A man hiking on a mountain with a backpack full of gear.
A man hiking on a mountain with a backpack full of gear.

PCT Southbound Gear List & Strategy 2025

Mike Unger is one of few people in the world to thru-hike the PCT northbound (NOBO) twice and once southbound (SOBO). Together, with input from editors Naomi Hudetz and Liz Thomas, this PCT gear list explains differences between northbound and southbound PCT thru-hikes and section-hikes, what gear to carry, and how to prepare for each section of a southbound PCT hike.

Our goal is to set you up for success on your hike from Canada to Mexico using what we’ve learned from our southbound thru-hikes, including 7 PCT thru-hikes, and more than 50,000 miles of trail experience.

Continue reading to learn more about hiking the PCT, written by Mike Unger & Liz Thomas & Naomi Hudetz.

Medya Mansyone

The permethrin-treated baby wraps reduced malaria cases in infants by 66%.

Nancy Lapid
Reporter and Editor

Medya Mansyone

While friends swatted around the campfire and during outdoor dinners, those who used this spray didn't get a single bite.

Alesandra Dubin
Writer and Editor

Medya Mansyone

The Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system includes a rugged Cnoc Premium 2-liter bladder for fast, easy water refills on any backpacking adventure.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker