Practical Tips for a Successful Greenland Expedition

The Art of Preparing for an Expedition

Expeditions are fascinating, not only because of the adventures they offer, but also because of the detailed preparation that precedes them. For many adventurers, the preparation is at least as enjoyable as the expedition itself. In my case, I have been preparing for our upcoming expedition to Greenland since December. We will be crossing 560 kilometers from East to West Greenland, an adventure that will take approximately 30 days.

The Details of the Preparation

It all starts with obtaining the necessary permits and arranging the participants and equipment. But even the smallest details, such as a knot in your shoelace, can be crucial. I would like to share some adjustments I have made to my equipment to ensure that everything runs smoothly in the cold and snow.

Small Adjustments with a Big Impact

One of the simplest but most effective adjustments is to my shoes. To avoid fumbling with uneven laces at minus 20 degrees Celsius, I have placed a knot in the middle of my lace. This ensures that the difference in length is never more than three centimeters, because the knot cannot pass through the eyelet. In addition, I have extended all the zippers of my garments with pieces of rope. This makes them easier to use with gloves on. I have also placed a string between my mittens so that they do not fall on the ground or blow away when I take them off for a moment.

Practical Solutions for Extreme Conditions

For our sleds, from the brand Snowsled, we have attached our own covers and ropes. The ropes are attached with knots so that any repairs can be carried out easily. My glacier glasses now have a cap over the nose to prevent sunburn, and my trekking harness has been adjusted to fit better and remain functional while pulling the sled. I have also made a burner base from a wooden plank to prevent our stove from sinking into the snow. Furthermore, I have wrapped duct tape around metal parts to avoid direct contact with cold metal surfaces.

Innovative Solutions for Tents

Our tents are equipped with bamboo poles as an alternative to snow pegs. These poles are lighter, stronger, and cheaper than traditional pegs. In addition, I have installed internal storm lines for extra stability in high winds and marked one guy line in a different color for quick anchoring.

Preparation is Everything

Adjusting equipment is more than just practical; it is part of the fun and challenge of preparing for an expedition. By thinking critically about what is needed in extreme conditions, I ensure that our expedition runs smoothly. Only a few days before we depart for Kulusuk from Amsterdam, but first we need to gather some last items and pack our bags.