Micro-sponsorships: Food Drops

Food Drops Prepared by Friends and Family

The budget of our thru-hike is a stumbling-block for sure. Yes, we can feel proud of funding our trip through work, schemes, lemonade-stands, and what have you. Or, we can beg people for money and/or gear to defray the costs of our selfish endeavor. Not willing to risk much rejection in the way of approaching companies, I went down the safer-less-rejection path of asking friends and family. But, I approached them in a way of making them feel more invested in my hike than just giving me money.

I asked them to send me a food drop, but they pick the food. Such a suggestion is in the realm of buying groceries for a pregnant lady. I love the idea because beggars can’t be choosers. Yet, I’m not so bold to have this argument with the pregnant lady. Food is the essence of us and so much more on the trail. Many people prepare food drops for the whole trail not knowing/accepting the risks that their tastes will change. After four weeks of Ramen, you’ve discovered more about Ramen than you ever wanted to know, but it’s too late. Ramen has become gruel. Instead of dreading the upcoming food drop, I will be surprised. Someone told me recently told me that surprises aren’t good. What about surprise parties?

Aside from being surprised, I will learn a great deal about my friends/family and I can secretly judge them. Just kidding. I will be grateful for all the food I receive. It will be a comfort knowing the effort they take in preparing the package. Of course, I’m giving them some hiker-friendly guidelines without being overly specific.

Food Drop Guidelines

  • Put yourself in my shoes and buy accordingly
  • No fish or pork
  • Four-five days of food ≤6 pounds
  • High calorie content, protein, and fat (for example, think peanut butter, not pickles)
  • I will be cooking with a stove for dinner and breakfast sometimes (pasta packets, MRE’s, freeze-dried prepared meals)
  • Food with vitamins like fruit (don’t want to get scurvy)

Everyone that sends me a food drop will be receiving a thank you postcard. A story of my travels will also be included. So far, I will be receiving over ten food drops even one from Italy and Britain. Here’s to being surprised.

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Comments 1

  • Joe Bergeron : Jul 23rd

    Ok, I’m intrigued. People left to their own devices could send some funny stuff. Canned vegetables, beer, fruit cake, etc.. that stuff is so heavy. While water is so wonderful, someone sending a gallon (16lbs) is thoughtful and completely impractical. I hope you write a follow up to this. I see you smiling and laughing at some of those boxes while still being grateful for the support. Happy trails.

    Reply

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