2) Gear on the PCT
- Yann Roma
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
As light as possible, as little as necessary
Gear is a big topic on the PCT. Anyone embarking on this long journey faces the challenge of finding the perfect balance between weight and functionality. Every gram on your back becomes noticeable after thousands of kilometers. That’s why the motto is: as light as possible, as little as necessary!
My Essential Gear
Some items are indispensable when hiking for months through deserts, mountains, and dense forests. These include:
Backpack: My mobile home for the next few months. Lightweight, yet with enough space for all essentials.
Tent: Protection from wind, rain, and curious animals. It should be sturdy, yet as light as possible.
Sleeping bag: A good sleeping bag is essential to stay warm on cold nights. I chose a model that offers a good balance between weight and warmth.
Sleeping pad: Comfort matters even on the trail! A lightweight, well-insulated sleeping pad ensures restful sleep.
Stove & Food: Opinions vary here. Some go "stoveless," carrying no stove at all to save weight. I carry a small gas stove to enjoy a warm meal now and then.
Water filter & containers: Water is life! I carry a water filter and enough containers to ensure sufficient supply in dry regions.
GPS device with SOS function: Safety first! My GPS device not only helps with navigation but also allows me to call for help in an emergency.
Luxury or Necessity?
One of the biggest debates in the PCT community is about luxury items. What is truly necessary, and what is just extra weight? My personal luxury item is my camera. I simply couldn’t give up capturing this journey in high-quality images. Others might see it as unnecessary weight, but for me, it’s a heartfelt decision.
Other gear items also spark different philosophies:
Campshoes: Some swear by Crocs or lightweight sandals for the evening; others save the weight.
Clothing: Versatile and suitable for all weather conditions. Layering is key.
Resupply packages: A huge relief! You can have food or new gear sent to various points along the trail.
Quality Pays Off
Anyone spending months outdoors should invest in high-quality gear that lasts. This is especially true for shoes. I chose Norda trail running shoes, which should last around 2,000 km—about half of the PCT. I’m curious to see how they perform and whether they are really as durable as promised.
What Stays, What Goes?
In the end, you only discover on the trail what is truly necessary and what isn’t. Many hikers start with too much gear and lighten their load after the first few weeks. I’m eager to see which equipment proves essential, what I might need to replace, and what unexpected challenges lie ahead.
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