Appalachian Trail Thru Hike 2021 Gear List

[@libraryofash277]

It’s so nostalgic to come back to this video after these past few years of your hiking journeys. Especially after seeing you complete your AT journey.

[@DanBecker]

Stoked to follow you on your journey! You picked a great tent.

[@MrTmax74]

Wud up Captain’ Becker

[@ulrick1013]

Big agnes ftw! 😬

[@AlpineHiker]

what are your plans now that AT thru hikes are cancelled this year?

[@fierceflamingo3433]

@@AlpineHiker not canceled. Just not recognized.

[@Arizona.Ranger]

If your toes hurt after you hike you need to go up one size on your shoes, you won't have any big toenails left otherwise.

[@iPlod]

That was a nice change from videos where the person's "big three" together weigh less than my empty pack. Not that I begrudge those folks their gear, of course. I just don't expect to ever be there. I also received a CNOC Vecto 2L for Christmas and have not used it yet. Thanks for posting.

[@rembrandtshadows]

awww be a hipster and just hike in a pair of shorts with branches for hiking poles, flip flops, and Safeway grocery sack as a pack. who needs a tent, sleeping bag, or pack!

[@littleceasar9351]

Definitely made the right choice for tent, free standing, double walked, and not requiring trekking poles is the way to go.

[@thesevenacrefamily]

Glad I stumbled across your video here. Super helpful. I am getting my gear list ready for my first every bike-packing trip. As a newbie there is so many things that I just dont know. Thanks so much

[@graydogtreks]

Style of presentation with light hearted comments are delightful. The croc segment was hilarious. You will thru hike the AT with success! I start mid March NoBo. Say hello when you trek by me.

[@Wondering_Fireball]

May I recommend changing out your Sawyer squeeze top with a smart water flip top to keep dirt out of your tip and enables you to drink from in a pinch.

[@robertsherwood6378]

Interested in supplements that you are taking including foods your eating . You are the first dietitian posting on the trail that I know of. That will attract a lot of viewers ! Staying nutritional on the trail is HARD to do besides the chance of cutting weight with supplements.

[@push-onshikingadventures1880]

This is so true. Food becomes so important out there and everyone is a little bit different. I'm looking forward to learning what I can do better

[@nymph40]

Seems like Junk food was the main stay

[@jeremiahjensen8864]

I bought the UCO half spoon half fork thing. It works just fine. My bag is a MOLLE 2 Ruck sack. My sleeping system is 2 military ponchos, 2 poncho liners, and 2 Army wool blankets. Kitchen is 1 Stanley Cook pot, 1 Stanley Cup, Lixada, camp stove,and a UCO spoon/fork. I canteen and canteen cup, 2 Sawyer water filters, water purification tablets for water. Fire kit is a Ranger lighter (Bic and chapstick tube with 550 cord duct taped on each end) 1....1/2 x 5" ferro rod, 2 boxes of storm proof matches. Clothes.....Army boots, Rip Stop ACU pants, wool socks, thermal pants and shirt, t-shirts. Tools..... Condor Bushlore, Condor Village Parang, Hultz Bruk camp ax, a pocket knife, Swiss Champ, Leatherman Wave+, Lensatic Compass and maps. Cordage..... Titan survivor chord, bank line, jute twine, artificial sinew...... But I am prior military......so....yeah....we are used to a bunch of gear and a lot of weight. Last time I looked it was 46 pounds

[@bryanford1139]

Tyvek under your tent! What a great idea! Can't believe I never thought of it...

[@jamesrogers4674]

You should bring a light that has 1 lumen mode. You would be surprised how useful 1 lumen can be. My olight warrior mini will run like 45 days straight on an 18650 battery without charging. It'll run about a week straight on the next setting that is 15 or 20 lumens. I love the little thing. Doesn't have to be that particular light but a light that has a couple ultra low settings so you can use without worry of running out of battery. You could literally leave this light on every night for 8 hours all night every night for 4.5 months if you only used 1 lumen mode.

