Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Gear List

Although some will deviate from the below gear list in one way or another, this Appalachian Trail thru-hiker gear list serves as an excellent template for prospective thru-hikers, with some products we recommend below.

Shelters

Your tent is one of the most important—if not the most important—piece of gear for your long-distance hike. It’s literally your home away from home.

Continue reading to learn more about the gear needed to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, written by The Trek staff.

IMESASISHWA MWISHO

January 24, 2025

Imeandikwa na
Mwandishi wa Blogu ya Picha

The Trek Editors

Editors

We are the word nerds of The Trek who want nothing more than to infuse some hiking and backpacking joy into your day.

Chunguza Maudhui Zaidi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Mini is super lightweight, fits in your pocket, and filters up to 100,000 gallons of water.

Menachem Kossowsky
Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s picaridin spray works up to 12 hours, and the company’s picaridin lotion is effective up to 14.

Bruce Ingram
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter earns our top pick for its unbeatable mix of weight, longevity and versatility.

Meg Carney
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia