Lucky P’s 2023 Appalachian Trail Thru Hiking Gear  

Laying all of my gear out and taking inventory of everything seems simple enough, but it can be one of the most daunting yet exciting pre thru-hike struggles. Knowing that I will succumb to stinking everyday and getting soaked to the bone = gear indecisiveness. I have finally wrapped it all up, and I am ready to hit the trail in less than 2 weeks! My gear is a collection of several items that have been with me for the past few years, with a handful of new additions and upgraded pieces. There are some pieces on my gear list that I do not need to survive, but they compliment my mental well-being on trail.

Backpack Weight

My goal is to keep my total pack weight under 25 lbs throughout my entire journey. It goes without saying and studies have shown; the heavier the pack, the less likely a complete thru-hike is achieved. However, winter months call for heavier gear. As it warms up, items are shipped home or donated to hiker boxes along the trial; weight lessens. For my personal weight analysis, I am considering “consumables” as food, water, stove fuel, and all liquids (soap, insect repellent)- anything with fluctuation. Due to a weaker right ankle, counting ounces and getting real with needed vs. unnecessary weight is an important thru-hiking preparation component. Some also consider their “worn clothing” as part of their total pack weight, however I have not.

Continue reading the complete article written by Joanne Gigliotti here.