Yep, another gear list. They seem to all blend together as more people talk and share, but each one has subtle differences. Gear is so personal. Do I go ultralight? Do I bring everything under the kitchen sink? I’d like to say I am somewhere in between. The more I hike, the more I alter my gear. I find that the sleeping pad I thought would be most comfortable and warm keeps me up all night or the tent leaks because, well, user error happens when you are tired.
One thing I have never really changed: carrying a “bulky” camera. A heavy, awkward, always in the way at the wrong time camera and zoom lens. Why? Because in the end I never regret the photos that I take. Every time I leave the big camera at home, the opposite is true. Now, there are some things I have changed, such as switching to a mirrorless full frame from a Canon 5d Mark ii. Still more than twice as heavy as my ultralight tent? Yep. But there is still weight saved and it adds some flexibility in terms of astrophotography and video.
Most of the gear below is as light or ultralight as I can go without sacrificing comfort and security, allowing me to bring those few extra luxury items and nearly six pounds of camera gear.
Currently under construction. Pictures and weights will be added shortly. For camera gear, please refer to the Camera Gear page.
THE BIG THREE
BACKPACK: SUPERIOR WILDERNESS DESIGNS UL LONG HAUL 50L
Weight: 35 oz
Previously: Superior Wilderness Designs Rugged Long Haul 50L , ULA Circuit, Osprey Eja 58L
One of my favorite pieces of gear. I went through many test drives of packs before finding Superior Wilderness Designs (SWD). From big brands like Osprey to other cottage companies with similar designs. I used the standard Long Haul 50L (X-Pac) on the John Muir Trail in 2020 and the Sierra in 2021. Over 600 miles and it is in great condition. I decided to upgrade in 2021 after SWD made a few changes in design that fit my needs better. I used the new pack for 1,500 miles on the PCT in 2022 and 2023. While the pack is in great condition: the hip-belt had some friction damage and no longer fits and will soon be sent in for a new belt. I briefly used a ULA Circuit in Oregon and the Sierra, while I waited for a new SWD (heads up: 3-5 month lead time), but did not love the fit or side pockets. I upgraded to almost the same Long Haul design, but this time: an interchangeable hip-belt to extend its life!
TENT: TARPTENT DOUBLE RAINBOW LI
Weight: 28.4 oz
Tent 23 oz | Poles 5.4 oz
Previously: Tarptent Dipole 1, ZPacks Duplex, NEMO Hornet 2P
In the search for the perfect tent: I think I finally found it. Sure, the weight of the Duplex is tempting, but I much prefer the design, quality, and customer service of Tarptent. I have carried the Tarptent Double Rainbow Li for the past five summers. The DR Li is lightweight and semi-freestanding (it can be made freestanding with trekking poles). It uses two poles—one running length-wise down the center of the tent and one between the two doors allowing for more headroom. This is a great option if you are tall, with an 88-in floor length. The pole pulls the tent away from your head and feet, allowing for even more room (I have a good 10” at my head and feet). No quilt brushing up against the tent!
QUILT: UGQ BANDIT 10°
Weight | 27.5oz
Previously: Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20°
I am a COLD sleeper when backpacking. I started out with a EE Enigma 20° in 2019…and froze my butt off in >40° temperatures, even with a high r-value sleeping pad. I opted for a less expensive UGQ Bandit 10° and could not be happier. UGQ allows for more customization (fill power, temperature rating, width, overstuff, colors/prints, dynamic tension control, etc.).
SLEEPING PAD: BIG AGNES ZOOM UL
Weight | 17.9 oz
First off, always a wide pad (25”). I will never return to a regular width pad as someone sleeps in every position throughout the night. I’ve used a Nemo Tensor Insulated for many years and still LOVE it. In fact, my cold weather pad is a Nemo Tensor Extreme (R-Value 8.5). I switched to a Big Agnes Zoom UL (R-Value 4.3) fairly early on my PCT hike in 2023, after slicing a large hole in my Tensor…while inside an Air BNB in Wrightwood. Yep. The Rapide and Zoom were both new to the market. I have used the Zoom ever since. Inflation: Flextail Zero Pump (rechargeable by USB-C, 2.1 oz)
Alternative: Big Agnes Rapile UL, Nemo Tensor Insulated/All-Season/Extreme
SLEEPING PAD: NEMO SWITCHBACK
Weight | 6 oz
I use 6-8 sections of a foam z-pad underneath my air mattress. It adds a small amount of warmth, some cushion when I’m side sleeping, and added protection in the desert. I also use it as a sit pad during breaks (color side always to the ground).
