So! You've decided to go for a 2,190-mile walk in the woods! First off, CONGRATULATIONS! The Appalachian Trail is a transformative experience for those who follow its iconic white blazes. Second, get ready for the planning! It's both intense and rewarding.
Where to begin? Let's start with a pack list! We've assembled an assortment of gear that, with minor exceptions here and there, is similar to kits we've confidently recommended to Appalachian Trail thru hikers thousands of times. This setup will keep you dry, warm when you need to be, and comfortable sleeping in all the conditions you'll travel through. It'll also handily accommodate the varying amounts of food and supply carries, allow you to prepare meals, stay hydrated, and make minor repairs to both yourself and your gear.
PACK
- 55 or 40L Windrider or Unbound - the 55L volume offers an often wished for load versatility because of its flexible roll-top opening, great when it comes to varying multi-day food carries or the need for bulkier cool weather clothing. However, the 40L size has become increasingly popular as gear gets smaller and more streamlined - it really depends on needs and preference! The Windrider gets a special mention for its mesh outer pockets which helps dry wet gear while on the move, and the Unbound for many of its thru hike-specific features.
- Shoulder Pocket or Versa (for easy access to phones, maps, cameras, snacks, satellite communicators, etc.)
SHELTER
For two people or extra space:
For the solo traveler:
- Mid 1, Splash Bivy or Bug Bivy with a Flat Tarp
Additionally:
- Ultralight Stake Kit
- 2 Voile Straps (to lash two trekking poles together to make your center pole)
- Or a Carbon Fiber Center Pole
SLEEP SYSTEM
- 40 or 20-Degree Top Quilt (choose the appropriate quilt or bag for the temperature ranges the time of year of your trip or personal preference)
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad
- Therm-a-Rest Zlite Sol Foam Sleep Pad
- Stuff Sack Pillow
KITCHEN
- MSR PocketRocket Stove
- VARGO Ti-Lite 750ml
- Mini Bic Lighter
- REpack Freezer Bag Cooking System
- Vargo Titanium Long-Handle Spoon
- GSI Outdoors Compact Pot Scraper
HYDRATION
- Sawyer Squeeze Filtration System
- Platypus Platy 2.0 - 2 L Reservoir
- Smartwater Bottle - 1 L
ORGANIZATION
The opportunities to dial in the organization of your kit for peak efficiency and bungle-free happiness are endless with a wide selection of accessories. But here are a few examples of how they've been used according to many of our thru hiking customers.
- Jumbo 13L Drawstring Stuff Sack (Shelter)
- Small Pod and Small 2L Drawstring Stuff Sack (Kitchen/Cookware/Food)
- Nano 0.3L Drawstring Stuff Sack (Electronics)
- Small 3L Roll-Top Stuff Sack (Sleep System)
- Large Pod (Clothing/Ditty)
CLOTHING
- Rain Jacket/Shell
- Fleece Hoodie
- Fleece Beanie
- Down Hoodie
- Hike Socks
- Camp Socks
- Undies
(What you wear every day is up to you!)
MISCELLANEOUS
- Trekking Poles
- Pack Towel
- Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD
- NiteCore NU25 Headlamp
- iPhone and case
- Extra Misc (License/Credit Card/Advil/Soap)
APPROXIMATE WEIGHT: While there are a lot of variables in terms of clothing weights and other personal items, a combination of any of this gear will generally land you between 10 to 12lb for a base weight (Before adding consumables like food, water, and fuel). That'll definitely make the miles go by more easily!
Have a great hike! Reach out and tell us how it went!
