Can I buy gear once I'm in Patagonia?

Yes, but selection is limited and prices are 50-100% higher than home. El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and Bariloche have the best outdoor shops. Rent gear if you're missing key items.

How much rain should I expect?

Plan for rain 60% of days, even in summer. Some storms dump 2+ inches in hours. Your gear will be tested more than anywhere else you've traveled.

Do I need mountaineering gear for hiking?

Not for standard day hikes and treks like Torres del Paine or Fitz Roy. You need mountaineering gear only for technical climbing or glacier travel. Focus on weather protection over technical gear.

What's the biggest packing mistake people make?

Bringing cotton clothing and underestimating the wind. Cotton kills in Patagonian weather. Also, many people pack too light thinking they can tough it out - the weather here doesn't care how tough you are.

How to Pack for Patagonia's Extreme Weather Conditions

Pack in layers with a waterproof shell, insulating mid-layer, and moisture-wicking base layers. Bring wind protection for every body part and waterproof gear rated for continuous rain. Weather changes in minutes, so you need to carry everything with you.

Start with a three-layer system. Base layer: merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking shirts and long underwear. Mid-layer: fleece or down jacket for insulation. Outer layer: waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants rated for heavy rain and wind.
Protect your extremities. Pack waterproof gloves plus liner gloves, wool socks (bring extras), waterproof hiking boots, warm hat that covers ears, and buff or balaclava for wind protection. Your hands and feet get cold first in Patagonian wind.
Choose wind-resistant gear. Everything must handle 60+ mph winds. Test zippers before you go. Avoid umbrellas entirely. Pack extra tent stakes and guy lines. Bring a stuff sack to compress your puffy jacket when not wearing it.
Pack for sudden weather changes. Carry all layers with you every day, even on sunny mornings. Weather can shift from calm to stormy in 20 minutes. Use a daypack large enough for your shell, insulation layer, hat, and gloves.
Waterproof everything critical. Double-bag electronics in dry bags. Keep one set of dry clothes in a waterproof compression sack. Pack rain covers for your backpack. Assume you will get soaked despite good gear.

Can I buy gear once I'm in Patagonia?: Yes, but selection is limited and prices are 50-100% higher than home. El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and Bariloche have the best outdoor shops. Rent gear if you're missing key items.
How much rain should I expect?: Plan for rain 60% of days, even in summer. Some storms dump 2+ inches in hours. Your gear will be tested more than anywhere else you've traveled.
Do I need mountaineering gear for hiking?: Not for standard day hikes and treks like Torres del Paine or Fitz Roy. You need mountaineering gear only for technical climbing or glacier travel. Focus on weather protection over technical gear.
What's the biggest packing mistake people make?: Bringing cotton clothing and underestimating the wind. Cotton kills in Patagonian weather. Also, many people pack too light thinking they can tough it out - the weather here doesn't care how tough you are.