Prepping for the Pacific Crest Trail 2025: My Gear

Since my intro to long-distance hiking on the Colorado Trail in 2020, I have learned a ton about what gear works best for me. I really pared down my gear to what is absolutely necessary for me to have a good time while also not getting injured. I’ve found that advice is helpful, but needs to be taken with a grain of salt. A big part of perfecting your kit involves drowning out the voices telling you what you should and shouldn’t do. Ultimately, you have to trust yourself. 

The Pack of My Dreams

I’m completely obsessed with the Pa’lante V2 backpack. I’ve had it since my LASH on the PCT in 2022. This pack is perfect for me in every way. It allows me to pack light while also bringing  ‘luxury items’ like a pillow. I’m nervous about my BV 450 bear canister fitting, but I’ve heard from hikers with even smaller packs that it’s not a problem. 

Shelter

I received the Zpacks Hexamid Solo tent for Christmas a few years ago (Thanks, Grandpa!). I recently bought the bathtub floor that connects inside of it. This tent has been discontinued, and has been replaced by the Plex Solo Classic tent. It is a pricey shelter, but I had to go a lot lighter to prevent my usual tendon issues. While I basically have to tuck and roll to get in and out, I love this tent! I’ve always enjoyed tiny spaces and feel nice and cozy in there. I haven’t had any issues with it other than when I don’t set it up properly (in other words, it’s a me problem).

Sleep System

I’m bringing my Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite sleeping pad. I had to ditch the Potato Chip Bag (Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Uberlite) because it was a bit too minimal. I am finally able to sleep on the trail, so this switch was a huge win for me. Next on my list of items to purchase is the Enlightened Equipment Enigma Apex 20 degree synthetic quilt. I own the 30 degree version, but I know there will be some chilly nights on the PCT. I’ve had an older version of the Cocoon Hyperlight Aircore pillow for years, and it still works great.

Electronics

My electronics kit is pretty minimal. I’ll be taking a Garmin InReach Mini with the basic texting plan. I have an Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable charger. It works well for keeping my phone and GPS charged on trail. I also have a NiteCore Ultralight Headlamp and the trusty old iPhone headphones—cord and all. I somehow lose an Anker dual port wall charger every year, so it’s time to buy a new one! 

But What About Cooking?

This is the talking point when I start to get wide-eyed looks of horror/confusion. I have converted to a cold-soaker. I know it sounds nuts, but hear me out! My ADHD makes it very hard for me to cook for myself in the real world and on trail. I find it overwhelming and quickly lose patience, especially when I’m exhausted.

I originally switched to cold-soaking to save weight. After starting it, I discovered that it has the added benefits of decreased prep time and being ready to eat as soon as I’m hungry. In the morning, I make some cold instant coffee, mix dehydrated beans and water in my cold soak jar, and eat a bar on the move. When I stop for lunch, voilà! My food is magically ready. I’m just saying, don’t knock it till you try it. If you’re curious, I use a Peter Pan 16.3 oz jar. Yes, I indeed just linked a jar of peanut butter. 

Miscellaneous Essentials

During my LASH on the Oregon section of the PCT, I realized there are some things you can’t skimp on. The bugs in this section—especially mosquitoes—were horrendous. I wore my mosquito head net at all times, despite looking like a complete goofball. Since I didn’t bring bug spray, I kept my rain gear on for as long as I could stand it in the 90 degree heat. Bug spray and a head net are a must for me on this trail.

I’ll also have the Gossamer Gear Liteflex umbrella (the new version is the Litetrek Hiking Umbrella) for those sunny, exposed areas and rainy days. I still need to purchase micro spikes and a lightweight ice axe for safety in the mountains.

To Be Continued…

What I’ve listed above are just the basics. I can post my complete gear list after I’ve collected all of the last minute things I still need. I’ll continue to post updates as I drop or add items from my kit as I hike along!