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Backpacker Radio 114 | How to Afford a Thru-Hike
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another advice based show. Today’s episode is all about how to afford a thru-hike, which includes overall tips for how to budget, how much to budget, what items you can skimp on, what items you should splurge on, tools for automating the process, and much more.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of items that we love for less than $25, a wild story about a multi-day grizzly bear attack, and we discuss whether a calendar year triple crown is anti-thetical to the thru-hiking ethos.
Listen
Download this episode.
Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “trek10” here.
Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15.
Path Projects: Go to pathprojects.com and let them know BPR sent you.
QOTD: How long is the lifespan of a fly/mosquito? And why aren’t dead ones all over the ground?
The Trek Resource: How To Afford a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro
BPR is doing a live podcast at Hop Haus in Fitchburg, Wisconsin from 6:00pm – 8:00pm on Friday, October 15.
Tip #1 (Chaunce): Use apps that set aside money for you.
Apps mentioned (not sponsored):
Tip #2 (Zach): Know what gear to splurge on.
Specifically:
- Footwear
- Shelter
- Sleeping bag/quilt
Tip #3 (Elise): Leverage the Financial Independence community (and finding your Coast FI number for peace of mind).
Some FI resources:
- The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins
- Quit Like A Millionaire by Kristy Shen and Bryce Leung
- The Choose FI podcast
- MoneywithKatie on Instagram
- Coast FI caclulator
Tip #4 (Chaunce): Budget smart while you’re actually on trail.
Tip #5 (Zach): Know where to skimp on gear.
Specifically:
- Headlamp
- Base layer
- Rain gear
- Water filter
- Sunglasses
- And more
Tip #6 (Elise): Figure out how much your life actually costs, then figure out how to cut further or earn more.
Tip #7 (Chaunce): Take on a side job where all earnings are specifically for thru-hiking.
Some ideas:
- Uber/Lyft
- Instacart
- Rover
Tip #8 (Zach): Decide how much you think your thru-hike will cost, then add 20%.
Tipe #9 (Elise): Surround yourself with people who either support your goals or have similar ones.
SEGMENTS
Trek Propaganda
Triple Crown of things to spend $25 on
Gross or Not Gross
- Zach being barefoot on an airplane
Mail Bag
Cinnamon Court
Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross.
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