Am I The Only One? Stressing Over Packing.

With only 2 months and 20 days left until I step back on the trail to continue my Appalachian Trail Thru-hike, that was paused due to covid, it is easy to say the stress of what to and not to pack is starting to build up! Normally I could pack everything up with no hesitation at all in just minutes but this coming year appears to be different! I know you probably think I’m talking about covid… I’m talking about being the crazy one who brings their 8 month old puppy with them! Some think it isn’t smart and how prepared could a puppy be? Tate here is almost an expert but knowing what to pack for him changes everything for me.

All The Upgrades

Am I the only person that chooses to pack and unpack every piece of gear every other day? For once in my life this makes my thru-hike prep a bit easier. This year not only did I have to upgrade my tent to support a quickly growing puppy but I had to upgrade my pack , sleeping bag, change to a different pad, and carry a first aid kit. These upgrades had to happen because like all thru-hikers the stress of the weight of the pack becomes the biggest concern you have! Ultra light here we come!

Puppy Packing

How do you pack for a puppy? Thats easy. Just like my pack I lay out everything Tater Tot could possibly need! We may not be able to step off the trail as much as usual due to covid. That means Tate will be carrying about 5 days worth of food, a small towel, poop bags, a toy, brush, and his own water. This is why we repack both of our packs every other day! This helps me to test my pack weight and helps Tater to become one with his pack!

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Comments 4

  • Dan : Dec 7th

    2 weeks of food plus gear is a very ambitous carry for a young dog. Be prepared to have to carry some of your dog’s food/gear. Don’t forget that your dog’s appetite will grow. Know your pups physiology. Godspeed.

    Reply
    • Sarah Caldwell : Dec 12th

      I definitely appreciate all the advice! I have been training him in crazy environments and you are right you gotta know your dog and luckily this pup and I are inseparable! Thank you!

      Reply
  • pearwood : Dec 8th

    Sounds good, Sarah. I’m looking toward a June 1 start NOBO. We shall see.

    Blessings,
    Steve / pearwood

    Reply
    • Sarah Caldwell : Dec 12th

      Pearwood … good luck and happy trails! You’ll do great!

      Reply

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