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Pacific Crest Trail Long-distance permit

PCT Long-distance Permit Gear Checklist

What to carry on PCT Long-distance Permit, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 3 more are worth the pack space.

4Total Items
1Required
3To bring

What to bring on PCT Long-distance Permit

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    Bear canister for the Sierra Nevada section

    Permit rule: “Bear canisters are required in the Sierra Nevada section run by Sequoia & Kings Canyon and Yosemite”

  • Bring

    California Campfire Permit if using a stove or fire

  • Bring

    Water treatment for the long desert carries in Southern California

  • Bring

    Ice axe and microspikes for the High Sierra in early-season snow years

Going as a group? Split this list between you so nobody carries two stoves.

Plan a trip here

General backcountry gear

General backcountry kit. Pacific Crest Trail's own rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for PCT Long-distance Permit

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Some items are required seasonally. Check current regulations.

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