Money Limitation: Quality Thru-Hiking Gear Kit on a Budget

When you are looking to build a budget thru-hike gear kit, you need to find the most performance possible for…

When you are looking to build a budget thru-hike gear kit, you need to find the most performance possible for the best weight and size.

Hiking for beginners on a budget was a fun way to learn and dig more into inexpensive and cheap backpacking gear while maximizing performance.

To build a quality budget backpacking gear kit, you must have a solid approach to the kit and manage this. You will need to focus on your big three, shelter, sleep system, and backpack, as they will take most of your budget.

An easy way to look at cheap hiking gear is online at Amazon. If you are lucky, you may have a surplus store in your area or a similar place to look at and purchase used gear at a big discount which may help you too.

For this to work, you want to find all the best for-cost gear and, if possible, any backpacking bundles that may exist.

Some vendors will package-specific gear together at a discount when purchased together, so always keep an eye out for those deals!

backpacking in the shelter - building a budget thru hike gear kit

Jump to: Budget Kit

What Does “Budget” Mean?

Budget is always in the eye of the buyer; the average spent for gear each year on the Appalachian Trail is approximately $700-5000 per REI(1).

So for a budget approach, let’s start with $1000 as the low budget end and see what we can get and where the worry for safety may be.

In addition, the kits need to cover a minimum of 20-degree temperatures with an R-value on the sleeping pad of 4+ to ensure real cold performance.

This will let you know that you will be warm and comfortable in nearly all environments outside of unpredictable winter storms during three-season thru-hiking.

What Is Included In A Budget Kit

Just like with any gear kit for backpacking you need to fill in some specific big ticket, big weight gear in the form of the big three, and then all the supplementary items and any luxury items to round out the complete kit.

You always begin with your big three though as this will make up nearly all your pack weight and will be where you can get the biggest drops in base weight, which is vital for thru-hiking.

Big Three – Backpack, Shelter & Sleep System

Starting here is the right place; you will want to start with your shelter system first, be it a tent, hammock, or maybe a tarp.

Most thru-hikers will choose a tent as this is what they are most familiar with but the other options can help you get better sleep and lighten your load.

Once you know this, you will be able to make informed decisions on the right sleep system for you and the trek you are planning. This can be as simple as a sleeping pad and bag/quilt or on a hammock using an underquilt and top quilt.

Only once you know your shelter and your sleep system can you look to choosing your backpack as you need to know the space of the first two before you can make an informed decision on your pack, which needs to fit them all.

Choosing a Budget Shelter

Your home on the trail, whether your thru-hike is a week-long or six months long. Your shelter will be your first purchase as it helps you make the choice on your sleep system. You will want to spend a good chunk of your budget on this gear.

As to how big it should be, this will come down to personal preference, but the longer your thru-hike, the more having space becomes a need.

This leads to most hikers choosing a two-person, or 2P, tent for the space it provides to relax and dry gear in overnights.

Choosing a Budget Sleep System

Once you have found your shelter, you can look into your sleep system as a ground sleep system versus a hammock sleep system will vary greatly from each other.

Your sleep system will include your lower insulation layer or sleeping pad for the ground or a hammock underquilt when suspended.

Then you will need a sleeping bag or backpacking quilt to provide insulation from the air above you; quilts have grown in favor of three-season use for performance and lighter weight.

These will be bulky items but ones that should compress smaller if using down gear. If you should choose synthetic materials, they will compress less and require more internal pack space (liters).

Choosing a Budget Backpack

When looking for the perfect budget backpack, you need to look for a few things, typically at least a 40-60L capacity and a cost of no more than two hundred dollars.

Barring these criteria, you want to be as close to this as possible as your backpack by now. You should know the shelter and sleep system size to know the basic volume you will need.

If you have the extra money looking for a budget ultralight backpack may be smart but I would focus on your shelter and sleep system first.

Carried Clothing – Budget Layering System

While many overnight backpackers may carry much more clothing, a thru-hiker tends to be very specific to the clothing they bring, focusing on minimal clothing and building a layering system to gain warmth when required.

Most will choose not to duplicate clothing, following clothing similar to the Skurka Core 13. Then most will choose to bring an extra pair of socks and underwear as this allows cleaning.

Any more clothing than this is just highly inefficient as all your clothing will weigh you down and do nothing to combat your stench over multiple days, putting in hard miles.

Base Layer

For most thru-hikers on the common long-distance hikes like the AT, this will start during colder months on a NOBO thru, which means warmer and longer layers, many choosing some fashion of merino base layers covered by pants and a long sleeve shirt.

