The Packing List!

The SMT involves an average of ~1,000 meters of incline / decline each day and has some very steep and technically challenging sections (think cables, rungs, etc.) Consequently, it’s important to keep your pack relatively light. While for thru-hikes in the United States, hikers might carry a 55 - 65 L pack, in Slovenia “wild camping,” or sleeping in a tent on public land, is technically illegal. While there are some loopholes around this, the SMT has a robust system of mountain huts that provide lodging, food, restrooms, and running water. Staying in the mountain huts eliminates lots of pack weight (e.g. a tent, cooking equipment, fuel) as well as logistical challenges such as mailing food to yourself along the trail.

Most online resources recommend bringing a 30 - 40 L pack because you are essentially packing for a series of day hikes. That being said, this will be Nick and I’s first thru-hike! We will also be stopping in some other cities at the beginning and end of our trip, so we might have overpacked slightly.

My packing list for the trip was as follows:

• Backpack (Gregory Amber 44)

• Camera bag (WANDRD Rogue Sling)

• Rain jacket (REI Rainer)

• 2 Merino wool short sleeves and 1 long sleeve (Smartwool)

• 1 pair of hiking pants (zip-offs) and a pair of hiking leggings (Outdoor Voices)

• 2 sports bras

• 3 pairs of Merino wool hiking socks

• Trekking poles (Black Diamond Trail Back)

• Helmet (Black Diamond Half Dome)

• Harness (Black Diamond Momentum)

• Via Ferrata lanyard (Petzl)

• Flashlight

• Sleep liner (Sea to Summit. Most mountain huts provide bedding, but often you need your own sheets or a sleeping bag)

• Ultralite towel (Not all mountain huts will provide this).

• Entertainment (Book, cards)

• Essentials (Phone, charger, power adaptor, ID and insurance cards, wallet, and cash. Many of the mountain huts are cash-only).