/w=3840,quality=90,fit=scale-down)
Curious how a thru-hiker’s gear evolves over 2,000+ miles? This post breaks down what I carried on the Appalachian Trail—from my first steps in Georgia to my summit of Katahdin. You’ll see what got swapped, what stayed, and what I still regret sending home. With real weights, prices, and trail-tested takes, this is my complete AT gear evolution—no fluff.
Inspired by this The Trek article, this post is a brutally honest breakdown of how my gear evolved over the course of my 2018 Appalachian Trail thru-hike—what I started with, what I ditched, what I loved, and what I will never carry again.
If you’re overwhelmed by gear lists, I get it. I was too. Choosing what to carry for 2,000+ miles can feel impossible—especially when you’re budgeting, battling decision fatigue, and low-key terrified of making the wrong call.
But here’s the truth no one told me: your gear will change. What works at mile 5 might suck at mile 500. And that’s normal.
So instead of trying to get it "perfect" from the start, here’s what I recommend: build your base, then let your trail experience guide your swaps.
In this post, I’m sharing:
- My favorite ride-or-die gear
- What I carried at the start, middle, and end of the AT
- How much it all weighed (ish) and cost (yep, I tracked it)
- What I’d do differently if I were starting again
Think of this as a real-life case study in how gear evolves on a thru-hike.
Favorite Gear
These are the MVPs—the pieces that earned a permanent spot in my pack:
- Osprey Eja 58 (older model—new version is meh)
- Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow — ultralight, comfy, dependable
- La Sportiva Ultra Raptors — life-saving shoe swap
- MSR Pocket Rocket 2 — indestructible and light
- AegisMax 40º UL Sleeping Bag — super budget-friendly for shoulder seasons
- Patagonia Women’s Baggies Shorts — breathable, durable, and secretly cute
2025 Updates:
They’ve changed the design of the Osprey Eja and the Cocoon Ultra Light Travel Pillow which I used in 2019 and I don’t like the new versions of these items.
The old version I have of the Eja pack is still going strong so I don’t have any current recommendations as of August 7, 2025.
But I currently use these pillows:
- NEMO Fillo is the super heavy luxury item I take on weekend trips but I might not recommend it for a thru-hike.
- Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow is the light one I take long distance.
I also replaced my stove with the BRS Ultralight Camping Gas Stove – 10/10 recommend.
What I Carried on My Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike (and Why It Changed)
From Amicalola, GA to Damascus, VA
Sleep: Tent, Sleep System, and Pajamas
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 1 | Tent | $300.00 | 48 |
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 Footprint | Footprint | $35.00 | 5 |
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt | Quilt | $270.00 | 18.5 |
Granite Gear 16L Compression Stuff Sack | Stuff Sack | $0.00 | 2.47 |
Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad | Sleeping Pad | $39.99 | 18 |
Fire Light UL Inflatable Pillow | Pillow | $9.99 | 3.1 |
Arich Outdoor Foam Butt Pad | Sit Pad | $2.38 | 1.3 |
EMS Techwick Midweight Baselayer Bottoms | Baselayer Bottoms | $25.00 | 15 |
Semi-Synthetic T-Shirt | Sleep Shirt | $0.00 | 5 |
EMS Techwick Lightweight Baselayer Top | Baselayer Top | $0.00 | 10 |
Heavy Weight Wool ‘Lifestyle’ Socks |
Eat: Cook System + Food Storage
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Pocket Rocket (used) | Stove | $30.00 | 3 |
Bic Mini | Lighter | $1.00 | 0.4 |
4–8 fl oz. IsoPro | Fuel | $4.95 | 7 |
Olicamp LT Pot | Cook Pot | $19.00 | 8 |
Sea to Summit X Cup | 404_70489 | 8976840001 | none |
Sea to Summit Alpha Light Long Handle Spork | Utensil | $8.95 | 0.4 |
Pot Scraper (old from Pampered Chef) | Scraper | $0.00 | 0.4 |
50 Ft Reflective Chord | Bear Hang Rope | $10.00 | 10 |
Ursack AllWhite | Food Bag | $60.00 | 7.8 |
Spyderco Tenacious | Knife | $0.00 | 4 |
CNOC Vecto 2L Dirty Water Bag | Water Bag | $19.99 | 2.6 |
Sawyer Squeeze | Water Filter | $39.95 | 3 |
Pack: Gregory Maven 55 $229 54oz
Poles: REI Co-Op Traverse Power Lock Cork Women's Trekking Poles $99.95
Hiking Clothes
