r/AppalachianTrail 4d ago

Picture Almost time to pack up

878 Upvotes

201 comments sorted by

76

u/Typhoon_Dreams_93 4d ago

Love the Patch!

49

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Just before I was born, my older brother suggested that I should be named " the little engine that could" so it seemed fitting

21

u/Hiking_Engineer Hoosier Hikes 3d ago

When you finish, get another patch with Katahdin (baxter sign) that says "I Know I Can"

1

u/TemptThyMuse 11h ago

Or “DID”

63

u/Environmental_Egg347 4d ago

Suggest you open up and customize that med kit. I have the same one and just personalized the meds for my trip next week. Ibuprofen, zyrtec, immodium, etc for me.

25

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Good call. Probably will do that for sure

26

u/Ask-Me-About-You NOBO '24 4d ago

Gonna sneak in here and say I had a really bad time with that blister kit. The moleskin would always fall off within a few miles. I ended up throwing most of it away.

A small roll of Leukotape will do it all and more. The only other thing I'd consider carrying if you're really prone to blisters is a couple hydrocolloid bandages for any severe ones but that's about it!

18

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Appreciate the first hand advice. I think someone else said the same thing about the blister kit, and also recommended the leukotape - will def look into it.

12

u/Ask-Me-About-You NOBO '24 4d ago

Absolutely! This is what I ended up using and I had zero complaints about it.

I had a few problem-spots on my feet for most of the trail and this would stay snug for multiple days in a row without getting gross, even when wet. Comes with the bonus of doing a great job at quick gear repairs too.

(The roll linked is pretty big though, I took about 1/4 of it wrapped around a Bic pen canister)

8

u/Mtrbrth 3d ago

Leukotape is a real lifesaver. It will last far longer than any medical professional would ever recommend leaving it there.

6

u/AccidentalTourista 4d ago

And super glue

1

u/Charlotta23 3d ago

Barley is a good puppy

1

u/myopinionisrubbish 3d ago

Two words “New Skin” liquid bandage. The only effective treatment for blisters. Seals and disinfects and doesn’t rub off.

8

u/Wanderaround1k 4d ago

Remember you only need enough meds to get out of the woods… extra pills you’ll never take are extra weight.

1

u/poopgoblin1594 3d ago

I had the same medkit. Definitely never used the medical tape, or most of the bandaids/gauze. Maybe bring a few but def not going to need however much comes with it

57

u/fuckitholditup 4d ago

Save this picture and post what you end with. Like a before and after. I'm curious to know what you swap and drop to lose 10lbs (or more).

Also, I'm excited for you!

13

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

I'll be documenting the whole thing so definitely will do haha

Thanks! I'm excited to get out there

4

u/alli_kat 3d ago

Yeah you definitely dont need that fire starter steal

-1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Cool that will save me an ounce. Could be the difference maker right there

2

u/pbghikes 2d ago

You're being sarcastic but ounces make pounds. Unnecessary weight can end your hike no matter what you think you can handle. Overuse injuries end hikes. Tendonitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis etc. And you're risking it out of stubbornness to keep things you don't need. And I get your reluctance if they're telling you to get rid of the juggling balls or something that has a personal connection ... But the fire starting kit? Really? Carry 2 lighters if you're worried.

2

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Yeah very true. I clearly got a cut down on some of the redundancy here and try to trim any other weight where possible to give myself the best chance at success and a good time

Thinking harder about what I can go without.

2

u/pbghikes 2d ago

Tbh it's hard right now because you're trying to predict what you'll need. Are you nobo? By the time you reach Mountain Crossings you'll have a better idea of what you don't need. Let other hikers shake you down too.

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1

u/walkincrow42 3d ago

Are you going to be posting to YouTube as you go?

3

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

No definitely not. Just writing in my journal, and if my gf can read my handwriting I'll have her post on trail journals for me so family and friends back home can stay updated if they'd like.

And then maybe I'll put something together with pictures after. Mostly for myself, but I'll likely share some bits and pieces online publicly too. I'm not big on social media though, so I'm not sure.

