Appalachian Trail Gear Guide: Top Ultralight Gear Picks

Hello there, fellow hikers! If you’re planning to take on the Appalachian Trail in the near future, you’ve likely been consumed with researching hiking gear. Not just any gear, but the right gear. And from personal experience from hiking and camping over thousands of miles, choosing the right hiking and camping gear for the Appalachian Trail is quite an undertaking in itself.

Hiking gear has come a long way over the past 10 years or so, with many advancements in weight saving and durability (such as with Dyneema or Ultra fabrics). And, when you’re out there on the trail with unpredictable weather and terrains, your gear is essentially your lifeline. It’s what stands between you and the elements, what keeps you warm, dry, and fed. It’s what carries your essentials, lights your path (for those night hikers!), and yes, even saves your life in emergencies. So, your gear is a big deal.

But here’s the catch: not all gear is created equal. When you’re hiking long distances like the Appalachian Trail, every ounce counts. That’s where much of the newer innovations in ultralight gear comes in. Ultralight gear is designed to be as light as possible without compromising on functionality or durability. It’s all about striking the perfect balance between weight and performance. And trust me, after 15-20 mile average hiking days up and down elevations of thousands of feet, your back, shoulders, and knees will thank you for every ultralight item you choose over an equivalent, heavier piece of gear you will use for your trek.

So, how do you choose the right ultralight gear? Research, research, and more research. You need to consider factors like weight, durability, functionality, and of course, cost. But don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork and sifted through countless products to bring you the best of the best.

We’re talking about top-notch gear companies like Zpacks, known for their ultralight backpacks and tents; Outdoor Research, the go-to for weather-resistant outdoor clothing; and Hyperlite Mountain Gear, the masters of minimalist UL design. And let’s not forget other notable mentions like Enlightened Equipment, Therm-a-Rest, and Smartwool. These companies are at the forefront of ultralight gear, constantly innovating to make your hiking experience better and lighter.

So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, this guide will equip you with the knowledge (and gear) you need to conquer the Appalachian Trail. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

The Big Three: Backpack, Shelter, and Sleeping System

When it comes to long-distance hiking, the “Big Three” are your backpack, shelter, and sleeping system. These are the most significant items in terms of weight and importance.

Ultralight Backpacks

Your backpack is your portable home. It holds everything you need for your journey. Our top pick is the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider. It’s lightweight, durable, and has plenty of space for all your gear.

Here are several other top picks for ultralight backpacks:

Hyperlite Mountain Gear
- Elevate 22: This backpack is priced at $249.00. The Elevate 22 weighs just 17.9 oz (507 grams) in the medium size
- 2400 Southwest: This backpack is priced at $349.00. The weight of this backpack (in white) is 1.9 lbs | 30.8 oz | 872 g
- 3400 Southwest: This backpack is priced at $379.00. The weight of this backpack (in white) is 2.0 lbs | 31.6 oz | 896 g
Zpacks
- Arc Haul Ultra 40L Backpack: This backpack is priced at $399.00 and weighs 18.8 oz | 534.0 g.
- Arc Haul Ultra 50L Backpack: This backpack is priced at $399.00 and weighs 20.8 oz | 589.0 g.
- Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack: This backpack is priced at $399.00 and weighs 21.4 oz | 606.0 g.

Please note that the weights provided are for the backpacks only and do not include additional accessories or gear. Also, the prices and availability are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the brand’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Ultralight Shelters

Next up is your shelter. This is where you’ll be sleeping every night, so it’s crucial to choose something comfortable and reliable. We recommend the Zpacks Duplex (specs below). It’s ultralight, easy to set up, and provides excellent protection from the elements.

