Building a singular "gear list" is nearly impossible for a long trail like the Appalachian Trail. Below is my considerations for required gear for most along with products I recommend as a starter template to build out your own kit for your thruhike.
Shelters
Your tent is one of the most important parts of your Appalachian Trail thruhike—it's basically your home while you're on the trail.
So, how do you pick the right one? It can be tough with so many choices out there, and if you’re not sure what you need, it may feel quite overwhelming. You don’t want to rush into buying a tent just because it's trendy or because someone says it's the best. You also don’t want to pick a huge, heavy tent and end up wishing you had something lighter.
After a few days of hiking, you’ll definitely want to have made the right choice.
Most people who hike long trails, like the Appalachian Trail, choose a lightweight, durable tent that gives them enough space and comfort to stay happy for weeks or even months on the trail. That's the kind of tent you should look for too.
When selecting your tent, ask yourself:
- Can I live in this tent night after night, for weeks or even months?
- Can I set it up quickly, even if it's dark or raining?
- Is there enough space to sit up without touching the sides of the tent? Will my sleeping bag hit the walls?
- Can I get in and out of the tent without getting the floor wet?
- Does it have enough room in the vestibule (the outside area) to store my gear?
- If I’m sharing the tent with a partner, would it be easier with two doors?
Now you’re ready to start looking for the perfect tent for your Appalachian Trail hike! Below are a few trail tested favorites:
- Zpacks Plex Solo Tent
- Zpacks Duplex
- Gossamer Gear The One
- Gossamer Gear The Two
- Durston X-Mid
- Nemo Hornet OSMO 2P
- Tarptent Double Rainbow
- Tarptent Protrail Li
Hammocks
Your shelter is critical for your thruhike, but for many, including myself, sleeping on the ground hurts your back (and inflatable pads don’t help), a hammock might be a good choice for you. Hammocks are also valuable also if you’re worried about finding a flat tent site before dark because you can set them up almost anywhere—just as long as you find two strong, well-spaced trees (which you’ll almost always find on the Appalachian Trail).
Hammocks are usually cheaper than tents, but they can be a little heavier (although the lightest ones are about the same weight as lightweight tents). They can be finicky to set up at first, so be prepared for a learning curve. Hammocks are good for side sleepers, but not the best for stomach sleepers. Even though you’re off the ground, you’ll still need a sleeping pad or an underquilt underneath you to stay warm.
- Dutchware Chameleon (or Quilted Chameleon For Ease)
- Trailheadz Banshee UL (Ultralight)
- Dream Hammock Darien
- Warbonnet Blackbird
Underquilt
- UGQ Zepplin
- Trailheadz Ethereal Down Underquilt
- Loco Libre Carolina Reaper Underquilt
- Hammock Gear Incubator
Tarp
Backpacks
Your pack is just as critical as your tent when it comes to thruhiking. Are you someone who likes to travel light and fast, or do you carry a lot of stuff? Picking the wrong pack can make your hike uncomfortable or even cause injuries, so it’s vital to be honest with yourself about what you need.
Frameless ultralight packs are great for carrying less weight, but they have limits on how much they can hold. You’ll need to pay attention to how the pack supports the weight and spreads it out. If your gear isn’t ultralight, a lightweight pack might not be the best choice for you.
On the other hand, if you carry a lot of gear, be careful about packs with extra padding or lots of pockets. While these can be more comfortable and help you stay organized, they can also add weight. Even though a few extra pounds doesn’t seem like much when you’re in the store, it adds up over hundreds of miles. It's all about finding the right balance.
For example, a big pack (65-70 liters) might encourage you to fill it with unnecessary stuff.
When shopping for a pack, think about:
- Weight: Ultralight packs weigh less but can’t carry as much and might not be as comfy.
- Torso size: Most outdoor stores can help you measure your torso size for a better fit.
- Women-specific design: Some packs are made to fit a woman’s body better, with straps and belts designed for wider hips and a larger chest.
- Ventilation: Look for packs that let air flow between the pack and your back to help keep you cool.
