Appalachain Trail Packing List

Whether you are 'through hiking' or only backpacking for a couple of nights, your experience of the Appalachian Trail can depend on the gear you choose to bring along. Finding yourself in the wilderness with insufficient food and gear can turn a wonderful trip into a harrowing event. On the other hand, lugging around too much equipment can lead to fatigue and injury. In order to enjoy the sights of the Appalachian Trail, it is important to strike a balance between light weight and functionality.

  1. Gear

    • The gear you choose to bring along on your adventure can save your life. The following is a list of some necessities you should bring along when backpacking: internal frame backpack (3,000 cubic inches), hiking boots, water bladder or light water bottle, cooking materials (lightweight stove, fuel, lighter, eating utensil and small titanium or aluminum cooking pot), stuff sack and rope for hanging food, iodine drops or water filter, headlamp, knife, first aid kit, trail map and compass. Although there are numerous shelters situated along the Appalachian trail, it can be beneficial to bring either a lightweight tent, tarp or covered hammock to sleep in. If you are 'through hiking' the Appalachian Trail it is best to pack only the bare minimum you need to survive in the wilderness. However, you may choose to pack additional items including: trekking poles, insect repellent, sunscreen and digital camera.

    Clothing

    • Select only clothing that is lightweight, synthetic, and can be compacted into a small area. Never wear cotton, it dries slowly and is a poor insulator when wet. If you are 'through hiking' the Appalachian Trail, it is recommended that you bring all or most of the following clothes: synthetic long sleeve fleece, synthetic t-shirt, windproof and waterproof shell, down jacket, lightweight synthetic pants zip-off pants, two pairs synthetic socks, underwear and warm synthetic hat. If you are only backpacking for a few days, pack clothing from the list that is relevant to the elevation, terrain and weather in which you will be hiking.

    Food

    • For trips longer than four days, it is best to bring mostly lightweight food that can be hydrated, such as rice, pasta and oatmeal. Packable proteins, such as dehydrated beans and pouches of tuna or chicken, are pivotal food sources while dried fruit can provide an extra punch of energy for strenuous hiking days. If you are 'through hiking' the Appalachian Trail, don't worry about packing four months' worth of food. The trail frequently meanders through small towns, so you can count on renewing your food supply weekly or biweekly.