#138 | Hiking the AT: How to Prepare, Reduce Pack Weight, and Transition Post Trail

Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things Appalachian Trail (drink?). Everybody's favorite honorary third co-host, Jabba, joins us in a roundtable of tips we would offer someone looking to take on a long distance backpacking trip on the AT (drink). We touch on budgeting tips, ways to reduce your pack weight, advice for ensuring you complete your goal, insight on how to transition post-trail, and much more.

We round out the show with a triple crown of dance moves, some fast facts from the AT Class of 2021, and a fun announcement about the cinnamon connection's very own visit to the AT this year (drink).

Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HERE to save 25% on your next order.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.

Hike the International Appalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.com to learn more about this beautiful hike!

AT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Jabba

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:08 - QOTD: What is the correct thermostat temperature for sleeping?

00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: We’ll be at Trail Days!

00:12:23 - Introducing the AT Panel

00:13:28 - Badger’’s Tip #1: For NOBOs, earlier start dates may be favorable but southern Appalachia weather may not agree

00:21:05 - AT hiking experience

00:22:13 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Avoid the town experiences in the beginning, so you can slow down later on the trail

00:25:04 - Jabba’s Tip #1: Have some type of game-plan for post-trail life

00:31:06 - Badger’’s Tip #2: Mentally prepare yourself for the hike

00:34:15 - Did your “Why?” ever changed on a hike?

00:34:54 - What was your “why” for the PCT in comparison to the AT?

00:44:06 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Keep a stricter budget

00:44:57 - How do we feel about hiker “Go Fund Me” pages?

00:54:44 - Jabba’s Tip #2: Figure out your footwear

01:02:53 - Badger’’s Tip #3: You don’t need as much water on the AT

01:11:45 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Strategize your days around the rain, when convenient

01:14:11 - If you’re going to hike the AT, get Verizon!

01:15:25 - Let’s family/friends know when you won’t be having service

01:16:47 - Jabba’s Tip #3: Experience the social bubble & allow yourself to pivot

01:19:20 - Panel wrap-up, thanks Jabba!

SEGMENTS

Trek Propaganda:

• TLDR: Summarizing the 2021 Appalachian Trail Thru Hiker Survey (Plus Hikers’ Favorite Sections of the Trail) by Joal & Jenny

Triple Crown of dance moves

5 Star Review

“Love is Blind” Debrief

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A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.