Can I rent gear in one town and drop it off in another?

No. Rental shops operate independently. You must return the gear to the same shop where you picked it up.

Do I need to bring my own fuel?

Rental shops provide stoves, but they often prohibit flying with fuel canisters. Buy your gas canisters at the rental shop or local hardware stores when you arrive.

How to rent hiking gear in Patagonia

Rent your gear in major hubs like Puerto Natales (for Torres del Paine) or El Chaltén, rather than trying to bring it from home. Most shops require a reservation 2-4 weeks in advance during high season (November to March) to ensure availability of specific items like four-season tents.

Identify your hub. Decide if you are trekking in the Chilean side (Puerto Natales) or the Argentine side (El Chaltén). Gear is rarely transferable between the two countries due to border customs and logistics.
Check shop inventories online. Visit sites like Rental Natales or Viento Oeste. Look for 'full kit' packages if you need everything, or 'a la carte' if you only need a sleeping bag or trekking poles.
Book your reservations. Email or use the booking form on the shop website at least 3 weeks before your trip. You will typically need to pay a 20-50% deposit via PayPal or credit card to hold the gear.
Perform a 'shake-down' at pickup. When you pick up your gear, inflate the sleeping pads to check for leaks, inspect tent poles for cracks, and ensure stove fuel is compatible with the burner provided. Do this at the shop counter.

Can I rent gear in one town and drop it off in another?: No. Rental shops operate independently. You must return the gear to the same shop where you picked it up.
Do I need to bring my own fuel?: Rental shops provide stoves, but they often prohibit flying with fuel canisters. Buy your gas canisters at the rental shop or local hardware stores when you arrive.