Creating a gear list is an important step in preparing for my CDT hike. The gear you bring will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and experience level. In general, you will need to pack lightweight, durable, and versatile gear that can withstand the rugged and changing conditions of the trail.
Some essential items to include on your CDT gear list are a backpack, tent or shelter, sleeping bag and pad, cooking equipment, water filtration system, clothing layers for different temperatures and weather conditions, and a first aid kit. Additionally, navigation tools such as a map and compass or GPS device, a headlamp or flashlight, and a multipurpose tool or knife kan come in handy on the trail.
It’s important to consider the weight and size of each item you plan to bring on the CDT, as well as its functionality and durability. Some hikers prefer to invest in high-quality, ultralight gear to reduce weight they have to carry, while others may opt for more affordable options.
Overal, creating a well-thought-out gear list for the CDT can help ensure you have everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for the journey ahead.
| Gear List | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack | Hyperlite Mountain Gear – 3400 Southwest | € 446,25 |
| Tent | ||
| Sleeping Pad | Thermarest Z Lite Sol – Regular, 2cm, Silver/Lemon | € 65,00 |
| Sleeping Bag | Katabatic Gear – Flex 15°F Quilt (2022 version) | € 419,90 |
| Ground Sheet | ||
| Water Bottle | ||
| Water Filter | Sawyer | |
| Stove | ||
| Lighter | Bic | € 1,50 |
| Pot | Jetboil | |
| Spork | Navaris – Spork | € 7,25 |
| Food Storage | ||
| Dry Sack | ||
| Headlight | Black Diamond – Storm 500-R Rechargeable | € 69,95 |
| GPS | Garmin – InReach Mini 2 | € 349,95 |
| Powerbank | Nitecore – Carbo 20000 | € 116,00 |
| Cell Phone | iPhone 13 – 512 GB | € 1.169,00 |
| Toothbrush | ||
| Toothpaste | ||
| First Aid Kit | ||
| Bug Protection | ||
| Bear Spray | ||
| Hiking Poles | Black Diamond – Trail Cork Trekking Poles | € 119,95 |
| Snow Traction | ||
| Rags | ||
| Rope | ||
| E-reader | ||
| Notebook |
You can follow my Gear List updates via this link: Excel File CDT Gear List.
In the list below you can find some interesting sites for hiker materials:
Clothes
The weather and terrain on the trail can be unpredictable and varied, so hikers need to be prepared for a range of conditions. Here are some recommendations for clothing to wear on the Continental Divide Trail:
1.
Base layers
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that can help you regulate your body temperature and keep you dry (e.g. merino wool).
2.
Insulating layer
Depending on the time of year you are hiking, an insulating layer such as a fleece or puffy jacket may be needed to keep you warm.
3.
Outer layer
A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants are essential to protect you from rain and wind.
4.
Footwear
Trail runners with good traction and support are recommended, along with synthetic or wool socks to help wick away moisture.
5.
Hat & gloves
Bring a hat and gloves to protect your head and hands from the sun, wind, and cold temperatures.
6.
Sun protection
Don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
7.
Insect protection
Mosquitoes and other bugs can be a problem on the trail, so bring bug repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself.
Overall, it’s important to layer your clothing to adjust for changing temperatures and weather conditions.
I don’t have a list yet of clothes that I will be wearing on the CDT. With my procrastination, I won’t get this done until June. I’ll keep you posted 😉.
Noukie Nomad 