- Padding: More padding adds weight and can trap sweat, but it can also make the pack more comfortable, especially if you have back or shoulder pain.
- Organization: Extra pockets and straps can help you keep your gear organized, but they also add weight.
Top Backpack Picks
- ZPacks Arc Haul Ultra (Men’s || Women’s)
- Zpacks Super NERO
- Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest
- Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider
- Gossamer Gear Mariposa (Unisex)
- Gossamer Gear Gorilla (Unisex)
- Gossamer Gear G4-20 (Unisex)
- Gossamer Gear Kumo (Unisex)
- ULA Circuit (Unisex)
- ULA Ohm (Unisex)
- ULA CDT (Unisex)
- ULA Nexus (Unisex)
- Mountain Laurel Designs Prophet
- LiteAF 40L Curve Full Suspension
- Mountainsmith Zerk
- Six Moon Designs Swift V
- Superior Wilderness Designs Long Haul
Sleeping Bags and Quilts
Quilts have become really popular in the last few years as a lightweight alternative to traditional sleeping bags. The idea behind quilts is that the down feathers on the bottom of a sleeping bag don’t actually keep you warm since you’re lying on them, so why carry all that extra weight? However, quilts are open on the sides, which can make them a bit draftier compared to regular sleeping bags.
When choosing between a quilt or sleeping bag, there are a few things you’ll want to think about: size, weight, temperature ratings, and how comfortable it is. You'll need to pick the one that has the best balance of warmth, weight, packability, and price for your trip.
The most vital part to consider is the warmth-to-weight ratio. Unless you’re hiking in warm weather, you’ll want a bag rated for at least 20 degrees. If you choose one rated for 30 degrees or higher, you can always add a liner for extra warmth on colder nights.
For those starting a northbound hike (NOBO) in the spring, many hikers choose a 10-degree sleeping bag to stay warm in the chilly early sections of the trail, like the Smokies.
When choosing your bag or quilt, make sure it’s durable enough for the long hike, compresses down small so it fits in your pack, and is made with treated fabric or treated down if you're worried about it getting wet.
Here are some things to think about when shopping:
- Design: Mummy bags are the warmest, but they’re heavier and bulkier than simpler quilts.
- Fill type: Down is lighter and performs better than synthetic, but it costs more and can get damaged by water. It also takes longer to dry if it gets wet.
- Temperature: Choose a bag with a temperature rating lower than the coldest temperature you might face.
- Women’s-specific design: Some bags are made for women, with narrower shoulders, wider hips, more insulation in the hips and feet, and a more conservative temperature rating.
Top Picks:
- Zpacks Classic
- Zpacks Solo Quilt
- Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag
- Zpacks Mummy Bag
- Katabatic Sawatch 15
- Katabatic Alsek 22
- Katabatic Flex 22
- UGQ Outdoor Bandit
- Feathered Friends Flicker UL Wide Quilt
- Feathered Friends Swallow 20 UL
- Feathered Friends Flicker YF Wide Quilt
- Enlightened Equipment Revelation
- Western Mountaineering UltraLite
- Western Mountaineering AlpineLite
- NEMO Pulse Ultralight Quilt
- NEMO Riff 15 (Men’s || Women’s)
- Nemo Forte 20 (Men’s || Women’s)
- Hammock Gear Burrow 20
- Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20
Sleeping Liner
A sleeping bag liner is optional, but it’s a good idea because it helps keep your sleeping bag clean and is easy to wash. Body oils can make down feathers less warm, and washing a sleeping bag can be a hassle. A liner is also a great way to add extra warmth to your sleeping setup without having to buy a whole new sleeping bag.
Sleeping Pad
Do you want to be warm and comfortable while you sleep? If so, you need a sleeping pad. There are three main types: foam pads, inflatable pads, and combination/self-inflating pads, which have a layer of foam and also use air for comfort.
Sleeping pads do two things: they provide cushioning and help insulate you from the cold ground. The "R-value" measures how well a pad insulates. An R-value between 3 and 5 is good for most hiking trips, but for colder weather, you’ll want a pad with an R-value higher than 5.
