My PCT Gear List: Fishing Rod or No Fishing Rod?

As promised, below is a list of the gear I will be bringing to the PCT. Although this is my first long-distance hike, there is a ton of information (and opinions) about what to bring and how much your bag should weigh. I spent a lot of time researching and testing my new additions and ended up with a base weight of 16.4 poundsso I’m pretty confident in my pack heading into it. Also, from what I’ve read, it’s pretty easy to make adjustments along the way if needed. In any case, this is what I’ll start with. It will be interesting to compare it to what’s in my package at the end!

Worn items.

Shelter

For my refuge I have Durston X-Mid Pro 2which is a popular choice among backpackers. I’ve had it for a couple of years and have taken it on multi-night trips. It’s easy to set up and holds up well. On a recent motorcycle camping adventure, he experienced a pretty bad storm, including 40 mph winds. While I was holding on, the wind was very rough. I blame my lack of knowledge on how to set it up correctly; I just winged it until then, like always. I’ve since taken the time to watch the video on how to adjust the pitch and fix common problems and I’m sure it will be more resilient when I inevitably get stuck in adverse conditions.

Looking strong even though I improvised.

sleep system

I will wear a 10 degree quilt from hammock equipment and the Accelerated Ultra 6.5R sleeping pad. Previously, I used a 20 degree bag and a 3R sanitary pad, but it was very cold when it was around 30 degrees (Fahrenheit). I hope the extra heat is enough. I have some concerns about using a quilt since I don’t have much experience with it. If it doesn’t work, I’m willing to trade it in for the warmth of a traditional full-size bag. I also surrender to a pillow. For shorter trips, I usually wear my puffer or other clothing, but for this extended adventure, I opted to bring the 2.7-ounce deluxe item.

Pack

I decided on him ULA Team XS Circuit. I initially bought the Hyperlite mountain gear released. Despite having a 16″ torso, the small one (which supposedly fits 15″ to 18″ torsos) was too big in the shoulders and caused back pain. The Circuit with bright colors.

To bring or not to bring

There are a few items I’m undecided about:

• A pad to sit on
• Dance pants (for those festive trail nights, or less importantly, to stay dry and warm)
• An extra pair of warm wool socks.
• My super cool travel fishing rod
• fairy lights

Originally, I wasn’t going to bring a sitting pad, but so many people suggested that I opted to buy one last minute. I decided to go for the versatile. Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad. I can use it as a mat to sit on during breaks, as a yoga mat for my morning stretches, as extra insulation under my sleeping mat if I’m really cold, or as protection for my sleeping mat if I decide to cowboy camp. For those who don’t know, that’s when you take your chances with bears and rattlesnakes and give up the use of your protective shield, the tent.

I also decided to bring an extra light to use in my tent so I wouldn’t have to rely on the intense light of my headlamp. The fairy lights are super lightweight (0.5oz) and provide a warm glow. Being alone in the wild for so long, I feel like a little extra comfort is important for my sanity.

Before all the ultralights knock down the fishing rod, it only weighs 2.7 ounces! it’s a Tenkara rod I bought it for motorcycle camping, but it easily fits in my backpack. Unfortunately I have decided to leave it behind, at least during the first desert stretch.

The fish will live to see another day.

Complete specifications

The rest of my gear list is pretty standard. For gear junkies who want specific weights and details, you can check out my LighterPack PCT Equipment List.

See you on the road!

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!

For more information, visit the About page of this site.