Sign in Subscribe
Gear

2024 Gear Guide: Gear that Won't Make You Cry at Mile 100

Discover the ultimate 2024 gear guide for long-distance hikers! From backpacks to boots, find top-rated, trail-tested gear to conquer the American Discovery Trail.

John Wesley Brett

• 5 min read
2024 Gear Guide: Gear that Won't Make You Cry at Mile 100

Alright, Let’s Be Real… 🎒

The world isn’t exactly hurting for gear guides.

Flip over a rock on the trail, and you’ll find a dozen opinions waiting for you. But here’s the deal: everyone’s got a favorite piece of gear they swear is the holy grail 🏔️.

Opinions are like trail mix—sweet, salty, and full of surprises. 🥜🍫 So, why should this guide be any different?

As a heads-up, this guide contains a few affiliate links. These links won’t cost you a penny more, but when you make a purchase, they help support HikingAmerica.com. Your contributions enable us to keep providing the detailed guides, GPS data, and trail maps that hikers like you rely on. Thank you! ⛰️💪

Not affiliated with nor authorized by the American Discovery Trail Society®

1. Backpacks 🎒

Your backpack is your home on the trail, so comfort, durability, and weight are key!

  • 🏆 Best Overall: Osprey Atmos AG 65 (Men) / Aura AG 65 (Women)
    • Why We Love It: Incredible Anti-Gravity suspension system for comfort, roomy, and highly adjustable.
    • Weight: 4.7 lbs
    • Price: ~ $290 to $370
  • 🏅 Lightweight Pick: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest
    • Why We Love It: Ultra-durable Dyneema material and minimal design make it perfect for gram counters.
    • Weight: 2 lbs
    • Price: ~$379
  • 🌱 Eco-Friendly Choice: Gregory Katmai 65 / Kalmia 60
    • Why We Love It: Uses recycled materials without sacrificing comfort or durability.
    • Weight: 4.8 lbs
    • Price: ~$350

2. Shelter Systems 🏕️

After a long day, you need a cozy spot to rest!

  • 🏆 Best Overall: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
    • Why We Love It: Roomy, lightweight, and quick to set up, it’s perfect for long-distance treks.
    • Weight: 3.2 lbs
    • Price: ~$550
  • 🏅 Ultralight Favorite: Zpacks Duplex Tent
    • Why We Love It: Insanely light but tough, ideal for solo hikers or minimalist duos.
    • Weight: 1.3 lbs
    • Price: ~$699
  • 💰 Budget Option: REI Trailmade 2 Tent with Footprint
    • Why We Love It: Affordable yet sturdy and reliable for first-time long-distance hikers.
    • Weight: 5.2 lbs
    • Price: ~$199

3. Sleeping Bags and Quilts 🛏️

Snuggle up warm and stay toasty, no matter the conditions!

  • 🏆 Best Overall: Sea to Summit Ascent Down Sleeping Bag
    • Why We Love It: Versatile temperature control and lightweight.
    • Weight: 2.6 lbs
    • Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
    • Price: ~$470
  • 🏅 Quilt Pick: Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt
    • Why We Love It: Customizable, ultralight, and perfect for warm sleepers.
    • Weight: ~1.2 lbs (varies by size/fill)
    • Price: ~$315
  • 🌱 Sustainable Pick: Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20
    • Why We Love It: Made from 100% recycled materials but still packs a punch in performance.
    • Weight: 2.6 up to 3 lbs
    • Price: ~$190

4. Footwear 👣

Happy feet = happy hiking! Here are some trail-tested kicks for 2024.

  • 🏆 Best Overall Trail Runners: Altra Lone Peak 8
    • Why We Love It: Zero-drop design with a roomy toe box and great grip.
    • Weight: 1.5 lbs (pair)
    • Price: ~$150
  • 🏅 Durable Boots: Salomon Quest 4 GTX
    • Why We Love It: Built for rugged terrain with excellent ankle support.
    • Weight: 2.8 lbs (pair)
    • Price: ~$230

🧦 Pro Tip: Don’t forget merino wool socks like Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew for blister-free comfort! 🧦✨

5. Cooking Systems 🔥

Fuel up efficiently with these lightweight cook setups.

  • 🏆 Best Overall Stove: Jetboil Stash
    • Why We Love It: Compact, ultralight, and fast boiling.
    • Weight: 7.1 oz
    • Price: ~$149
  • 🏅 Minimalist Favorite: MSR PocketRocket 2
    • Why We Love It: Affordable, reliable, and ridiculously light.
    • Weight: 2.6 oz
    • Price: ~$50
  • 💰 Budget-Friendly: BRS 3000T Ultralight Stove
    • Why We Love It: Cheap and shockingly effective for its size.
    • Weight: 0.9 oz
    • Price: ~$20

6. Navigation & Safety 🧭

Stay safe and on track!

  • 🏆 Best GPS Device (Phone): iPhone 16 Pro
    • Why We Love It: Lightweight titanium design, excellent functionality with Gaia GPS, Emergency SOS satellite messaging, ~3,582mAh battery (solid for all-day use), 50% charge in 30 minutes.
    • Weight: 7.03 oz
    • Price: From $999
  • 🏆 Best GPS Device (Non-Phone): Garmin inReach Mini 2
    • Why We Love It: Lightweight, with two-way messaging and SOS capabilities.
    • Weight: 3.5 oz
    • Price: ~$400
  • 🏅 Best Multitool: Leatherman Signal
    • Why We Love It: Packed with useful tools for trail life.
    • Weight: 7.5 oz
    • Price: ~$120

7. Hydration Systems 💧

Stay hydrated without hassle.

  • 🏆 Best Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze
    • Why We Love It: Lightweight, simple, and works with most bottles.
    • Weight: 3 oz
    • Price: ~$40
  • 🏅 Best Reservoir: Platypus Big Zip EVO 3L
    • Why We Love It: High-capacity and durable.
    • Weight: 6.5 oz
    • Price: ~$50

8. Clothing Layers 🧥

Stay comfy in all weather conditions.

9. Accessories & Miscellaneous 🪶

Small things that make a big difference.

10. Sustainability Picks 🌍

Look for brands like Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and Tentree, which focus on eco-friendly practices.

Final Pro Tips 💡

  • Try before you buy! Visit outdoor retailers to test gear and ensure it fits your needs.
  • Don’t skimp on essentials. Spending a little more upfront can save you from headaches (or injuries!) down the line.
  • Plan for resupplies. Gear like food storage bags and bear canisters may vary based on the section of the trail you are on.

Get out there and crush those miles! 🌄🥾

Hike Your Hike - John.