Alternative: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite
SLEEP SYSTEM
PILLOW:
THERMAREST AIRHEAD LITE (L)
Weight | 3.2 oz
The great pillow debate. I cannot sleep well without a comfortable pad and pillow. After trying at least a half-dozen pillows over the years, the Exped Mega Pillow and Klymit Pillow XL (3.2 oz) have been the best! The Exped is the heaviest and is bulky, but most comfortable. I go back and forth between the two depending on the rest of my pack weight. The third choice would be the ThermaRest Airhead, then the Cocoon. I have not had luck with any of the Sea to Summit pillows.
Alternative: ThermaRest Airhead Lite, Cocoon Hyperlight Air-Core Pillow, Sea to Summit Aeros Premium
BASELAYER TOP / FLEECE:
MELANZANA MICROGRID
Weight | 9.7 oz
I love having a fleece. It is comfortable and warm. Recently purchased a second one and carried it in the Sierra—wore it daily in the evening and most nights. Note: Available in-store only in Leadville, CO. Sambob and Superior Fleece and very similar, but easier to purchase and have more options.
Alternative: Sambob, Superior Fleece, Arc'teryx Vertices Hoodie
BASELAYER BOTTOM:
SMARTWOOL 250
Weight | 9.1 oz
I switch back and forth between which I prefer more. Both are warm and comfortable. The Smartwool is softer, stretchier, and…not as see-through.
Alternative: Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight
SOCKS:
Bedrocks x Injinji Performance Split-Toe Socks
Weight | 1.8 oz
A hiker favorite with a twist. I use the split toe, as I wear my Bedrock sandals when I get to camp. They have worked well for me and have a lifetime guarantee. I usually only wear socks on really cold nights and sometimes use regular 1/4 Darn Toughs. I keep one pair of socks dedicated for sleep or emergencies.
SLEEP TOP:
T-SHIRT
Weight | 2.7 oz
I usually sleep in a lightweight t-shirt and my fleece. The t-shirt doubles as a town shirt. Something soft and light.
PACK + TENT EXTRAS
HIP PACK:
LITE AF FANNY PACK
Weight | 2.3 oz
I LOVE having a hip pack and have tried a few different ones over the years. They are all great! I also wear one at work as a nurse. I started with the ThruPack Summit Bum, then the CTG 2.5L Fanny Pack for more storage. More recently I have been using the LiteAF x Jolly Gear Fanny Pack (green topo for the win).
Previously: ThruPack Summit Bum Slim, ThruPack Summit Bum (2.8 oz), CTG 2.5L Fanny Pack
SHOULDER STRAP ACCESSORY:
SUPERIOR WILDERNESS DESIGNS DOUBLE Lycra Pouch
Weight | 0.9 oz
I started with carrying my Garmin Explorer+ and some odds-and-ends in the CTG strap pocket and have now switched to a water bottle sleeve for easy access to electrolyte drink mixes and other small accessories.
Previously: Chicken Tramper Gear Water Bottle Sleeve, Chicken Tramper Gear Chest Strap Pocket, Justin’s UL
SHOULDER STRAP ACCESSORY:
PEAK DESIGN CAPTURE CLIP
Weight | 2.5 oz
A must have if you are a photographer. I carry a Sony A7iii/iv and 24-105mm and it works great. I have used it for nearly a decade and only recently switched it out to the newer version. I balance my weight on my pack and keep water on the opposite side. Tip: you can switch out the bolts if you have a thicker pack strap!