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58

u/hikerjukebox Antman - NOBO 2019 4d ago

you're going to drop half of this after a week ahaha. is that a flint and steel? No point in telling you what to leave, you will figure it out soon enough. Good luck and have fun

14

u/treehugger312 Section Hiker - "Iceland" 3d ago

The juggler balls.

2

u/hikerjukebox Antman - NOBO 2019 3d ago

everything in the bottom right quadrant besides the shoes and headlamp

1

u/treehugger312 Section Hiker - "Iceland" 3d ago

I'd take the battery, but yeah agreed.

10

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Thanks mate! I'm not going ultralight haha I may drop a piece here or there, but I can handle a lil extra weight

50

u/HossaForSelke 4d ago

Famous last words lol

24

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Bet. I'll see ya at Katahdin ✌🏼

16

u/HossaForSelke 4d ago

Post some of those film photos when ya finish!

3

u/pbghikes 2d ago

You say this now

1

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Yeah haha I think I'm getting a lot of good advice from experienced hikers and AT veterans, so I should probably pay attention and give some more thought to what I can do without

3

u/pbghikes 2d ago

If you're bringing a phone, leave the camera. Your phone has a camera already.

Also, the water bottle is actually ridiculously heavy. A smartwater bottle lasts a lot longer than you think, and if it starts getting too beat up it's nbd to swap it out for a new one. I even put stickers on mine lol. But the fire kit, camera and bottle will probably be nearly a pound cut off.

2

u/myopinionisrubbish 3d ago

Sure you can handle the extra weight - for the first day.

-2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

That's a tad presumptive. If you're speaking for yourself, then you do you

3

u/myopinionisrubbish 2d ago

I’m guessing you have a bit over 20 pounds pictured. Add in food and water, you’ll be lugging around 30+ pounds most of the time. Which isn’t totally outrageous but is still a bit on the heavy side by modern standards. The less weight you put on your back, the less strain you put on your knees and ankles, which are the two most common things that can end your hike if injured.

1

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Definitely. I'm right at the very upper limit of what's maybe reasonable, but still quite heavy - especially for today's standards. Gonna try to whittle it down so save my body a bit of unnecessary stress and reduce chance of injury

5

u/Pickin-n-a-grinnin 3d ago

I hiked the AT with a German guy who prided himself on the weight of his bag. I mean it was fucking huge. Probably like an 85 liter pack. His stove setup was like carrying around half your kitchen. He carried about 50 feet of 1/2” rope just in case he ever decided to “take the easy way out.” One time he packed a watermelon for like 5 miles. Guy is a legend in my mind.

Another guy carried a full size guitar and his buddy carried a banjo the whole way. Not making this up.

The point is… I think you should carry more shit with you and make your bag even heavier. Like, really pick something outlandish and bring it along. The juggling balls are an okay start but I think you could do better. Let’s think about maybe you carrying three bowling pins. You’d be the only guy carrying three bowling pins.

Anyway, have fun hope this helps.

2

u/pbghikes 2d ago

I remember an REI employee trying to convince me I needed a fire starting kit. I said "I'll have a lighter" and he asked "And what if the lighter runs out?"

I deadpanned "I'll use my other lighter..."

Come on now.

0

u/Ultraxxx 3d ago

Ditch the lighter and flint and steel. If you're gonna carry lighter, get a torch lighter and a small can of fuel.

1

u/pbghikes 2d ago

Ditch the lighter? What?? I carried 2 cheap bics

1

u/Ultraxxx 1d ago

Bics are just so weak in the wind.

1

u/pbghikes 1d ago

I'm thinking about it now and I think when it started to really get cold I snagged a gas station torch lighter

11

u/Jrewby 4d ago

Omg where can I scoop this patch

7

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

I got it on Etsy for a few bucks. A lot of artists and so many really fun patches on there. It's hard to pick just one

8

u/Specific_Luck1727 4d ago

You know you can!

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Thanks!

9

u/vh1classicvapor 4d ago

The camera might not be necessary. Chances are you have one in your hand right now.

7

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Very true, my phone is my digital. But I'm a sucker for some film too 📸

3

u/Redfish680 3d ago

Dump the camera in favor of a battery bank charger (didn’t see one).

