My Pacific Crest Trail Gear Setup

In this blog, I’ll share some of the gear I’m planning to bring on the PCT. You can check out my almost complete gear list here, which includes weights, costs, and links to products.

I’ll also do a future blog post about trail fashion, where I’ll share what I’ll be wearing on the PCT and how my clothing might vary from section to section.

Big disclaimer: I’m not a gear head. Compared to many gear enthusiasts, I have no idea what I’m talking about. I’m often enticed by pretty colors, soft fabrics, and good deals. However, over the years, I’ve learned more about backpacking gear and what works for my style of hiking. My husband, Brian, is a huge gear guy—he can spend hours researching the best gear—and his expertise has definitely influenced some of my choices.

Even bigger disclaimer: This is not a gear review blog. I’m simply sharing what I’ll be using on the PCT. My gear might not work for you or what you would choose to bring, and that’s okay! Hike your own hike. Also, this isn’t a comprehensive gear list. I won’t cover bear cans, micro spikes, ice axes, first aid items and kits, or other gear here, but I might in a future post. Lastly, all of the links in this blog are not affiliate links. 

My Pack

I’ll be using my trusty ULA Circuit pack on the PCT. I love its no-frills design, and it fits my frame really well. This pack has been on several adventures with me over the last three years and has held up beautifully. 

Brian also has a ULA Circuit but recently bought a new pack from Atom Packs, which he’s very excited about and plans to use on the PCT.

My trusty ULA Circuit pack, my dog Ripley, and me at Spectacle Lake, Alpine Lakes Wilderness. 2022

Shelter

We recently purchased the Durston X-Mid 2 Pro, made with Dyneema. After three test runs, we love how light it is! Brian carries the tent in his pack, while I carry the ground sheet and tent stakes.

Our one concern is the condensation we’ve experienced inside, since it’s a single-wall tent. However, we’ve only used it in Western Washington, where the air is notoriously damp and humid. We’re hopeful that the drier air on most of the PCT will reduce condensation issues. 

Our Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tent at Windy Pass on the Loowit Trail, 2024.

 

Sleep System

For my sleeping quilt, I use the Enlightened Equipment Enigma 10-degree quilt. It’s warm, lightweight, and the perfect size for me. Plus, I customized it to be purple—my favorite color!

I used to use the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Ultralight sleeping pad, but as a side sleeper with bony hips, I could never get comfortable. I recently switched to the Big Agnes Rapide SL, which has a quilted top that helps relieve pressure points. It’s slightly heavier than the NeoAir, but I value a good night’s sleep over a few ounces.

I also recently upgraded my pillow to the NEMO Fillo Elite. It has a nice fabric outer layer that is so soft and comfortable for a camp pillow.

Pup approved.

The Kitchen

My kitchen setup includes a TOAKS cup, a spoon, a gas can, and the BRS ultralight stove. While I appreciate how tiny and light my stove is, it’s almost intimidatingly powerful and I hope I don’t accidentally start a forest fire with it!

For water filtration, I’ll use the Sawyer Squeeze and a two liter Cnoc bag for water carries. 

Santa also brought me a new LiteAF Dyneema food bag this Christmas, which I’m excited to use on the trail.

Enjoying some soup at Home Lake, Olympic National Park, 2024.

Electronics

A common question I get asked is, “How do you charge your phone on trail?” The answer is simple: I carry a portable battery bank. If you’re conservative with your battery use, the portable battery can last for over a week. Once I get to town, I’ll recharge the battery bank so it’s ready for the next stretch. 

Along with the battery bank, I’ll have my cell phone, a Garmin InReach Mini 2 for emergency communication, wireless headphones, and a headlamp.

My luxury electronic item is the FlexTail Zero Pump. After a long day of hiking, the last thing I want to do is use my precious lung power to blow up my sleeping pad. This tiny air pump does the work for me! I used it all last season, and it’s become one of my favorite additions to my setup.

Looking Ahead

I’m excited to see which pieces of gear make it through the entire PCT, what I might end up replacing, and whether I’ll still love my gear by the end of the journey. Stay tuned for gear updates from the trail!

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Comments 3

  • Jess : Jan 2nd

    “I’m often enticed by pretty colors, soft fabrics, and good deals.” LOL facts

    Reply
    • April Maria : Feb 4th

      Hi, Anna! Thank you for sharing your PCT trail prep! We hope to do a thru-hike on the PCT in 2027! I will enjoy hearing about how you all like your tent on the thru-hike. We have a Big Agnus, but it’s HEAVY. We split our weight too. Happy Trails! I’ll be following YOU!

      Reply
  • Star Carroll : Jan 3rd

    Love you Anna!
    All the best to you guys, and your 4 legged gear tester

    Will be interesting to learn how your gear selections meet challenges on the trail.

    May your weather be good, the miles easy, and the views soectacular

    Reply

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