What you carry depends on how far you're going, where, and when. Camping and backpacking magazines may make it seem as if you're doomed unless you have the latest gear. But, new equipment for even an overnight hike can easily run $1,000 to $2,000 or more. Don't worry. You can plan a hike on the Appalachian Trail without bankrupting yourself in the backpacking store.

What should I carry?

Packing for a day-hike is relatively simple:

• Map and compass (learn to use them first!)
• Water (at least 1 quart, and 2–3 on longer hikes in hot weather)
• Warm clothing and rain gear and hat
• Food (including extra high-energy snacks)
• Trowel (to bury human waste) and toilet paper
• First-aid kit, with blister treatments
• Whistle (three blasts is the international signal for help)
• Garbage bag (to carry out trash)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (especially when leaf cover is gone)
• Blaze-orange vest or hat (in hunting season)

On longer hikes, especially in remote or rugged terrain, add:

• Flashlight (with extra batteries and bulb)
• Heavy-duty garbage bag (emergency tarp or to insulate a hypothermia victim)
• Sharp knife
• Fire starter (a candle, for instance) and waterproof matches

If you're backpacking and plan to camp out, we suggest you consult a good "how-to" book for details about what to carry, or talk to an experienced hiker. Most A.T. backpackers carry the following items, in addition to the day-hike checklist and some method of treating water. Some items can be shared with a partner to lighten the load:

• Shelter (a tent or tarp)
• Lightweight pot, cooking utensils
• Stove (a small backpacking model, with fuel)
• Medium-sized backpack (big "expedition–size" packs are usually overkill)
• A pack cover or plastic bag for rainy weather
• Sleeping pad (to insulate you from the cold ground)
• Sleeping bag of appropriate warmth for the season
• Food and clothing
• Rope or cord (to hang your food at night)
• Water filter or another method of treating water

Remember that renting gear or buying used equipment are low-cost options when you're first starting out.

Do I have the right clothing?

Hope for the best weather; pack for the worst. Clothing to protect you from cold and rain is a must—even in midsummer and especially at higher elevations. Avoid cotton clothes, particularly in chilly, rainy weather, which can strike the mountains at any time of year. Wet cotton can be worse than nothing and can contribute to hypothermia, a potentially fatal threat. Synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene and various acrylic blends will help protect you against the dangers of hypothermia. Layer your clothes—a “polypro” shirt, synthetic fleece, and a coated nylon or “breathable” waterproof outer shell will keep you both warmer and drier than a single heavy overcoat in cold, damp weather.

Remember, hiking will make you sweat, no matter the weather. Shedding thin layers enables you to regulate your body temperature more effectively than choosing between keeping a heavy jacket on or taking it off.

Is my footwear adequate?

Hiking boots are optional for day-hikes but recommended for overnight and long distance hikes over rough terrain. Old-style heavyweight mountain boots are usually unnecessary now that good-quality lightweight boots are widely available. The most important thing is that boots fit well and are well broken-in before you hit the Trail: Nothing ends a hike quicker than blistered feet, and even minor blisters can become infected and cause serious trouble. Backpackers can expect their feet to swell; long-distance hikers should buy boots half a size too big, to allow room for this.