3 days out for departure and I'm packing. Normally I'm a last minute packer (eg 5am before a 9am flight) but given the length and temperature variety of this trip I thought I should make sure I can fit everything in my pack.

I have one piece of advice here - use a packing list. It may seem somewhat anal but it's amazing what you can forget. There are a few packing apps out there and even the free ones can be good. I found it useful to add things to the list as I've thought (or read) about them over the preparation and planning stages. The apps are particularly good as they break it down into categories and provide lists of the most common items in each category which you can add to or delete from to personalize. I found items on there that I'd completely forgotten on my hand written list. In the end though, as long as you remember your passport, tickets, money (in whatever forms you are using) and prescriptions or prescription medications you can buy pretty much anything else you might need so I won't stress. (it's just frustrating to know your spending your holiday $$ on stuff you have sitting in your cupboard at home. )

So anyway, I'm doing my best to fit 4 months worth of gear into one 65L pack and keep the weight under 20kgs. (under 15 preferably). Given that I'm expecting to encounter temperatures ranging from -10'C to 35'C its a struggle. I'm using the layering principle. Merino gear is great (although not cheap). It's cool in warmer weather, warm when layered for Antarctica and should wash and dry quickly and easily. Anything that isn't useful in all climates (eg my ski gloves and long johns) I'll post home after Antarctica. More room for shopping! (Tip: have a good friend or relative you can post stuff too. )

Anyway enough procrastinating. Time to dig out the packed toiletries bag and put in the toothpaste and toothbrush I forgot. Doh!