[@safromnc8616]

You can get the Frogg Toggs jacket for like $20...Check out Jupiter Hikes Frogg Toggs video. Maybe I missed it, but use some kind of internal pack liner - contractor bags are nearly indestructible and comparatively cheap. If you end up taking a MacBook, then i'd double bag it for sure. I'll be interested to see how your pack comes out....It seems like your pack is pretty large, based on what you are carrying... Knife - A Swiss Army w/scissors is probably the way to go and an inexpensive option. Neck knives are also an easy carry/lighter option depending on what you may be intending to use it for. Or you can get a locking folder (like a Kershaw Lightyear, Shuffle or Antic) that is $20-30 and less than 3 ounces.

[@joannehaberman8923]

I keep my backpack packed as if I am going on a several day backpack trip. I throw it on every time I go for a walk or a day hike. I totally get it about the comments from others inquiring about my large pack. I tell them it is PCT training and then the understand😁

[@rembrandtshadows]

Add your cat to simulate food. :)

[@surfandstreamfisher5749]

you have quality gear, reasonable base weight & good attitude toward your hike. it's a good recipe for success. i like your t-shirt!

[@gregblankenship7584]

I love how frugal you are you're going to do well on the trail Cannot wait to follow your adventure

[@Zoet50]

I hiked thru the AT from Georgia to Maine . The two things that gave me trouble . Hiking boots tore up my feet, glad I brought mole skin to cover blisters and tears . Wasn’t easy finding water sources in Virginia . Good luck, it’s a tough hike but the memories are worth it.

[@ignorethis68]

👍 foot care yz 🔑!!👌

[@coughingowloutdoors8579]

Hi Kelly. I hope that you have the time of your life on your trip. As a senior...old guy...my advice to you would be, just do you. Listen to your gut, and be more concerned about making memories than miles. Best wishes, stay safe and thanks for being one of our healthcare heroes!

[@ColdbrewPatch]

Definitely go for a rechargeable headlamp. One of the best decisions I’ve made. Batteries get expensive quick.

[@angelicsiren11]

Great video! I use a petzel tactikka core-it recharges quickly but is a little heavier. Still lighter than hauling traditional batteries. My husband uses one as well, but has recently found the nite core NU25 360 lumen triple output. It’s only 0.99 oz-super light weight, easy to use and rechargeable. Love your vid! Good luck on the trail and can’t wait to see your progress.

[@williambranham6249]

Even though I'm a retired dentist I still notice smiles and teeth. Yours are perfect! Good luck going forward.

[@mikebowers518]

She's perfect in more ways than one Doc.

[@ejfromthea]

kelly going back and watching you at vids from the top LOVE YOU GIRL WERE PRAYIN

[@maxkiel8982]

I'm starting my AT NOBO thru hike in late March. Let's get it!

[@nedsled2994]

You will not need the extra sleeping pad, the nemo is warm and comfortable. I would sub out the cotton socks for a second pair of regular hiking socks (wool) does double duty. And ditch the big stuff sack for your clothing just pack it in your pack. Good luck on your trip hopefully the virus will not shut everyone down like last year.

[@frstesiste7670]

Exactly what I'd say too. I also prefer super thin wool (or silk) top and bottom to a sleeping bag liner. More versatile, but more of a personal preference.

[@MrTmax74]

A pack liner is still necessary though. Got to have something in there.

[@wmbiisurgeon9087]

Agree re ditching the cotton socks.

[@debslifesimplified6406]

They are already talking about closing the trail in the Spring till the pandemic is under control Ugh. I am training and this sucks.

[@nicholascravens6674]

darn tough socks

[@adamagent2002]

So nice to see someone who knows the value of a dollar. Great video, can’t wait to see more on your trip. Stay safe.

[@paolodeep8459]

When people ask me why I have such a large backpack to go hiking I just tell them "how else was I supposed to get the body to the hole" they usually stop asking questions after that😁

[@visamedic]

The trick is saying it creepy enough, not to over do it, and keep a completely blank expression on your face.

[@jasontaylor9871]

I hike all over the place with my backpack and when people ask about it I always say I'm homeless and I'm carrying my children's food and clothes in it.