TENT STAKES:
MSR groundhog mini
Weight | 2 oz
Carry a variety of stakes! Some work better than others, depending on the terrain. I generally carry 4 groundhog minis (10g) and a mix of other stakes (6-8 total).
Also carry: Vargo Titanium Ascent (11g), Vargo Shepherd Hooks (8g), MSR Groundhog
GROUND CLOTH:
Zpacks Flat Dyneema Groundsheet
Weight | 2.6 oz
Footprints. Take it or leave it. I have carried one since 2021. Started with Tyvek, then switched to the Zpacks Dyneema groundsheet in 2023. It is extra protection, dries quickly, easy to clean, great for breaks/stretching, and packs small.
COOKING | HYDRATION
COOKING POT:
TOAKS 650ML
Weight | 3.5 oz
The 650ml (2.7 oz) is on the smaller side for most thru-hikers. I typically carry a 550-750ml to boil water for ziplock bag meals. I would recommend a large pot if you intend to cook in the pot. I recently added a pot protector that staps onto my fuel to prevent rusty residue.
Also carry: Gossamer Gear PotPocket (20g), Sea to Summit Airlite Towel (cut down smaller, 4g)
STOVE:
BRS-3000T
Weight | 27 g
Lightweight, does the job (I only boil water in it), and inexpensive. Not ideal for simmering.
Previously: MSR Pocket Rocket 2, Jetboil Zip Stash
CUP:
SEA TO SUMMIT CUP
Weight | 1.5oz
The Sea to Summit cup fits in my cooking pot, along with my stove, lighter, small towel, and fuel.
HYDRATION SYSTEM:
SMARTWATER HYDRATION SYSTEM
Weight | 2.2 oz
One of the most discussed topics on trail: water! This allows me to easily drink water without removing my pack. Attached to a 1.5L Smartwater bottle. I also carry a 500-750 ml water bottle with a small tube and bite valve on my shoulder strap (1.5 oz)
Includes: Blue Desert Cap (2-part cap only), Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir Hose, Hydrapak Bite Valve, Osprey Magnet Kit
Alternative: One Bottle Hydration System, CNOC Quick Hydration
UTENSIL:
BAMBOO SPOON
Weight | __oz
Any random spoon really. Often broken or lost, just like sunglasses. Don’t spend a lot of money here. If you eat out of food pouches, go for a long handle spoon.
FUEL + FIRE:
FUEL CANISTER + BIC LIGHTER
Weight | 7.3 oz
The smallest canister (6.4 oz) generally lasts me 2-3 weeks. The pot protector is only 12g and prevents the bottom of my pot from getting rusty. I usually carry a BIC mini (15 g)
DIRTY WATER STORAGE:
CNOC VECTO 1L-3L
Weight | 2.8 oz (2L)
I carried a 3L (3.3 oz) for the first 700 miles of the PCT and 2L for the remainder of the trail. Dirty water only and paired with the Sawyer Squeeze for filtering. Also used as extra storage for long water carries.
WATER FILTRATION:
SAWYER SQUEEZE WATER FILTER
Weight | 3 oz
Tip: Leave the bags that come with the Sawyer at home and replace with CNOC, Evernew, or similar. Swap out the syringe for a Sawyer Coupler (5g) and use a Smartwater bottle to backflush. New for 2025: Sawyer can now be purchased with a CNOC!
Alternative: Katadyn BeFree
HYGIENE | FIRST-AID | SURVIVAL
FIRST AID KIT:
HARTFORD GEAR CO DYNEEMA ZIPPER POUCH
Weight | 5.5 oz
Contents: Mini Tweezers (5 g), Mini Scissors (15 g), Blister Covers + Leukotape (25 g), KT Tape (29 g), 2x2 Gauze, Aquaphor (10 g), Medications (30 g): Advil, Tylenol, Unisom, Imodium, Benadryl, Pepcid, Monistat Gel Powder (25 g), Anti itch (10 g) Needle (<1 g)
Enough to fix most non-life threatening problems and still lightweight. It is hard to not pack your fears, especially as a nurse. The above list has been condensed over multiple long-distance hikes (everything got used at some point).
