What to Pack for a Patagonia Adventure

What to Pack for a Patagonia Adventure

March 25th, 2015

What to Pack for a Patagonia Adventure

What to Pack for a Patagonia Adventure

Before taking off for the rugged South American adventure paradise, find out what to pack to make this dream journey one to remember.

The wind-swept wilderness of Patagonia is high on many travelers’ lists, and for good reason. With some of South America’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders, like Perito Moreno Glacier and Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia lures travelers with a range of adventures like whitewater rafting on turquoise rivers and hiking across primeval glaciers or through mountain peaks.

With its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, this region shared by the southern portions of Argentina and Chile, requires potential visitors to do some careful planning. While savvy travelers always err on the side of packing light, we suggest packing smart, too—especially for this trip.

Patagonian climate by season

Weather conditions and temperatures vary depending on season and which part of Patagonia you're planning to visit. Between May and August, days can be warm with frigid nights, so make sure to pack layers, as you’ll constantly be adding and removing clothing. The rainiest time of year differs by region, so play it safe and bring weatherproof gear to keep your supplies dry.

The mountains and glacial areas obviously see cooler temperatures year-round and can drop to below freezing during the winter, which runs from June to September in the Southern Hemisphere. On the opposite extreme, the Atlantic coast can experience temps as high as 80-90° F (26-32° C) during the summer months of December to March, so be sure to pack some lightweight, breathable shirts.

Packing summary for Patagonia

To prepare for an environment with such unpredictable weather, travelers to Patagonia should bring warm clothes and outerwear, plus a few lighter shirts and pants for when the temperature rises. Take at least two pairs of shoes if you'll be there more than a couple days.

In addition to clothing, remember essentials like a backpack, hiking poles, camping gear (if camping), sunscreen, camera, and insect repellent. Binoculars are ideal for bird-watching or getting an up-close view of wildlife or glaciers.

No matter the season, don’t pack anything that isn’t quick-drying and breathable for all the outdoor activities you’ll partake in. The Pack-It™ Compression Sac Set is always a good travel option because it compresses bulky items and can reduce the volume of dirty laundry.

Packing essentials for Patagonia:

Clothing

Thermal bottom base layer

Top layer

Lightweight, long-sleeved shirt

Fleece jacket

Rain jacket

Hiking pants (that zip off into shorts)

Warm hat

Waterproof gloves

Long underwear or clothes to sleep in

Moisture-wicking underwear

Wool hiking socks

Hiking boots

Sturdy sandals

Gear

Deviate Travel Pack (to carry all gear and clothing)

Pack-It™ Compression Sac Set

Hiking poles

Headlamp - LED is recommended and don’t forget extra batteries!

Pocket knife

Energy bars and electrolyte tablets

Water bottle (ideally one with a filter)

Toiletries

Toilet paper

Toothbrush/toothpaste

Dry shampoo

Handi-wipes

Sunscreen

Insect repellent

First-aid kit and blister repair

For Camping

Tent

Sleeping pad and bag

Camp stove and fuel

Pots and utensils

Miscellaneous

Camera – With panoramic option to deliver better landscape shots

Binoculars - Bird watching opportunities aplenty in Patagonia!

Sunglasses

Superlight TSA Lock®  (to keep your bag and/or tent locked)

All Terrain Money Belt  (to keep money handy while adventuring)

Travel pillow

Ear plugs

Have additional tips for what to bring on a Patagonia adventure? Share with other travelers in the comments below!

While Eagle Creek is here to provide tips and insights on travel, we cannot accept any responsibility for potential consequences that might arise from the use of this information.. Always conduct your own research and use your best judgment.

Scott Shetler is a freelance journalist and frequent traveler who enjoys national parks, offbeat destinations, urban adventures, and everything in between. He blogs about his travels at http://quirkytravelguy.com.

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Deviate Travel Pack 60L

Pack-It Compression Sac Set

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by Scott Shetler

Scott Shetler is a freelance journalist and frequent traveler who enjoys national parks, offbeat destinations, urban adventures, and everything in between. He blogs about his travels at http://quirkytravelguy.com.