>>281435Made 6 south trips when I was in the USCG - fun fact, CG is the only US military branch that has icebreaker capabilities. But I digress.
Drink more water than you think you need. Dehydration is common. Bring plenty of Chapstick and hand/skin lotion. The humidity hovers right around between 2% and 0%. Expect nosebleeds, and for the edges of your nostrils to chap and split. Vaseline or A&D ointment helps. Also bring sunscreen and sunglasses for the summertime.
I never wintered over, but I did spend a year at Port Clarence, AK, which is similar enough. Load up a bunch of Kindles or similar with every book you ever liked or think you might like. Don't drink alone.
If you're into it, bring all the books, dice, etc. to get a Dungeons and Dragons campaign going. If you can provide any type of escapism for the other people you're with, they will definitely appreciate it. D&D saved my sanity both north and south.
Midwinter, expect depression. Find somethind that'll help you cope. Don't be a hermit, even though you hate the sight and sound of the others you're stuck with.
I'll probably think of other stuff later. It's been a while since I went Polar.