Latest addition that I have liked: New Skin! It is great for cracked hands and feet
TOILET KIT:
HARTFORD GEAR CO UL ZIPPERED POUCH
Weight | ~ 6.5 oz
I love the CTG Sh*t Kit (2.1 oz, no longer sold)! I’ve used the prototype version for the last few years. Deuce of Spades in the outside pocket, clear TP/wipes and sanitizer in the outside stretch pocket, dirty TP/wipes in a ziplock in the main pouch. Just grab and go. I recently moved to a UL zip pouch (14 g): simple, less weight. Not on the bidet bandwagon yet.
Contents: Lena Menstrual Cup + dyneema bag (15 g), Kula Cloth 13 g), wet wipes (3-5 oz), Deuce of Spades (15 g), Ziplock for dirty wipes/toilet paper (10 g), cloth pantyliner (10 g)
KULA CLOTH: Small PNW-based business, women-owned. Less TP = less to carry out = less TP everywhere. Easy to wash, antimicrobial, waterproof clean side, snaps to your pack (and snaps closed to keep it clean).
Regarding menstrual cups: There are so many out there. It is not one size fits all. It may take some trial and error to find one that works for you.
HYGIENE KIT:
Weight | 12.5 oz
Note: As of 2023, I pack most of this in my first aid kit or hip pack (hand sanitizer, sunscreen).
Contents:
■ Hair Ties (1 g), CTG Brush (23 g)
■ Hand Sanitizer (75 g), SPF Lip Balm (10 g), Trader Joe’s Sunscreen (75 g), Bug Spray
■ Arnicare Roll-on (amazing for sore joints, unscented. 1.5 oz)
■ Tooth Care: Toothbrush (3 g), Toothpaste (23 g), temp crown glue (2 g), Floss (1 g)
SAFETY KIT:
HARTFORD GEAR CO DYNEEMA ZIPPER POUCH
Weight | 1.5 oz
Contents: Gear Patches (sleeping pad and tent), Safety Pins, Sawyer Connector, Extra O-Ring, Knife (Deejo Minimalist Folding Knife), Needle and thread (I use a bobbin from a sewing machine to hold thread). * Note: I generally end up carry these items in my first aid kit pouch on longer trips.
ELECTRONICS | MISCELLANEOUS
GPS:
GARMIN INREACH MINI
Weight | 3.8 oz
Safety. No matter how safe and experienced you think you are, accidents and medical emergencies happen. Help yourself. Help SAR. Keep your mom and dad happy and less worried. The inReach (either model) pairs with your phone for easier use. I text my family when I get into camp. TIP: Trade contacts with your trail family! You can text each other during the day if you are running late or decide to camp somewhere else.
Previously: Garmin inReach Explorer+
Current Model: inReach Mini 2
HEADLAMP:
NITECORE NU25 + UL LITESMITH STRAP
Weight | 1.4 oz
Lightweight and bright. It does the job. Charges via USB-C. I have used this headlamp since 2023. Nitecore now makes the headlamp with an UL headband. Before this, I purchased it with an UL headband through Litesmith.
Previously: Petzl Actik Core+
POWER:
NITECORE NB10000
Weight | 5.3 oz
Quick to charge and lightweight. I’ve switched over from the trusty Anker 20100 for a little weight savings and quicker charge times. I usually carry 2-3 powerbanks due to heavy camera use.
CHARGING:
Anker NANO 65W
Weight | 3.9 oz
Outlets are hard to come by at many resupply locations, so make the most of limited space and carry a dual or triple port wall charger.
HEADPHONES:
APPLE AIRPODS PRO
Weight | 1.8 oz
A single charge lasts me all day while hiking when using one pod at a time. Using one also allows me to hear my surroundings. I can get a few days from the charge case.
Current Model: Airpods Pro 2
UMBRELLA:
HMG ESSENTIAL Umbrella
Weight | 6.8 oz
New addition in 2022 for the desert + Sierra sun. I hate the heat. My ideal temperatures are 40-70 degrees. There are many areas where there is zero shade and when there is, it is often not enough. Used while hiking and for breaks. While useful elsewhere on trail, it was not as good at helping with the heat in NorCal (more of a wet heat). I used it frequently in Oregon.