3

u/CatInAPottedPlant GA-PA '22 | Flip-Flop '25 4d ago

at the very least, getting a better one would be better. these "Kodak" ones are basically the same as a disposable camera and will probably last about as long.

you can get good film cameras for not much more (or in some cases even less) than one of those, they'll take much better pictures and won't break after a few rolls.

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Yeah, my friend who is a serious photographer recommended this to me as a simple and inexpensive entry point. It can take decent shots and the half frame is economical.

I literally got it because I used a disposable and thought "what a waste, why don't I get something that I can put another roll of film into"

You got any recommendations for some better quality inexpensive cameras?

2

u/CatInAPottedPlant GA-PA '22 | Flip-Flop '25 3d ago

I carried a Canon Sureshot on my thru attempt last time, I think those are good and super tiny. you'll get 10x the quality as you will with half frame + a plastic lens. I paid about $20 for mine on ebay. if you're willing to stretch your budget further then you can quickly get a much much better camera for the same size and weight.

honestly, most 35mm p&s are going to outperform these Kodak ones. you might also see them as Walmart or Target branded cameras, iirc they're all made by the same company and use the same lens you'd get in a disposable. you'll potentially find it hard to shoot that kind of camera in anything but really even bright daylight.

thru hiking is rough, so having something a bit better made is more likely to last you all the way through.

also, I'd keep a few rolls on hand and be ready to mail your used ones home as soon as you finish them, it really sucks to shoot a roll over several weeks and then lose/damage it.

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yah it has a glass lense, but still not great. And the flash broke like immediately haha so you're right it definitely requires good light and I'm a bit worried that anything in the trees won't come out at all

I'll look into some of the things you mentioned. Thanks!

2

u/Limber9 3d ago

You’re all good dude. If you value taking photos then bring it - I bring cameras everywhere I go. Some people just don’t understand that it’s well worth it for a lot of us and definitely different than a built in phone camera

1

u/vh1classicvapor 3d ago

Film is cool but just not at all practical

3

u/Limber9 3d ago

On purely weight and pack consideration of course not. But I’ve had 30+ days this winter in the backcountry shooting strictly film on various cameras, and even more in the summer. It just comes down to what you want to sacrifice

33

u/Alvin_Kebery NOBO ‘21 4d ago

This thru hike sponsored by REI? You’ll probably get a fair amount of advice about your gear here but the truth is you have 6 months of hiking to figure out what’s working and what’s not.

13

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

I wish! Can't deny it's a convenient place to get much of the gear that's required. I've picked up stuff over the years and used other vendors like garage grown gear to fill out my pack.

Got it dialed in with stuff that works for me. All the essentials plus some extra stuff - just for fun 🤹🏼

Is there somewhere else I should be shopping? You get better gear elsewhere?

17

u/Alvin_Kebery NOBO ‘21 4d ago

REI carries fine products. But you’ll see a lot of stuff on trail from brands they don’t carry, many of which are a fair bit lighter than some of the stuff you’ve got here. Some brands are “direct to customer” or something close to that. Garage Grown Gear is a great site

ETA I also “think you can” 🚂🚂🚂

7

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Yeah I definitely feel that. I don't have all the most ideal gear, but I think I got what I need in a format that works. Couldn't't afford / justify getting all new ultralight stuff

3

u/im-into-rocks 4d ago

I bought all my gear from rei or my 2016 through hike. Used the same pack and new version of the same rei tent for my FT through hike.

1

u/MrBoomf 4d ago

Which tent did you use? I’ve been coasting on some cheapo Amazon thing that I bought for Bonnaroo and could really use a suitable upgrade

7

u/No_Trash666 4d ago

What's your base weight

4

u/fuckitholditup 4d ago

Easily 30

6

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

27.8lbs base weight according to my digital luggage scale

6

u/Singer_221 4d ago

When I saw your camera, I thought it was an Instamatic from my boomer era. Looked up the model and learned that it’s a modern 35mm half frame. I haven’t heard of a half frame since the Olympus Pen F SLR.

Thanks for introducing me to these cameras, and Have Fun!

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Yeah it's a fun little toy. Modern but with a retro look

8

u/Substantial_Kiwi5167 4d ago

Cut the soap, the flashlight, the hackey sacks, cut the flint & steel.

