Do I really need to bring my own tent?

If you are doing the 'W' or 'O' treks, you can rent tents at the Refugios, but you must reserve these months in advance. If you are doing remote treks like Huemul Circuit, you must bring your own high-wind-rated tent.

How cold does it get at night?

Even in the height of summer (January), nighttime temperatures can drop to near freezing (32°F / 0°C). Bring a sleeping bag rated for at least 20°F (-6°C) to be safe.

Packing for a Patagonia Trek

Pack for four seasons in a single day by using a strict three-layer system and prioritizing high-quality, synthetic or merino wool materials. Focus on weight distribution, keeping your pack under 35 pounds including water and gear, as mountain weather in Patagonia is famously unpredictable and harsh.

Build your layering system. Bring a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool), an insulating mid-layer (down jacket or heavy fleece), and a high-quality hardshell rain jacket. You will be putting these on and taking them off constantly as the wind shifts.
Choose the right footwear. Bring broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support. Do not arrive with brand new boots; you need at least 30 miles of hiking in them before hitting the trails in Torres del Paine or El Chaltén.
Protect your gear from moisture. Patagonia wind and rain are relentless. Line the inside of your backpack with a heavy-duty trash compactor bag or use individual dry bags for your clothes and sleeping bag. A rain cover on the outside of your pack is not enough.
Pack trekking poles. Bring lightweight, collapsible trekking poles. The terrain involves significant vertical gain and loose scree; poles save your knees on the descents and provide stability during the extreme high-velocity wind gusts common in the region.

Do I really need to bring my own tent?: If you are doing the 'W' or 'O' treks, you can rent tents at the Refugios, but you must reserve these months in advance. If you are doing remote treks like Huemul Circuit, you must bring your own high-wind-rated tent.
How cold does it get at night?: Even in the height of summer (January), nighttime temperatures can drop to near freezing (32°F / 0°C). Bring a sleeping bag rated for at least 20°F (-6°C) to be safe.