- Combination/self-inflating pads are durable and easy to set up, but they tend to be a bit heavier.
- Inflatable pads are lightweight, pack down small, and usually have the highest R-values, but they can be delicate and may pop if not handled carefully.
- Foam pads are tough, cheap, and can be used for a lot of different things, but they are bulky and don’t offer as much cushioning or warmth as inflatable pads.
Keep these things in mind when choosing your sleeping pad and planning your budget!
Top Options:
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir® XLite™ NXT
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir® XTherm™ NXT
- Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
- Nemo Tensor Elite
- Nemo Tensor™ Extreme
- NEMO Switchback
- Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated (Men’s || Women’s)
- Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme Insulated (Men’s || Women’s)
- Klymit Insulated Static V Lite
Footwear
Hiking boots, shoes, or trail runners—what's the best choice for you? While trail runners are the popular pick and the shoe most thru-hikers wear by the end of their journey, there's no "one-size-fits-all." Every hiker has different needs.\
If you're thinking about buying a pair of Solomons or Altras just because they're popular, ask yourself: Would I buy a car without test driving it first?
The only way to know if a pair of shoes is the right fit is to try them on. Whether you choose trail runners or hiking boots, I recommend going for the non-waterproof versions when possible. Your feet will get wet no matter what. The key is how quickly your shoes—and your feet—dry out. Waterproof shoes take longer to dry.
Here’s what to consider when shopping for hiking footwear:
- Weight: Lighter shoes, like trail runners, are easier on your energy. It's said that a pound on your feet is like carrying five extra pounds in your pack!
- Support: Boots give your ankles more support and protection on tough trails.
- Traction: Make sure your shoes have a good, grippy bottom to help you stay steady on slippery or rocky surfaces.
- Breathability: Trail runners are usually better at letting air in and drying out faster. Shoes with mesh uppers (the top part of the shoe) are a good choice for breathability.
- Durability: Trail runners are cheaper than boots but may wear out quicker—sometimes even twice as fast.
- Return policy: It’s okay to return shoes if they don’t fit right. Most stores let you return lightly used shoes, but be fair and don’t abuse their return policies.
- Drop: The "drop" is the height difference between the heel and the toe of your shoe. Some people love "zero-drop" shoes (where the heel and toe are the same height) because they feel more natural to walk in. Altras are known for their zero-drop shoes, if that’s something you're interested in.
Remember, the best footwear for you depends on your personal comfort and needs, so take the time to find the right pair!
Good Options:
- Altra Lone Peak
- Altra Timp
- Altra Olympus
- Lems
- KURU
- Salomon X Ultra
- Salomon Speedcross
- Salomon XA Pro 3D V8
- Saucony Peregrine
- HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat
- Merrell Moab
- Keen Targhee Mid II
- Brooks Cascadia
- Topo Ultraventure
- Oboz Sawtooth
- La Sportiva Wildcat
- Astral Designs TR1 Mesh
Insoles
Aftermarket insoles are a bit of a mixed bag—some people really like them, while others have problems because of them. I would recommend trying your shoes with the insoles that come with them first. If you start having foot pain, you can always try adding a thicker or more supportive insole later on.
Base Layer (Synthetic, Polyester, Capilene, Merino, Blend)
You might think any old shirt or pants would work as a base layer, but that's not the case—especially for thru-hikers. Base layers are worn all day, every day. You'll sleep in them, hike in them, and because they don’t get washed often, they need to do a lot more than just cover you up. They need to keep you warm on cold nights, wick sweat when you’re hiking hard, and limit stink!
So, no, any old thing really won’t do.
When shopping for base layers, here’s what to think about:
- Temperature: What kind of weather will you be hiking in? Make sure your base layer works for the temperature range you'll face.
- Use: Are you just using it to sleep in, or will you also wear it while hiking?
- Fit: It should be snug but not tight, so it can do its job of keeping you comfortable.
- Material: Wool is more expensive than synthetic fabrics, but it’s warm, lightweight, and doesn’t stink as much, making it a great option.
- Weight: Lighter is usually better for hiking, but make sure the material still works for your needs.
