You don’t want to be stumbling around in the dark because you might fall and step on something dangerous. The headlamp lets you see everything in the dark and helps you move around much better. You can attach it to your head to keep both hands free.
These lamps are available in many beam options for lighting up different areas. For example, lamps with long and short beams, while others have wide beams. It’s best to get one that is easy to adjust depending on your needs.
Navigation Tools
You’ll also need a set of navigation tools to move from one place to the next. Maps provide information about nearby locations and facilities, like hotels and restaurants. Further, the best maps have detailed writing and high-quality printing.
Whether planning a trip in the mountains or on the beach, you should always have a compass on hand. Many people fail to realize how useful a compass can be until they get lost or take wrong turns.
In the mountains, you can use a compass to help you figure out where you are and help you get back to your team if you get lost. Also, if you’re planning an expedition, finding your way across the different areas is much easier with a handheld GPS device.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is one of the most important things to bring with you on your trip. The kit should contain bandages and ointments to help treat minor injuries.
The kit should include a first aid manual, a splint, antibiotics, and some over-the-counter pain relievers, for you and the team.
Comfortable Clothes
The kind of clothes you carry will hugely impact your excursion experience. You can have a simple pair of footwear to slip into easily. However, once you get to Antarctica, you’ll want to dress in warm clothes, weatherproof jackets, and pants.
When taking boat rides, you’ll probably be exposed to occasional splashes from the seawater. Get lightweight pants with an insulating interior to keep warm. Pull-on pants with waterproofing qualities are great options since you can easily take them off when not needed. Pack a pair of gloves, mittens, scarf, windproof, and hat.
Camera, Sunglasses, and Binoculars
A trip to Antarctica is memorable, and a camera will help you capture those memories. Don’t forget to carry a waterproof camera bag to store your device and protect it from water damage.
A pair of binoculars can help you spot sea birds or whales while cruising on a ship. During summer, the sun can shine on the snow, and glaring on the ice can be intense. You can carry the sunglasses to protect your eyes and keep the mild headaches at bay.
Conclusion
If you are planning a trip on the trails of Antarctica this summer, it’s best to know what you need and what to avoid. It will help you concentrate on the essentials and not overload yourself with extra weights. Hopefully, this guide will help you kick off your summer trip with the right gear.
