Hiking the Appalachian Trail Completely Zero-Waste
If you haven’t met Honey yet, this is your moment! The Trek Vlogger Honey is currently thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. But want to know the interesting twist? She’s hiking the AT completely zero-waste. In her most recent vlog from the trail, she teaches us the ins and outs of zero-waste thru-hiking.
This isn’t Honey’s first time living a zero-waste lifestyle. In 2019, she lived a completely zero-waste life – she didn’t even own a trash can! She has been on this journey for years and is using her AT thru-hike as a way to inspire people to become more conscious about their actions in the outdoors.
As an aspiring environmental attorney, Honey has always had a passion for the outdoors and environmental stewardship. For the purpose of her AT thru-hike, she will not be throwing anything away. If an item is not compostable, reusable, or recyclable, Honey won’t be carrying or using it.
Throughout Honey’s most recent vlog, she breaks down the how-tos of zero-waste thru-hiking, including how she sourced her gear to what food she carries.
Gear
To cut down on costs and waste, Honey is using gear that she already owned. The longevity of her gear all comes down to proper maintenance and care. Some zero-waste/reusable items in her pack include a diva cup, metal razor, and biodegradable floss. Two thumbs up for replacing disposable plastics!
If Honey was in a pinch and needed to purchase gear, she’d buy it second-hand. From REI garage sales to facebook marketplace, Honey was able to snag quality gear that has served her well so far along the AT. Sure, some of the gear she purchased has a few holes and unique quirks, but the gear still serves its intended purposes.
Food
Honey isn’t vegan; however, while on trail, she eats a plant based diet. Prior to starting the AT, she bought all her food in bulk. She cooked, dehydrated, and stored her food in resupply boxes. Once she’s ready for a new supply of food while on trail, she sends her mom a message a few days out and has her ship it to her anticipated location. Food items that Honey likes to eat include oats, trail mix, couscous, rice, and lentils.
To learn more about Honey’s zero-waste tips and tricks, make sure to watch her latest vlog.
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Comments 4
What about the emissions from shipping all those items?
Hi,
Are you speaking in third person or talking about someone else.
Cool that zero waste can be attempted. The trail is a humbling thing.
Happy trails:)
I get it.
This is about Honey, not you.
Sorry
Yes, this is about Honey 🙂 She’ll be posting regular videos about her zero-waste hike throughout the next few months. Make sure to keep checking back in for her updates!