These durable options will help keep you comfortable on the trail—and they’ll help keep the smell away too! For tops, these are a great start—check out "camp pants" for your bottom half.
Top Options:
- Outdoor Vitals Highline Thermal Leggings
- Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily
- Smartwool Merino 250 (Men’s || Women’s)
- REI Co-op Lightweight Baselayer (Men’s || Women’s)
- Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis (Men’s || Women’s)
- Isobaa 200 Zip-Neck (Women’s)
- Meriwool Lightweight Base Layers (Men’s || Women’s)
Fleece Midlayer
Fleece midlayers aren’t as warm or as lightweight as down-insulated midlayers, but they’re much cheaper. The best part? They work better when they get wet. Unlike down, which loses its warmth when wet, fleece still keeps you warm even if you’re sweating or caught in the rain. This makes fleece a great choice for hiking, where you might get sweaty or wet.
- Zpacks Octa Fleece Hoody
- Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie (Men’s || Women’s)
- Patagonia R1 (Men’s || Women’s)
- Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Pullover (Men’s || Women’s)
- Mammut Aconcagua Light ML Jacket (Women’s || Men’s)
- Decatholon Quechua MH120 (Men’s || Women’s) (<$30)
- Arc’teryx Kyanite LT (Men’s || Women’s)
- Mountain Hardwear Microchill (Men’s || Women’s)
Insulating Jacket
Down vs. synthetic—it's a classic debate. Down insulation is lighter and warmer for its weight, but it's usually more expensive. The downside is that down loses its warmth when it gets wet, so you need to be careful not to let it get soaked. However, there are now water-resistant down options that handle moisture better.
Synthetic insulation is heavier and doesn’t pack down as small as down, but it has a big advantage: it still keeps you warm when it gets wet. This is super helpful if you're hiking in humid or rainy conditions.
For the ladies: It's a good idea to choose women-specific jackets (whether down or synthetic). They fit better, so there's less extra space to heat up, which helps you stay warmer for longer.
My Choices:
- Enlightened Equipment Torrid Apex (Men’s || Women’s)
- Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pullover (Men’s || Women’s)
- Enlightened Equipment Outcast (Men’s || Women’s)
- Feathered Friends Eos (Men’s || Women’s)
- Katabatic Gear TinCup (Men’s || Women’s)
- Outdoor Vitals NovaPro (Men’s || Women’s)
- Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket (Men’s || Women’s)
- Zpacks Goose Down Jacket
- Patagonia Nano Puff (Men’s || Women’s)
- Mountain Hardwear Hooded Ghost Whisperer/2 (Men’s || Women’s)
- Montbell Superior Down Parka (Men’s || Women’s)
- Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody (Men’s || Women’s)
- Montbell Plasma 1000 Alpine Down Parka (Men’s || Women’s)
- Decathlon Forclaz Trek 100 Down Jacket (Men’s || Women’s)
Rain / Wind Jacket
Good rain gear is a requirement—it can make or break your hiking expereince, so it’s worth spending a little extra on. While cheaper jackets and pants might seem like a good deal, it’s better to pay for higher-quality gear that’s made with better materials and works well in the rain.
You’ll want rain gear that dries quickly, wicks away sweat when you’re working hard, keeps rain out, and isn’t too bulky in your pack.
Most thru-hikers skip rain pants and just let their legs get wet, letting them dry as they go. But, if you’re hiking in colder areas like the Smokies in spring or fall, or the White Mountains at any time of year, rain pants are a good idea to keep you warmer.
- Outdoor Research Helium (Men’s || Women’s)
- Enlightened Equipment Visp
- Zpacks Vertice (Men’s || Women’s)
- Arc’teryx Beta SL (Men’s || Women’s)
- Montbell Versalite (Men’s || Women’s)
- Patagonia Torrentshell (Men’s || Women’s)
- Lightheart Gear Rain Jacket
- Marmot Precip Eco (Men’s || Women’s || Women’s Plus)
- Frogg Toggs (Men’s || Women’s) (<$30)
- Katabatic Gear Crest Wind Shell (Men’s || Women’s) (windbreaker)
- Outdoor Vitals NEBO Windbreaker (windbreaker)
- Patagonia Houdini Jacket (Men’s || Women’s) (windbreaker)
- Montbell Tachyon (Men’s || Women’s) (windbreaker)
Umbrella
Umbrellas are optional, especially on the Appalachian Trail, which is often covered by trees. However, for very little extra weight, an umbrella can give you protection from both the sun and rain while still letting air flow through. The only thing to watch out for is low-hanging branches, which can easily catch on your umbrella as you walk.