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Nike Miler | Shirt | $20.00 | — |
Nike Indy Bra | Sports Bra | $14.00 | — |
EMS Women's Compass Slim Pants | Hiking Pants | $27.00 | — |
Nike Pro Women’s 8" Compression Short | Shorts | $30.00 | 5 |
EMS Women’s Techwick Hipkini (x3) | Underwear | $14.00 | — |
EMS Women's Feather Pack DownTek Jacket | Down Jacket | $90.00 | — (switched at Neel Gap) |
Montbell W’s U.L. Thermawrap Jacket | Synthetic Jacket | $130.00 | 7 |
Mountain Hardwear Ozonic Stretch Jacket | Rain Jacket | $0.00 | 4 |
EMS Women's Thunderhead Rain Pants | Rain Pants | $45.00 | 12 (ditched at Neels Gap) |
Gossamer Gear Liteflex Hiking Umbrella | Umbrella | $39.00 | 8 (ditched at Fontana Dam) |
Smartwool NTS 150 Merino Hooded Top | Long Sleeve Baselayer | $49.99 | — (lost on approach trail) |
Smartwool NTS 150 Merino Bottoms | Baselayer Bottoms | $39.99 | — |
Prana Nari Dress | Dress | $0.00 | 10 |
Synthetic hat with DriFit liner (homemade) | Hat | $0.00 | — |
EMS Liner Gloves | Gloves | $10.00 | 4 |
Buff | Buff | $— | — |
Footwear
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Crocs Karen | Camp Shoes | $18.00 | 6 |
Dirty Girl Gaiters | Gaiters | $23.00 | — |
Altra Women's Timp | Trail Runners | $130.00 | — (switched to Oboz Luna at Neels Gap — hated them — and then to La Sportiva Ultra Raptors in Franklin, NC) |
x2 Smartwool Women's Light Mid Crew Socks | Socks | $11.25 | — |
x2 Fox River Wick Dry Alturas Liner Socks | Sock Liners | $5.99 | — (ditched at Neels Gap; tried Injinji, then ditched all liners in Franklin, NC) |
Electronics
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Anker Astro E1 | Charger | $17.99 | 4.2 |
Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp | Headlamp | $17.38 | 3.2 (left at Boots Off Hostel; replaced with Petzl Tikka in Damascus) |
iPhone 6s | Phone | $0.00 | 6 |
Kindle | eReader | $0.00 | 3 (sent home at Franklin, NC) |
Spot | GPS | $300.00 | 4 |
Yurbuds Inspire Sport (women's) | Headphones | $19.99 | 0.5 |
Life Proof Case | Phone Case | $29.61 | 1.3 |
Toiletries
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Travel Brush from Target | Toothbrush | $1.00 | 0.5 |
Free Sample from Dentist | Toothpaste | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Charmin | Toilet Paper | $1.00 | 0.5 |
Always Radiant Infinity / Playtex Sport | Menstrual Care | $5.94 | 1 |
Old Nike T-Shirt cut up | Sweat Rag | $0.00 | 2 |
Bandana | Pee Rag | $1.00 | 1 |
Hair Ties | Hair Ties | $0.00 | — |
Q-Tips | Q-Tips | $0.00 | — (loved having these, but didn’t always carry) |
PackTowl Nano | Towel | $0.00 | 0.9 |
Timex Women’s Ironman Sport | Watch | $12.95 | — |
Gold Bond Ultimate Travel Size | Body Powder | $0.00 | — (left at Neels Gap, never used) |
Old Haircut Kit Comb | Comb | $0.00 | 0.8 |
Deuce of Spades | Trowel | $0.00 | 0.6 |
Dr. Bronner’s | Soap | $2.00 | 3 (ditched at Damascus, replaced, then ditched again) |
BodyGlide | Chafe Protection | $5.00 | 0.5 (ditched in Damascus) |
Granite Gear Air Pocket L | Toiletry Bag | $0.00 | 1 |
First Aid Kit
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Fire Kit (straw, matches, cotton ball, striker) | Emergency Fire Starter | $0.00 | — (ditched at Neels, unnecessary) |
Duck Tape | Duct Tape | $0.00 | — (recommend carrying Leuko or Duct, not both) |
Nail Clippers | Nail Care | $0.00 | 3 |
Tiny Tweezers | Tweezers | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Mole Skin | Blister Care | $5.00 | 0.5 (never used, ditched at Franklin) |
Band Aids (assorted) | Wound Care | $5.00 | 1 (ditched at Neels — bandaids don’t stay on) |
Benzoin Tincture | Adhesive Aid | $7.00 | 0.5 (ditched at Franklin, never used) |
Assorted Meds (Benadryl, Tylenol, Aleve, etc.) | Medication | $0.00 | 1 (ditched all but ibuprofen at Franklin — bring Immodium!) |
LeukoTape | Blister Tape | $7.00 | 6 |
Electrolyte Supplement Pills | Electrolytes | $10.00 | 2 (you can also use Nuun, Emergen-C, or Salt Stick — Emergen-C is my fave) |
At Harper’s Ferry
By the time I got to harper’s Ferry my thruhiking gear had changed a LOT. 1,023 miles (the ceremonial halfway) into my hike, I started wanting to reduce my base weight but also indulge in little luxuries. I started treating my hike more like a lifestyle than a short-term trip and it made it a lot more enjoyable for me.
