Four seasons in a day. If you hadn’t been told before, get ready to hear it a lot, because here in Patagonia it’s an everyday reality. You could wake up to snow in the morning and be greeted by a blazing sun at midday. Adapting to these sudden changes is a key part of Patagonian life.
And yes, it’s a question we get all the time. What should I pack for my trip to Torres del Paine? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about what to bring and, more importantly, how to pack and dress properly for a day hike.
So, grab a pen and paper, and take note of these tips, which will have you ready for adventure, no matter what kind of mood Patagonia wakes up in.
The layering system is one of the best strategies for adapting to the constantly changing Patagonian weather. The secret is to wear three types of layers in an order that allows you to start the day with one outfit and adjust as the weather shifts.
From inner to outer, you should start with a thermal base layer that keeps you warm and wicks away moisture from the skin.
For your second layer, we recommend an insulating material; something lightweight like down. This layer will help trap your body heat and keep it from escaping.
Finally, for your outer layer, it’s essential to have a waterproof shell that can also block Patagonia’s relentless wind.
Keep in mind that even during the Patagonian summer, rain can strike at any time. Winds are also stronger in summer than in winter, which can significantly affect the temperature you feel.
Your feet will be in constant contact with Patagonia. They’ll touch the fresh grass of open fields, climb up and down dirt trails, and cross rivers and streams with water flowing beneath their steps.
That’s why investing in proper footwear is crucial. Here are our recommendations:
When hiking the trails of Torres del Paine, it’s the little things that can make a big difference – and those are your accessories. A good beanie, sun hat, buff, gloves and sunglasses can save the day on a long trek in Patagonia.
Your beanie should fully cover your ears and be made of a thermal material to protect you from the cold. The buff is a versatile piece; it can be worn as a scarf, face mask or even an extra hat.
Waterproof gloves can be a big help when faced with rain or snow. Ideally, they should also be thermal. If you have the space, bring two pairs – one thin and another thicker – so that you can change them according to the conditions.
And finally, never leave without a pair of sunglasses. They’ll protect your eyes from the harsh Patagonian sun and help you focus on the trail ahead.
When it comes to fabrics, avoid cotton. It takes a long time to dry, and if rain catches you off guard, wet clothes and cold temperatures are not a good mix.
We recommend polyester, merino wool or other technical fabrics made for active outdoor use. This applies to your t-shirts, pants and even underwear.
For hiking pants, go for comfort. Jeans are a very bad idea in Patagonia. Choose ones that allow you to move freely and, ideally, convert to shorts. This way, your legs can breathe and enjoy the breeze.
Although not technically clothing, your backpack is a fundamental part of the experience. It will carry your camera, food, extra clothes and maybe even important documents.
Look for an ergonomic design with good lumbar support. Preferably also choose one that is water-resistant or has a built-in rain cover; that way, your spare clothes and essentials stay dry. For extra protection, use dry bags to store anything you can’t afford to get wet.
When it comes to extra clothing, it’s always a good idea to pack an additional t-shirt. Even if it doesn’t rain, sweat from a long hike can soak your clothes, and when sweat cools down, it can turn against you.
If you’re going on a day hike and have somewhere to leave your larger pack, try to take as little as possible. Hiking with minimal weight is much more enjoyable – and if you’re really confident, you can even hike with just a waist pack, taking only the essentials and enjoying full freedom of movement.
Torres del Paine is a magical, ever-changing natural environment. It’s as unpredictable as its wildlife sightings. There’s no way to know exactly what kind of weather you’ll face each day, but you can be prepared for anything.
Remember the essentials:
If you’d like more information about the types of adventures waiting for you in Torres del Paine, check out our programs and trekking circuits.