Backpacking Gear for PCT Section J
For backpacking Section J of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which involves rugged and remote terrain, you typically need a comprehensive set of gear and supplies to ensure safety, comfort, and self-sufficiency. Based on general backpacking essentials and your interest in hiking and outdoor sports, here are the usual items you would need:
Backpacking Essentials for PCT Section J
- Backpack: A durable and comfortable backpack with enough capacity.
- Shelter: Lightweight tent & hiking sticks for the tent.
- Sleeping System: Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and inflatable pillow.
- Clothing: Layered clothing including moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer sweater, a puffy jacket, and a waterproof/windproof rain jacket. You’ll also want a hat, gloves, 3x t-shirts, 2x trousers/shorts, and proper hiking socks (including toe socks).
- Footwear: Trail runners, tape, and camp shoes.
- Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and a GPS device or a navigation app on your phone (e.g., Gaia GPS, FarOut, CalTopo).
- Hydration: Water bottles or a hydration reservoir, plus a reliable water filter or purifier.
- Food and Cooking: A lightweight stove, isobutane fuel mix, cookware, and utensils. See the detailed food list below.
- Safety and First Aid: A comprehensive first aid kit, blister treatment, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a whistle.
- Lighting: Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, large battery.
- Tools and Repair: Multi-tool, knife, duct tape, and gear repair kits.
- Fire: Waterproof matches, lighter, or a firestarter.
- Personal Items: Toiletries (including contact lenses, deodorant, hair care), sanitation supplies (trowel, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitizer), a travel towel, and sunscreen. Consider bringing a book or Kindle for downtime.
- Emergency Communication: Satellite messenger feature of iPhone.
- Miscellaneous: Trekking poles, sunglasses, camera or phone, a solar panel for recharging batteries, a lightweight camp chair or sit pad, and trash bags. Consider arranging for fresh clothes to be delivered by a pickup team.
Food Details
- Meals: Dehydrated meals (e.g., Backpacker’s Pantry, Mountain House), oatmeal packets, and tortillas with veggies (like a bell pepper).
- Snacks: A variety of salty and sweet snacks is key. Think trail mix, energy bars, and salty snacks like salami or beef jerky.
- Drinks: Instant coffee packets.
- Condiments: Sauce packets like mustard, mayonnaise, and peanut butter can make simple meals more palatable.
Section J - 4 days
- 4x socks
- rain jacket
- 4x sport boxer
- 2x sport trousers
- 3x t-shirts
- 1x long short
- 1x puffer jacket
- 1x hat
- 1x middle layer
- 2x scarf
Photo by Kenton Cool on Unsplash