Packed & Ready

By Peter Kimball

Clothing I'm Bringing

Back in the day (until last year), the U.S. Antarctic Program issued participants everything they needed to survive and work in the Antarctic.  That is no longer true.  Fortunately, I still have a bunch of high-quality gear from the Australian Antarctic Division.  Here's what I'm packing:

• Warm Socks (4)
• Really Warm Socks (8)
• Nuclear Option Socks (4)
• Lightweight Synth. Thermals (1)
• Midweight Synth. Thermals (1)
• Heavyweight Wool Thermals (2)
• Windproof Fleece Vest
• Work Pants
• Balaclavas (2)
• Hats (2)
• Neck Gaiter
• Glove Liners (2)
• Wrist Warmers (for typing)
• Goggles
• Extra Sunglasses & Glasses
• NZ Plug Adapter
• Towel, Toiletries, and Contacts
• Shirts, Undies, Sweaters, etc.
• Hiking Boots
• Extra Duffel

Clothing I'll Be Issued

USAP participants ARE still issued the really serious stuff.  Here's what I think I'll be issued in Christchurch:

• Nuclear Option Giant Red Parka
• Quilted, Bibbed Work Overalls
• Various (?) Gloves
• "Bunny" Boots
• Goggles, gaiters, facemask, etc...

I'm sure it's going to be hectic in Christchurch, but I'll try to do a gear post sometime after it's been issued.

Camera Gear

This is obviously a play-to-win situation, but mass and volume are limited.  Here's what I'm bringing:

• DSLR
• 70-200 mm f/1.8
• 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6
• 17-40 mm f/4
• Polarizer & ND Filter
• Camcorder
• GoPro & Mounting Trinkets
• Tripod (!) & Ballhead
• Cleaning Equipment
• Camera Gloves
• External Flash & Batteries
• Headlamp
• 1 TB HDD

Packed!

All this fits into one checked bag, one carry-on (all camera gear), and one backpack (also w/ my project laptop).