Alternative: Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow
TREKKING POLES:
LEKI Cressida AS
Weight | 17.2 oz
Trekking poles are an essential item for me, especially on uphills. I have used Leki for the last decade and just purchased my second pair after having the first eaten by rodents in the Sierra. There are many great options, but recommend getting ones with a flip lock versus twist lock.
FOOT CARE|STRETCHING:
RAWLOGY MINI
Weight | 1 oz
Take care of your FEET! One of the many ways I do this is by using a Rawlogy cork ball (18 g). Great for rolling out feet and muscles all over the body.
I also carry a small section of a cheap resistance exercise band (13 g) to help stretch my calves, feet, and toes. This has been the best option for me.
OTHER
■ Hartford Gear wallet (5 g): CC / Debit / Cash / ID / Health Insurance / Permit
■ Glacial Gear Wool Trail Rag and/or PCT Bandana (31 g) (wiping, nose, sweat, tent, wash rag)
■ Anker USB-C to USB-C 1ft Charging Cords (2x 10 g), Anker 4in Powerline Micro USB (8 g), Garmin USB-C Charging Cord Adapter (2g)
■ iPhone 15 Pro Max + case
* See CAMERA GEAR page for more in depth camera information. I always carry camera gear!
CLOTHING [WORN]
TOP:
JOLLY GEAR SHORT SLEEVE
Weight | 7.4 oz
Short-sleeve! I cannot hike in long sleeves. I have a full drawer full of at least a dozen sun hoodies of various weights, sizes, colors, and fabrics. They all get worn when it is <50 degrees outside. That said: I LOVE my Jolly Gear. It is breezy, light, dries quickly, and has a huge hood. It is my main shirt. The shirt I used on my 2023 hike has around 2,000 miles on it and aside from sun fading on the shoulders, it is in perfect condition. I also love the Ridge Merino Solstice Hoody
Jolly Gear is a small hiker-run business!
Previously: Oiselle Flyout
BOTTOM:
Tera KAIA TOURA SHORTS
Weight | 9.1 oz
*Pictured are the Arcteryx shorts (6.5 oz). Always looking for the perfect shorts! In 2020, I wore Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket 7" Shorts and LOVED them. In 2021, I wore the upgraded Athleta Ultimate Stash Pocket 9" Short and LOVED them…for all of 50 miles. The Ultimate style has a seam that runs down the inner thigh and both seams were gone by 50 miles. I also forgot my needle and thread: queue the most painful thigh rub for the next 30 miles. In 2022 + 2023 I wore shorts by Oiselle and Arcteryx. Currently testing Tera Kaia Toura shorts. Tera Kaia is my absolute go-to for bras!
Tera Kaia is a small, woman-owned business based in Bishop, CA.
Previously: Arcteryx Oriel Shorts (discontinued), Oiselle Long Power Pocket Shorts
SHOES:
TOPO MTN RACER
Weight | 20 oz
From Lone Peaks to Timps to Olympus. Three different styles over the last 6-7 years. I still wear all three styles, but the Olympus is my go-to for longer distances and backpacking trips since they first came out. Lots of cushion with the same wide footbox. This year I am testing out the Topo Athletic Mtn Racer 3. I have heard good things about Topo and its similarities to Altra. I wear the men’s version for a better fit.
Insoles: Superfeet Max Adapt Run
GAITERS:
Ultra Gam GAITERS
Weight | 1 oz
I like having gaiters and don’t find them difficult when putting on / taking off shoes. They don’t keep everything out, but they do help prevent most little rocks, sticks, sand, and dirt from filling my shoes.