[@skyhowl3297]

lol....like that I like that a lot

[@aubreyansell1019]

Your. Setup is looking great, glad you are not over thinking it. My wife only uses 1 trekking pole and I have never heard any comment about it in 5 years. I sent GoPro home, to funky to edit with other media. Every year is different, very wet or dry, snows a lot or little. I have 1 suggestion, by Franklin if your shoes are working out, order your next pair and plan on getting the new pair sent by Erwin-Damascus. I only mention because we had a very hard time getting exact same altras over 6 months and different styles did not work as well. I did switch to Solomon and they lasted twice as long as the altras but cost a bit more. There are warm spells and cold spells till June so think twice before sending cold gear home. Good luck I know you will have a great time,

[@glenharris9775]

Your presentation was relaxed and enjoyable.Humor is spot on.Will try to follow your travels.Have luck and a great trip.

[@CRFD303]

I’m glad you mentioned contacts. I’ve been wondering how people deal with those on a thru hike. Blindly trying to put in or take out contacts could be tricky on trail.

[@rembrandtshadows]

I've always worn glasses BUT everyone that I know who wears contacts brings glasses. Some even get prescription sun glasses. I carry superglue to fix broken things, like gear, glasses and the occasional body part.

[@CRFD303]

@@rembrandtshadows I'm thinking it would be tough to change contacts out in the woods trying to hold a mirror up. I can do it quick and easy at a big mirror but low light would be even more difficult. I guess I'm lucky in that I'm near sighted and wear only one contact so I just lose a little long distance reading ability without. I'd probably just have to go without.

[@sheilaqualls3148]

@@CRFD303 I’ve never understood why people need a mirror to put in contact lenses. I’ve never needed a mirror & I’ve been wearing them for almost 40 yrs. Maybe because I wear dailies so lots of practice. 🤷🏻‍♀️ lol

[@itywhat6499]

Suggestions: Get a good Ferro Rod and learn how to use it for making fires. If your lighter quits working it gives you a way to make a fire. Also, since you are on a budget I would recommend a Morakniv for a knife. You should always carry at least 2 knives in case you lose one. Moraknives go for anywhere from $7 up to $90. I would think about the Garberg stainless steel and the Eldris. Or the Companion and Eldris. If you can spend more you can't go wrong with TOPS or Esee knives. Always keep your knife and ferro rod on your body. If you lose your pack or it gets stolen your knives are your number one survival tools. Shelter and fire... Enjoyed your vid. Keep them coming. And good luck on your next journey.

[@emilyw530]

I am just starting out hiking and want to do some solo backpacking. Great video. I never even knew about the sleeping bag liners.

[@user-fv1qi2xt2p]

Fellow RDN here, love that you're going to nerd out about your intake/body comp changes. Look forward to seeing how it goes! Good luck!

[@WesHicks]

Looks like you're well prepared for it! Would be curious to see a post-thru-hike follow up with what you felt you didn't need/need to have on the trail after the fact!

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... just don't confuse not used for not needed ,, prepare for the unexpected .. granted on a thru hike with towns every few days most things can be added out on trail ...

[@DreamwalkerTenesha]

I would love to see the followup after you use this gear.

[@amyfentress1]

Really enjoyed this video. Can’t wait until you start your journey & I can live vicariously through your videos!

[@danmiller2940]

I've done a good amount of the AT and other trails up north and out west. I pack as much as I can as long as I am under 30lbs with 2 liters of water. It works well. If you simply show up at an REI and get outfitted, they will likely send you out with a 40 lb. Pack. Enjoy, it's not for everyone, but it's so rewarding.

[@Reality_Filter]

Ditched my Altras' for Topos', much more cushion and support, without sacrificing toe room and weight. The trailventure are the bomb... Great channel, best of luck on the hike... Subscribed

[@dubon6372]

Loved the video and your down to earth mentally! Instant subscriber. I am completely bias against those ultralight zpac tents. I spend a whole day and night in a massive thunder storm with 40-50 + mph winds years ago in the north east, I appreciated that I had a strong structured tent to protect me from that storm. Happy hiking my friend.

[@johnjlong]

Good luck! Just FYI, at one point you understandably blurred out your license plate but at 36 seconds in, when you talk to the mountain biker it becomes visible so you may want to fix that.

[@ralphjesseman6562]

I think you created a good video. I could not hike without 2 poles, but the beauty of hiking is this: hike your hike! When you get to New England, you’ll be able to get some “ trail magic”.

[@ellaperkins6806]

I’m also thru hiking this year! Starting at the end of March in Georgia, hope to see you on trail. Your gear looks great!