Sleep
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | Tent | $225.00 | 23 |
Six Moon Designs Small Tyvek Footprint | Footprint | $9.00 | 4.5 (only used 3 times, kept until Maine) |
Six Moon Designs Single Stake Set | Tent Stakes | $11.00 | 2.5 |
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt | Quilt | $270.00 | 18.5 |
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Liner | Sleeping Bag Liner | $67.95 | 14 (picked up at NOC, wasn’t warm — hated it) |
Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm | Sleeping Pad | $140.00 | 15 |
Cocoon Ultralight Air-Core Pillow | Pillow | $30.00 | 3.1 (BEST THING I’VE EVER BOUGHT) |
Therm-A-Rest Z Seat | Sit Pad | $0.00 | 1.6 |
Eat
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Pocket Rocket (used) | Stove | $30.00 | 3 |
Bic Mini | Lighter | $1.00 | 0.4 |
4-8 fl oz. IsoPro | Fuel | $4.95 | 7 |
Toaks 700 | Pot | $39.00 | 4 |
Sea to Summit Alpha Light Long Handle Spork | Utensil | $8.95 | 0.4 |
Sea To Summit 20L Lightweight Dry Sack | Food Bag | $23.95 | 4.7 |
Spyderco Tenacious | Knife | $0.00 | 0.36 |
CNOC Vecto 2L Dirty Water Bag | Water Bag | $19.99 | 2.6 |
Sawyer Squeeze | Water Filter | $39.95 | — |
Pack
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Osprey Eja 58 (Women’s) | Backpack | $176.00 | 26 |
Osprey Ultralight Pack Cover (Large) | Pack Cover | $35.00 | 3 |
REI Co-Op Traverse Power Lock Cork Trekking Poles (Women’s) | Trekking Poles | $99.95 | — |
Clothing
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Patagonia Lightweight Crew Short Sleeve | Hiking Top | $39.00 | — (caused severe rashes – not recommended for sensitive skin) |
Under Armour Strappy Bra | Sports Bra | $22.00 | — |
Nike Pro Women's 8" Compression Short | Base Layer Bottoms | $30.00 | — (initially helpful for chafe, eventually slipped and caused rashes — ditched) |
Montbell U.L. Thermawrap Jacket (Women’s) | Insulated Jacket | $139.00 | 7 |
Mountain Hardwear Ozonic Stretch Jacket | Rain Jacket | $0.00 | 4 |
Patagonia Lightweight Crew Long Sleeve | Long Underwear Top | $39.99 | 4 (also caused rashes — not recommended) |
Paradox Wool Blend Baselayer Pants | Long Underwear Bottoms | $0.00 | 6 (great budget wool layer) |
Semi-Synthetic T-Shirt | Sleep Shirt | $0.00 | 5 (still bring it on every trip) |
Darn Tough 1/4 Endurance Socks | Socks | $0.00 | 3 |
Synthetic Hat (DriFit-lined, homemade) | Warm Hat | $0.00 | — |
Buff | Neckwear | $0.00 | — |
Footwear
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Crocs Karen | Camp Shoes | $18.00 | 6 |
Dirty Girl Gaiters | Gaiters | $23.00 | — |
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor - Women's | Trail Runners | $78.00 | — (partial sponsorship) |
x2 Darn Tough Vertex Ultra-Light 1/4 Sock | Socks | $0.00 | 3 |
Electronics
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Anker Astro E1 | Charger | $17.99 | 4.2 |
Petzl Tikka Headlamp | Headlamp | $29.95 | 3 |
iPhone 6s | Cell Phone | $0.00 | 6 |
SPOT GPS Device | GPS | $300.00 | 4 |
Yurbuds Inspire Sport (Women’s) | Headphones | $19.99 | 1 |
LifeProof Nuud Case | Phone Case | $35.00 | 1.3 |
Toiletries
