How to pack for hiking in Patagonia

Pack for four seasons in a single day by using a strict three-layer system. You need high-quality synthetic or wool base layers, a robust windproof shell, and a pack cover because the Patagonian winds and rain are unpredictable.

1. Master the layering system. Wear a moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool base layer. Add a fleece or synthetic 'mid-layer' for warmth, and always keep a high-quality, wind-resistant, waterproof hardshell jacket easily accessible in your pack.
2. Prioritize footwear. Bring broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support. The trails are rocky and uneven; trail runners often lack the stability required for trekking poles and heavy packs in Patagonia.
3. Protect your gear from moisture. Everything inside your pack must be inside a dry bag or a heavy-duty trash bag. Rain in Torres del Paine or Los Glaciares comes in horizontal gusts that will soak through even 'water-resistant' backpacks.
4. Pack trekking poles. Do not skip these. They save your knees on steep descents and provide essential stability against the relentless Patagonian wind, which can reach 100km/h.

Do I really need to avoid cotton?

Yes. If cotton gets wet from sweat or rain, it stays cold and heavy for hours. In Patagonia's extreme wind, this can lead to hypothermia even in the middle of summer.

Can I rent gear locally?

Yes. Most hikers arrive in Puerto Natales (Chile) or El Chaltén (Argentina) and rent high-quality sleeping bags, tents, and poles from local outfitters to avoid paying for checked luggage.