How My Gear Changed Once I Was Actually on Trail | PCT vs. CDT

Photo provided by Pitchapong “Bank” Sopitskulmas

1. Tent

On the Pacific Crest Trail, my sister and I shared a Zpacks Triplex. This time on the Continental Divide Trail, we each carried our own tent, so I switched to the Durston X-Mid Pro 2.

The biggest reason I switched is that it works much better for taller hikers since the interior is longer. Another feature I really like is the built-in peak vents, which help reduce condensation.

The only downside is that the X-Mid Pro 2 needs more space to pitch than most other 2-person tents. In fact, I feel like it requires almost as much room as my old Zpacks Triplex, which is a 3-person tent. It also only comes in one DCF fabric option and one color.

2. Sleeping Bag

For the PCT, I used an Enlightened Equipment Enigma 0°F quilt. It was incredibly warm and I honestly never had a cold night.

This time on the CDT, I switched to the MIKK 0-8 C sleeping bag to cut down my base weight. On really cold nights, I just threw on my down jacket, and that was more than enough to stay warm.

3. Stove

On the PCT, I used a FireMaple 113T stove with a Tomshoo 750 ml titanium pot.

For the CDT, I upgraded to the Jetboil Flash. It really does boil water noticeably faster, just like they claim, and I’ve definitely been using a lot less fuel.

4. Sleeping Pad

During the CDT, my NeoAir X-Lite developed a bubble, so I switched to the Big Agnes Divide. I’m still a huge fan of the NeoAir, but I figured it was a good excuse to try something new!

The Big Agnes Divide is heavier than the NeoAir, but it’s noticeably thicker, which makes me feel like I’m sleeping a little higher off the ground. It’s been surprisingly comfortable so far, although the R-value is considerably lower than the NeoAir.

Still love the NeoAir, but sometimes you just gotta try something new!