Camping in Antarctica: How To Be Perfectly Prepared
Annually, Antarctica receives thousands of campers from all over the world who want to visit the Earth’s southernmost continent. For most people, camping in Antarctica offers a unique opportunity to witness sights and events that could not be found anywhere else on the planet. In addition to that, thanks to advances in technology, even inexperienced adventurers are able to explore Antarctica safe and sound. That being said, preparation remains essential, it’s unwise for you to go to the coldest, driest and windiest continent without proper equipment and knowledge. Want some suggestions? Then you come to the right place.
In this article, you would be introduced to a couple of issues that you need to remember while preparing for an exhilarating trip to Antarctica. Just take precaution at every corner and you should have an enjoyable experience without fail. Furthermore, you must listen to the leading members of the expedition and follow their instruction. Antarctica is far from a forgiving land which means you might have to pay dearly for each of your mistakes. In any case, pay attention and try to stay focus if you want to have a great time in Antarctica. With that settled, let’s finally get down to business.
1. Take Your Logistics Into Account
Needless to say, you are not going haul all of your gears and tools to Antarctica all on your own. You need to look around and then select a reputable logistics outfitter that takes you along with your stuff there. In most of the case, cruises to Antarctica offer well-organized transportation along with logistics services so check them out. While you are at it, assess the accommodations, meals and equipment provided by the outfitter to grab the best deal. It’s highly likely that you would have to make compromises here and there but don’t ever forget that safety is number one priority.
2. Before Embarking, Make Sure That You Are In Good Health
As mentioned above, Antarctica is a harsh land and it’s very important that your body is in top shape. Several service providers have age limits and most them demand that you present medical certificates in order to prove that you are in good health. In addition to that, it’s a good idea to objectively determine whether you are prone to seasickness or not. If you have little to no trouble, there is really nothing for you to worry as you could adjust while traveling through the Antarctic Peninsula. Otherwise, get your hand on motion sickness medications and bring them along just in case.
3. Think About You Travel Inventory
For most of the time, the outfitter would provide you with boots, waterproof trousers and so on but these items vary from case to case. Therefore, contact the operator to learn about the items that are provided and leave room for then in travel inventory. Aside from that, pack as if you are going on a zodiac excursion and make provisions for potentially adverse conditions. In term of clothes, bring gloves, socks and a hat beside your principal shirts and pants to keep you warm. For the fabric, silk and wool are excellent choices here. If possible, consider packing a waterproof parka in order to add another layer of insulation.
Regarding electronics, secure some specialized casings to shield your phones, cameras and alike from harm. Each Antarctica cruise possesses a series of outlets so you could recharge your electronics in times of needs without trouble. That being said, the design is not uniform so it’s widely advised that you prepare adapter for your chargers. That would allow you to use the electric outlets even when they turn out to be incompatible with your chargers. Despite having a reputation of extremely cold, the sun is strong in Antarctica and the reflection of sunlight is intense. Therefore, ensure that you keep polarized sunglasses as well as sunscreen right by your side.
4. Be Socialize But Keep Boundaries
Once you get onboard, you are going to meet strangers that would travel alongside you for at least a week. Therefore, it should not hurt to get to know each other, share some life stories and even form fast friendships.
It’s a great chance to acquire information about the leading members of the expedition and learn about their characteristics. The more you know about the expedition, the more comfortable you feel traveling with everyone. Nonetheless, certain people happen to take solace in solitude and you need to respect that. In the case you feel bored, WiFi is often available on Antarctica cruises although it comes with a hefty price.
5. Remember The Rule And Law
Overall, you could enjoy chocolate and protein bars while on the ship but when you are about to hit the shore, leave the snacks behind. Due to the regulations of IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators ), disposal of litter or garbage in Antarctica is strictly prohibited, land and sea. Any discarded materials must be brought back to the ship and that is why it’s best that you don’t bring any snack along. Worry that you might be starved if something unexpected occurs and the expedition could not get back to the ship. Well, in that scenario, each expedition always got emergency rations on hand so rest assured.
“So what happens if I need to use the toilet?”. In that kind of situation, there is really nothing people could do aside from quickly answering the call of nature. Fortunately, Antarctica expeditions are fully capable of providing campers with portable toilets just in case things go out of hand. All human wastes generated by the Antarctica campers would be hauled back for proper disposal. Needless to say, it’s only a mediocre solution so it’s strongly recommended that you take care of your business before leaving the ship. Except in emergencies, there is no way to return to the ship at night so visit the restroom in advance and then empty your stomach.