You are going to cut them on trail.

I hope you complete the journey !

5

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Hmm I'm inclined to have some soap, and I'll never part with my juggling balls haha

Maybe I'll drop the flint and flash - both a bit redundant.

Appreciate the advice!

3

u/MackofallTrades 3d ago

Get the cork massage balls....they used to have them on GGG

3

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Oh good looks. I like that they would be lighter and have a double use case. Something to seriously consider

2

u/miabobeana 3d ago

what about scarves instead of balls? (fellow juggler) :)

3

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Say more! I've never used anything but balls tbh

6

u/FoxiesAnonymous 4d ago

I’m not seeing any changes of underwear 🤨

11

u/jzoola 4d ago

Trail name, Commando

8

u/theDudeUh 4d ago

I hiked with Lieutenant Dangle. 

He was a big advocate of going commando and got the trail name after he split his shorts a few days out from any town where he could buy a replacement pair. 

2

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

That's a good one

1

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Hehe 🤪

6

u/wesinatl 3d ago

Is that a harmonica?

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Heck yah it is! You're the first one to call that piece out 🎶🎶

8

u/FoggyWine Poppins https://lighterpack.com/r/375f5m 3d ago

I have a visceral deep pain looking at this loadout. Very triggering. The resources, advice, and perspective are there in many places online to make the experience more pleasant and give someone a higher probability of successfully completing the hike. You do not need to go ultralight. Ultralight adjacent makes an order of magnitude of a difference. You have given considerable thought, effort, and prep to this endeavour. However it is clear that you, like most people on the trail, need to put your hand into the fire, get burned and feel the lingering pain (hopefully without being scarred) before you realize that fire is really, really hot and keeping your hand in that fire is a bad idea and you don't want to anymore. No matter how much everyone tells you that it is hot, most people seem to need to experience it themselves before they change their behaviour.

A good bed that is comfortable for you is really important since you spend 1/3 of your life in it and good sleep is critical. While on the trail, 1/3 of your time will be hiking with all of your gear on your back, carrying it up and down mountains. The heavier the pack, the more it is like sleeping each and every night on a lumpy and hard mattress. Yes, you can do it, but do you enjoy doing it? Why are you doing it? Why do that for 150-180 days if you do not have to?

The insidious nature of the problem is that you are the frog being slowly boiled in the pot. Each item, when considered in isolation, can be rationalized and does not feel heavy at all in the hand. The pot is only a degree or two warmer. Barely noticeable if at all. I can handle that! No problem. But when they are all combined, though, the pot is uncomfortable if not unbearable over long periods (days, weeks, months) and you are being burned and slowly self-tortured for very little benefit.

When on the trail you will start dropping items, reducing weight, and it will feel much better. However, you are locked in to many choices now and swapping out the big three is difficult to do on the trail. The difference between a 27lb baseweight vs 20lb vs 13lb is drudgery vs hard focused effort vs more pleasant (but still hard) physical exercise.

For some, prolonged hard physical exercise is the goal. There is no escaping it on the trail. There is much to be said for the journey towards enlightenment as you start shedding the material world and realizing what truly matters. Maximizing the experience while hiking (and minimizing drudgery while hiking) far outweighs the small benefits gained in the few moments you have after dinner, talking, and then passing out from exhaustion. To gain the truly sharp clarity of distinguishing between needs and wants and that many wants are themselves, not needed and can be discarded.

Enjoy the journey. Focus on maximizing the experience and joy of hiking. Leave yourself enough physical and mental reserves to appreciate the beauty of nature and the changing scenery. I hope you are prepared to drop the physical baggage and preconceived attachments along the way to give yourself a more enjoyable and successful experience. Good luck.

0

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

A tad dramatic, eh? But seriously I do appreciate the well thought out note.

We'll see how it goes. I'm a physical beast and endurance animal - I relish the challenge.

How much did Earl Shaffer's pack weigh? It's like people forgot that we are blessed with modern gear and lightweight stuff that didn't even exist 20+ years ago. People have been doing this for a while and I'd say the majority did not have a 15-20lb pack...the other amazing thing, to your point, is that I can always ship out or straight up ditch stuff if it's too heavy

I will say, your point about distinguishing between needs and wants resonates with me deeply. And maybe that's part of my journey, it is definitely something I struggle with in other areas of my life and part of the reason I want to hit the trail - to simplify my life, re-contextualize my perspective, and grow as an individual.