- Zpacks Lotus UL
- Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow
- Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow Carbon Trekking
- Six Moon Designs Rain Walker
- Snow Peak Ultra-Light
Socks
When choosing hiking socks, think about durability, breathability, comfort, and warmth. You want socks that won’t slip, bunch up, or cause painful blisters. Good hiking socks help regulate your temperature, keeping you cool in the heat and warm when it's cold.
Even though many thru-hikers try to pack light on the Appalachian Trail, you’ll likely want to bring several pairs of socks. This way, you can give your sweaty or wet socks time to dry out before wearing them again. In colder weather, you might also want a thicker pair of socks to wear while sleeping to keep your feet warm.
Hiking (Medium weight merino wool)
- Zpacks Trail Cool Socks
- Darn Tough Micro Crew
- Darn Tough CoolMax Hiker
- Smartwool Hiking Socks
- Farm to Feet Hiking Socks
- Point6 Medium Cushion Mini Crew Socks
Camp socks (Heavyweight merino)
- Zpacks Brushtail Possum Socks
- Smartwool
- Darn Tough Mountaineering Socks
Underwear
Deciding whether or not to wear underwear on a long-distance hike is up to you. For those who prefer to wear them, ExOfficio is a popular choice among thru-hikers. These underwear have smooth seams to prevent chafing, and they’re treated with an antimicrobial shield to stay fresh for longer. That means you don’t have to wash them as often as regular underwear, which is really helpful on the trail.
Camp Pants (Leggings — wool, polyester, synthetic)
For chilly nights or early mornings when it’s still cool, you’ll want a good layer to keep warm. These tops should be cozy, fit snugly, and be made from materials that won’t get stinky after a long day of hiking—just like your base layer.
- Outdoor Vitals Highline Thermal Leggings (My Review)
- Zpacks Octa Camp Pants
- IceBreaker Leggings
- Smartwool Base Layer Bottoms
- REI Base Layer Bottoms
- REI Merino Base Layer Bottoms
Hiking bottoms (1 pair synthetic)
Whether you prefer pants, shorts, or even a trendy hiking skirt, choosing the right hiking bottoms is all about what makes you feel comfortable. Make sure to test them out and make sure they’re comfortable for long hikes by going on shakedown hikes over a couple days.
If you go with lightweight, breathable shorts that allow you to move easily, be sure to have a base layer or some wind pants you can put on when it gets colder. No matter what you choose, make sure your bottoms are durable and breathable to keep you comfortable on the trail.
- Outdoor Vitals Skyline Shorts
- Outdoor Vitals Skyline Joggers (My Review)
- Zpacks Trail Cool Hiking Shorts
- Patagonia Baggies
- Purple Rain Adventure Skirt
- Brooks Running Shorts
- Any Synthetic Running Shorts
- prAna Stretch Zion Pants (Men’s)
- prAna Halle Pants (Women’s)
- REI Co-op Sahara Hiking Pants
Hiking Tops
In cold weather, a close-fitting long-sleeve thermal shirt is perfect for keeping you warm. In the summer, a light and breathable short- or long-sleeve shirt works best to keep you cool. While sun protection isn’t as big of a concern on the Appalachian Trail as it is on some other trails, long sleeves can still help protect you from bugs.
