Originally Posted by
Luci James
... Packing and Preparation: Many travelers recommend planning ahead for packing because Antarctica has unique gear requirements (waterproof boots, layers, etc.). The forums on Cruise Critic have packing lists that people found useful, and sites like REI and Patagonia offer rental options for some high-cost items if you don’t want to buy.
Just one comment on this point: Many cruises will provide some or all of these items, such as a jacket and boots made of materials that can be sanitized to prevent disease transmission and which you will be required to wear when going ashore no matter what you brought with you. Check with your chosen cruise/expedition line as to what they will provide, and any specific requirements they have for things they won't provide, before you buy anything for your trip. (So many cruises let you keep your jacket that you'll pass shops with "We buy cruise jackets" signs along the main street of Ushuaia. While ships often give out good jackets - I have a Helly Hansen, a brand known to sailors everywhere - a person can only use so many.)
Added in edit: Those signs are generally in English, fitting the demographics of their target audience.