Gear Guides

Packing for a Thru-Hike: How I Chose My Gear for Trail

Hi there! I’m Cindy, also known as “Radar” on the Appalachian Trail. A few years ago, I set out to complete a thru-hike of the A.T.—as an outdoor adventurer, a thru-hike had been on my bucket list for years. I just had to know if I could do one! But even with years of hiking, […]

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Beyond the Basics: Appalachian Trail Safety & Repair Items You Shouldn’t Skip

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. When you’re hiking over 2,000 miles through unpredictable weather, remote terrain, and ever-changing trail conditions, Appalachian Trail safety and preparedness aren’t optional—they’re essential. Whether you’re fending off blisters, fixing

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Appalachian Trail Food: What We Ate, Cooked With & How We Got Clean Water

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. This post offers a real-life look at Appalachian Trail food, detailing what we ate, how we prepared meals, and how we filtered water to stay safe and fueled! Food

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Katherine Road Tripping

Road Trip Essentials: Must-Have Gear & Tips for a Smooth Ride

Hi! My name is Katherine, and I’m a former full-time RVer! As an RVer and road trip enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of both mishaps and unforgettable moments. Over the past decade of road-tripping with friends, my spouse, and even solo, I’ve learned tips and tricks and feel like I have it down to

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Cindy's Appalachian Trail Shoes Topos

Best Appalachian Trail Shoes for Long-Distance Hiking

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. Finding the best Appalachian Trail shoes for long-distance hiking is essential for a successful thru-hike.  Footwear Next, we’ll discuss the components that will keep your feet happy while on

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Backpacking Clothes for an Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. Multiple categories are worth considering when deciding what backpacking clothes to bring on the Appalachian Trail. I will review each attire category and discuss why each piece is worth

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Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 on Appalachian Trail gear list

Choosing the Best Appalachian Trail Tent for Your Thru-Hike

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. What follows is what my husband and I found important when selecting an Appalachian Trail Tent for our thru-hike. Shelter: Tent or Hammock You need a tent or hammock

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Cindy is wearing her Osprey pack from the Appalachian Trail gear list.

Appalachian Trail Backpack Guide: Top Picks & Must-Know Tips

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. If you’re thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, you’ll need a backpack to carry everything on this list and make your journey possible. Appalachian Trail Backpack There is no “best backpack

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How to Build a Backpacking Sleep System for an AT Thru-Hike

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. Backpacking Sleep System: Sleeping Bag or Quilt, Sleeping Liner, and Sleeping Pad An excellent sleep system is integral to getting you rested and back on the trail daily. Your

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Liberty Bear Mascot on Appalachian Trail gear list

21 Luxury Backpacking Items that are Worth a Look

NOTE: This post is part of a comprehensive Appalachian Trail thru-hike gear guide.If you have arrived here but would like to see all the other categories, start here. Whether you’re taking on a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail or simply headed out for a long weekend of backpacking, luxury backpacking items are considered indulgences that can

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