Lets get right to it. Packing for adventure travel can be intimidating. There are lots of things to consider but not a lot of room in your luggage. Most of all, you want to get it right so you’ll be comfortable and prepared for any situation. When it comes to clothing here is what we recommend to cover all the bases.

1. Base-Layers (merino or synthetic material—NOT cotton) This is your next-to-skin layer that will be the first thing you put on. It should be light to medium weight. Look for items that are comfortable, fit well, and are easy to care for (wash well, and dry fast). You’ll need at least 2 sets of tops and bottoms—think, t-shirt and underwear.
2. Mid-Layers (merino or synthetic material—NOT cotton) This is your second layer of defense against cold damp conditions. The could be a medium to heavy weight layer such as a micro fleece or merino wool sweater. Again, you’ll need at least 2 sets of tops and bottoms—think, long-sleeve top and long-underwear.
3. Insulation-Layer (down or synthetic—NOT cotton) This is your warmest layer of defense against cold damp conditions. This is all about keeping you core body temperature nice and toasty. Your core radiates heat to the rest of your body. If you keep it warm it should keep the rest of you warm. We recommend 600-fill or higher in down OR its equivalent in a synthetic fill. You’ll need a top but bottoms are advised for extreme cold climates—think, down sweater or puffy jacket.
4. Outer-Layer (waterproof breathable shells) This is you protection from wind, rain, and snow. Make sure it is 100% waterproof/breathable. Gore-tex is best type of water proofing but there are many other reasonable substitutes made by well know manufacturers. Again, you’ll need tops and bottoms—think, head to toe coverage with ventilation options in case you start to over heat. Pants with full-zip outer seams make it easier to get them on and take them off.
5. Socks (merino or synthetic material—NOT cotton) This is a personal choice. Everyone’s feet have their own attributes. We only suggest staying away from cotton and using a sock weight that is appropriate to where you’re going.  Always take into consideration the natural climate inside your shoes—meaning: If your feet tend to sweat a lot, go with a lighter weight sock; If your feet are always cold, go heavier. You’ll need at least 2 pairs of each weight sock you decide to bring.
6. Hats—Always bring a sun/baseball hat and a beanie. You’ll be covered in sun or rain and you’ll have something when it gets cold as well.
7. Shoes—This is also another very personal choice. We recommend bringing at least two pairs. (1) A good hiking shoe or boot and (2) A lounging shoe/sandal/flip-flop.  For adventure travel, there are the only two shoes required. The hiking shoe/boot gets you through the rough stuff. A good sandal will get you through the rest. Think, hiking boots for rough terrain/walking tours and sandals for water sports and lounging.

NOTE: You might also want to throw in a swimsuit and rash guard—hey, you never know.

Thats it! Those are the essentials—as far as clothing—for a trip to Patagonia. Check out our Pinterest Boards for more suggestions on layering.