How to Prepare to Go to the South Pole

The South Pole is the highest, driest and coldest continent on the planet.

When traveling to the South Pole keep in mind that you are visiting the highest, driest and coolest continent on the planet. Therefore thorough preparation is needed during the planning stage of your trip. Keep in mind that the majority of South Pole visitors are workers, as tourists are generally not welcomed on the continent. If you are interested in visiting the South Pole, be prepared to spend a lot of money. When preparing for your visit keep in mind the various extremes of temperature, wind, altitude and daylight.

Instructions

1. 

   A physical examination will help determine if you can withstand the harsh climate of the South Pole.

   Obtain a physical. Visit your local physician and obtain a physical to determine if you are healthy enough to withstand the extreme conditions of the South Pole. Keep in mind that temperatures can plummet to--129 degrees Fahrenheit and the environment can produce hurricane level winds. When at the South Pole there are limited opportunities at seeking medical help.

2. 

   Bundling up in three layers is essential when visiting the South Pole.

   By proper clothing. Visit local outdoor stores or Internet websites to find clothing that is appropriate for the South Pole. When preparing clothes for the South Pole you will need to purchase three layers. The inner layer, which consists of thermal underwear and undershirts, the insulation layer, which consists of fleece and down jackets, and the outer layer, which consists of waterproof and windproof garments.

3. 

   Gloves, headwear and feet warmers are all essential in order to survive the harsh climate of the South Pole.

   Protect your head, hands and feet. Protect your head, hands and feet by buying appropriate clothing. Balaclavas, headbands, hats and hand and toe warmers are all essential during your tip. When selecting gloves be prepared to wear more than one pair. The underpair should be light-weight and breathable and the second layer water resistant and quick drying.

4. 

   Wearing sunglasses will help lessen the chance of experiencing snow blindness.

   Obtain a pair of good sunglasses. Since the sun glares on the snow and is sometimes visible 24 hours a day you will need to obtain a pair of strong sunglasses. Protecting your eyes is important as if you do not have 100 percent UV protection you could develop a case of snow blindness.

5. 

   Boots that provide ankle support, good traction and are waterproof will help you be safer when treking on the rough terrain.

   Protect your feet. Buy a pair of waterproof boots that can withstand rough terrain and have steel toes. Often times the terrain at the South Pole is rough and wet making it difficult to walk in a sturdy manner. Therefore boots that provide ankle support and good traction are also important.

Tips & Warnings

• When selecting clothing make sure you also purchase wrist or leg gauntlets so cold air does not rush into your different layers, dropping your body temperature.

• Plan the amount of time you want to spend in Antarctica. If working on the continent be prepared to stay for no more than six months. The harsh climate can be hard on the human body.

• A good idea when visiting the South Pole is to purchase multiple sets of each layer of clothing and high quality products. Keeping warm is essential for survival and you don't want to be left with any substandard garment that does not totally fulfill its need.

• Purchasing an easy to read compass is a great idea. Because of the baroness of the terrain and the unpredictability of the weather, navigating through the South Pole with a compass could be a matter of life and death.

References

• HillmanWonders.com: South Pole Travel Tips

Resources

• Altrec.com: Antarctica Clothing Sales
• Antarctica Clothing Requirements