Boxed resupply / mail drop
Overview
Boxed resupply or mail drop refers to sending food and other hiking supplies to a location along the route so they can be picked up during the hike.
Key points
- Packages may be sent to post offices, hostels, stores, or other accepting locations along the trail.
- Used to access specific foods, dietary accommodations, or specialized gear not readily available locally.
- Requires coordination with operating hours, shipping times, and local policies on holding packages.
Details
Many long-distance hikers plan resupply by combining local purchases with pre-packed boxes mailed to selected stops. These boxes often contain food tailored to personal preferences, as well as consumables or gear that may not be reliably available in small communities. When using boxed resupply, hikers consider how far in advance to ship, how long packages are held, and what information is needed on labels. The term "mail drop" is commonly used in some regions for the same concept. This approach sits alongside other strategies such as buying entirely in town or using a mix of methods.
Related topics
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.