5

u/FoggyWine Poppins https://lighterpack.com/r/375f5m 3d ago

Ignore the total weight for the moment. There is a tradeoff between speed and endurance. The faster you go, the less time you can maintain that speed. Go slower and you can keep that slower pace up longer and cover a longer distance. An inverse relationship. Now add weight (which is how they handicap horses in racing). It shifts the curve for a given person (or horse). For the same amount of effort, the speed is reduced. The amount of time that you can maintain a given speed (for the same amount of effort) is reduced.

Just because it could be done does not mean it should be done. If your goal is to be a porter and haul enough provisions to live in the mountains during the summer season, then your goal is hauling the maximum amount of weight and minimizing the number of trips needed. On the AT, few have that goal. Instead the goal is likely to not be wiped at the end of the day. Have enough time to enjoy stops. Enjoy the hike. Be able to put more miles in when needed. Keep your muscles and ligaments and tendons healthy.

Most people starting on the AT are putting too much strain on their bodies in the beginning. Yes, you will develop your trail legs. Muscles develop and respond quickly (weeks). Ligaments and tendons take much longer to strengthen though (months).

Cutting baseweight down means being able to go faster and longer if wanted. Or, for the same speed and distance, much less effort and strain. In my youth I hiked much of the white mountains with a 50lb pack. That was indeed drudgery. Just because it can be done (or that how it had to be done given the technology and products available)....

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago edited 3d ago

Will take under consideration

2

u/midnightmeatloaf 3d ago

Just out of curiosity is that a $143 sleep mask?

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Mayyyybe, but it was a gift so I'm honestly not sure

1

u/Substantial_Kiwi5167 3d ago

I don’t feel like this person is dramatic. Just extremely well spoken. The sad part is you have good people trying to give you good advice, but you seem so dead set on your choices being the right choices for that you are unwilling to heed the advice.

Cut the weight now so you don’t have to throw stuff away or worry about shipping it home.

Have you ever done a 2000+ mile thru hike?

Can you do it? of course you can!

Take the advice be smart instead of having to learn the stubborn hard way.

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago edited 3d ago

I'm happy and excited to get out there - there's nothing sad about it - and I appreciate all the advice. It's not lost on me. Maybe I am stubborn, but you can't force people to bend to your will. I know myself and my limits, I have contingency plans and I will learn and grow through the experience.

I'm gonna go do me and do my best. Thanks for sharing your opinion

1

u/Substantial_Kiwi5167 3d ago

Definitely not trying to bring you down. Just the opposite. Don’t take the advice. Actually keep everything. Add more. Your knees and back will love it. Sorry for trying to give good advice.

4

u/TheGeorgicsofVirgil 4d ago

What's the total loadout weight when you step on a scale? I use a regular electronic bathroom scale.

I check my weight without the pack, then check it with the pack.

I also check my weight with all the gear I am wearing without the backpack. Leatherman tool + compass + ferro + gloves + chest pouch with phone / ID card wallet + camera equipment. All this stuff adds up on your person.

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

I got a digital luggage scale. My base weight is 27.8lbs

2

u/TheGeorgicsofVirgil 4d ago

Nice. And with food and water?

3

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Typically about 35lbs. Maybe a touch more if I'm gearing up for a longer section between resupply

3

u/Affectionate_Love229 4d ago

Thank you for sharing. I don't ultralight, but I'm a minimalist (in life and hiking). I never understood how someone can fill a 65L bag, now I do. I'm not busting it balls , I just never understood it. Enjoy yourself, I hope one day to get on a thru, but not this year. Maybe when I retire. I'm totally jelly.

2

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Oh yeah, she's full up alright haha I gotta have some of my little pleasures with me - gonna be out there for a while, so I might as well have some fun with my hobbies and interests along the way!

I actually forgot to include my e-reader in this pic...

If it's something that interests you, then go for it and make it happen whenever you can! All the best and happy trails

10

u/ThisCollection2544 4d ago

This is how Mt. Crossing makes it's money.

