The PCT Thru-Hike Checklist: 29 Things To Do Before You Start
Getting ready for a thru-hike is a daunting process. Unplugging from the stress of day-to-day life for a multi-month trek sounds incredible, but first, you have to actually get to the starting line. Not only do you have to prep for the logistics of the hike itself, but you have to make sure your home affairs are in order. That way, you can focus solely on the trail when the time comes.
Trust me: getting your ducks in a row before you hit the trail (while you still have cell service) will make your hike go much more smoothly. If you’re getting ready to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail, make sure you complete everything on this checklist before you go.
The PCT Thru-Hike Checklist: 29 Things to Do Before Starting the Trail
1. Get your permits in order.
2. Learn snow skills and practice with your ice axe.
3. Download the first water report.
4. Keep an eye on the snowpack.
5. Get in shape.
6. Learn to identify poodle-dog bush.
7. Make a hitchhiking sign.
8. Figure out section-specific gear.
9. Get your bills on autopay.
10. Health insurance.
11. Cancel car insurance and surrender plates/registration.
12. Cancel or pause subscriptions.
13. Visit your doctor: renew prescriptions + address outstanding health concerns.
14. Put your stuff in storage.
15. Notify your landlord and employer.
16. Notify your credit card company you’ll be traveling + make sure you know your debit PIN.
17. Entrust someone with your important personal information and passwords.
18. Designate someone to handle your mail.
19. Set your vacation reminder.
20. Shakedown hikes: test your gear + make needed returns and exchanges.
21. Gear TLC
22. Activate subscription for your GPS beacon + program the device and practice using it.
23. Download books, movies, music, apps, maps, etc. that you plan to use on the trail.
24. Get your blog/social media/etc. set up.
25. Familiarize yourself with the trail: outline a tentative itinerary + choose where you want to send boxes.
26. Arrange travel to the trailhead.
27. Personal grooming.
28. Try not to freak out.
29. Enjoy the comforts of home while you still can.
December 3, 2023
The Trek
Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving long distance backpackers.
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Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving the thru-hiking and long distance backpacking community.
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