Appalachian Trail gear list

This article was first published on NatureCrank.com. The links and some content have been updated.

Another one of the questions that I often get messages about is, “What gear do you use?” Here’s my list. You can get much of this stuff on Amazon or you may have to visit company’s like Gander Mountain or REI. When it comes to getting a backpack, I recommend getting fitted for the bag. A medium in one brand may not fit the same on you as a medium in another.

Keep in mind that a thru-hike is expensive and you want the right gear to make your journey more pleasant. Do your best to keep your weight down.

Clothing

This list includes winter clothing. If you are going to only hike during the warm months, you can omit some of these. Be sure you check the weather. Remember the mountains are cooler at night.

Cotton is your enemy. As they say, “Cotton kills.” Stay away. Use synthetic and wool. Have a separate pair of clothing as your camp clothes and light shoes like Crocs.

• Underwear (Synthetic)
• Synthetic short-sleeve shirts – I use the cheaper Hanes for summer. They work just fine.
• Synthetic, lightweight long underwear.
• Convertible zip pants.
• Synthetic, midweight long-sleeve base layer top – choose a reputable brand. Consider wool or wool blend for the winter.
• Fleece, wool, or wool blend top.
• Down jacket.
• Rain pants and rain top.
• Socks, synthetic. Wool for winter nights.
• Fleece or wool beanies/hat. I also carry a bicycling cap for when it rains. It holds in heat even though it’s wet and saves my beanie for when I’m trying to get warm and dry.
• Gloves, waterproof and wool liners. I will often just wear wool liners. You can use extra socks as mittens.
• Lightweight shoes or boots.

See “How to properly layer for your winter backpacking trip” for a more in depth look at my packing list and winter layering tips.

Gear

• The A.T. Guide Northbound or A.T. Guide Southbound or appropriate guide/maps for the trail you are backpacking and possibly a compass. The AT is pretty straightforward.
• Backpack with internal frame. Get fitted for this. Don’t just buy it blind. Choose a pack between 40-75 liters based upon your needs and season. For longer hikes with moderate winter weather, I use a 65 liter. Rememeber, the size will be based upon the amount of food, gear, and clothing you need.
• Light-weight tent. Some people use camp tarps. Consider getting a tent footprint as well.
• Summer and winter down sleeping bags with waterproof covers.
• Sleeping pad. As you get older, you’ll probably want to switch to a two or three inch pad.
• Camp pillow.
• Trekking poles. I’ve used the cheaper ones at Walmart and they’ve lasted. Optional but if there are mountains they do help steady your gait plus going up and down the hillsides.
• Water bladder and BPA-free water bottle, such as Nalgene, which is also resistant to stains and odors.
• Water filter and water purification tablets in case of filter failure.
• Stuff sacks and waterproof bags. My clothes and food are always in a waterproof bag.
• Spoon.
• Cooking stove such as Jetboil and fuel.
• Lighter.
• Headlamp.
• Small knife. Leave the heavy Gerber and hunting knives at home.
• First aid kit to include insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Toiletries to include baby wipes.
• Camera or use your smartphone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right gear for your backpacking adventure, especially on trails like the Appalachian Trail, is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. By prioritizing lightweight, synthetic, and wool-based clothing, and investing in properly fitted equipment like a backpack and tent, you can optimize comfort while keeping your pack weight manageable. Always tailor your gear to the season and weather conditions, and don’t overlook essentials like navigation tools, water purification, and a first aid kit. For a deeper dive into winter layering or backpacking with dogs, check out the resources mentioned. Gear up thoughtfully, and let the trail lead you to unforgettable adventures. Happy trails!

*Pictured is my dog and a good friend. As a side note, if you have a dog, let them carry their own weight. You can read more about backpacking with dogs here.