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Notes / Weight |
Travel Brush from Target | Toothbrush | $1.00 | — |
Dollar Store Toothpaste | Toothpaste | ~$1.00 | — |
Toilet Paper | Hygiene | Free | (Grab where you can — post office, hiker boxes, etc.) |
Always Radiant / Playtex Sport | Menstrual Products | — | (Restocked in town as needed) |
Old Nike T-Shirt (cut up) | Snot/Sweat Rag | $0.00 | — |
Bandana | Pee Rag | ~$1.00 | (Added a GoGirl in PA — highly recommend GoGirl or PStyle) |
Hair Ties | Hair Accessories | $0.00 | (Still useful even after cutting hair in MA) |
PackTowl Nano | Towel | — | — |
Timex Women’s Ironman Sport | Watch | $12.95 | — |
Gold Bond Ultimate Spray | Anti-Chafe | $4.00 | (Used during Shenandoah heat rash/salt chafe) |
Old Haircut Kit Comb | Comb | $0.00 | — |
Deuce of Spades | Trowel | $0.00 | — |
Bag Balm | Healing Ointment | $0.00 | 6oz |
Granite Gear Air Pocket L | Organizer Bag | $0.00 | 1oz |
First Aid Kit
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Nail Clippers | First Aid | $0.00 | 3 |
Tweezers | First Aid | $0.00 | 0.5 |
LeukoTape | Blister Tape | $7.00 | 5 |
Emergen-C | Electrolytes | $4.00 | 2 |
From Grafton Notch, ME to Katahdin:
By the time I hit the last few hundred miles of the trail, I was wrecked — and not just from the walking. I’d come down with Giardia, needed real rest, and had to make a quick detour home to Fryeburg, ME to recover (and play maid of honor in my best friend’s wedding — glamorous timing, right?).
While I was home, I scrubbed my gear, swapped out anything moldy or broken, and picked up a few winter essentials. The nights were getting cold, and I knew the hundred mile wilderness and Baxter State Park weren’t going to cut me any slack.
Sleep
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | Tent | $225.00 | 23 |
Six Moon Designs Single Stake Set | Tent Stakes | $11.00 | 2.5 |
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt | Quilt | $270.00 | 18.5 |
Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm | Sleeping Pad | $140.00 | 15 (purchased on Amazon — rectangular version tends to be cheaper) |
Cocoon Ultralight Air-Core Hood Pillow | Pillow | $30.00 | 3.1 (replacement after original was ruined in dryer in Hot Springs) |
Eat
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Pocket Rocket (used) | Stove | $30.00 | 3 |
Bic Mini | Lighter | $1.00 | 0.4 |
4–8 fl/oz IsoPro | Fuel | $4.95 | 7 |
Toaks 700 | Pot | $39.00 | 4 |
Sea to Summit Alpha Light Long Handle Spork | Utensils | $8.95 | 0.4 |
Sea To Summit 20L Lightweight Dry Sack | Food Bag | $23.95 | 4.7 |
Spyderco Tenacious | Knife | $0.00 | 3.6 |
Platypus Platy Water Bottle (2L) | Water Storage | $12.00 | 1.1 |
Sawyer Squeeze | Water Filter | $39.95 | 3 |
Pack
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Osprey Eja 58 | Backpack | $176.00 | 26 |
REI Duck's Back Pack Cover (Used) | Pack Cover | $10.00 | 5.5 |
Poles Black Diamond Trail Shock Pro (Women's) $99.95 17oz (Check Amazon for better pricing)
I still use these in 2025!! And I also put snow baskets on them in the winter and use them for backcountry skiing. These are the best most durable trekking poles!
