Definition And Function Of Resupply On A Thru Hike

On a long distance hike, resupply is central to how the trip is structured. Instead of starting with all the food and fuel required for an entire journey, hikers carry what they need for several days at a time and restock when they reach locations with stores, post offices, hostels, or other services. This cycle repeats many times over the course of a thru hike.

Resupply typically focuses on consumable items: food, stove fuel, batteries, first aid refills, water treatment consumables, and basic hygiene products. Some hikers also use resupply points to swap seasonal gear, change clothing systems, or replace worn items such as shoes and socks.

The distance between resupply points affects pack weight and daily routines. Shorter carries may allow lighter loads and more frequent contact with communities, while longer carries can provide more time in remote terrain but require carrying more food at once. Each route has its own pattern of towns, road crossings, and store availability that shapes realistic options.

Resupply also interacts with budget, time, and personal comfort. Some hikers prioritize frequent stops for fresh food and rest, while others prefer to move quickly through towns to maximize time on trail. This article describes resupply in general terms and does not prescribe a single best approach, recognizing that strategies vary across hikers and routes.