At one point in time, potential thru-hikers could budget about a dollar per mile to cover their expenses on the trail. That day has long since past, with the average thru-hike costing about $3,000 – $4,000 dollars for on-trail expenses. Add to that figure your travel costs to and from the trail, medical expenses, equipment both before the trip, and living expenses immediately after you return. While $4,000 sounds like a lot of money (and it is), consider that your living expenses for 5-6 months back in the “real world” are likely much higher and it becomes sort of relative. At least that’s the way I justify it.
Where does all this money go? All you’re doing is hiking for six months, right? Wrong.
Here’s a few common things you’ll need to buy on the trail.
Food: This will probably be your biggest expense on the trail, especially “town food.” All that pizza, beer, and ice cream adds up quickly, and only the most determined can get in and out of town without eating a meal somewhere. I budget about $7 per day just for trail food.
Lodging: This probably the second largest expense. It only take a few overnight visits to town to see how quickly hostels, motels, and other lodging adds up.
Major Gear replacement
Shoes and socks
Phone cards/long distance charges
Postage for maildrops, letters, and equipment sent home.
Stove fuel
Extra activities like movies or trips off-trail
Magazines and newspapers
Internet Cafes
I’ll address some of these individually in future sections, but for now, I have another article that will give you head start on how to cut your expenses called Thru-hiking on the Cheap.
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