[@kellyhays23]

I will probably see you out there! Can’t wait! Thank you!

[@speckofdust272]

Trial or trail .... 😉

[@langwaydpful]

@@speckofdust272 play your cards right and it could be both

[@sekyw]

I like your video, you are very resourceful, Kelly! Also, a smart move on getting that silk liner. Silk is supposed to be the third warmest natural material next to goose down and wool. also, i tru-hiked in 2003 and the year before in 2002, at the Thomas Knob Shelter in VA, the temps got down tp 25 degrees F on May 22! Definatley, don't send your winter bag and your liner back home till you are north of Pearisburg. Just a word of advice.

[@TheDadofThem]

Nice rundown of gear. Great video! Thanks!

[@sigmalife0570]

Planning to do the hike next year.trying to get some ideas. Tysm😊

[@skyhowl3297]

This is one of the best hiking videos I've ever seen as someone who's new to hiking and camping in the outdoor life I always wanted somebody to explain in detail how the different pieces of equipment work what they carry in their pack and to recommend some good brand names the names of Manufacturers that make the specialized equipment and to give me a general idea about cost and this video does all of the above

[@chrissaunders8284]

I have not seen all of your videos, mostly the news ones. This autoplayed after I watched you newest one. I couldn't help but wonder how muchnyou learned after doing the AT. I suggest you do a review of this video and update on what worked and what didn't and what was just ridiculous. Thsnk you for the content.

[@louaguilar2456]

Hey Kelly I’m so excited for you and your up coming journey hiking thru the AT hopefully you will crush this hike and make beautiful memories that you can share with everyone besides your KZbin friends. Look forward to keeping up with your post as I will be departing for my hike in mid March so I will be following your hike and watching what interesting things you see... Cya in them hills 😉

[@billopad9625]

I’m watching what I say because I’m 🇬🇧 and don’t want anything lost in translation... You’re in no way overweight! Do you think you’ll lose muscle? Is that a thing? You might lose any excess body fat you have... but I think it’ll be more like what Ed Norton says in Fight Club, “When we started out, we were wads of cookie dough, after 3 weeks, we were carved out of oak! Just subscribed... looking forward to watching your trip! 👍👍 I like two poles for getting in a rhythm, and I need to zone out... bit of music, pound out the miles Also anyone who asks about the Big pack? Just tell them you’re training and Getting used to the weight... then when they’re impressed, give them a business card with your channel and support details so they can sponsor you! 🤣😜 Have a great time!

[@hoser7706]

Cold weather trick. If supervwinter cold put your Zlite on TOP of your air pad! Increases warmth better than under the pad. Great vids. Looking forward to following yoir AT hike.

[@skylerdipasquale9043]

If you cut two sections of your thermarest off you can make your own lightweight camp shoes. Just trace one of your sandles on the thermarest and then cut it out, use duct tape as a strap. I'd recommend a battery pack that supports rapid recharge. I wasted years of my life waiting for a 20,000+ mah battery to recharge. Anker has some banks in the 10,000-20,000's range that can be charged in 3-5 hours.

[@daviddavis703]

Gooood morning from central Florida! Hope everyone has a great day!

[@brandithrall2621]

I love my granite gear food bag! the side zipper is amazing for digging for food. One way I like to up my protein on trail is vanilla protein powder and water to use for my milk in a granola ( I like to get one with dehydrated berries in it- ends up tasting like the mountain house blueberry granola meal). Also last summer I used the canned chicken from Costco and mixed it with some green salsa ( could use whatever, but I had that on hand), then dehydrated it. On trail I mixed it with some instant potatoes and freeze dried green beans ( I buy this in bulk). SOOOOOO GOOOOOOOD! My kids loved it on tortillas/ flat bread. Just a few ideas.

[@rembrandtshadows]

mmmmmm . . . .

[@j.vincentdrums4812]

I didn’t read all 500 comments so sorry if this has been mentioned. You said you didn’t have a knife. I would recommend a Morakniv of your choice. The companion is the primary model for general outdoor use but almost any are worthy. Extremely tough and sharp. Food prep to fire prep. And LIGHT. I like the heavy duty, robust or outdoor 2000. Of course I’d also suggest having a Swiss army camper or forester or similar.

