PCT Starting Gear - PCT 2024
Now that I’m in the USA and getting ready to start the PCT, I’ve officially selected my starting gear!
It’s been a lot of back and forth on gear selection. I have a fairly early start for the PCT so I wanted to be prepared for colder weather at higher elevations while still being prepared for the heat and sun. This is the desert after all; hot during the day, colder at night. I’m not as “ultralight” as I hoped, coming in around 17lbs without any consumables (water, food, etc.) But as the saying goes, you pack your fears. I’m sure I’ll ditch some stuff and/or change some gear as I go, but I’m happy where I’m at for the start!
My big 4:
Pack: Gossamer Gear Mariposa. An ultralight 60L pack weighing in at just over 2lbs. I took this pack on the West Coast Trail in September and loved it. It features a wide hip belt, tons of pockets and a removable back pad that can be used as a sit pad.
Tent: Durston X-Mid Pro 1. An ultralight (1.5lbs with stakes) trekking pole tent that was designed with the PCT in mind. I sacrificed on space with the 1 person design to knock additional weight off. I’m hoping it was the right call! Condensation can be an issue so I’ll have to vent my tent properly but I’ve got a shammy to wipe it down if needed. This tent is a big change for me since I’ve always used free standing tents. I’m still adjusting to the pitch and hope it improves as I go.
Sleeping Pad: Therm-a-Rest Neoair® Xtherm Nxt Regular Wide Sleeping Pad. With an early March start, I wanted more R-value in a pad and this packs a punch at 7.3; being one of the warmest ultralight pads on the market. This pad weighs in at 540g.
Quilt: Enlightened Equipment - Revelation (10F/-12C) 950 Fill Sleeping Quilt. I got the overfill, again for warmth, and a quilt is just much more comfortable for me than a bag. I feel trapped in mummy-style sleeping bags and a quilt allows me the flexibility to use it secured to my pad on colder nights or as a blanket on warmer nights. This weighs in at 758g. I’ll pair this with my down booties to keep my feet toasty. I’ve got thermal base layers for nighttime and to stay dry in my tent as well as a Nemo Fillo inflatable pillow for a good nights rest.
Curious to know my entire starting lineup? Check out my Lighterpack List.
