Gear.
It’s important.
I’m no expert, but if you’re going to carry something 2,650 miles you had better use it. Better yet, you had better LOVE it.
Regrettably, I haven’t always held this opinion. My first exposure to backpacking was in college. My buddies invited me to join them for a weekend backpacking trip…
“That’s the same as camping right?”
I had no clue.
After stuffing my borrowed pack with borrowed gear, I was delighted to find I still had room for a thirty pack and a bottle of scotch!
Whoops.
That weekend I learned first hand the wisdom of the phrase…
“Ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal PAIN!”
Lesson learned.
With this experience in mind, I spent months researching, buying, testing and returning gear (thanks REI), until I dialed in on my current getup.
Everyone has their own opinions about gear, so my best advice is to do your own research to come to your own conclusions.
That said, this is what I’m bringing on the Arizona Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.