Bold claim: Gear can make or break a thru-hike, and getting it right before you even set foot on the trail is half the battle. But here’s where it gets controversial: everyone’s setup is personal, and what works for me might not work for you. That’s exactly why I’m laying out my current packing list, with honest notes about what I’ve chosen, why I chose it, and what I might tweak along the way.
Let’s talk gear
As a bit of a gear nerd, I enjoy exploring brands, reviews, and different styles. Yet the reality remains: there’s no universal best choice. Each person has to test and tailor gear to their own needs, comfort, and budget. I’ll keep my focus on items that fit my finances and comfort level. I’m not claiming this is the ultimate setup or a blanket recommendation for everyone. If you’d like more personal perspectives or feedback on my rig, feel free to DM me on Instagram @outwithtavo. (https://www.instagram.com/outwithtavo/)
Here’s the current gear list I’m planning to carry when I step onto the Pacific Crest Trail. Some items are still in transit or subject to small changes, but this is the core setup.
Note: I bought all of this gear myself and I’m not affiliated with brands. That said, I’m open to sponsorships or partnerships if the fit is right.
Full gear overview with weight details is available here: https://lighterpack.com/r/62jnve
Big 4
- Pack: SWD Long Haul 40L
- Shelter: Durston X Dome 1+
- Sleep pad: Nemo Tensor 4 Season
- Sleep pad / sit pad: 1/8" foam (multipurpose)
- Quilt: Neve Gear 17F Quilt
Kitchen
- Stove: BRS Stove 3000T Ultra
- Pot: Titanium TOAKs 550ml
- Spork: Titanium TOAKs Long Spork
- Water filter: Sawyer Squeeze
- Food storage: Large Dyneema bag
Extra clothing
- Socks: Darn Tough
- Underwear: Synthetic
- Rain shell: Frogg Toggs
- Wind pants: BodyWrap Dance Pants
- Fleece: Mountain Hardwear Airmesh
- Puffer: Decathlon MT100
- Pillow: Nemo Fillow Long
Toiletries
- Bidet: Culo Bidet
- Trowel: Ultralight titanium
- Toilet paper: Generic
- Hand sanitizer: Generic
- Toothpaste: Travel size
- Toothbrush: Shortened (1/2 normal)
Electronics
- SOS device: Garmin InReach 2
- Power bank: Two 10,000 mAh units (Anker)
- Microphone: DJI Mini Mic
- Light: Nitecore NU25
- Cables: USB-C, Garmin charger, wall charger
- POV camera: DJI Osmo Nano
- Wall charger: Anker Nano 67W
- Tripod: Carbon fiber
Miscellaneous
- Liner: Trash bag / DCF pod
- First aid: Band-Aids, Leuko tape, safety pins, and more Leuko tape as needed
- Ground sheet: Tyvek sheet
- Water storage: 1 Vessica bottle and 3 Nalgene bottles
Carried gear / clothing / unmentioned items
- Trekking poles: REI Co-Op Trail-made Poles
- Shoes: Lone Peak 8 (size noted)
- Base layer upper: Synthetic tee
- Mid layer upper: NoFry Sun Hoodie
- Bottoms: Lightweight active shorts, 7" inseam
- Mini knife: LST Mini Folding Knife
- Wallet: Mini DCF bag
Temporary gear
- Canister: Bear Vault 500
- Micro spikes: Kahtoola
- Ice axe: Petzl
- Extra fleece: Mountain Hardwear Airmesh
- Gloves: REI Co-op Polartec Wind fleece
- Rain pants: REI unknown make/model
Conclusion
That’s the current plan. I don’t know with 100% certainty how this gear will perform on the trail or what last-minute changes I’ll make. Based on past experiences, I feel confident in what I’ve gathered for myself, but I’ll be updating you along the way and after I finish to share what I’d do differently next time.
For now, we’re set. Happy trails!
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