Here are several other ultralight tent options to choose from:

Tarptent Notch Li: This tent is made with Dyneema® composite fabric (DCF) and is fully factory seam taped using DCF tapes. This tent has an easy and fast 4 stake pitch and can be pitched in under 1.5 minutes. The catenary cut curves for a taut stable pitching. The protected entry/exit keeps the interior dry during rain. The tent fits wide sleeping pads up to 25 in / 63.5cm wide. This tent is priced at $629.00 and weighs 21.4 oz | 607 g
Zpacks
- Plex Solo Tent: This tent is priced at $599.00 and weighs 13.9 oz | 395.0 g.
- Altaplex Tent: This tent is priced at $669.00 and weighs 15.4 oz | 437.0 g.
- Duplex Tent: This tent is priced at $669.00 and weighs 18.5 oz | 525.0 g.
- Duplex Zip Tent: This tent is priced at $699.00 and weighs 20.4 oz | 577.0 g.

Ultralight Sleeping Systems

Last but not least, your sleeping system. This includes your sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Our favorite is the Enlightened Equipment Revelation quilt (specs below) and the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad (specs below). They’re both lightweight and offer great comfort and warmth.

Here are some additional ultralight sleep systems that we really like (and have also personally used):

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite: This sleeping pad is one of the lightest on the market, weighing only 12 oz (340 g) for the regular size. It offers more than 2.5 inches of cushioning and has a reflective ThermaCapture™ technology that traps radiant heat while a Triangular Core Matrix™ minimizes convective heat loss.
Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Mat: This mat weighs 16.9 oz (480 g) and features Air Sprung Cells™ for a more comfortable sleep. It has Exkin Platinum® fabric and Thermolite® insulation to prevent heat loss.
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Sleeping Quilt: This quilt starts at 19.18 oz and can be customized according to your temperature preference. It is versatile and can be used as a blanket on warm nights or cinched up when it’s colder.
Klymit Insulated V Ultralite SL: This sleeping pad weighs 15.9 oz (450 g) and features a V-chamber design to limit air movement and heat loss. It also includes a patch kit for emergency repairs.
Big Agnes Air Core Ultra: This sleeping pad is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort. It weighs 21 oz (595 g) and has a thickness of 3.25″ to provide a comfortable night’s sleep.

Remember, the best sleep system for you will depend on your personal comfort preferences with being a cold or hot sleeper, whether or not you use a sleep liner (silk cocoon, etc.), clothes you might sleep in, the conditions you’ll be camping in, and your budget.

Ultralight Clothing Options

When hiking the Appalachian Trail or other longer distance hiking trails, you need to be prepared for all types of weather. This means packing the right clothing. Let’s look at some great options for breathability, warmth, and/or temperature regulation while hiking on hot or cold days.

Ultralight Base Layers

Base layers are the first layer of clothing you wear. They help regulate your body temperature and wick away sweat. Our top pick is the Smartwool Merino 150 Base Layer (specs below). It’s made from merino wool, which is warm, breathable, and naturally odor-resistant.

Here are some ultralight base layers that are really good quality (we’ve tested them and they all perform well):

Smartwool Men’s Merino 150 Base Layer Long Sleeve: This base layer is made from 87% Merino Wool and 13% Nylon Core. It weighs around 255g and is designed to regulate body temperature and resist odors. The Merino 150 is a versatile layer that can be worn alone or as a base layer in cooler weather.
Patagonia Men’s Capilene® Cool Lightweight Shirt: This lightweight base layer is made from 100% recycled polyester double knit with HeiQ® Fresh durable odor control. It’s designed to keep you cool and dry in warm to hot conditions.
Icebreaker Men’s Tech Lite Short Sleeve Crewe: This base layer is made from 87% Merino Wool and 13% Nylon. It’s designed for comfort, breathability, and odor resistance. The Tech Lite Short Sleeve Crewe is a versatile layer that can be worn alone or as a base layer in cooler weather.
Arc’teryx Men’s Phase SL Crew SS: This superlight, silkweight base layer is engineered for optimal moisture management during stop-and-go activities. It’s made from 100% polyester and is designed to dry quickly.
Under Armour Men’s UA Base 3.0 Crew: This base layer provides midweight warmth at many activity levels & cold temperatures. It’s designed with UA Scent Control Technology to keep you undetected in all pursuits. The material wicks sweat & dries really fast and the 4-way stretch material moves better in every direction.

