Want to Camp Patagonia’s W Route? - Here’s your Essential Camping List
Camping and trekking the W Circuit in Torres del Paine, Patagonia requires careful packing to handle unpredictable weather and challenging terrain. Here's your comprehensive gear list:
1. Essential Documents & Permits
✅ Passport & ID
✅ Park entry reservation & campsite bookings (CONAF, Fantástico Sur, Vertice)
✅ Credit card & some cash (CLP)
2. Backpack & Storage
✅ Backpack (50-65L) – with a rain cover
✅ Daypack (15-25L) – for side hikes (optional)
✅ Dry bags or Ziploc bags – to keep gear dry
3. Sleeping & Shelter
✅ Tent (4-season, lightweight, wind-resistant) (if not using refugios)
✅ Sleeping bag (comfort -5°C to -10°C / 20°F-14°F)
✅ Sleeping pad (insulated, lightweight)
✅ Travel pillow (optional)
4. Clothing (Layering System)
✅ Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal top & bottom
✅ Mid Layer: Fleece or insulated jacket
✅ Outer Layer: Waterproof & windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
✅ Waterproof hiking pants
✅ Hiking shorts/convertible pants
✅ Lightweight T-shirts (merino wool or synthetic)
✅ Fleece or down jacket (for camp)
✅ Gloves (waterproof & insulated)
✅ Beanie/warm hat
✅ Buff or neck gaiter
✅ Sun hat/cap
✅ Wool/synthetic hiking socks (3-4 pairs)
✅ Underwear (quick-dry)
✅ Camp shoes (lightweight)
5. Footwear
✅ Hiking boots (waterproof, well-broken in)
✅ Camp sandals
✅ Gaiters (optional, useful in muddy areas)
6. Cooking & Food
✅ Stove (Jetboil/MSR) + fuel
✅ Lightweight cookware (pot, spork, mug)
✅ Lighter & waterproof matches
✅ Reusable food container & zip bags
✅ Freeze-dried meals or dehydrated food
✅ Snacks: nuts, protein bars, jerky, chocolate
✅ Electrolyte tablets
✅ Reusable water bottle (1-2L) & hydration bladder
✅ Water filter or purification tablets
7. Navigation & Safety
✅ Torres del Paine trail map (paper & digital)
✅ Compass/GPS (optional)
✅ Headlamp + extra batteries
✅ Trekking poles (essential for knee support)
✅ Multi-tool or knife
✅ First-aid kit (blister care, painkillers, personal meds)
✅ Emergency whistle & signal mirror
✅ Emergency blanket
8. Toiletries & Hygiene
✅ Biodegradable soap & toothpaste
✅ Toothbrush & floss
✅ Quick-dry towel
✅ Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
✅ Sunscreen (SPF 50) & lip balm
✅ Bug spray
✅ Toilet paper & trowel (for wild bathroom stops)
9. Optional But Useful
✅ Lightweight book or journal
✅ Camera or GoPro
✅ Power bank & charging cable
✅ Lightweight foldable sit pad
✅ Earplugs (for noisy campgrounds)
Final Tips for W Trek
Weather changes fast – expect rain, wind, sun, and even snow in one day.
Pack light but don’t skimp on essentials – weight matters, especially for multiple days.
Refugios offer meals – but they’re pricey, so bring snacks/food if budget-conscious.
Water is drinkable from streams, so minimize water weight.
Respect Leave No Trace – carry out all trash, including used toilet paper.
