❄️ Cold, snow & Arctic - packing checklist
Arctic and polar regions, glaciers, high latitudes, snow and deep winter.
- Warm base layersMerino or synthetic against the skin - never cotton, which chills when damp.
- An insulated + windproof jacketA down or synthetic layer under a hard shell handles most cold.
- Hat, gloves, neck gaiterMost heat is lost from head, hands and neck; bring spares.
- Insulated waterproof bootsWarm, grippy and rated for snow and slush.
- Hand and toe warmersCheap chemical warmers rescue long, still days like aurora watches.
- Lip balm + rich moisturiserCold, dry wind cracks skin and lips fast.
- Sunglasses for snow glareSnow and ice reflect fierce, eye-straining light.