[@Chris_Martin707]

Happy to see a gear video where the combined items didn't cost the same as a used car. I'm looking forward to following your adventure.

[@theprophetez1357]

With the cost of used cars today you could really have nice gear.

[@Tiredofcrap]

Vitchelo makes the best and brightest headlamps. Good luck on the trail this year.

[@stickdog4564]

Can’t wait to watch your thru hike. Stay safe.

[@guia118]

Everythings good! Specially Grateful Dead shirt!! Congratulations!!

[@kimberleytrail2097]

I love your videos as your simplicity is speaking to my soul! I hate planning like you said in your day 4 video so that’s my challenge! I want simple spontaneous days but I also know I have to plan!

[@WhyNotWalk]

Thanks for doing this video of your gear. You have given me some reassurance for the stuff I carry, and some fresh ideas. I prefer a battery operated headlamp and carry just one set of spare batteries. I don't hike in the dark and only use it around camp. Please, make sure you have a method of recharging yours. When mine goes dead, I just replace the batteries and get more on the next resupply. When a charging one goes dead, it takes time to re-charge and that to me seems a bit inconvenient IF you are hiking at night. I am sure others have worked through this and have solutions. I am excited for your hike and wish you all the best!

[@scottwalker9095]

Enjoyed the video ! Look forward to following you on the trail. I'm thru hiking next year...SOBO 2022.

[@nathanaelkolb4024]

I have four of the polished bowl long handle titanium spoons. Sure, my family teases me about them but they sure enjoy using them on the trail.

[@jinxhikes3021]

recently upgraded to the polished bowl long handled spork and I love it! so much better with the polished bowl, I'm not eating the same lasagna stuck to the old one for four days anymore! :-D

[@robertfelts8773]

I've been watching videos like this for a few months. I want to hike the trail sometime in the next 10 years. I live near bears den in virginia. Also near the c&o and harpers ferry. I plan to hike a tiny bit of the trail this year but I like a fire and I'm not sure the rules on that, I believe a bit south of here in Shenandoah park fires are a no go Something about hiking the trail is calling me. I hope you have a great experience. I'm glad people share like this. When you're passing through northern va at bears den or wv at Harper's ferry maybe I'll be out there camping with a pork loin from Harris teeter and I'll feed y'all some real cooking. Cooking when I camp is what I like, canoe camping or car camping is what I've done most. Last year I got into bushcraft and I like the idea of thru hiking. Pretty cool and a tradition that humans have done for thousands of years, traveling miles on foot. I feel like these activites really bring people back in touch with their human-ness

[@robertfelts8773]

I'm commenting in real time as I type. Knife choices. Mora, for like 10 bucks and super light weight. Great knife and you won't need much more than that. If you want to spend more esee izula or izula 2 and use it as a neck knife. Full tang, light, and a total work horse in a tiny package

[@gezdonaghy2456]

Hi Kelly with regards to my previous post, i was just having fun i ment no disrespect and hope you took my comments with a lighthearted approach. Much love from Glasgow. Loving your videos, great to see your family looking after you with a Garmin Sat Phone.......bonus ! Really liking your views on equipment, there is so much snobbery with dudes with all the gear but no idea, you keep it real. Thank you for sharing your adventures.

[@wanttogo1958]

I noticed Hickory commented to check out the Tornado Tube on Amazon. Also, consider Sawyer's cleaning coupling available at their Amazon store now for $2.99. It is made of durable plastic and seems to do the job well of joining two bottles or your CNOC bag and a bottle. I think you avoid the risk of blowing out your CNOC bag by hanging the bag and letting gravity do the work.

[@glsloto7909]

I use 32 oz. standard soda bottles with pull-up caps, instead of smartwater bottles. They are stronger, can be squeezed very hard, and are free everywhere.

[@langwaydpful]

5-11 makes a great wind breaker/ rain jacket that is super light and packable. Buy a cheapo umbrella and some runners gloves because wet and cold is a sad place

[@dmosier]

I too used the Altra Loan Peak 4 mid on a long hike. You will want to upgrade the insoles before you leave. They will not last 2 weeks on the trail.

[@kclo]

The Garmin Inreach: A mom's best friend 😂

[@heatherlyng3491]

LOL right - the fam at home should be the ones to pay the fee to have it.

