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
Unbound 40 or Windrider 55
Shoulder Pocket or Versa (for easy access to phones, maps, cameras, snacks, satellite communicators, etc.)
SHELTER
Unbound 2P or UltaMid 2 Pyramid Shelter
Ultralight Stake Kit
2 Voile Straps
SLEEP SYSTEM
40º Top Quilt (choose the appropriate quilt or bag for the temperature ranges the time of year of your trip)
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping 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
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 Sock
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)
TOTAL WEIGHT: Approximately 10lb (Before consumables like food, water, and fuel)