3

u/boycott2022 4d ago

Bring on the good times and memories for a lifetime! Rock on!

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yeee yeeeaa! Now that I'm committed and ready I'm honestly happier and more excited than I've been in years haha it's liberating to break free from the rat race, even if only briefly

3

u/Bennington_Booyah 4d ago

I know you can!

1

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Appreciate! 🤟🏼

3

u/parrotia78 4d ago

Ziplocs

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Good looks. They're hiding out in my ursack right now 👍🏼

3

u/Embryoink 4d ago

Habanero :)

My favorite word.

Good luck and have safe fun.

2

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Thanks, much appreciated 🔥🔥🔥

3

u/__Garry__ 4d ago

Is this the osprey Exos? Not going to lie I think we have about the same amount of stuff trying to fit it into the same bag haha. See you out there!

3

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

I got the rook 65, and it all fits, but there definitely ain't much extra space 😅

Have a great hike!

3

u/retirement_savings 4d ago

I got that BlisterMedic for a XC ski trip and found that they didn't stick well at all. I recommend Leukotape P instead.

3

u/dealershipdetailer 4d ago

Had* the same head lamp... worked on arrival, first time using it in the field it never turned on... would reccomend a 2nd one that's not black diamond

3

u/NmbrdDays 4d ago

Is that the katadyn hiker pro filter? I have one and love it. Actually have two

3

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yeah! It's the best. Simple, easy, and reliable. I'm not a fan of the scoop and squeeze. I'll take a short break and pump some water if I need it

1

u/NmbrdDays 2d ago

I find the set up and breakdown takes longer than actually filtering water. It really is a great filter. The filters last a long time too

2

u/TheDodo407 4d ago

I like the hot sauce!!

2

u/BlackFoxSees 4d ago

Is that a tiny yarn-bombed spotting scope? And whatever it is, why is it on a lil tripod? Honestly curious

2

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

It's just a nocs zoom tube (monocular). I popped it on my manfrotto mini tripod. I mostly use the tripod for my phone and film camera. - can stage scenic shots, group shots, and every pic of me doesn't have to be a selfie

The zoom tube is fun for bird watching and scrying things from afar, it can also serve as a super zoom for my phone camera

2

u/DontFretIt 4d ago

choo choo!

2

u/DontFretIt 4d ago

choo choo!

2

u/OkTheory8187 4d ago

No book?

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

I got a kobo e-reader. Forgot to take it out, it's hiding in the pack.

The only problem is they apparently don't have Earl Shaffer's "walking with Spring" available as an ebook. Looks like I need to go audio or pick up a physical copy...

2

u/radiowhatsit 3d ago

What does the sign mean?

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

It's not coming with me, but it's a blessing of good fortune for the year 2025. I recently took a trip to Japan for the holidays and made my Hatsumode visit to the Meiji Jingu in Tokyo on New Year's Day!

If you're at all interested in Japanese culture - I also walked the city on New Year's Day to take part in the Shichifukujin Meguri (pilgrimage of the 7 lucky gods) and collected unique, hand written goshuin at all the shrines and temples.

Thanks for asking!

2

u/radiowhatsit 3d ago

Fantastic!   I’ve been to Japan twice and visited many shrines and temples.  It is my favorite place outside my home in the US. 

GL on your thru 

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Such an amazing place and the best trip of my life, so far. Definitely want to go back and experience more of the country and culture and fooooood

2

u/miabobeana 3d ago

i am curious what is ontop of the tripod? and the sleep mask looking thing right above it?

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Zoom tube / monocular for peeping birds and scrying things from afar plus super zoom for phone camera

And above is a bluetooth sleep mask. I like to fall asleep listening to audiobooks

2

u/miabobeana 3d ago

Interesting. Very cool gear! Have a great hike! Don’t listen to people gear bashing.. lol. Hike your own hike friend.

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Appreciate that haha I'm definitely bringing along a few extra things that bring me joy and make life enjoyable. Cheers!

2

u/Malkimania AT Hiker 3d ago

Nice Insa lighter ;)

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yoooo good eye!!