[@morganboutwell8231]

Hey for rain gear I really recommend getting a frog toggs extreme lite jacket. They’re around 20$. Mine lasted all the way through my Thru hike last year. Ditch the pants

[@TheHikingLion]

Nice tip!

[@Bestbirths]

They don't come in my size😣

[@curtishuffstutler2934]

Best of luck on your adventures I hope you get to bring us along.

[@trailtramper6551]

I know this is an old video and not sure you'll see this, but I don't hike with poles at all anymore. I broke one and decided I liked having one hand free. I broke the other and decided I liked having both hands free. Poles are just another item people have decided you "need". No you don't. Do what works for you. If I need some stability on a river crossing, I'll find a couple sticks.

[@bonita7335]

Thank you for sharing your gear. Please tell everyone to NEVER hike alone.

[@RiverbendlongbowsOutdoors]

My wife has the Renn and absolutely loves it 👍 Who cares what people think, we always go hiking and walking with a full pack😁 Great video Kelly

[@AmyandJohnsAdventures]

Bring what you want to start off. You’ll realize quickly what you need and what you don’t. You’ll definitely want to shed some pack weight wherever you can. Also I gained weight while on trail. I definitely slimmed down through the middle states because of the mileage but the last section of trail was the most physically challenging part and your using your entire body a lot more. Eat a lot and you’ll be fine. Good luck and happy trails!

[@rembrandtshadows]

Don't tell her that guys lose weight and women gain weight from muscle! Shhhhh! :)

[@DavidDeFord]

I especially like the Grateful Dead shirt. I’m a hiking Deadhead.

[@SandhillGuitar]

Weir everywhere

[@madratter]

Hiking Deadhead here. Start Nobo May 1

[@SandhillGuitar]

@@madratter good luck! You'll have to be fast to make it! I hope to be able to hike the AT in 2022

[@madratter]

@@SandhillGuitar plenty of time. Shooting for pct in 2022. Fingers crossed for no injuries

[@DavidDeFord]

@@madratter How can we follow your journey as you are “going down the road [trail] feelin’ bad”?

[@autumnmansfield1304]

I always walked with my friends at work on my breaks and lunch. I used to haul a full back to work to practice with each day. It added at least an extra hour of pack carrying each day.

[@chuckburleson4051]

Good for you for buying things on sale. Best of luck on the trail.

[@milrrtime]

It doesn't hurt to carry a couple of extra rubber washers for your Sawyer Squeeze in case you accidentally loose one when taking the Squeeze off of a bottle.

[@rembrandtshadows]

+1

[@BadHikers]

Thanks so much for the gear list!! Super helpful for our upcoming thru-hike!!

[@heatherlyng3491]

I love that you are a nutritionist I will deff be following you. I am planning to hike the PCT in 2022- I'm a BIG girl and it's not that I am looking to lose weight on the trail or anything ( I know it is inevitable for anyone to lose weight ) but I am more concerned with health and the fact that typical things like ramen, peanut butter, and powdered potatoes cause me to have major heartburn and indigestion. Can't wait to see what you share.

[@tbravo9758]

its been a couple years and im class of 2023 but i would have been better off paying you to shop for me. So awesome you found the deals

[@tedsamuels3203]

Yelp , This girl is going to make some good videos. Just being real like Dixie 👍

[@JoshB.Podcast]

Yeah don't worry about what others think. Glad to see you are bringing the tent that you want. People were flipping out when I listed my gear on reddit a couple years ago. When they found out I was bringing a ultamid tent and a hammock setup. They were going nuts. I never saw so many downvotes in my life. 😂 I made it perfectly fine with all my gear. Hike your own hike.

[@mamavswild]

Ultralight backpackers are the self righteous Vegan Teacher of the backpacking community….always ready to put you down if your setup isn’t lighter than air. Hike your own hike! Use a jet boil! Carry a Rambo knife if you want!

[@philburke6798]

Go for it! take a few short hikes in those new boots before you begin the trail, with a extra pair of the same socks you plan on wearing. Test all your gear for how you feel using it, not just quality, before hand. with thousands of miles hiked, comfort, and calories were always my friend.