Clothing
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Prana Tank Top (clearance) | Top | $123.00 | — |
Under Armour Strappy Bra | Sports Bra | $22.00 | 2 |
Patagonia Baggies | Bottoms | $22.00 | 4 |
Adidas ClimaCool Boxers | Underwear | $10.00 | 3 |
EMS Women's Techwick Hipkini | Underwear | $14.00 | 2 |
Mont Bell U.L. Thermawrap Jacket for Women | Jacket | $139.00 | 7 |
Frogg Toggs XTreme Lite | Rain Jacket | $8.00 | 4 |
Nike Women's Element Half Zip | Long Sleeve Baselayer | $30.00 | 4 |
Paradox Wool Blend Baselayer Pants | Baselayer Bottoms | $0.00 | 4 |
Semi-Synthetic T-Shirt | Sleep Shirt | $0.00 | 5 |
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks | Socks | $0.00 | 3 |
Synthetic Hat with DriFit Liner (made by my mom) | Warm Accessories | $0.00 | 4 |
Buff | Neckwear | $0.00 | — |
Footwear
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Crocs Karen | Camp Shoes | $18.00 | 6 |
Dirty Girl Gaiters | Gaiters | $23.00 | 1.1 |
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor - Women's | Trail Runners | $78.00 (Partial Sponsorship) | — |
x2 Darn Tough Vertex Ultra-Light 1/4 Sock | Socks | $0.00 | 2 (1 oz per pair) |
Electronics
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Anker Astro E1 | Charger | $17.99 | 4.2 |
Petzl Tikka | Headlamp | $29.95 | 3 |
iPhone 6s | Cell Phone | $0.00 | 5 |
Spot | GPS Device | $300.00 | 4 |
Yurbuds Inspire Sport (women's) | Headphones | $19.99 | 0.5 |
Life Proof Nuud | Phone Case | $35.00 | 1.3 |
Toiletries
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Travel Brush from Target | Toothbrush | $1.00 | 0.5 |
Free Sample from Dentist | Toothpaste | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Free where you can find it | Toilet Paper | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Always Radiant Infinity / Playtext Sport | Menstrual Products | $5.94 | 0.5 |
Old Nike T-Shirt cut up | Sweat Rag | $0.00 | 0.2 |
Bandana | Pee Rag | $1.00 | 0.5 |
Hair Ties | Hair Accessories | $0.00 | — |
Q-Tips | Personal Hygiene | $0.00 | — |
PackTowl Nano | Towel | $0.00 | 0.9 |
Timex Women’s Ironman Sport | Watch | $12.95 | 6 |
Deuce of Spades | Trowel | $0.00 | 0.6 |
Dr. Bronner's | Soap | $2.00 | 3 |
BodyGlide | Chafe Protection | $5.00 | 0.5 |
Bag Balm | Healing Ointment | $0.00 | 4 |
Granite Gear Air Pocket L | Toiletry Bag | $0.00 | 1 |
First Aid Kit
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Nail Clippers | First Aid | $0.00 | 2.5 |
Tweezers | First Aid | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Ibuprofen + Vitamins | Medications | $0.00 | 0.5 |
LeukoTape | Blister Tape | $7.00 | 6 |
Emergen-C | Electrolytes | $4.00 | 3 |
What’s in My Pack Now: My 2025 Gear List
These days, I’m not thru-hiking 2,000 miles. I’m just weekend backpacking with my dog and my fiancé. My gear has changed a lot since the Appalachian Trail, and honestly, so have my priorities.
I still love the outdoors, but I’m not about to commit to another 6-month long thru-hike again any time soon. My current backpacking setup is lighter, simpler, and way more comfort-focused. Whether I’m heading out for a quick overnight or dreaming about a future 2–3 week section hike, this is the gear that works for me now – in 2025.
If you're looking for a dialed-in weekend backpacking gear list, this is it. Designed for casual adventures, trail dog logistics, and sharing snacks with someone you love. But a lot of it could work for a thru-hike!
Sleep
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Durston X-Mid 2 | Tent | $225.00 | 31 oz |
Sea to Summit Flame Ultralight 35F Sleeping Bag - Women's (for spring/summer) | Sleeping Bag | $500.00 | 1 lb 1.8 oz |
REI Co-op Radiant 20 Sleeping Bag (for fall/winter) | Sleeping Bag | $199.00 | 2 lbs. 11 oz |
Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm | Sleeping Pad | $140.00 | 15 oz |
Sea to Summit
Aeros Down Pillow | Pillow | $64 | 2.5 oz |
NEMO Fillo Pillow | Pillow | $44.95 | 9.2 oz |
Eat
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
BRS Ultralight | Stove | $15.00 | 1 |
Bic Mini | Lighter | $1.00 | 0.4 |
4–8 fl/oz IsoPro | Fuel | $4.95 | 7 |
GSI Outdoors Halulite Minimalist II Cookset | Pot, Untensil, Koozie | $34.95 | 6 |
Sea To Summit 20L Lightweight Dry Sack | Food Bag | $23.95 | 4.7 |
Leatherman
Skeletool Multi-Tool | Knife | $74.00 | 5 |
Sawyer Squeeze | Water Filter | $39.95 | 3 |
Pack
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Osprey Eja 58 | Backpack | $176.00 | 26 |
REI Duck's Back Pack Cover (Used) | Pack Cover | $10.00 | 5.5 |
Poles Black Diamond Trail Shock Pro (Women's) $99.95 17oz (Check Amazon for better pricing)
I still use these in 2025!! And I also put snow baskets on them in the winter and use them for backcountry skiing. These are the best most durable trekking poles!