Previously: Dirty Girl Gaiters
OTHER
■ Tera Kaia Toura High Cut Bra (3.8 oz)
■ Darn Tough Hiker 1/4 Sock Midweight (or Lightweight) (53 g)
■ Injinji NuWool Liner or Wool No Show Run (28 g), Creepers, or Xoskin
■ Wool Underwear (45 g): Branwyn or Boody
■ UV Buff (41 g)
■ Buff Cap (34 g)
■ Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Watch (40 g)
■ Sunglasses (25 g)
■ Earrings (1 g)
CLOTHING [PACKED]
TOTAL WEIGHT | __ ounces | __ pounds
PUFFY:
ARCTERYX CERIUM LT
Weight | 11.7 oz
Best puffy I have found. Great warmth to weight ratio. I can feel the warmth radiating. Packs small.
Alternatives: EE Torrid (9.5 oz), Feathered Friends EOS
Previous: Patagonia UL Down Hoody (not warm enough), Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (too narrow/tight in the armpits)
FLEECE:
MELANZANA MICROGRID
Weight | 9.7 oz
* Duplicate mention: I love having a fleece. It is comfortable, warm, and gets used daily.
Alternative: Sambob, Superior Fleece
RAIN JACKET:
Montbell TORRENT FLIER
Rain Jacket
Weight | 7.6 oz
Very lightweight. Does the job. It has pit zips!
Alternatives: EE Visp, FroggToggs
RAIN SKIRT:
EE Rain Kilt
Weight | 2 oz
Unlike rain pants, there is no overheating with a rain kilt/skirt. I wear shorts while hiking, so a kilt/skirt is great for keeping my shorts dry and letting everything else breathe. Recently added EE wind pants for cold weather and light rain.
For colder temperatures or shoulder season (Washington), I plan to carry rain pants.
CAMP SHOES:
BEDROCK CAIRN
Weight | 16 oz
Many deem camp shoes unnecessary, but they are essential for me. They have saved my hike more than once when trail runners were too small or blisters were bothering me. I use them as soon as I get into camp, in town, and even on trail. I have hiked a few hundred miles in them.
Some hikers have even thru hiked in them!
OTHER
■ Darn Tough Hiker 1/4 Sock Midweight (or Lightweight)
■ Injinji NuWool Liner or Wool No Show Run, Creepers, or Xoskin
■ Wool Underwear: Branwyn or Boody
■ Gloves (35 g) (in the Sierra and WA, I add shortened dishwashing gloves: they keep water out! 40 g)
■ Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Pants (47 g)
SIERRA SECTION + OR / WA
BEAR CAN:
BEARIKADE BLAZER
Weight | 33.1 oz
The Blazer is 50 cubic inches larger and 8 ounces lighter than the BV500. The downside: cost and can have a long waitlist for orders (smaller company). It is easily opened with a quarter or washer. Some people tape a quarter to the top. I keep a washer on a string in my fanny pack. I switch to the Ursack north of Donner Pass. New alternative to Ursack: Adotec Ultralight Food Locker
*Bear Cans are REQUIRED for the Sierra. Most people carry them from Kennedy Meadows South to beyond Tahoe and Desolation Wilderness (Donner Pass). Previously, cans could be returned at Sonora Pass.
Renting or buying a BV500 is a better option if you don’t frequently backpack in bear country.
MICROSPIKES:
KAHTOOLA MICROSPIKES
Weight | 13 oz
Safety matters. All it takes is one slip to end your hike or worse. These will more than likely be added in southern California, well before the Sierra. I have used them for San Jacinto, Big Bear, Baden-Powell, and the Sierra; as well as sections of NorCal, Oregon, and Washington.
Alternative: Hillsound Trail Crampon (microspikes), Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra
ICE AXE:
camp corsa ice axe
Weight | 8.8 oz
Again: safety matters. Watch the snow levels. Have one available and learn how to use it. Send it to Paradise Valley Cafe or Idyllwild, then forward it if you don’t need it.
BUG NET:
Sea to Summit Head Net
Weight | 19 g
Depending on snow levels, mosquitos may be the worst part of trail. A bug net weighs an ounce or less and may help save your sanity.
RAIN JACKET + RAIN PANTS
*May upgrade these for WA, depending on when I get there
BASE WEIGHT |
BASE WEIGHT [without camera gear] |
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