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

Gear illustration with text thru-hiking gear 9 pieces to splurge on 9 pieces to save on

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.

Media Mentions from the Trek

The Trek

Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving long distance backpackers.

We are All Things Long-Distance backpacking.

Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving the thru-hiking and long distance backpacking community.

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REI

Sawyer Squeeze

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Water Filter

From the Squad

Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.

Media Mentions

4 MIN

Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates

Editor at Backpacker

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In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange

Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.