Outside of this, you will typically have two pairs of underwear and two pairs of hiking socks. This allows you to easily swap out each day while washing and drying your other pair to help maintain foot health.

For many, this layer will also include a fleece jacket or one of the highly popular Alpaca Hoodies.

Mid Layer (Warmth)

Mid-layers will be gear items meant to keep you warm and conserve core body heat at all times.

When you are pushing yourself hard, you will find that you get cold very fast when the activity stops, regardless of outside temperatures in some cases.

These would be clothing items like a puffy insulated jacket and sometimes even puffy insulated pants.

Outer Layer (Weather)

This is gear that is more for protection from the elements. This would be the rain repellent or near waterproof gear; for some, this may include wind gear. On trails like the Appalachian Trail, you will have lots of opportunities to wear your rain gear, don’t skimp on this protection.

Sleep Clothing

For many humid and rain prevalent areas, you will want to pack a set of clothing to keep you warm and dry over the night. Most clothing items on humid or rain-soaked trails will never get fully dry, so you want to get good sleep with dry clothing.

Cooking System

Your cooking system will be how you prepare foods on the trail, and some may choose to go with cold soaking, which means eating cold foods, while others will bring stoves and fuel to create cooked foods.

The more ultralight method would be to avoid a stove and fuel and those weights, but should you be in cold and wet trails, sometimes that warm meal is the pick-me-up required to keep you from tapping out!

Water Filtration & Storage

Your basic need to get drinkable water is important on the trail as unfiltered water can contain many diseases.

A filter for your water is a core need to maintain robust health on the trail, so choosing the right one for you is important.

Electronics & Technology

This will include items to keep your phone charged between towns, from taking pictures to using it for FarOut or similar map apps.

Your phone is also a lifeline to reach people for rides, play music, and take your mind off things for a while.

The only other gear many will choose to bring now is a GPS locator device, which allows an SOS signal to help with a single button and text when no cell service exists.

Miscellaneous Items

This will be all the little odds and ends you should carry with you, like a compass and items that don’t fit into any other area. This can also include items like mini Bic lighters for fire or to cook with.

First Aid Kit & Toiletries

Toiletries are pretty straightforward, and you can take them from home without any real purchases or minor additions at most. Below are the most common items you would choose to include:

  • Band-Aids
  • Blister Relief
  • Antiseptic
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Advil / Ibuprofen
  • Anti-Diarrheal
  • Sewing Kit
  • Leukotape
  • Toothbrush
  • Tooth Paste (Pellets)
  • Floss
  • Liquid Soap

While you may feel the need to pack a huge “first aid” kit, it is not really needed to stay safe in the backcountry, especially when you are consistently just a few days from town.

Avoiding Backpacking Junk

There are loads of “cheap” backpacking gear on the market, but much of it can’t survive six months of abuse, so if you choose to cheap out on the wrong gear, it may lead to needing to replace it one or more times on the trail leading to time delays and money problems.

You need to think about your gear. I have listed below gear with a proven track record to last from others’ reports and not just the “budget” and hope.


Building a Budget Kit

Now that you have a better understanding of the concerns and preparation of the gear to get the best performance for the money you have to spend.

Let’s build out a solid starting kit. Everything below would be an excellent backpacking bundle without exploding your budget.

Below we will start you on a $1000 budget, but also, if you can spend a bit more money, the item you buy should be less weight and preferably packed down into a smaller space.

Budget Kit Big Three

Now let’s begin building out the big three for your budget backpacking kit. You always need to start with the gear that will go into the backpack before choosing your backpack, as this will ensure you know you will buy a pack that can fit everything.

Shelter

Trekking Pole Tent – 3F UL Lanshan 2 (Or Pro For Single Wall)

The 3F UL GEAR Lanshan 2 is a popular two-person tent that is among the most cost-effective ultralight tents available on the market. The new 2021 version offers increased room to be more comfortable for taller individuals.

The Lanshan 2 is built to last and is suited for all conditions and activities. It’s specially made for UL hikers.

Solo hikers will appreciate the perfect balance between internal space for rest and pack breakdown at night and its overall lightness.

With enough room, including a separate entrance and a vestibule for each side, the Lanshan 2 can easily accommodate two people or one thru-hiker with all their gear.

The fly’s bottoms curved, allowing for continuous air circulation and the reduction of moisture buildup, which can be the bane of drying a tent out in the morning.

