2024 Introduction to Spitsbergen

What to pack on your Arctic expedition

WHAT TO BRING! Packing for the Polar Regions doesn’t have to be daunting, and to make it easier for you, all Quark Expeditions voyages include a Quark parka to keep, and a loan of insulated waterproof boots. Additional suggested items include:

BY SEA All transfers ship to shore and Zodiac/ship cruising.  Waterproof pants (mandatory for every Zodiac ride)  Base-layer wool or synthetic top*  Base-layer wool or synthetic bottom*  Mid-layer warm or fleece top*  Mid-layer warm or fleece bottom*  Warm hat that covers ears (bring an extra)  Scarf, buff, or other face protection  Warm wool or synthetic socks (keep a dry pair in your bag, and bring extras for layering)  Waterproof gloves or mitts (bring an extra, lighter pair for hiking)  Glove liners*  Hand and feet warmers*  Binoculars  Polarized sunglasses with UV protection (consider bringing an eyewear retainer: string/clip etc.)  Ski goggles (for Zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days)  Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack and/or rain sleeve for camera or a waterproof phone case (to keep camera & gear dry)

TO WEAR ON BOARD  The complimentary Quark 3-in-1 Parka provided on board is designed with a waterproof shell that can be worn out on deck, and a removable liner that you can wear to stay comfortable indoors)  Comfortable casual clothing like lighter shirts, pants or jeans, etc. (in case the ship gets warm)  Comfortable non-slip closed-toed, heelless shoes (flip flops, sandals or slip-on shoes should not be worn on board due to safety concerns)  Workout attire (for the fitness center and other indoor activities)  Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge! Some vessels may also have a pool, hot tub, sauna and/or steam room. See your ship book for details.) Just a reminder: No formal evening wear required on our voyages but if you would like to bring something a little more dressy for the Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktails you may certainly do so! ADDITIONAL ITEMS  Passport, visas, immunization records, travel documents, etc. as required  Camera gear—complete with charger, storage medium, transport and cleaning kit (lens cloth etc.) and extra batteries  Reusable waterproof bags or plastic bags with zippers (to keep small items organized and cameras dry)  Voltage converters and plug adapters (see ship book for details)  Seasickness, indigestion, headache, or other medications  Earplugs and eye masks for sleeping  Moisturizer for face and hands (skin dryness due to wind and temperature changes)  Credit Card & Small amount of local currency (see pre-departure book for more details)

*recommended layering depending on the conditions of the day and reflecting your personal thermo-regulation comfort levels.

BY LAND (Shore Excursions and Hiking) In addition to the gear requirements (as above) mandatory for the transit from ship to shore, it is recommended to bring:  Hat, buff or scarf (for wind and weather protection)  UV protection (sun hat, polarized sun glasses, sun block, lip balm etc.)  Collapsible walking sticks for hikes (if required) Quantities are available to borrow on every vessel  Additional reusable (thermos-regulating) water bottle (in addition to the reusable collapsible water bottle provided)

To view our packing checklist online, visit: QuarkExpeditions.com/What-to-Pack/Arctic Related topics are covered on our Frequently Asked Questions page: QuarkExpeditions.com/Frequently-Asked-Questions

Scan this QR code or click here to watch our video on what to pack before you go!

WEATHER CONDITIONS & TEMPERATURES Polar weather is extremely variable; temperatures may hover around the freezing mark and winds can be strong. The extended daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter rain, snow squalls, fog and white-outs during an expedition and should be ready for any conditions.