Pre-Trip Checklist: Antarctica

Essential Preparations

A structured timeline for your Antarctic expedition helps coordinate every detail.

Planning Milestones

Divide your preparation into manageable phases for a smooth experience.

Early Stages

Research & Booking

12-18 months prior: Compare operators and itineraries, book your cruise.

Flights & Insurance

6-12 months prior: Book flights to Ushuaia/Punta Arenas, purchase travel insurance.

Visas & Gear

3-6 months prior: Check visa requirements, start acquiring cold-weather gear.

Mid-Phase

Vaccinations & Packing

1-2 months prior: Get recommended vaccinations, finalize your packing list.

Home Arrangements

1-2 months prior: Arrange mail, pet care, or house-sitting.

Financial Notices

1-2 weeks prior: Inform banks/credit card companies of your travel dates.

Final Week

Confirmation & Copies

1-2 weeks prior: Reconfirm all bookings, copy documents.

Luggage Prep

1-2 weeks prior: Pack efficiently, focusing on layering.

Documentation Check

1-2 weeks prior: Verify passport validity and any required visas.

Important Actions

Your expedition cruise, flights, and insurance are main bookings.

Booking & Paperwork

Book your expedition cruise well in advance.
Secure flights to your embarkation city early.
Check passport validity; renew if needed.
Complete all medical forms for the operator.

Practical Steps

Consider necessary gear, health, and home arrangements.

Gear & Health

Start purchasing cold-weather clothing and equipment.
Consult your travel doctor for vaccinations.
Arrange home preparations like mail and pet care.
Inform your bank of travel dates.

Preparation Reminders

Thorough research and practical steps create a solid foundation for your journey.

Pre-Trip Research

Read books and watch documentaries about Antarctica.
Familiarize yourself with the wildlife you expect to see.
Understand the Antarctic Treaty and IAATO guidelines.
Research climate change impacts on the region.

Home Organization

Secure your home before departure.
Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Coordinate pet care if needed.
Ensure someone can check on your property.

Financial Readiness

Notify bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Understand currency exchange options.
Set a budget for any pre/post-cruise expenses.
Keep receipts for major purchases for potential tax refunds.

Travel Insight

Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation from remote polar regions. This is often required.

Arrival Checklist Embarkation Port

Your arrival in the embarkation city is the final step before boarding your ship.

Initial Steps

1
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least one, preferably two, full days before departure.
2
Transfer to Hotel
Take a pre-booked transfer or taxi to your accommodation.
3
Check In
Settle into your accommodation and relax.

Local Logistics

Explore the City
Take time to explore Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.
Currency & Purchases
Exchange currency or withdraw local cash; make last-minute purchases.
Local Connectivity
Consider a local SIM card if desired for your time in South America.

Arrival Highlights

Airport Transfer

Utilize pre-arranged transfers from the airport to your accommodation.

Taxis are also readily available.

Hotel Check-in

Confirm your reservation and settle into your hotel room.

Adjust to the time zone if you have traveled far.

Local Exploration

Familiarize yourself with the area around your hotel.

Locate pharmacies, convenience stores, or local eateries.

Departure Preparation

Smooth departure from the embarkation port to your onward travel.

Post-Cruise Purchases

If you purchase souvenirs, plan for their transport.
Keep receipts for VAT refunds if applicable in your embarkation country.
Be mindful of luggage weight restrictions for your flights.
Shipping items from Ushuaia/Punta Arenas can be costly.

Timely Departure

Allow ample time between disembarkation and your onward flight.
Ideally, book your flight for the day following disembarkation.
Reconfirm your return flights and post-cruise plans.
Pack your bags the night before disembarkation.

Onboard Account Settlement

Ensure all shipboard expenses are settled before you leave.

Account Review

Check your onboard account daily.Avoid surprises
Settle any outstanding bills.Prior to final morning
Confirm no pending charges.With Purser's desk
Tip guidelines for crew.Voluntary contributions

Travel Insurance Details

Your travel insurance is useful for remote areas.
Ensure it covers emergency medical evacuation.
Check coverage for trip cancellation or interruption.
Keep your policy details accessible. World Nomads is a trusted provider.

Departure Advice

This extra time allows for a relaxed morning and seamless transition.

Pre-Trip Checklist