What I actually packed for six weeks in Patagonia
One 45-litre backpack, one camera bag, and the three items I wish I had left at home.
Patagonia punishes overpacking. Buses have small luggage bays, refugios have tiny lockers and you will carry everything up at least one hill.
Clothing
Layers beat bulk. I took two merino base layers, a light fleece, a down jacket that packs into its own pocket and a proper hard-shell. The shell was the most important item on the list: the wind turns light rain into something that feels like needles.
Camera kit
One film body, one small mirrorless, three lenses and twenty rolls of film. I used fourteen. Spare batteries matter more than spare lenses — the cold drains them quickly.
What I would leave at home
The tripod (too heavy for how little I used it), the second pair of shoes and the paperback I never opened. Next time: a smaller travel tripod and an e-reader.
Tip: Pack a buff or neck gaiter. You will wear it every single day.