The tent body is a 5000mm waterproof PU coating over silicone-treated nylon ripstop. All seams are sealed with waterproof, solvent-free polyurethane tape.

Semi-Freestanding Tent – Paria Bryce 2P

The Paria Bryce 1-person and 2-person backpacking tents are lesser-known tents that may be a perfect match for someone needing a non-trekking pole tent.

This tent’s 1P and 2P versions incorporate top-notch features, high-quality materials, and flexible pitching options to make either of them the perfect tent for backcountry use.

Choosing between the two comes with an eight-ounce difference making either choice a strong and lightweight option.

3F Lanshan 2P Weight:  40.8 oz | 2.55 lbs | 1155 grams

3F Lanshan 2P Pro Weight:  36.7 oz | 2.29 lbs | 1040 grams

Paria Bryce 2P Weight:  55 oz | 3.4 lbs | 1559 grams


Sleep System (Quilt and Pad)

Sleeping Quilt – Featherstone Moondance 25
Best Under $200
Featherstone Moondance 25 850 Fill Power Down Top Quilt Mummy Sleeping Bag Alternative for Ultralight Backpacking Camping and Thru-Hiking
9.6/10My Score
  • VERSATILE SLEEPING BAG ALTERNATIVE: Unlike any other outdoor blanket, this top quilt has the capability to match the warmth of a sleeping bag and doubles as a blanket or underquilt for a hammock
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & PACKABLE: Made with DOWNTEK PFC-FREE Water Repellent 850 Fill Power Duck Down Insulation, the quilt provides superior loft, warmth to weigh ratio, and packs small and compact--great for outdoor travel
  • ACCESSORIES: Comes with a compression stuff sack and pad straps to connect with your sleeping pad. Pair this quilt with other camp gear to make the ultimate sleep system while camping in the backcountry.

One amazing option newer to the space, Featherstone, has made other gear for a while, but this budget backpacking quilt is quite out of the ordinary!

Using 850FP duck down that’s treated to manage moisture. It packs a punch in a small price tag versus the normal competition in this space!

This quilt also has no issues being fully opened into a blanket, so if you are looking for something that can cinch up on a colder night but open wide for those warmer summer nights, look no further!

Weight:  23 oz | 1.44 lbs | 652 grams

Alternate Quilt Option – Aliexpress Ice Flame UL White Goose Down Ultralight Quilt (Sub $200)

For many the questionable tactics used in China make these an option they may not choose but if you really have a tight budget the Ice Flame is an excellent option.

The 3-season ultralight is comfort rated to 32 degrees and weighs in at only 20 ounces on the large, this makes it a very good option for those looking to grow a kit without going in on an expensive quilt right off.

Sleeping Pad – Paria Recharge UL

Paria uses a different method than others; instead of crinkly thermal wrap, they stuff their pad full of high-loft synthetic micro-fiber insulation.

This provides a more true 3-season pad with an estimated R-value of 3.5. You’ll stay nice and warm during those early spring and late season trips.

This pad has huge strength as it uses high-strength 40D diamond ripstop nylon and TPU lamination technology to provide ultimate durability and ruggedness to survive countless adventures.

Weight:  20 oz | 1.25 lbs | 567 grams


Backpack

Getting a lighter backpack could be helpful, but Osprey is well known for being high quality and durable. While heavier than others, it holds this weight better and on the hips, helping ensure a better hiking experience.

60+L Backpack – Osprey Rook 65
Quality Performance
Osprey Rook 65 Backpack
  • Highly ventilated and comfortable AirSpeed backpanel with adjustable shoulder harness to fit a wide range of torso lengths
  • Integrated removable rain cover
  • Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment with floating divider
  • Dual mesh side pockets and zippered hipelt pockets
  • Internal hydration reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately)
  • Recommended load range: 30-40 lbs. - Pack weight 3.52 lbs. at 29.1 X 16.3 X 14.2 inches

Weight:  56.4 oz | 3.52 lbs | 1600 grams

Runner Up – Waymark EMBR
Waymark EMBR 60L Backpack in Red

Now just recently from Waymark is the amazing EMBR following up on the other lines of backpacks this pack represents an over 60L capacity while keeping the price a shade under $300 and while this may be a stretch I know the gear and the performance will make it a perfect investment.

The EMBR was to be streamlined with essential features that you need from a larger pack, while still reducing weight. At just over 2 pounds in weight, this large capacity pack is the ideal companion for weekend trips, shoulder season backpacking, and long-distance thru-hiking.