Clothing
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Prana Tank Top (clearance) | Top | $123.00 | — |
Under Armour Strappy Bra | Sports Bra | $22.00 | 2 |
Patagonia Baggies | Shorts | $22.00 | 4 |
KUHL
Freeflex Roll-Up Pants | Pants | $99.00 | 3 |
Mont Bell U.L. Thermawrap Jacket for Women | Jacket | $139.00 | 7 |
REI Co-op
Sahara Shade Hoodie - Women's | Long Sleeve Sun Shirt | $49.00 | 6.4 |
Kari Traa Rose High Waist Pants | Baselayer Bottoms for sleeping | $0.00 | 4 |
Semi-Synthetic T-Shirt | Sleep Shirt | $0.00 | 5 |
Darn Tough
Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks | Socks | $26.00 | 3 |
Synthetic Hat with DriFit Liner (made by my mom) | Warm Accessories | $0.00 | 4 |
Buff | Neckwear | $0.00 | — |
Footwear
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Xero Shoes
Z-Trail EV Sandals | Camp Shoes | $80.00 | 8 |
La Sportiva Jackal II | Trail Runners | $86.00 | — |
Darn Tough Vertex Ultra-Light 1/4 Sock | Socks | $0.00 | 1 |
Electronics
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
ANOUV Portable Charger 10000mAh | Charger | $17.99 | 4.2 |
Nitecore NU25 MCT | Headlamp | $29.95 | 1.6 |
Garmin In-Reach Mini | GPS Device | $300.00 | 3.5 |
Shokz
OpenRun Headphones | Headphones | $129.95 | 0.9 |
Toiletries
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Travel Brush from Target | Toothbrush | $1.00 | 0.5 |
Free Sample from Dentist | Toothpaste | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Free where you can find it | Toilet Paper | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Flex Cup | Menstrual Products | $29.99 | 1 |
Old Nike T-Shirt cut up | Sweat Rag | $0.00 | 0.2 |
Kula Cloth | Pee Rag | $35.00 | 0.5 |
Teleties – Small | Hair Accessories | $0.00 | — |
Q-Tips | Personal Hygiene | $0.00 | — |
PackTowl Nano | Towel | $0.00 | 0.9 |
Shark Mini | Watch | $70 | 5 |
Deuce of Spades | Trowel | $0.00 | 0.6 |
Baby Wipes | Soap | 4 | |
Tri Slide | Chafe Protection | $17.00 | 3 |
Bag Balm | Healing Ointment | $0.00 | 4 |
Granite Gear Air Pocket L | Toiletry Bag | $0.00 | 1 |
First Aid Kit
Item | Category | Cost (in USD) | Weight (in oz) |
Nail Clippers | First Aid | $0.00 | 2.5 |
Tweezers | First Aid | $0.00 | 0.5 |
Ibuprofen + Vitamins | Medications | $0.00 | 0.5 |
LeukoTape | Blister Tape | $7.00 | 6 |
Immodium | Anti-Diarrhea | $10 | 0.5 |
What I Learned From Carrying My Life for 2,000+ Miles
Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail taught me that your gear is just a starting point – not a final answer. Every item in my pack went through its own journey, just like I did. Some gear was perfect from day one. Some I cursed and ditched within weeks. And some surprised me by sticking around all the way to Katahdin.
If you’re planning your own AT thru-hike (or any long-distance backpacking trip), here’s my two cents: there’s no such thing as a “perfect” gear list – just the right gear for you, right now. You’ll learn, adapt, swap, and figure it out as you go. Heck, my gear has changed a lot in the past 6 years since my thru-hike too.
Use this post as a resource and reality check. See what worked, what didn’t, what I wish I’d done differently—and most importantly, what stayed with me all the way.
Your gear will evolve. You will too. Let the trail teach you.