Thank you in advance if you've been in recent years, specifically for January (summer).
I'm booked with a tour for 3 weeks, starting in Santiago/Rapa Nui (Easter Island) which looks comparable to Hawaii (in US winter) from online weather info.
El Calafete and Punta Arenas are the bases for Patagonia, finishing in Buenos Aires (just a day). It's not a rigorous hiking trip, just a lot of walking.
I know very strong winds are likely in Patagonia. I have waterproof rain pants, light anorak and mitts. I'm trying to stick to a 35 liter backpack for the trip, it expands a little bit.
Wear my super light On Cloud "climate jacket" on the plane (zips into a pouch) and my main shoes, Vbae Chelsea-style ankle boots sprayed with a water protectant. They are grippy and comfortable but don't scream hiking boots. I've packed On (big fan!) super light weight white sneakers and take flip flops for the hotels.
I hate hats, I have a light cashmere neck gaiter that I can pull up, if needed, a very lightweight zip up padded vest and lightweight (way more stylish than the anorak!) water-resistant short jacket. And two pairs of light gloves, sun hat, strong sunscreen, lips, too, and polarized sunglasses. I have a small aluminum water bottle and overstocked first aid kit :)
I'd appreciate input! So far it all fits in the backpack, along with my clothes, but it's really full.
Thank you!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
24005 posts
You seem to have given pretty good thoughts to your packing. A couple of minor comments -- I would never rely on any spray on product for waterproofing. It simply does not work. I would find footwear that is truly waterproof -- not water resistant. Water resistant only means that it will get wet in ten minutes. I know it is a small item but why two pairs of gloves? I like stocking caps for warmth and a pull over waterproof hood.
Good luck
Posted by
OP
West Coast
397 posts
Thank you, Frank!
Footwear is always a challenge with ultralight packing. I have 100% somewhat lightweight waterproof hikers (survived gales in Scotland) but they are clunky looking with my warmer weather clothes. Looking at the tour itinerary (and terrain, in photos) it's defined paths, an elevated walkway, etc. and one of the excursions is noted to cancel if the weather is bad.
I appreciate the suggestion and could consider dangling them from the backpack if the forecast looks iffy