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17 Top Appalachian Trail Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

17 Top Appalachian Trail Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
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The Appalachian Trail is a 2,200-mile hiking trail that extends from Georgia all the way to Maine. It can be hard to know what to bring to the Appalachian so we made this helpful list.

The A.T. is home to some of the most beautiful views in the United States, but presents some hazards as well: severe weather including high winds, rugged terrain, mosquitos, chiggers and importable water sources for starters!

Be prepared for anything that can happen on the trail with this quick list. We also include what to wear on the Appalachian trail, what NOT to bring as well as important FAQs.

appalachian view
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What to Pack for the Appalachian Trail – 17 Essentials

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    A neck wallet is the perfect item to keep your valuables organized and secured while on the Appalachian Trail. Keep your phone, wallet, map, and any other small items you need safely tucked away into this pouch worn around your neck and against your body for maximum protection.

    neck wallet

    view on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Tent and Camping Materials

    It is a bare necessity to have a tent or hammock with you on the Appalachian Trail. A hammock sounds idyllic, but once the temperatures reach that dreaded low at night time, you’ll wish you had a cozy tent. You’ll use it every single night on the trail, so make sure it’s a durable wilderness-grade one like this.

    Tent and Camping Materials

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Packing Cubes

    The last thing you want on the Appalachian Trail is to be bogged down by a ton of luggage as a result of overpacking. Avoid this by using packing cubes! These will keep you organized and will be a godsend as you pack and unpack every morning and night while on the trail.

    Hero Packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Backpacking Pack

    The backpack options on the market today are almost limitless. When you’re searching for the right one to bring on a long multi-week hike, finding the right fit is key. This one has an internal frame, which places the weight of your bag in a comfortable way.

    Backpacking Pack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    You don’t want to get stuck hiking in the rain without a reliable windproof umbrella! This one is great because it’s large enough to cover both you and your backpack so you and all your things will stay dry through the rain.

    Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. First Aid Kit

    You should never start a backpacking trip (or day hike, for that matter) without a first aid kit. On the Appalachian Trail you will probably encounter loads of bugs that’ll bite you, sticks that’ll trip you, and loads of other hazardous annoyances. Keep band aids as well as the big guns with you – emergency splints, instant cold packs, and gauze. You just never know.

    First Aid Kit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Sleeping Bag

    Like your tent or hammock, you’ll be using your sleeping bag every single night on the trail. A lightweight one should do, but make sure you buy one that can be compressed as small as possible. This one is perfect for your trek.

    Sleeping Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Hiking Boots

    Your hiking boots will be your best friend and your worst enemy on this hike. Make sure you get some with ankle support, and make sure you get them in the right size. Your boots should leave enough space around your foot for you to wear wool socks. These ones are my favorite, and have taken me around the world and back.

    Hiking shoes waterproof camino

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Water Purification System

    There will be stretches of trail in which potable water is quite scarce. And as we all know, your body needs to stay adequately hydrated to stay healthy and active. Bring along a water purification system like this one so that you always have a backup plan. Don’t risk drinking untreated lake or stream water unless you want a parasite or stomach bug.

    Water Purification System

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Camelbak Hydration Pack<

    Bringing a water bottle is another important part of staying hydrated. This Camelbak water bottle is perfect for hiking and will keep you feeling good asll day long. Make sure to fill it up with drinking-quality water every time you see a spigot.

    Camelbak Hydration Pack<

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Wool socks

    An essential travel item for long hikes is a good pair of wool socks. These will keep your feet cool and at a comfortable temperature and will protect you from blisters along your trek. Wool socks are quick drying and will be perfect for your journey.

    Wool socks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Appalachian Trail Travel Insurance

    If the Trail is more than 100 miles away from home for you, be sure to invest in reliable travel insurance. We never leave home without a solid travel insurance plan, it’ll cover you in all sorts of emergencies. Whether it’s luggage-related or a medical emergency, you can find and compare plans from top companies on TravelInsurance.com.

    Appalachian Trail Travel Insurance

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 13. Solar Charger

    Needless to say, outlets are nonexistent in the great outdoors. Disconnecting is great, but there will be times that you absolutely need to charge your camera or phone. Bring a solar charger so that you never have to worry about running out of juice.

    solar

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Headlamp

    Early mornings and dusk call for headlamps. There will be countless times when you’ll need to put up or take down your tent in the dark, and you’ll need light (and both hands) to get it done. A good headlamp is necessary, and you’ll use it much more often than you think.

    Headlamp

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Multi-Tool

    Maybe you need to open a can of food or maybe you need to cut free a tangle of cord from your backpack. You never know what kind of tool you’ll need out there on the trail, so bring one that can do everything. This tool has a million uses, but packs down small to save space.

    Multi-Tool

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Cookware/Travel Stove

    A long hike means a big appetite, so you’ll need to cook! Bring a lightweight propane stove that you can easily fire up to cook your meals. This one is trusted by hikers all over the world, and isn’t too heavy to hike with.

    Cookware/Travel Stove

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Quick Dry Towel

    Whenever you encounter a lake or stream along the trail, you’ll likely want to stop to take a dip. Whether it’s just to cool off or to take a much needed bath, you’ll want to have a lightweight towel that dries quickly so you can continue on your way once you’re done.

    Quick Dry Towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to wear on the Appalachian Trail:

Always wear synthetic fabrics, so that they don’t trap moisture. A solid synthetic short-sleeve t-shirt is a good idea. Make sure to bring a midweight synthetic or fleece long-sleeve top to layer on for when it gets chilly.

Always be prepared with a wind/ rain jacket that packs up small. As far as pants, lightweight synthetic trekking pants (zip-offs) are best. Athletics shorts work too! Depending on the season you’re hiking in, consider bringing a down jacket. Don’t forget wool socks (two pairs), underwear, a wool hat and a sun hat.

Applachian trail hiker

What NOT to bring to the Appalachian

  • 1.Too much stuff in general

    The lighter you pack the better you’ll feel and the longer you’ll hike!

  • 2.Cotton clothing

    Always wear synthetic fabrics. Sweat-wicking and quick-dry are the key words.

  • 3.Deodorant

    You’re going to be smelly no matter what.

  • 4.Denim

    Denim is your worst enemy – it’s bulky, heavy and does not lend well to exercise. Leave the jeans at home!

  • 5.Bulky sleeping bag

    With so many compressible options available now, save your precious backpack space for other items.

FAQs for an Appalachian Trail trip:

  • 1. How much will thru-hiking the trail cost?

    The Appalachian Trail Conservancy advises $1,000 per month for the average hiker. Taking into account the average completion time (five to seven months), your total can end up being $5-7,000 per person.

  • 2. What if I see a bear?

    If you end up face to face with a bear on the trail, or at your campsite, stop what you are doing and stay calm. Back away very slowly in the direction you came. Walk, definitely don’t run, and keep your eye on the bear.

  • 3. Where is the beginning of the trail?

    The trail starts in Fannin County, Georgia at Springer Mountain and ends at Maine’s Mount Katahdin.

  • 4. How long does it take from start to finish?

    The average completion time is five to seven months to do the whole trail. Lots of people do sections of it during their summer breaks and make a lifetime project out of it. Some do it all in one stretch.

  • 5. Is the Appalachian Trail dangerous?

    Well, yes and no. It’s not known for much danger, per se, but it’s known to have plenty of wildlife and can be a tough trail for beginners. Research your route, follow local park and wildlife guidelines, and you’ll likely have zero trouble staying safe on your journey.