PCT Gear List: Enjoying the Classics

I hesitate to make this list as the kit I have assembled is arguably one of the most basic and flavorless out there.  I would honestly be surprised if there are more than 1-2 pieces of gear that aren’t perennial staples found in most folks’ packs.  Without further ado, I give you the Sweatsuit 2022 PCT Gear List.  The full list and links can be found under my author page.

‍Big 3:

Backpack: ULA Circuit – 2lb 7oz, REI Trail 2 Fanny Pack – 4.3oz

Tent: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo – 1lb 10oz

Sleep System: Cedar Ridge Outdoors Le Conte Top Quilt 10 Degree – 1lb 10.4oz, Therm-A-Rest Neo Air Xlite – 14oz, Therm-A-Rest Air Head Lite – 2.1oz, Sea to Summit 13L Ultra-Sil Dry Bag 1.4oz

Like I said this is not going to be an exotic list.  I picked up my ULA pack a few years ago and I love how robust it is, probably why it is the most popular pack on the PCT.  If I could go back in time I would have probably gone with the smaller Ohm 2.0 but the extra capacity means extra town food after a resupply.  I am a supporter of buying your pack last so you know how much capacity you really need.  I like having a fanny pack for the essentials like phone, permit, and money.  Much easier to carry a fanny pack into a grocery store than worry where my wallet is in my pack.  Bonus: you can keep your water filter and battery from freezing at night.

As for a tent, the SMD Lunar Solo is light, affordable, simple, and packable. Not much else to say about my tent.  Keeping on trend with common gear I use MSR Groundhog stakes.  I use 4 mini and 4 regular, putting the longer stakes on the upwind side as needed.

The only thing that is remotely interesting is my sleep system. I use the standard issue Therm-a-rest Neoair Xlite and the Air Head pillow does the job as well. The only curveball is the fact that my UL top quilt isn’t made in Minnesota.  Although very similar in design I think that CRO quality is top notch and they run about the same price as the Enlightened Equipment offerings.  If you’re in the market for a quilt check them out, the lead time is worth it plus their customer service is legendary.  Small side note, if you’re ordering a custom quilt just pay the extra $10 for the 1oz overstuff.  It will not add any warmth but prevents the down from migrating and creating cold spots, a problem that my REI Magma Trail Quilt has.

If you are interested in reading more of the items that Quinton Peters has in his pack, head here.