In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are once again firing off our best advice for the upcoming class of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers.

Chaunce and I are joined by Trek Community Ringleader, Jess Stone, to bring you 9 tips for thru-hiking the AT in 2026. Because this is not the first time we've done this subject, Chaunce and I are unveiling brand new advice for this one (with an asterisks)- and today's tips cover advice to ensure you don't lose your precious media (which is more common than you might think), trail name advice, the importance of training, how to maximize the adventure, how to be intentional about getting what you want out of this experience, and much more.

We wrap the show with the top tents used on the Appalachian Trail in 2025, what two week Trek Chaunce should take on at the end of March, the triple crown of things that get our goat (v2), and why food delivery services might be pure evil.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Mountainsmith: Use code "TAKEAHIKE" for 20% off at mountainsmith.com.

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Panel with Jess Stone

Jess's Instagram

Time stamps & Questions

00:10:40 - Reminders: Apply to vlog or blog for the Trek, subscribe to The Trek's Youtube, and listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon!

00:16:45 - Introducing today's panel

00:18:45 - Summarizing past advice

00:23:20 - Jess's Tip #1: Find a meaningful way to document your hike and commit to it

00:26:20 - Chaunce's Tip #1: Regularly upload your photos and videos to the cloud

00:29:45 - Zach's Tip #1: Don't start with a trail name

00:34:10 - Jess's Tip #2: Train. Just train.

00:39:43 - Chaunce's Tip #2: Don't marry your start date

00:44:10 - Zach's Tip #2: Wean yourself off your phone addiction

00:47:14 - Jess's Tip #3: Embrace the new and the weird

00:50:55 - Chaunce's Tip #3: Group listen to audiobooks

00:58:40 - Zach's Tip #3: Mentally prepare

01:11:10 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Top Tents and Shelters on the Appalachian Trail: 2025 AT Thru-Hiker Survey by Katie Jackson

QOTD: What soft hiking can Chaunce do at the end of March?

Triple Crown of things that get your goat

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

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9 Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2026 (BPR #346)