I’m feeling kind of anxious about this impending journey, and I’m showing it by weighing every item that I’ll be carrying on the trail (and then weighing again, just to be sure). This is a compulsive activity that potential through hikers (or thru-hikers: those who hike a long distance trail in a single hiking season) display, comparing lists, shaving off ounces, and debating pros/cons of “comfort items” (like a pillow or a pair of crocs) versus how much weight it’s adding to your pack. It’s kind of fun, and I see other hikers do it, so I feel like I’m supposed to. I know the real test of whether I’ll actually be able to do this thing is the actual test of actually doing it. Every day. For 2,650 miles. It’s gonna be great.

Here’s a video of all my gear, including the aforementioned poop trowel (which is actually a tent stake- weight saving!) Please forgive the quality of cameraman and commentator.