Introduction

Packing for a Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hike is like a game of Tetris—only every piece carries its own weight, literally. Along the trail, I discovered that some ultralight backpacking gear, while beloved, just didn’t need to make the entire journey. Whether it had fulfilled its purpose, wasn’t necessary for the section ahead, or was simply impractical to carry any further, a lot of my gear ended up being shipped home.

In this guide, I’ll share the gear that didn’t make the full trek, why it got sent home, and how you can decide what to keep versus what to let go.

Gear That Got Shipped Home

1. Nashville Pack Bridge

This 23-liter ultralight pack was almost perfect—for short trips. On longer stretches of the PCT, it proved too small for my needs. I upgraded to the Nashville Pack Cutaway 30, a similar design but with more space for my essentials. Lesson learned? Always test your full pack before hitting the trail.

2. Laptop

Carrying a laptop on a thru-hike? Ambitious, but not practical. I mailed mine ahead in a bounce box to work in town stops but quickly replaced it with an iPad. The iPad was lighter, more portable, and just as functional for editing videos and writing. Sometimes, even on the trail, you’ve got to work smarter, not harder.

3. Zpacks Plex Tent

This ultralight tent is a marvel, but I fell head over heels for cowboy camping (sleeping under the stars with no tent). As a result, I switched to the Zpacks Pocket Tarp. It was lighter, smaller, and perfect for the occasional shelter I needed. The Plex went home, but it’ll always hold a special place in my gear closet.

4. Brooks Ghost Crew Socks

These socks were stylish but not trail-tough. I swapped them for the Brooks High Point Crew socks, designed specifically for rugged conditions. It’s a good reminder: When it comes to socks, function trumps fashion.

5. Bear Canister and Ice Axe

Both of these items served their purpose in snow and bear country, but once I cleared those sections, I shipped them home. Pro tip: Keep your gear list flexible and adapt to the trail’s demands.

6. Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

I loved this sun hoodie and wore it constantly in the desert. But once I hit the Sierra, I thought I wouldn’t need it anymore. I was wrong. Northern California and Oregon proved sunnier than expected, and I missed its protection. While I didn’t regret sending it home, I learned a valuable lesson: Always consider the full trail conditions before parting with gear.

Lessons Learned from Sending Gear Home

1. Pack for the Trail Ahead
   Gear needs evolve with the terrain. Snow gear, sun protection, or extra insulation may not be necessary for every section. Be ready to send things home—or have them sent back—when needed.

2. Multi-Use Items Are Key
   Whenever possible, choose gear with multiple functions. My Zpacks Poncho served as rain protection, a groundsheet, and even a dry spot for my pack. Less weight, more utility.

3. Stay Flexible
   Trail life is unpredictable. From weather to personal preferences, things change. Don’t be afraid to adjust your setup as you go.

4. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
   Some gear decisions will work out perfectly; others won’t. The important thing is to roll with it. A quick trip to the post office can save you a lot of trail frustration.

Ready to Gear Up?

Check out my complete PCT gear list for all the gear I used, loved, and sent home along the way. And if you’re dreaming of your next adventure, join one of my group trips! From Patagonia to the Canadian Rockies, we explore the world’s most stunning destinations. Click here to see upcoming trips.

Final Thoughts

Thru-hiking is all about balance—literally and figuratively. Sometimes that means parting with gear you love but don’t need anymore. As long as you’re adaptable and willing to make changes, the trail will teach you everything you need to know. Have you ever sent gear home during a trek? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories.

Happy hiking!