80 Degrees Below Zero: Camping And Survival In Antarctica

Of the seven continents, Antarctica is by far the coldest and the windiest. With more than 99 percent of it covered with ice, temperature in Antarctica could go down to as low as -90°C (-130°F). Blizzards and ice sheets are common, while rainfalls and daylights are rare occurrences. (It is even called a 'desert' because it only averages as little as two inches of rainfall or precipitation in a year!) There are no plants (except for algae, mosses, and lichens) and no land-based animals (except for mites, ticks, and nematode worms that can live while frozen in ice under rocks and stones). The famous dwellers of Antarctica are not the indigenous people, but the penguins. Even the local government does not exist.

These features may definitely highlight the discomforts that one could possibly experience upon setting foot to Antarctica, aside from the fact that this place is hardly accessible (as it is located at the South Pole). Nonetheless, it has been observed that the number of people going to Antarctica has been growing every year. And not all of them are scientists. In fact, only a handful of them are scientists – the rest are tourists in cruises who are out for an adventure.

If you happen to be one of these adventurers who are planning to venture into an experience of a lifetime, here are some tips on how to survive the 'desert' of Antarctica:

Camping Clothing – Antarctica is the coldest place on earth; it can freeze a person's skin in thirty seconds. That is why choosing clothes that are suitable for this weather should be of prime importance. It is suggested that you include in your list these items: waterproof jacket and pants, pile or wool mittens or gloves, pile or wool hat, thermal underwear, several clothes for layering, wool or synthetic socks, and snow boots.

Camping Gear – after clothing, perhaps the basic thing that one should consider next is the shelter. Antarctica is covered with ice and snow, so it is highly recommended that a tent or tarp be used aside from the basic waterproof sleeping bag.

Of course, packing for food should also be taken into consideration. Pick foods with longer shelf life that are easy to prepare and/or ready to eat. Canned goods best fit these conditions, as they can last long and can be used as an instant pot (they can be placed directly on the burner or stove). Also, do not forget the other cooking essentials, such as stove and fuel, cooking dishes and utensils (especially a manual can opener), and seasoning ingredients (salt, pepper, and other spices).

Perhaps every camper's concern while outdoors is the need for water – and this is not a problem in Antarctica. In fact, 70 percent of the world's fresh water is found here (although most of them are in the form of ice). So along with your potable water, you may also want to include water filter and purification tablets on your list.

The rest of these camping essentials are equally important as well: lantern or flashlight with extra fuel/bulb & batteries, matches (in waterproof container) or fire starter, garbage bags or plastic bags (be sure to bring extra), backpacker's shovel, cord, pliers, biodegradable soap (liquid soap is recommended because it consumes less water), pot scrubber, binoculars, map (in a waterproof case), compass, mirror (for signaling), and a watch or alarm clock. Personal toiletry items, such as toilet paper, toothbrush and toothpaste, bath towel, and brush or comb should also be included.

First Aid Items – this is a must-have for every camper. A basic First Aid kit for treating minor injuries should include band-aids, bandages, adhesive tape, sterile gauze pads, First aid cream, antibiotic or burn ointment, Aspirin or Tylenol, ammonia, and thermometer.

Optional Items – you may want to bring an axe or a hatchet, or maybe an air pillow or a catalytic heater. Items in this category also include a deck of playing cards and other handy board games. You may want to bring them in case an attack of boredom ensues.

Now you are ready for a great adventure in the sea-ice. With these recommended essentials, you are all set to face the harsh conditions and the changing 'moods' of the continent that is Antarctica. Enjoy!