How much should my pack weigh for multi-day hiking?

Aim for 20-25% of your body weight including water and food. The wind makes every extra pound feel like five, so cut weight ruthlessly.

Can I buy gear in Patagonia instead of bringing it?

Limited selection and high prices. Basic gear is available in El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and Bariloche, but technical items are expensive or unavailable. Bring critical gear from home.

What if my gear gets destroyed by wind?

It happens. Carry repair supplies and have backup plans. Many refugios rent basic gear, and other hikers often share. Consider trip insurance that covers gear replacement.

How do I protect my pack from the constant rain?

Pack cover plus internal dry bags. The pack cover will blow off in high winds, so the dry bags are your real protection. Line your entire pack with a heavy trash bag as backup.

How to pack for hiking in Patagonia

Pack layers for extreme weather changes, waterproof everything, and bring gear rated for high winds. The weather shifts from blazing sun to horizontal rain in minutes, so your pack needs to handle it all.

Choose a 65-75L backpack with external attachment points. You need space for bulky layers plus attachment points for wet gear. Internal frame packs work better than external in Patagonia's winds. Test the pack loaded before you go.
Pack the three-layer clothing system. Base layer: merino wool or synthetic (never cotton). Mid layer: fleece or down jacket. Outer layer: hardshell jacket and pants rated for 60+ mph winds. Pack 2-3 base layers since you'll get soaked.
Waterproof your pack contents completely. Use a pack liner plus individual dry bags. Pack your sleeping bag and spare clothes in separate waterproof bags. Assume everything will get wet despite your best efforts.
Bring wind-rated shelter and gear. Four-season tent rated for extreme wind or a tarp with guy lines. Your sleeping bag should be rated 10°F below expected temperatures. Bring tent stakes that work in rocky ground.
Pack repair kit and backup gear. Duct tape, fabric patches, extra guy lines, and backup lighter. The wind destroys gear regularly. Bring an emergency shelter like a bivy or space blanket.

How much should my pack weigh for multi-day hiking?: Aim for 20-25% of your body weight including water and food. The wind makes every extra pound feel like five, so cut weight ruthlessly.
Can I buy gear in Patagonia instead of bringing it?: Limited selection and high prices. Basic gear is available in El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and Bariloche, but technical items are expensive or unavailable. Bring critical gear from home.
What if my gear gets destroyed by wind?: It happens. Carry repair supplies and have backup plans. Many refugios rent basic gear, and other hikers often share. Consider trip insurance that covers gear replacement.
How do I protect my pack from the constant rain?: Pack cover plus internal dry bags. The pack cover will blow off in high winds, so the dry bags are your real protection. Line your entire pack with a heavy trash bag as backup.