- Zpacks Trail Cool Sun Hoody
- The Mirage Merino Sun Hoody
- Smartwool Intraknit Crew
- Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt
- Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down
- Town Shirt Sun Hoodies
- REI Sahara T-Shirt
- Any breathable synthetic or merino wool shirt
Gloves
Staying warm in wet and cold weather can really boost your mood on the trail, and getting a good pair of gloves is an investment you won’t regret. Look for gloves that are lightweight, warm, and still keep your hands insulated even when they get wet. If you like using your phone while hiking, you might want to check out "sensor" gloves, which let you use a touchscreen without taking them off!
- OR Sensor Gloves
- OR Gripper Gloves
- Icebreaker Merino Liners
- SmartWool Merino Liners
- Zpacks Brushtail Possum Gloves
- Zpacks Vertice Rain Mitts
Hat (Lightweight)
- Smartwool Merino 250
- Any merino wool or synthetic beanie
- Polar buff
Camp Shoe
Camp shoes are a luxury for some hikers, but for others, they’re as critical as the “big 3” (tent, sleeping bag, and backpack). After a long day of hiking, your feet might be begging for some rest, and camp shoes are perfect for that. They should be comfortable and lightweight, giving your feet a break. If you’re not sure whether camp shoes are right for you, try wearing an old pair of cheap flip-flops or sliders around camp to see how they feel.
- Zpacks Ultralight Camp Shoes
- Crocs (Explore why)
- Bedrock Sandals
- Xero Shoes Z-Trail Sandals
Stuff Sacks (3-5 waterproof)
Stuff sacks are optional, but they can help keep your gear organized. Some hikers prefer to pack everything loose inside a waterproof liner in their backpack. However, if you like to stay organized and want reliable waterproofing, a set of good, lightweight dry sacks is a smart choice to keep your things safe and dry.
- Sea to Summit Ultra Sil Dry Sack (camp clothes, hiking clothes, food, sleeping bag, and electronics- a must for camp clothes and sleeping bag minimally)
- Granite Gear eVent Sil Dry Sack
Cup/Bowl/Mug/Pot
- Vargo TI Lite
- Vargo Bot
- Soto Amicus Cookset
- MSR Titan Kettle
- Toaks Titanium Pot
Stove
Who doesn’t love a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate in the morning? When picking a stove for hiking, you should think about weight, how quickly it boils water, how fuel-efficient it is, and how many different ways it can be used.
Standard canister stoves, like the MSR PocketRocket, are super lightweight and often come with a built-in ignitor, so you don’t need a lighter (though it’s always a good idea to bring one just in case). Integrated canister stoves, like the Jetboil Flash, weigh a bit more but are better at saving fuel and boiling water faster, so you don’t have to wait as long for your meal.
Most hikers use canister stoves with isobutane fuel, but there are other options too, like solid fuel Esbit stoves or alcohol stoves.
Some hikers skip the stove entirely and just cold soak their food or eat ready-to-eat cold meals. This might make sense if you tend to get hot easily and don’t want to cook, or if you’d rather save time and avoid the hassle of cooking. You might think you’d save a lot of weight by not carrying a stove and fuel, but the difference isn’t as big as it seems, because ready-to-eat cold foods often weigh more than dehydrated meals.
- MSR PocketRocket
- Snow Peak LiteMax
- Jetboil Flash
- Jetboil Stash
- BRS 3000T
- Soto Amicus
- Esbit Pocket Stove
- DIY Alcohol Stove
Spoon/Fork/Spork
Spoons are great, forks are nice, but sporks might not be as useful as you think. On the trail, you'll mostly be eating soft foods or finger food—there won’t be many salads or things you need to spear with a fork. The prongs on a spork are more likely to get bent or poke holes in your stuff sack (or worse!). A simple spoon will usually do the job just fine.
- Toaks Titanium Spoon
- Snow Peak Spork
Hiking Poles
There are three types of hikers when it comes to trekking poles: those who swear by them, those who don’t mind either way, and those who like to use a sturdy stick they find along the trail—kind of like channeling their inner Gandalf.
Before you decide which kind of hiker you are, it’s good to know that trekking poles can help with balance, take some pressure off your knees when going downhill, and even give you extra help when climbing. They’re also useful if you need to pitch a non-freestanding tent.
