Day Pack

We recommend a good quality hiking pack around 20-25 liters. Your backpack should fit comfortably on your back and shoulders, without rubbing and should evenly distribute weight, ideally with a waist belt. Hiking stores can help fit a backpack properly.

• First aid kit (we recommend adding some moleskin and medical wrap to handle hot spots before they turn to blisters)

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray (the serious stuff!)

• Rain gear

• Layer for warmth

• Maps (we will give them to you)

• Battery back-up for your phone

• Sack lunch (we provide), snacks, water

• Hiking Poles

• Sunglasses

• Optional: Bug net hat, buff, extra pair of socks

Suitcase

One carry-on size suitcase for each hiker is included in baggage transport during the hike. Your packing list will vary based on the rest of your planned trip, but here are some essentials we always pack on our thru-hikes.

• Slip on shoes

• Deck of cards/game for the evening

• Tennis ball, massage gun, massage roller, etc

• Change of clothes for the evening

• Pjs

• Clothing soap or detergent sheets for any evening washing you might want to do

• Toiletries

• Hiking clothes: Breathable and comfortable, protection against the elements (wind/rain resistant), layering options

• Rain jacket and rain pants

• Hiking boots or shoes

• 2-3 pairs of hiking socks

• Hat (for sun or cold depending on the season)

• Electronic chargers

Some of Megan’s Favorite Gear

• Gregory Jade 28 Backpack: This is my favorite daypack! You could go smaller but I like the fit of this bag. It doesn’t feel bulky and fits comfortably on my petite frame. Best yet, it has an integrated rain cover.

• Hiking Boots: I just retired my 10-year old Ahnu boots which I loved and are not made anymore. My current boots are Meindl brand which I bought on my last day hiking in Switzerland. Best advice here is to go to a store where you can try on a lot of different brands and find what is most comfortable for your foot. I prefer boots that don’t need any breaking in!

• Hiking Shoes: For shorter hikes, less elevation, and places where I won’t be over my ankle in mud or water, I love these for a lighter, more versatile option. Disclaimer- my feet are incredibly narrow! But if hiking shoes sound like a good option for you, there are many brands with a wider option.

• Hiking Socks: Cushy but lightweight. I have never had a problem with blisters in these socks.

• Rain Jacket: I have had this jacket for an embarrassingly long time. It’s not flashy but a good, inexpensive option.

• Rain Pants: Just to make thru-hiking more enjoyable, I find rain pants are worth packing! These are lightweight and easy to get on and off quickly. Layer Break!

• Buff: I don’t ever hike without my buff. It’s so versatile! I use it on my head for colder days, on my neck to dip in streams on hot hikes and it’s a great emergency item for unexpected injuries.

• Scandinavian Swimmers: My must-have snack for hiking. I keep a handful in my backpack’s hip pocket for easy access. The perfect reward after a challenging summit.

• R1 Fleece Pullover: This is a great layer option. I have the regular R1 but would also recommend the air version to save some weight in your pack. I personally also own the full zip hoodie version but I prefer the 1/4 zip version for hiking as it’s easier to pack.

• Insulated Jacket: A great option if you are hiking in colder climates. It’s very packable and lightweight and features a hood for keeping heads warm.

Some of Andy’s Favorite Gear

Coming Soon!