Outer Layers for any Weather

Your outer layers are your first line of defense against the elements. This includes your rain jacket, down jacket, and pants. We recommend the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket, Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded Down Jacket, and Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants. They’re all lightweight, durable, and offer excellent protection.

Here are some ultralight outer layers are top picks for ultralight hikers:

Patagonia Men’s Micro Puff® Hoody: This is an ultralight, water-resistant, down-like jacket that provides warmth and insulation, even when wet. It weighs only 264g (9.3 oz).
Arc’teryx Men’s Atom LT Hoody: This versatile jacket is insulated, mid-layer hoody with wind and moisture resistant outer shell. It’s ideal as a layering piece for cold weather activities. The weight of this product is 375g (13.2 oz).
The North Face Men’s ThermoBall™ Eco Hoodie: This new, updated version of the ThermoBall™ Eco Hoodie is made from post-consumer recycled content for superior lightweight and packable warmth on cold hikes. The weight of this product is 430g (15.16 oz).
Montbell Men’s Plasma 1000 Down Jacket: This is one of the most lightweight down jackets available from Montbell, weighing only 135g (4.8 oz). It’s insulated with 1000 fill power down for maximum warmth.
Montbell Men’s Superior Down Parka: This parka is designed to be lightweight and warm, making it ideal for cold weather activities. It weighs 255g (9.0 oz).

Please note that the weights mentioned are for size Medium and might slightly vary depending on the size you choose.

Ultralight Cooking and Water Treatment Picks

Eating and drinking are essential parts of any hiking trip. Staying well fed and hydrated are essential to keeping your energy levels up and making sure you are getting adequate nutrition and good, filtered water while on the trail. Choosing the best ultralight cooking setup can really save those ounces carried on your back. Of course, cold soaking is often the lightest choice. But for hot food, the list below provides some great options.

Lightweight Cooking Systems

Here are some ultralight cooking systems that work well for weight savings:

MSR PocketRocket 2: This stove is a favorite among backpackers due to its compact size and impressive performance. It weighs a mere 2.6 oz (73 g) and boils 1 liter of water in just 3.5 minutes. It’s also easy to use with a precision flame control that goes from torch to simmer.
Jetboil Flash Cooking System: This integrated cooking system has a 1-liter cooking cup and a stove that packs into the cup for convenient transport. It weighs 13.1 oz (371 g) and boils water in under 100 seconds, making it perfect for a quick meal on the trail.
Snow Peak LiteMax Stove: This stove is made from titanium and aluminum, resulting in a super lightweight design of 1.9 oz (54 g). It’s compact and efficient, with a boil time of 4 minutes 25 seconds for 1 liter of water.

Ultralight Water Treatment Options

For water treatment, the Sawyer Squeeze (specs below) water filter is the most popular choice among ultralight hikers. It’s more reliable than similar water filter products, lightweight, easy to use, and effectively removes bacteria and protozoa from water.

Here are five ultralight water filters and hydration bladders with some features/details to choose from:

Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System
- Weight: 3 oz
- Filter lifetime: Up to 100,000 gallons
- Removes: Bacteria, protozoa, E. Coli, giardia, vibrio cholera, Salmonella typhi
- Notable features: Comes with collapsible pouches for ease of use, can be attached to standard disposable water bottles.
Katadyn BeFree 0.6L
- Weight: 2 oz
- Filter lifetime: Up to 1,000 liters depending on water quality
- Removes: Bacteria, protozoa, sediment
- Notable features: Free Flow Channels for easy cleaning, collapsible flask packs small to fit into tight spaces.
Platypus GravityWorks 2.0L Water Filter
- Weight: 6.6 oz
- Filter lifetime: 1,500 liters
- Removes: Bacteria, protozoa, particulates
- Notable features: Gravity-fed, high-capacity, no pumping required, cleans nearly 2 liters of water per minute.
Gregory 3D Hydro
- Weight: 7.1 oz
- Capacity: 3 liters
- Notable features: Durable design and materials, handle for easy filling, built-in dryer hanger, narrow profile.
Hydrapak Shape-Shift Reservoir
- Weight: 5.4 oz
- Capacity: 3 liters
- Notable features: Lightweight & slim profile, internal zipper reduces sloshing, dishwasher-safe, compatible quick-release hose.