When shopping for trekking poles, here’s what to think about:
- Weight: Carbon fiber poles are lighter but cost more than aluminum poles.
- Locking mechanism: Flick-lock poles are easy to adjust and usually the most reliable.
- Handle: Cork grips are often better for preventing blisters compared to foam (EVA) grips.
- Straps: The straps help you grip the poles properly—they’re not just for hanging your poles in shelters!
- Women’s models: These are usually lighter and have a smaller grip, made for a narrower hand.
If you decide you’re the kind of hiker who swears by trekking poles, here are some great options to check out.
- REI Traverse
- Leki Makalu Lite
- Gossamer Gear LT 5
- Black Diamond Alpine Cork (Men’s || Women’s)
- Cascade Mountain Tech
- Durston Gear Iceline Poles
- Zpacks Minimalist Poles
- Diorite Gear Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
Headlamp (Lightweight)
Your headlamp is one of those things you can toss in your pack (ideally in a spot you can reach easily) and forget about—until you really need it. Whether you’re hiking at night, taking a bathroom break, or digging through your pack to find your bear-bag rope, it’s a must-have for long hikes.
Look for a headlamp that’s easy to use, comfortable to wear for hours, and bright enough to light up your path. You’ll want something with a range of settings, good battery life, and a brightness of at least 200 lumens. A red light setting is also a great bonus, as it helps you see without ruining your night vision.
- Nitecore NU25
- Black Diamond Spot
- BioLite Headlamp 330
- Petzl Tikka
- Petzl Actik Core
Water Purification
Giardia is no joke, so unless you want to risk catching this nasty germ or other waterborne illnesses, you should always treat your water. There are several ways to do this, and each has its pros and cons.
One popular choice is a water filter like the Sawyer Squeeze. It’s simple to use—just fill a bottle, attach the filter, and squeeze the water into another container. No waiting around!
Another option is a gravity bag, which requires a little more effort but works great in camp. You can also use chemical treatments or tablets, but be sure to check how long you need to wait for the water to be safe. Devices like the SteriPEN use UV light to treat water, but keep in mind that they need batteries to work.
- Aquamira
- Sawyer Squeeze or Sawyer Micro
- Katadyn BeFree
- Platypus QuickDraw
- SteriPEN
Water Bottle (Lightweight)
Nalgene bottles are heavy, bulky, and expensive, and you don’t really need one for hiking. A simple disposable water bottle works just as well. Many hikers like using SmartWater bottles because the cap fits perfectly with the popular Sawyer Squeeze filter system, making it easy to treat your water on the go.
First Aid Kit
You can buy a pre-made backpacking first aid kit, but it’s easy to make your own with stuff you probably already have. Keep it simple—just the basics for treating common problems on the trail. Here’s a list of things you’ll want to pack:
- Antiseptic Wipes (2): For cleaning wounds.
- Triple Antibiotic Cream: A small tube or spray bottle to help prevent infection.
- Ibuprofen: For pain relief.
- Antidiarrheal: In case you get diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.
- Antihistamine: For allergies (like from pollen or bee stings). Not a substitute for an epinephrine injector if you have severe allergies.
- Band-Aids: For small cuts and scrapes.
- Sewing Needle: Use it with dental floss to repair clothes, tents, or shoes.
- Duct Tape: For quick fixes.
- Leukotape: A favorite for preventing and treating blisters. You don’t need the whole roll—just wrap a little around a pencil or trekking pole.
- Emergency Fire Starter: Cotton balls soaked in Vaseline, dryer lint dipped in wax, or even corn chips (like Fritos) can help start a fire in an emergency.
Keep this kit lightweight, but ready for anything!
Toiletries
When you’re out hiking, you want to stay at least somewhat clean, but you don’t need a lot of extra stuff. Here’s a simple list of personal hygiene items to bring:
- Toothbrush (cut in half) and toothpaste: Cutting the toothbrush in half saves space, not weight, and it’ll help you pack it more easily.
- Hand sanitizer and/or biodegradable soap (in a small bottle): Use this to wash your hands at least once a day to avoid getting sick, like from norovirus.