Runner Up – Matsix Ultralight Backpacks on Etsy

I have an amazing frameless Ultra400 55L backpack that I was able to get from his shop, which has listed ready-to-ship options along with the ability to help craft you a more specific backpack to fit your needs or trip.

These are all done at a fraction of what the big companies will charge you for something similar, and I can state that as high quality but budget. This is an amazing place to find a cool and unique backpack for your thru-hike.


Clothing

Base Layer

For most thru-hikers, the choice in clothing would be to get merino wool for its smell resistance but in a budget approach, knowing that in the end, you will smell the same as everyone else, you can look instead for synthetics and blends.

Shirt – TSLA Thermal Long Sleeve Compression Shirts
Long Lasting Ultra Budget
TSLA Thermal Long Sleeve Compression Shirt
  • TSLA Thermal Baselayer© Series for optimized heat insulation and added comfort.
  • [Materials] Mix of Polyester & Spandex is excellent elasticity with enhanced range of motion & durability.
  • [Fleece Lining] Micro-fleece lining is not only to provide warmth but also to provide moisture sensing, quick time dry, and 2-way air circulation.
  • [Flatlock Seams] Smooth seams that promote excellent comfort and protection
Pants – TSLA Thermal Compression Pants
Long Lasting Ultra Budget
TSLA Thermal Compression Pants
  • TSLA Wintergear Series is designed with thermal fleece fabric for warmth.
  • [Materials] Mix of Polyester & Spandex is excellent elasticity with enhanced range of motion.
  • [Non-Abrasion Fabric] It has excellent durability with moisture sensing, quick-dry, and 2-way air circulation.
Underwear – Woolly Clothing Men’s Merino Wool Boxer Brief
Merino At 1/2 the Cost
Woolly Clothing Men's Merino Wool Boxer Brief - Everyday Weight - Wicking Breathable Anti-Odor L CHR Charcoal
  • Flatlock seams, tagless interior, double tough high-wear zones, soft elastic jacquard. Full merino construction for natural stretch, odor resistance, moisture wicking, itch-free, 4-season comfort.
  • Great For just about anything. These boxers keep you comfy during work, play, leisure, travel, and workouts. If you run hot or are looking for high-intensity, high-temperature gear, check out our Ultralight Boxers.
  • Woolly pairs the nature-proven benefits of merino with classic everyday styles that work anywhere. Enjoy the no-odor, fire resistant, moisture wicking, and long-wearing comfort of merino in every aspect of your life.
Socks – Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks
Best Warranty Available
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock
  • Performance Fit: No slipping, no bunching, and no blisters. True Seamless: Undetectable seam fusion for an ultrasmooth, invisible feel.
  • Fine Gauge Knitting: Unprecedented durability and our unique "put it on, forget it's on" feel.
  • Fast Action Wicking: Pulls moisture away from skin. Fast drying.
  • Merino Wool: The ultimate fiber for breathability and comfort in all conditions.
  • Still made in Vermont, USA. Still unconditionally guaranteed for life.

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Mid-Layer

Keeping you warm when activities slow down is vital; there are many jackets, but this Trek is favorably compared to jackets three times its cost!

Puffy Jacket – Decathlon Trek 100
Best Budget Down Jacket
Decathlon Forclaz Trek 100
  • Unbeatable Price - A fraction of many other down jackets on this list but with performance that can match them.
  • Quality Construction - Many love the fabric and sewing, I can agree that the one my daughter has is amazing.

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Outer-Layer

Your protection when the trail goes haywire, don’t overlook these gear as they are important to keep you safe when things aren’t going well!

Rain Jacket and Pants – Frog Toggs Ultra-Lite2

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Cook System

Since most will begin with cooking food for pure comfort sake, this is what we will put together to help you get on your way, though I suggest highly learning about cold soaking and trying it out at least once.

Stove – BRS Stove BRS 3000T

The BRS is well known for being exceedingly lightweight as it is built from titanium and matches up with all the normal fuel supplies the more expensive stoves use.

Utensil – TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon

Personal preference here, but to keep a clean container, I find a spoon more helpful than a spork, but hikers use both. There is even a pair of chopsticks if you want to level up a skill.

Bear Bag – Food Bag (ECOPAK) WITH Hanging Kit (Bear Bag)

I love Hilltop Packs, and I have two of their bear bags now, a Dyneema and an Ecopak, one for myself and one for my wife.

