MY PCT Thru-HIKE GEAR LIST

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My Big 3

This is the tent (errrr tarp) I ended up using for most of the trail once I realized I was a cowboy camper. I bought the optional bathtub floor for mine.

One of the two pillows i carried. Two pillows was one of my luxury item carries!

My preferred pillow. With only the inside bladder and the crazy soft cover, it’s ultralight approved and comfy as hell!

Want full protection from the outdoors and bugs? This is the tent I started with and would have continue with if I hadn’t cowboy camped so many nights!

The final sleeping pad I used. Big fan of both this and the Big Agnes Zoom UL! Great for bigger hikers!

The other pad I used on the trail. Also a big fan of this one! Great for bigger hikers!

The Rolls-Royce of sleeping quilts. Can’t recommend this enough!

I went through two sizes of the Cutaway 30. Both were killer but I’d definitely suggest the 30L as a minimum for a thru-hike. Perhaps even consider the larger size if you’re not concerned about weight!

Shoes & Feet

HANDS DOWN my shoe of choice for longer distances hiking or running trails! BIG BIG fan

My flat feet don’t set foot on trail without these. IMHO they’re the highest quality insoles you can get without having them built and fitted by your podiatrist.

Killer merino socks from Brooks built for the long-haul!

The gold standard for endurance sports foot care.

Apparel

Top tier ridiculously soft sweat wicking running T that REFUSES to hold onto stink.

AMAZING trail shorts for anyone wanting a comfy lined trail short with tons of waist storage and killer odor control!

Killer merino socks from Brooks built for the long-haul!

10/10 would absolutely wear this on my next thru-hike. It was lighter, more comfy, and held up better than any other sun hoodie I saw on the trail.

A top-tier synthetic puffy. Especially recommended for those whose other insulation gear is down. Down is useless when wet so I always try to keep at least one synthetic insulation layer with me to ensure I’m not hypothermic should my gear get wet.

Almost didn’t bring it, but ended up being the layer I wore most aside from my Tshirt. Especially while on the move, this provides the perfect amount of warmth by protecting me from the wind without making me too hot.

If you’re getting a torrid and need a camp beanie, this is a no-brainer. Get a matching torrid hat!

Gold star proven rain layer from Enlightened Equipment!

If you need to let everyone know you’re living life Tits Out, here’s where to get your merch!

This turned out to be my top rain protection layer, primarily because it protected both me and my pack from the rain all at once. Additionally, I could use it at camp as a ground sheet. Big fan.

A killer choice for those who need wind protection while on the move. It’s bonkers how much wind protection can provide more than enough warmth while in an active state!

Sleep System

Shelter(s)

Water System

Cook Kit

A little unruly but small, cheap, and has lasted me many many boils.

This is the pot I used on the PCT. If you plan to only cook and not cold soak, go with this. A small gas can, mini bic lighter, & BRS stove fit perfectly.

A killer backpacking spoon with a hole for my UL toothbrush attachment!

I did NOT use this on the PCT, but I would use it next time now that I know I enjoy both cold soaking and cooking.

A thru-hike no-brainer. Don’t be tempted to buy & carry more than one. A single bic lighter was more than enough for a thru-hike…assuming you don’t lose it!

This bear can is spendy but you get what you pay for! My advice? Utilize their rental program!

Poop kit

Camera gear

GADGETS & GIZMOS (Misc)