PCT Hikers

Pack Trips


Personal Checklist


Pack Trips

Bring belongings in stout canvas or nylon duffels; side zipper recommended, ideal size approximately 14" x 32". It is a good idea to use a large plastic bag INSIDE of the duffle to protect contents from external moisture.

Sleeping bags can be in separate duffels --again, line the inside of the duffle against rain.

Place all cosmetics, soaps, medications, etc into small plastic containers with close-fitting caps, THEN into sturdy resealable plastic storage bags. If anything breaks or bursts from altitude changes, the plastic bag contains the spill.

When possible, it is a good idea to transfer alcoholic beverages to sturdy plastic bottles with well fitting caps - it will save weight and protect against breakage.

Check in fishing worms and bottle goods separately; don't put in duffel. Place fishing rods in metal or plastic cases.

You will be given a small saddle bag that goes on your saddle horn to carry your lunch and a few personal items. (Weight limit 3 lbs - including lunch).

Remember - try to minimize the weight of your dunnage by packaging only the amount of any item you will need (like soaps, lotions and medications).

Recommended Items:

  1. Sleeping bag with a comfort range of 20 to 60 degrees and a moisture proof ground cloth.
  2. Air mattress or small 1/4"-1/2" foam hip pad recommended - your night's rest will affect your next days enjoyment. Bring the best sleeping pad you can manage.
  3. Broad-brimmed hat is essential for protection from sun at high altitude. It must have strings to keep from blowing off.
  4. Sunglasses (RX glasses) - high altitude sun is BRIGHT!
  5. Coffee mug (plastic for camp)
  6. Pint water bottle for your horn bag
  7. Pocket knife or small multi-tool
  8. Flashlight and extra batteries
  9. Camera and film (sturdy strap)-- if using digital - don't forget an extra battery and card
  10. Rain jackets and pants or slicker (rolled up you can tie them to the back of your saddle)
  11. Hat protector (to keep your hat dry)
  12. Light jacket (windbreaker)
  13. Wool or fleece pullover/sweater (layers will keep you comfortable)
  14. Heavy jacket
  15. Bandana
  16. Woolen cap (evenings can be cold)
  17. Gloves (recommend gloves for riding, may want warm gloves for evenings)
  18. Socks
  19. Riding boots
  20. Shoes for camp (moccasins, athletic shoes, etc)
  21. Shirts and pants (long sleeved shirts offer sun, bug and branch protection)
  22. Underwear
  23. Bathing suit
  24. Bath towel/wash cloth/soap (try a multi-use bar or liquid for use on hair, body and laundry. Biodegradable choices are available.)
  25. Insect repellent such as Cutters
  26. Toothbrush/toothpaste
  27. Comb/brush clips/pins/ponytail holders
  28. Shaving kit (a small mirror is helpful)
  29. Sun Screen (lotion, cream or stick)- use liberally for sunburn and chapping prevention.
  30. Chapstick with sun protection SPF 15 or better
  31. Moisturizer (cream or lotion - altitude and sun can be dry and chap skin)
  32. Prescription medicine (if required - if you have any allergies, remember to bring appropriate medication)
  33. Band-aids, aspirin, ibuprofen, eye drops, moleskin for any blisters
  34. Baby powder/Talcum powder (helps to relieve any raw or irritated areas from boots, clothes or saddles)
  35. Kleenex
  36. Jogging suit (sweats are comfortable for after-swim and campfire lounging)

Optional Items:

  1. Small notepad and pencil
  2. Collapsible plastic wash basin (optional)
  3. Solar shower (optional)
  4. Water filtering pump (optional)
  5. Liquor (be sure to check in with the packers to see that your liquor is packed safely)
  6. Fishing equipment (optional)
Leave No Trace, Inc. - This national non-profit organization is dedicated to promoting and inspiring outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. SierraWild.gov - Your source for Sierra wilderness information.

U.S. Forest ServiceYosemite National Park
Kennedy Meadows operates under permit from the U.S. Forest Service and Yosemite National Park