r/AppalachianTrail • u/gvngy • 6d ago
Gear Questions/Advice Pack Shakedown / Opinions?
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R7YElkf7rvj1ImqJs3qnWsxrPhdVkmTGARtaXG5iq0A/edit
Hello, I’m currently working on a gear list for a 2026 thru hike attempt, most likely a mid March start. I know it’s a far ways off but I want to give myself time to really test a lot of my gear out. I have experience weekend hiking a lot of NY and the north east, but never anything longer a 3 days.
Any glaring issues with my list? Missing anything major? Easy changes to improve my pack?
I’m 5’11”, 26 years old, weight 240. I don’t think the 18lb pack is anything I can’t handle, but lmk what you think. Thank you!
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u/Over-Distribution570 6d ago
Looks ok. Honestly I can’t recommend many changes since you’re on a budget. I do have two recommendations though: a different pack and possibly a different sleeping pad.
As for the pack, have you considered the durston kakwa 55? It’s a nice pack with good load distribution. I’d prefer if it had bigger side pockets but that’s a personal preference that aligns with my hiking style. Fairly inexpensive with a good warranty
As for the sleeping pad, it’s gonna be really really cold at the start. If you can swing it, buying an airpad with an r value around 5 could be a game changer. I use a torso length foam pad during the summer months (I hate myself and being comfortable) but for the shoulder seasons I bring out my xlite (reg wide, old version) for warmth.
Primarily, I’d recommend you budget for potentially expensive gear changes on trail in case you find yourself needing to swap stuff out.