The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

Choosing gear for a thru-hike or even for weekend backpacking can be daunting. So what gear should you buy on the cheap and where should you splurge for the best? Let this list be your guide to getting the best bang for your buck.

See the full list from Rachel Meltzer on The Trek's website here.

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The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

Green circle enclosing a simple geometric mountain peak icon.
The Trek
Last updated:
October 21, 2025
|  5 min read
Illustration of thru-hiking gear including boots, backpack, sleeping bag, socks, gloves, water bottle, and nuts.
Illustration of thru-hiking gear including boots, backpack, sleeping bag, socks, gloves, water bottle, and nuts.

The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

Choosing gear for a thru-hike or even for weekend backpacking can be daunting. So what gear should you buy on the cheap and where should you splurge for the best? Let this list be your guide to getting the best bang for your buck.

See the full list from Rachel Meltzer on The Trek's website here.

The Trek
Media Mentions from the Trek
The Trek
theTrek.co is dedicated to shining a spotlight on current hikers’ journeys.
/
Website
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Media Mentions from the Trek
The Trek
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The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

Green circle enclosing a simple geometric mountain peak icon.
The Trek
Last updated:
September 16, 2021
|  5 min read
Illustration of thru-hiking gear including boots, backpack, sleeping bag, socks, gloves, water bottle, and nuts.
Illustration of thru-hiking gear including boots, backpack, sleeping bag, socks, gloves, water bottle, and nuts.

The Trek: Nine Pieces of Thru-Hiking Gear to Splurge on, and Nine to Save On

Choosing gear for a thru-hike or even for weekend backpacking can be daunting. So what gear should you buy on the cheap and where should you splurge for the best? Let this list be your guide to getting the best bang for your buck.

See the full list from Rachel Meltzer on The Trek's website here.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Media Mentions from the Trek
The Trek
theTrek.co is dedicated to shining a spotlight on current hikers’ journeys.
/
visit author Website
Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Media Mentions from the Trek
The Trek
theTrek.co is dedicated to shining a spotlight on current hikers’ journeys.
learn about the author
Popular posts
Tips & Guides
View all blog articles
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad MembersSquad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
We build products withindustry-leadingstandards and technology, designed to keep you outdoors for longer. Explore what others are saying about Sawyer.
News fromSawyer HQin Tampa Bay, FL, including product resources, updates in technology, and recent brand developments.
NewThere’s nothing like seeing hearing from those who are personally touched by the promise ofclean water. Explore their stories and lift your soul; you’ve made this work possible.
Stories and experiences encompassing a spread of outdoor enthusiasms, from theBackcountry to the BackyardTM. What keeps you outdoors?
Trail tips and packing list guides for backcountry travel, gear choices.Trail guidesfor hiking, biking, thru-hiking and more.
Read aboutproduct reviewsfrom various media outlets, customers, community members, and outdoor gear websites.
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