- Floss: Besides cleaning your teeth, floss can also double as emergency thread for repairs.
- Hairbrush or comb (optional): Nice for people with long hair, but not necessary.
- Vaseline, Bodyglide, or similar (optional): Great if you’re prone to chafing or blisters.
- Baby wipes (optional): If hygiene is really important to you, these are helpful—but remember, you’ll need to pack them out!
- Kula cloth and/or pStyle (optional for women who don’t want to squat and drip-dry): A Kula cloth helps with wiping, and a pStyle is a device for women to pee standing up.
- Menstrual cup, tampons, or pads: Make sure to pack out anything you use. Follow the Leave No Trace rule: hike it in, hike it out!
No need for deodorant—leave that behind to save space. This should keep you fresh and comfortable on the trail!
Sunscreen
Insect Repellent
The Appalachian Trail has lots of mosquitoes and ticks (including deer ticks), so you must choose to protect yourself. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, which can happen any time of year, so you’ll need to be careful.
Here are some ways to protect yourself:
- With DEET: DEET is a common chemical that repels mosquitoes and ticks. It's very effective, but you need to be careful with it and follow the instructions.
- DEET-Free: If you prefer to avoid DEET, there are other insect repellents that are free from it. These can also work well but might need to be reapplied more often.
- Permethrin: This is a special spray you can use on your clothes and gear to keep bugs away. It's really effective against ticks and mosquitoes. You’ll need to reapply it every six weeks or so, usually on your rest days (your zero day).
Stay protected and check for ticks regularly while hiking!
Guidebook
It's a good idea to carry both a guidebook and a phone app, just in case. Phones can run out of battery or stop working, so it's smart to have a backup.
To save weight, you can carry only a small section of the guidebook at a time and mail the rest ahead to yourself. But remember, there’s no substitute for a map and compass—those are essential skills for safely navigating the trail (and maps can be fun to explore!).
Here are two helpful options for navigating the Appalachian Trail:
- AWOL’s Guide: This is a popular printed guidebook with detailed info about the trail.
- FarOut (formerly Guthook): This is a phone app with maps and trail information. It’s very convenient, but make sure you can still navigate without relying only on your phone.
- OnX Backcountry:
A combination of both is usually the best way to go!
Luxury/Comfort Items (pillow, mascot, journal, instrument, electronics, etc.)
- Rite in the Rain Outdoor Journal
- Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow
- Portable Phone Charger (Not a luxury item if you are reliant on your phone for maps)
- Sit Pad
Trowel
Always follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect the environment. This means:
- Bury your poop: Dig a hole (called a cathole) that's 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from any water source.
- Pack out your toilet paper: Don’t bury it—take it with you in a sealed bag.
- Don’t bury food or trash: Pack out any leftover food or trash, and don't leave it behind. Also, don't dump cooking water or tooth-brushing water in the ground (called greywater). Instead, pour it out 200 feet away from water sources and scatter it so it won’t harm the environment.
To make this easier, you can use tools like:
- Vargo Titanium Dig Tool: A lightweight trowel for digging catholes.
- Deuce of Spades: Another handy trowel that’s popular with hikers.
- Snow Stake: A durable and lightweight tool that can also be used for digging.
By following these rules, you’ll help keep the trail clean and safe for everyone!
GPS
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is usually easy to follow, but having a GPS device can still be super helpful. It can give you peace of mind, both for you and for the people at home. If something goes wrong, a GPS device can help you call for help quickly. Plus, two-way communicators allow you to:
- Check the weather even when you’re far from cell service.
- Stay in touch with friends and family, so they know you’re safe.
When planning for your hike, don’t forget to include the cost of things like GPS subscriptions and rescue insurance. These are usually not part of the device's price, so you need to plan for them too.
Here are some options for GPS devices:
- SPOT X: A satellite communicator that lets you send messages and get help.
- Garmin inReach Mini 2: A small, lightweight device for messaging and GPS.
- ZOLEO Satellite Communicator: Another communicator for messages and weather updates.
Having one of these devices can make your hike safer and give you peace of mind if something unexpected happens.