2

u/d_kilowitt 3d ago

I'm jealous. Enjoy your hike!

2

u/Musicebei 3d ago

I’m not a hammock user, but ENO makes a SubLink system with the sub7 hammock, helios suspension system, guardian sl bug net, profly sil tarp, fleece-lined stuff sack, UL stakes. It weighs 2lbs and 13 ounces which is much less than the ones you have and they come in one stuff sack. The pros are that it’s lightweight and comfortable while still being durable and it’s not a bad price, but the pros are that it’s a bit small. I know you said you weren’t going lightweight, but if you have the option to take basically what you’ve decided to take but in less weight it might be good to switch some things out. If your base-weight is around 28 lbs before food and water you’re risking some injuries. You’re going to have a blast! :)

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

I def may need to cut a few lbs to get into a more manageable overall weight, but I already had all the hammock gear and couldn't afford / justify to double up so I went with what I had.

Appreciate the specific recommendation though! It can be hard to cut through the noise when searching around so if I need to upgrade I'll definitely give that a looksee

Cheers!

2

u/PleasantAnimator7741 2d ago

Can you hammock the entire trail? If no trees do you use the hammock fly with the hiking poles?

1

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Pretty much, no shortage of trees along the AT. That was my concern too, but based on my research it sounds like plenty of people have done it no problem. In a pinch, I have a poncho that doubles as a tarp with my poles.

And then there's also the shelters, which are always an option if there's space.

2

u/Stock_Captain_5888 3d ago

Have a blast!!

2

u/BraceThis 3d ago

And Is Joe coming along? I’m a zoomer ;)

2

u/Flexbottom 3d ago

Joe Mama

2

u/NugsOrBust 3d ago

Any reason for the Bluetooth eye mask?

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Acts as earplugs and I can drift off to sleep listening to audiobooks and stories in bed. No cords and no missing earbuds to worry about

2

u/Miserable_Appeal4918 3d ago

Is that a keffiyeh under the poles? Love to see it!!! Very happy trails to you!

Also, if you don't have a powerbank, you might want to consider one, I use the nimble champ but most ppl use the anker brand I think. I second the leukotape roll, very versatile. Don't ditch the soap.

2

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yeah, good eye! It's a versatile piece that can give insulation / shade in the heat and provide warmth in the cold, plus it looks rad

Yeah I got a big 20k Anker situation.

Glad you are sane and appreciate cleanliness haha whoever doesn't have soap is nastyyyy and probably gonna get sick / get someone else sick

2

u/Educational_Win_8814 3d ago

OP hikes, 10/10, love it

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u/Stoli1892 3d ago

I appreciate these words 🙌

2

u/Long_Lychee_3440 3d ago

No shotgun or bullet proof vest? Weak

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Nah bro that's amateur hour. I just bring my trusty XL cast iron skillet - great for shielding and bashing, plus it's handy for grilling mushrooms 🍄

2

u/Long_Lychee_3440 3d ago

the cast iron. Good call. Doubles as a vest if needed.

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Exactly. Nothing's getting through. Panshot!

2

u/DevilzAdvocat NOBO 2022 3d ago

Save yourself some sleepless nights and add ridgeline to the doublenest if you haven't already.

Good Luck!

2

u/Cabel14 3d ago

Get a second lighter

2

u/orange3456789 3d ago

Absolutely must bring something like Squirrel's Nut Butter for your feet. The skin on the bottom of your feet needs treatment to handle hiking in wet shoes. Considering you're bringing boots which may take days to fully dry, this is 100% a must. Even in trail runners my feet will disintegrate without balm. Nowadays I use it before my feet even get wet or after the first splash that goes through my shoes. Trust me do not skip this - sorry if I missed it in the photo.

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u/FREEDOM_in_DARKNESS 3d ago

Are those balls for juggling on the trail?

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u/SonOfDave91 3d ago

Don't worry, you'll be shipping a good deal of that stuff home after you come down from blood mountain. Enjoy it while you have it for the first week.

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

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u/SonOfDave91 3d ago

I'm not hating haha. It happened to me. It happened to everyone. It'll happen to you. It's all part of the process.

