In the past few weeks since returning from hiking the Te Araroa Trail (TA) in New Zealand, I focused on recovering from the trail and from jet lag and organizing things for my upcoming hike on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), starting April 15. During this time, I refrained from walking to give my feet the rest they desperately needed.
I took the opportunity to reassess my gear and make necessary replacements:
Backpack: After trying out three different backpacks, I settled on the Deuter Aircontact Lite SL, 45+10L. It's a classic pack, although heavier and less practical in design for a thru-hike compared to ultralight packs I used on the TA. However, I hope it will be more comfortable and won't lead to back muscle cramping like the ultralight ones did. It will get challenging though when it comes to carrying a bear canister for 415 miles, due to volume limitations.
I had to add a rain cover too since the pack isn't waterproof.
Sleeping: I realized I could benefit from a lighter quilt for parts of the PCT, but for budget reasons I'll make do with what I have for now.
I sent my sleeping mat to Ireland for repairs as it was losing air due to a valve issue.
Shoes: Despite loving the Altra Lone Peak 6, I opted for a lighter Lowa shoe (Lowa Maddox GTX LO WS) in hopes of improving foot comfort and arch support, although it lacks a wide toe box.
I also hope river fordings will be infrequent since Lowa's shoes are made of leather or GTX, which retain water. I would have preferred a simple non-waterproof textile version.
Hydration: I renewed my Katadyn BeFree water filter after testing a Sawyer filter at home and finding its use too cumbersome.
Given the desert conditions at the start of the PCT, I got a 2L hydration bladder and a 2L water filter bottle to collect dirt water for filtering. Altogether I will carry 5l of filtered water in the desert. 2l in the hydration bladder plus 3 liters in plastic bottles.
Clothing: Replaced lost and worn-out items including a Woolpower Lite Merino shirt, socks, and merino underwear.
Food: Stocked up on high-calorie freeze-dried dinners from Radix for the start of the trail. I also will send some dinners ahead.
Hygiene: Replaced toiletries including toothbrush, dental tablets (instead of toothpaste), and a hairbrush.
First Aid: Packed essentials that I used up in New Zealand like Leukotape, blister band-aids, and zinc balm.
Rain Gear: Opting to start without a poncho due to weight, I purchased a Frogg Toggs XTreme Light jacket to replace my non-functional rain jacket, hoping it will suffice on the PCT where rain may be less frequent.
Permits: Printed the permit for hiking the PCT as well as the California Campfire Permit. Both have to be carried in paper.
Transportation/Accommodation: Booked trains and flights to San Diego and arranged accommodation for the first three nights in El Cajon.
I am now prepared in terms of gear and will depart on April 11 to get to Campo at the Mexican Border on April 15.
I remain uncertain about how my feet will hold up during this hike, among other things, but only time will tell.
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