backpacking and thru-hiking gear lists & packing lists
A gear list is essential for backpacking and thru-hiking to make sure you’ve packed everything you need (and don’t overpack!). These are trail-tested gear lists worked for us.
The right gear is not enough for a safe and successful backpacking trip. We explain gear strategy, when and where to trade out gear on a thru-hike, and what to pack for different seasons.
Thru-hiking Gear lists
One of few people to thru-hike the PCT northbound and southbound weighs in on the differences in gear and strategy. Here’s the gear, strategy, and plan for PCT NOBO vs. SOBO.
More than just a gear list, read our comprehensive gear strategy for the Pacific Crest Trail. As weather and ecosystems change, so should your gear. Here’s what we’ve learned in 20,000 PCT miles of trial-and-error.
Updated for 2025, our gear list and strategy for the Appalachian Trail prepares you for a thru-hike or long distance section of the AT. As weather and ecosystems change, so should your gear. Here’s what we’ve learned from 5 thru-hikes and 11,000 AT miles of trial-and-error.
Backpacking lists
Backpacking gear lists
