Packing for the 5 day W trek can seem intimidating if it is your first time packings for an independent trek. Working out the balance to taking no more or no less than what you need is the trick. It is very exciting, but you must be prepared and make sure you have everything.  Of course, if you pack too much for the trek it can make hiking a lot harder as the weight does add up the longer you trek and the more tiered you get. Equally, if you forget anything it can wreck your trek!  SO this is what we tried and tested. With a lot of hiking experience under our boots, we’re stoked to help you get packed.

Packing List for the 5 day Patagonia W Trek Torres Del Paine

Know what to pack for a 5 day Patagonia trek can be really tricky, but we’ve broken it down for you so you can pack exactly what you need. The unique and pretty epic thing about trekking in Patagonia is that it is like trekking though 4 seasons in a day. You can go from spring vibes, to scorching sun, to wind, rain and even snow all in one day! They key is layering up and down and if trekking with a travel friend which we highly recommend, planning together so you can split the camping gear effectively.

Passport |

For registering at the start of the trek

Camping equipment |

Tent | Always test your tent before you set off!

Sleeping bag | Try to match it to the season you trek in.  There is so much to choosing the right sleeping bag. So make sure you take your time to understand them, you wont regret it!

Sleeping mat | Essential to keep the ground from sapping your body heat. 

Head torch | Very useful at night time. 

Multi Tool | Useful for everything you don’t expect. 

Small cooking stove | preferably for gas cans. Gas cans | Many can get by with one. Don’t forget to check out our awesome cooking and food tips for the trek.

Pan with lid and Handle | The pan can double up as your bowl! 

Plate | Optional, you may prefer to save washing and eat out the pan. 

Fork, spoon, knifeCup Lighter & matches | Always have a spare! 

Scrubber and some form of soap

Trekking equipment |

Backpack | 50 – 60 Liters 

Daypack | It should fit inside your main pack. This will be great for sections where you can leave your main bag at a camp. 

Dry sack | Essential for keeping your valuables dry in a storm. 

GPS and Compass | The path is predominantly easy to follow, but it may be a good idea take a GPS or compass for if you manage to get a little lost. 

Walking Poles | surprisingly important, especially if you are carrying a lot weight. Really do recommend these. You can rent them in Puerto Natales. 

First Aid | Plasters, anti-histamine, pain killers ect 

Reusable Drinking bottle| You can fill up water at refugios and many streams along the way. Filling up at a stream as you go does feel pretty wild and very refreshing! If you haven’t already taken time to get to grips with the perfect water bottle for travel, make sure you do! Especially you wonderful eco friendly travellers out there!

Gadgets |

A great camera or your phone

A Solar battery charger 

Mini tripod

GPS Waterproof watch

International Multi Adaptor | You can charge at some of the refugios

Clothes |

Water Proof jacket | Keep it thin, light and as high performance as you can afford. You can always layer up underneath. 

Down Jacket | If you are going in the colder months, seriously consider taking a thing high performance down jacket. If you are travelling long term and looking for an amazing all rounder for travel check out this review on the Patagonia down sweater hoody.

Long Sleeve Zip up or sweater

Long sleeve thermal layer

Long sleeve base layer | Marino wool if possible

Short sleeve base layer 

T-shirts x 2 / 3 

Vest tops x 2/3 

Water proof trousers 

Full length base layer trousers 

Cargo/ hiking pants 

Shorts 

Buff and/or Hat

Undies x 5 | Make sure they’re comfy, maybe even thermal if you’re going in the depths of winter

Good walking socks x 5 | Take your best walking socks, and if you don’t have many, put your cheaper normal socks underneath the good ones. – This is good for absorbing sweat, meaning you can utilise your best socks for longer. It can also help reduce blistering 

Comfortable Bra x 2 

Swim stuff | Or just skinny dip in the glacial waters, it’s up to you!

Footwear|

Hiking Boots | We have a lot of love for Scarpa, but above that is making sure you and your boots have already done some miles and are worn in. A sturdy sole and strong ankle support is important when choosing the perfect boot.

Hiking Boot Insoles | Most people overlook the important of a good insole and yet it is everything! Take time to pick the right insoles for your boots!

Flip-Flops | super handy, super light and can just attach to the outside of your backpack if you’re short on space

Toiletries |

Travel Towel Soap Tooth Brush and paste Sun Screen Mosquito repellent Deodorant Any personal medicines, creams, eye care ect.

Food and drink |

We have put together an epic article on everything you could need to know on what food to take camping.

The Ultimate Guide to the Patagonia W Trek

We have also put together the ULTIMATE guide to the Patagonia W Trek including navigation, accommodation, costs, transport, best seasons and much, basically everything you will need to do this trek for around £100.

Questions and Comment

Ultimately, packing is a quite a personal thing, so we totally get that you may have questions. Both Pete and I have loads of trekking experience, solo, as a couple and in groups, so please feel free to ask questions in the comment section, we always love to help!