Only if you are camping. If you are staying in Refugios, you do not need a tent, sleeping pad, or stove, but you will need a sleeping bag.

How do I keep my electronics charged?

Carry a 20,000mAh power bank. Electricity is scarce on the trail and charging outlets are often limited to common areas in refugios.

Can I drink the water in the streams?

Yes, the water in most glacial streams in Patagonia is pristine and safe to drink directly. Carry a reusable bottle rather than a heavy filtration system.

Essential Gear for Hiking Patagonia

You need a technical layering system capable of handling four seasons in one hour. Prioritize high-quality waterproof shells, broken-in trekking boots, and a sturdy 30-40 liter pack that fits your torso correctly.

Select your footwear. Bring mid-cut, waterproof hiking boots with aggressive lugs for mud and scree. Break them in for at least 30 miles before departure to prevent blisters.
Master the layering system. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or lightweight down mid-layer, and a seam-sealed GORE-TEX (or equivalent) rain shell. Avoid cotton entirely.
Organize your pack. Use a 30-40L pack with a rain cover. Use waterproof stuff sacks to keep clothes dry inside, as Patagonia's wind-driven rain will permeate most pack fabrics.
Prepare for wind. Bring high-quality trekking poles with rubber tips. The gusts in Torres del Paine can exceed 60 mph; poles are essential for stability on exposed ridgelines.

Do I need a tent?: Only if you are camping. If you are staying in Refugios, you do not need a tent, sleeping pad, or stove, but you will need a sleeping bag.
How do I keep my electronics charged?: Carry a 20,000mAh power bank. Electricity is scarce on the trail and charging outlets are often limited to common areas in refugios.
Can I drink the water in the streams?: Yes, the water in most glacial streams in Patagonia is pristine and safe to drink directly. Carry a reusable bottle rather than a heavy filtration system.