As I get closer and closer to my start date, the questions about this trip come non-stop. I assume it is because most people do not understand why anyone would want to do this or the logistics that go along with a trip like this. I almost can't answer the first question before they have another! How do you shower? How do you get food? Are you bringing a gun? How do you do laundry? How many changes of clothes do you bring? What if you have to go to the bathroom? Do you bring mountain house meals? How can you do it alone? A multitude of questions that I have been asked over and over again. Maybe this will clear a few things up.
I'll be more worried about getting drinking water than bathing myself. I have gone 67 days without showering while backpacking in Utah and it will not kill you. There are trail towns along the way that have coin showers.
I will be buying most of my food as I go and mailing myself a few packages along the way. I will be in a town generally every 5-7 days.
No, anyone that brings a gun along the PCT clearly has not read guidebooks about the docile nature of black bears and the rare occurrence of bear and mountain lion attacks.
Laundry can be done along the trail in plastic bags, hot water and biodegradable soap. Also laundry mats in trail towns.
I don't plan on having a change of clothes. Once my clothes wear out, I'll have new ones sent to me.
If you've never shit in the woods, its seems a little weird but follow Leave No Trace rules and you will be fine.
No, but others might take those.
I will not be alone if i do not want to be. in safe areas I plan on taking solo time and hiking alone but I will not hitchhike, ford creeks, or enter icy passes alone.
This all being said, I am happy to answer any other questions people may have, but it seems to be the same ones recurring.
