So… you’re going to the Arctic. Let that sink in for a second.

The Arctic—where polar bears roam icy horizons, where glaciers glow in the midnight sun (or moonlight), and where the silence is so pure it almost hums. Whether you’re sailing past icebergs in Svalbard, dog sledding in Greenland, or watching the northern lights flicker across the sky from northern Canada, this is no ordinary trip. This is the kind of adventure people dream about for years.

And now it’s your turn.

But first—you’ve got to pack.

Packing for the Arctic isn’t just about staying warm. The right gear means more time outside, more comfortable explorations, and more focus on the jaw-dropping landscapes around you. Let’s make sure you’re ready to soak in every moment without worrying about frozen toes or fogged-up lenses.

Start with Layers: Your Arctic Armor

When you step out into that first blast of polar air, you’ll want to feel like a cozy adventurer—not a frozen burrito. The secret? Layering. Like. A. Pro.

Base Layers (aka Your Warm Hug)

Your base layer is your first line of defense against the cold.

2–3 sets of merino wool or high-performance synthetic thermal tops and bottoms

Breathable, moisture-wicking, and warm. (Say no to cotton—it’ll betray you.) Long sleeves and full-length bottoms only.

Slipping into your base layer each morning will feel like putting on a second skin made of pure warmth.

Mid Layers (Your Personal Heater)

This layer traps heat and keeps you cozy when the wind kicks up.

A couple of fleece jackets, wool pullovers, or lightweight down layers

A puffy vest for flexible layering

One pair of fleece or wool pants for extra-chilly days

You’ll thank these mid-layers when you’re standing on a glacier and still feeling like a happy human furnace.

Outer Layers (The Shield Against the Elements)

This is what stands between you and the Arctic elements.

A windproof, waterproof parka (down-filled is ideal, with a generous hood)

Waterproof pants to slip over your fleece or base layers

Bonus: Some expedition companies provide parkas—double check before you pack!

This layer is your superhero suit. It blocks the wind, repels snow, and lets you face the Arctic head-on.

Extremities: Protect Your Fingers, Toes, and Nose!

Your body’s smart. When it gets cold, it sends all your heat to your core. That means your hands, feet, ears, and nose need extra TLC.

Hats & Headgear

Heat escapes fast through your head—so plug that leak.

1 warm beanie or thermal hat

L1 neck gaiter or fleece balaclava

Optional: face mask or buff for serious wind

And don’t forget: covering your ears is non-negotiable.

Gloves & Mittens

Frostbite? Not on your watch.

1–2 pairs of liner gloves

1 pair of waterproof, insulated mittens

Touchscreen-friendly photography gloves if you’re planning to shoot

Pro tip: Mittens are warmer than gloves—embrace your inner child and go mitten-mode.

Footwear: Happy Feet, Happy Explorer

Cold, wet feet will ruin your day. Let’s not go there.

1 pair of waterproof, insulated boots (rated to -40°C or colder)

3–5 pairs of merino wool socks

1–2 pairs of liner socks to prevent blisters

Optional: heated insoles or foot warmers (luxurious, yes—but worth it!)

Make sure your boots are broken in before the trip. Blisters and icebergs? No thanks.

Your Daily Adventure Pack

Now let’s talk about what you’ll need to carry with you on excursions. Whether you’re hopping into a Zodiac boat or trekking across the tundra, you’ll want these close by.

Essentials for On-the-Go

1 small waterproof backpack (20–30L)

A thermos for hot drinks on the ice

Reusable insulated water bottle

Polarized sunglasses or glacier glasses (snow blindness is a real thing)

High-SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm (yes, even here!)

Bonus: Tuck in a small snack for long outings. There’s something magical about eating chocolate while staring at a frozen fjord.

Photography Gear: Because You’re Going to Want to Remember Everything

The Arctic is cinematic—wide skies, luminous ice, whales breaching, polar bears padding across the snow. But cold kills batteries fast, and moisture can destroy your camera.

Protect Your Gear

Your camera of choice (DSLR, mirrorless, or even a GoPro)

Extra batteries (store them close to your body for warmth)

Dry bags or a waterproof case

Lens cloths for wiping off snow or fog

A tripod with foam grips (metal gets icy fast)

And don’t forget memory cards—more than you think you’ll need. Because every moment here feels like one worth capturing.

Toiletries & Personal Care

Your Arctic lodge or ship will likely have the basics, but some personal comforts go a long way.

Travel-size moisturizer and hand cream (the air is dry)

Toothbrush/paste

Personal meds, plus extras in case of delays

Motion sickness tablets (even the toughest stomachs meet their match on choppy seas)

Cold medicine, ibuprofen, basic first aid

Wet wipes (great when water access is limited)

Optional: saline spray for your nose

Tech & Safety Must-Haves

Even in the wild, it pays to be powered up and prepared.

Power banks (seriously, bring two)

Charging cords and adapters

A headlamp or flashlight for nighttime outings

Hand warmers and toe warmers

Notebook and pen (you’ll want to jot down thoughts, wildlife sightings, and moments of wonder)

Optional—but Awesome—Extras

Depending on your trip, you might want to pack a few extras to fully enjoy your Arctic journey.

Binoculars – for spotting wildlife in the distance

A book – for cozy reading during down time

A swimsuit – for that polar plunge or hot tub on your ship

Earplugs – if you’re sharing a cabin or lodge with enthusiastic snorers

Travel games, puzzles, or downloaded shows – just in case of weather delays

Final Thoughts: You’re Going Somewhere Extraordinary

This isn’t just a vacation—it’s a voyage to one of the planet’s last great frontiers. The kind of place that resets your perspective. Where silence sounds different. Where ice has texture. Where light plays tricks, and wildlife feels like it wandered straight out of a documentary.

The more prepared you are, the freer you’ll feel to live in the moment. And trust us, the moments you’ll have in the Arctic? You’ll carry them for the rest of your life.

So pack smart, layer up, charge your camera—and get ready. You’re about to step into a world most people only dream about.