Miscellaneous Gear: The Little Things That Matter 🙂

Finally, there are the small but essential items that can make a big difference on your hike.

Ultralight Headlamps

A good headlamp is a must for any hiker. We recommend the Black Diamond Spot (specs below). It’s bright, durable, and has a long battery life.

Here are some ultralight headlamps that you might find useful for your hiking and camping adventures:

Black Diamond Spot Lite 160: This headlamp is compact and lightweight, weighing only 54 grams. It has a maximum output of 160 lumens and can run up to 60 hours on low mode. It’s also waterproof, making it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures.
Petzl Reactik: The Petzl Reactik headlamp offers a maximum output of 220 lumens and weighs 115 grams. It features reactive lighting technology that automatically adjusts brightness to the user’s needs.
Petzl Actik Core: This headlamp delivers a powerful 450 lumens and weighs 75 grams. It comes with a rechargeable battery but can also be powered by three AAA batteries.
Black Diamond Spot 350: Weighing 86 grams, this headlamp provides an output of 350 lumens. It features a waterproof design and has a power tap technology that allows instant transitioning between full and dimmed power.
Petzl Tikkina: This compact headlamp weighs 92 grams and offers a brightness of 300 lumens. It’s easy to use with a single button for quick and easy lighting level selection.

Remember, when choosing a headlamp, consider factors such as weight, brightness, battery life, and additional features like water resistance and lighting modes (don’t forget the red light mode!)

Ultralight Trekking Poles

Trekking poles can help reduce strain on your knees and improve balance. Our top pick is the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles. They’re lightweight, durable, and have comfortable cork grips.

Here are some other ultralight trekking poles that we like:

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles: These poles are incredibly lightweight, weighing in at only 9 oz per pair for the 100 cm version. They are made from 100% carbon fiber, which contributes to their lightness and durability. The poles are also foldable, making them easy to pack and carry.
LEKI Micro Vario Carbon: These poles weigh 16.9 oz per pair and are made from 100% pure carbon for the highest level of stiffness and optimum swing action. They feature an innovative folding system for fast speed and compact size.
LEKI Micro Vario Carbon Strong: These poles are a bit heavier than the previous ones, weighing 21.5 oz per pair, but they offer extra strength and support. They are also made from 100% pure carbon and feature the same innovative folding system.
LEKI Cressida: These poles are designed specifically for women, with a shorter length and smaller grip size. They weigh 15.8 oz per pair and are made from high-strength aluminum.
Gossamer Gear LT5 Three-Piece Carbon Trekking Poles: These poles are incredibly lightweight, weighing only 10.55 oz per pair. They are made from carbon fiber and feature a three-piece design for adjustability and packability.

Please note that the weights listed are for the pair of poles, not for each individual pole. Also, the weights can vary slightly depending on the size of the poles.

Don’t Forget the First Aid Kit!

A first aid kit is a must-have for any hiker. We recommend the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5 (specs below). It’s compact, lightweight, and contains all the basics you need for minor injuries.

Here are five ultralight first aid kits suitable for ultralight hiking trips:

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5
- Weight: 3.68 oz
- Size: 6″ x 5.25″ x 1.25″
- Price: $19.00
- Features: Waterproof, two-stage closure, and a wide array of medical supplies.
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .3 (found on REI)
- Weight: 2.32 oz
- Size: 5.25″ x 5″ x 1″
- Price: $9.00
- Features: Waterproof, two-stage closure, and a wide array of medical supplies.
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight and Watertight (found on Amazon)
- Weight: 6.4 oz
- Price: $32.95 – $60.21
- Features: Portable, Waterproof, Lightweight, Ideal for camping, High-Visibility, Durable Protection.

And there you have it! This is your comprehensive guide to Appalachian Trail essential gear. We hope this list helps you narrow down some of the hundreds of ultralight gear choices. Remember, the right gear can make or break your hiking experience, so choose wisely and happy trails!