Packing light? Easier said than done when heading for a cold climate
Not being a skier, I've rarely had to dig out my extreme winter clothes here in Australia. But I'm in my cupboards right now trying to locate my long underwear and thickest pants for summer in Europe.
Summer? Yes, because I'm inadvertently on trend for this year. I'm about to go on a cruise to Greenland.
Packing is a real challenge for this trip. I've never travelled to polar regions and while those New York winters were intense (without earmuffs my earlobes would get so crisp, they were in danger of breaking off), I find it difficult to imagine exactly how cold it will get.
It's always the same with packing – I tend to underplay how warm or hot it might be. When it's hot, and I'm packing for cold, my imagination fails me. It's a bit cool in Sydney now but there are no chunks of ice floating in Sydney Harbour.
I'm cruising with HX Expeditions on its newest ship, the MS Fridtjof Nansen, and they've been great in sending passengers detailed lists of what to bring. There's also a dedicated travel portal I can download on my phone which includes practical advice such as what currency I'll need (Danish krone) and what electrical plug will work (type C).
Luckily the dress code is relaxed and informal, even for dinner, as it's an expedition ship. I won't have to bring cocktail dresses and my jewellery, as I always feel I should on cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas, where female passengers tend to get gussied-up in their finest.
Much of the list is sensible and expected. Comfortable flat shoes with a good grip, as it can be slippery on deck. Swimwear for the hot tub and sauna. (I'll be in that sauna for sure). Gym clothes for the fitness facilities. (Well, maybe.)
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