[@devinmason3424]

Congratulations. Take care of your feet, make sure you eat. Keep your pack under 30 lbs. I worked at at Amicalola for over 6 years, I've done hundreds of pack shake downs. Oh the stories I can tell. The first week of March is the ATKO. Good info and good people. Say hi to Odie from the Hicker Yearbook. Super cool dude. Just look for the short bus!😉

[@sarahgriffin6741]

Just found your channel when I was looking for info about buffalo river trail. Looking forward to watching your adventure

[@davidferrier7869]

I totally agree about the tent, very smart choice. I use the tiger wall 2 and wouldn’t leave home with out it. 😁

[@ghilleman666]

I'm starting early march! Best of luck to your journey!

[@janineivey03121]

Good luck on your thru hike! I’m really into the AT stories, and I’ll look forward to any updates!

[@stevenbeaumont4]

This video is fantastic! So much great information. Thank you Kelly!

[@wanttogo1958]

Kelly, I commented earlier about the the mesh bag another person commented about. I ordered that item for a similar purpose you expressed; to use it as an added mesh front pocket on a pack without one. It it is well made and weighs 95 grams. I also came across a similar item available at Dutchwaregear that Dutch calls a "Pack Back". It is made specifically for the purpose of being an add-on front mesh pocket. It's made of lighter weight mesh and weighs about 30 grams less but is smaller and costs about $17.00 more not including any shipping cost. I think the Amazon bag for $10 is your best solution if you choose to add a pocket. Good luck!

[@kennethread6305]

Enjoyed your video - really like the water bottle holder you use for your shoulder strap. You're approach to gear seems similar to my own. A constant careful search for good deals, sales, and discounts to help with the more expensive (lighter) items. I don't know if you have made the purchase of a rechargeable headlamp yet, but that is one purchase I have found incredibly helpful. You don't have to worry about using your headlamp frequently - even excessively! I haven't bought a second battery yet, but am considering it. (On a separate note, I've been in a few situations where if I had had a problem with my light I would have been "in a pickle". Carrying your BD 325 as a backup would be worth the weight imo.) Happy trails!

[@jmtheboat]

Very helpful and charmingly presented. I’m sloooowly building up to my first thru hike. So far I have a pair of Altra Lone Peaks and a knife. Next is the spoon. I’ll check back later. Cheers.

[@ChuckDowe]

Going to be interesting to watch the journey and see how your kit evolves. Looking forward to seeing your post-hike gear list. You definitely did it right, hitting sale and coupons to get started. Good luck on trail.

[@Jadeeboy]

You are going to do great and I’m going to enjoy following your adventures. You can still take off some more pack weight but You are strong and fit so I don’t think going ultra light is necessary. Live, love, laugh.

[@kd5you1]

ZPacks (not the anti-biotic) has several bags and pouches that can be used with backpacks. I bought the shoulder pouch for my Garmin Inreach Explorer +

[@ashleykbarks]

A lot of people pack light on the clothing for their lower body. I don't mean socks. If you get cold easy at night, I would pack some really warm base layer for your legs, because I definitely don't get cold legs when I'm hiking but at night they freeze. I underestimated how cold they would get in 30 degree weather even in my quilt. I had plenty of jackets and beanies and I was able to use my extra socks for my hands, but my legs got cold 🥶

[@rex758]

Kelly it was nice video. thank you for taking the time to do it.

[@cynthiaenglish2736]

Love your spirit and approach to hitting the AT. This was a super helpful vid. Can’t wait to follow your adventure!

[@kellyhays23]

Thank you!!! Excited to have you along with me! Appreciate your support :)

[@CM-tu5wo]

thanks for making the video! side note: had no idea there were men's and women's sleeping bags until you mentioned it in this video haha

[@rickpetersonphotography]

Looks like you are pretty much ready to hit the trail! Make sure you bring mole skin for your feet, first sign of blisters, stop and take care of those bad boys!!! A wide brim hat, and long sleeve shirt (stay warm and bugs). Enjoy your trip!

[@chemistryflavored]

I’m late to the game lol but it doesn’t look like you’ve hit the trail yet. If you will be cooking any meals in your pot I definitely recommend making a reflectix pot cozy instead of the bag that comes with the pot. Super light, allows you to use less fuel, and keeps food warm when it is colder.