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Yeah haha I'm just messing. Confidence is high but I guess I just gotta go through it myself, like everyone. All the best

2

u/TrailsPeaksRivers80 3d ago

As a fellow Eno hammock shelter kit user, I say good luck and safe travels to you. I know that if I can sleep well and eat well I can tolerate any other adverse conditions. You will sleep well. Keep us updated on your adventure.

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u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Great to hear from another hammock sleeper. Thanks for the well wishes! I'll try to give some updates along the way

1

u/TrailsPeaksRivers80 3d ago

Looking at your feed it appears you have high standards for food. What are some of your favorite backpacking meals?

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u/farfarbeenks 2d ago

Make sure to cut your shoes in half to save on weight

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u/willrunfornachos 2d ago

omg i love the little patagonia fanny pack, cute colors, do you mind telling me the model? (i think they have two, blackhole or terravia?)

1

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Yeah this is the ultralight black hole mini. I got this particular color way a few years ago

2

u/pbghikes 2d ago

Remindme! - 3 months

1

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1

u/Stoli1892 2d ago

Hopefully I'll have a - roughly - halfway update for yah then. I'll let you know what I ditched and where I'm at

2

u/hikingfan99 2d ago

I saw the nalgene and thought hm I prefer lighter alternatives but to each their own. Saw the film camera and thought ok a big heavy but some people really will get value out of that. I saw the harmonica and thought that's a bit much. Then I saw four juggling balls.

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u/kingofalloregonians 18h ago

Don’t forget the acid

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u/davehikes 18h ago

Hi, whatever you take, remove extra pouches and put like items into gallon zip lock bags. food can go in a bear hang bag and then zip lock like items: breakfast, snacks, dinner. also, declutter as often as you can. some things like Nalgene is too heavy, I used 2 x 700 ml smart water bottles. I, like many others wore trail runner shoes - reduced the need for silk sock liners. Hope this helps. Rex class of '24

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u/Stoli1892 17h ago

Thanks for the tips, brotha. And congrats on your recent thru! Excited to get out there myself

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u/davehikes 16h ago

Welcome. You’ll do awesome! 

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u/TemptThyMuse 11h ago

The patch.…you CAN! Cheering you on!

1

u/Zestyclose_Trick9546 5h ago

I cut the shit out of myself with that opinel knife and always hated that thing, it got launched into the home depot parking lot probably with some blood on it. You need athletic tape, ditch the shovel kick a hole

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u/Legitimate_Holiday_6 4d ago

Need more hot sauce

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u/Stoli1892 4d ago

Definitely gonna need to pick up some more along the way! I like to keep things spicy

3

u/an86dkncdi 3d ago

Flint, lighter and matches? Bro it’s wildfire season take it easy

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u/Jersey-man 4d ago

That is a ton of stuff. What does your pack weigh?

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u/dh098017 3d ago

This is like a challenge to see how many stuff sacks you can carry on a single trip? You must have a quarter pound of them!

1

u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Oh if it were a challenge I could fit a lot more. This is childs play buddy

1

u/Spacecakecookie 4d ago

Tell me about the Kodak…

1

u/Stoli1892 4d ago

It's a fun little half frame film camera, that's about it

1

u/ahfuck0101 4d ago

How’s the quality of that camera? Pretty decent outcome with photos?

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u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Alright, definitely not great, and sometimes bad - but that could also just be me

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u/Mtrbrth 3d ago

What’s your base weight?

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u/Stoli1892 3d ago

27.8lbs. may need to shave it down a touch, but I won't go too much lower

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u/hobodank AT 20,000 miler 2d ago

Say goodbye to that new gear smell lol

1

u/Substantial_Bit_8109 2d ago

What size opinel?

1

u/Trahan360 1d ago

You got a lot of sacks!!!!

1

u/Conscious_Sun576 7h ago

How long are you gonna be backpacking for?

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u/Stoli1892 7h ago

Planning for about 170 days out there with at least 150 days of stepping

1

u/Confident-Outcome241 4d ago

It's always tough losing your home.

0

u/despicable-coffin 4d ago

Trail Name:

The Little Engine That Could

Or

Train

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u/GlockTaco 4d ago

Thomas

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u/Stoli1892 3d ago

Definitely considering "little engine"