They put high-quality work behind everything they do. While there may be a few more “budget” versions, they lose size and capacity or are made of easily wearable materials or of questionable quality.

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Water Purification

Your ability to get water will be vital on long-distance hikes as you will not have a tap to pour water, which will mean getting water from sources you find along the way.

Main Filter – Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System

Water Bag – VECTO 2L Water Container

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Electronics

Power Bank – Anker Portable Charger, USB-C 10000mAh with 20W Power Delivery

Budget Week Use Option
Anker Portable Charger, USB-C Portable Charger 10000mAh with 20W Power Delivery, 523 Power Bank (PowerCore Slim 10K PD) for iPhone 13 Series/iPhone 12 Series, S10, Pixel 4, and More
  • Charge Fast Anywhere: The 20W USB-C port has enough power to charge an iPhone 12 to 50% in just 30 minutes. Also equipped with a 12W USB port if you need to charge a second device.
  • Super Slim: At only 0.6 inches thick, this 20W portable charger fits in any backpack, purse, or work bag.
  • Backup Power: The 10,000mAh cell capacity gives you enough power to charge an iPhone 12 twice, a Samsung S20 over one and a half times, and an iPad mini 5 once.

Quick Charger – Anker Nano USB C Charger 20W

Budget 20W Charger
Anker USB C Nano Charger 20W
  • Designed for iPhone: Anker Nano is designed to provide the maximum charge to iPhone 12.
  • Unrivaled Speed: Charge iPhone 12 and previous iPhone models up to 3× faster than with an original 5W Charger.
  • Space-Saving Design: At 50% smaller than a standard iPhone 12 USB-C charger, Anker Nano provides plenty of power while saving space in your bag or while plugged into a wall outlet.

Weight: Varies By Purchase


Approximate Cost:  $1002

Total Budget Kit Base Weight:  231 oz | 14.48 lb | 6569 grams


Budget Backpacking Tips

When money is tight, finding an affordable set of backpacking gear for thru-hikes is vital. Fortunately, there are ways to save money and acquire the necessary equipment. The following are tips on how to backpack on a budget:

  • Purchase used gear whenever possible. Check online classifieds, garage sales, and thrift stores for lightly used backpacking gear.
  • Stick to the essentials. It is tempting to buy all the bells and whistles when first starting out. However, only purchase gear that you know you will use regularly.
  • Rent gear before buying it. This is a great way to try out different types of gear before making a purchase. Outdoor stores often have rental programs for backpacking equipment.
  • Join an outdoor club or Facebook group. This can be a great way to meet other people interested in backpacking and to learn about gear options. Many clubs also offer group discounts on gear purchases.

Research Before Purchase

Continue to read up on gear until you buy it. This way, you’ll ensure you want it (no buyer’s remorse), and know what functions each piece serves and how to use it.

You may also find that you don’t need some of the gear on your list. The point is: be 100% sure about everything on your backpacking equipment list before buying it.

Weigh your options carefully, and compare prices, reviews, and features before settling on a particular item. Sometimes, spending a little extra money on gear that will last longer or perform better is worth it.

Other times, you may be able to find a perfectly good piece of gear for less money.

Find Deals, Wait For Sales

You want to shop around before making big purchases for new and used gear. But, also be patient and wait for those items to go on sale.

You can often save significant money simply by waiting for the item to hit its clearance price or for yearly sales to roll around.

Another way will be if you know somebody with the gear you need for your trip, see if they will let you borrow it instead of purchasing everything new.

Be Creative

If you are handy with a sewing machine or know how to repair gear, you can save money by making or repairing your gear. There are loads of “make your own gear” options online that can be customized to your specific needs.

Final Thoughts on Building Budget Thru-Hiking Kits

Choosing a budget backpacking kit is not rocket science, but you still need to be cautious and choose based on the hike you are attempting; a trip into the Sierras on the PCT needs different gear than an Appalachian Trail thru-hike.

If you don’t prepare, you may be tapping out far before you would otherwise choose to. Your gear needs to be an extension of you.

If you know of other awesome deals on cheap hiking gear or quality-performing gear, please drop a link to them in the comments below or the name itself, and I will research it and update here if it is a better option!

Josh Koop

I turned 40 and realized I needed to change my life from being a desk-bound IT worker slowly dying in a cubicle. I have been working on ways to build my knowledge and skills, along with gear. I have plans to do a thru-hike on the Lone Star Hiking Trail, Ouachita Trail, and Pinhoti Trail in the next year.

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