>>2779583>>2779418I followed the paper AWOL guide. It's nearly identical to the apps with mileage, water sources, town maps, etc but not on phone. Really easy to follow, only time I used phone GPS was to get around in towns. Plus it's a cool souvenir once the hike is done.
Cell service was very unreliable, and it would have been a huge pain to worry about charging and battery packs. Also noticed people with the app would check their phones constantly, just walk keep phone in backpack.
Ppl will suggest maildrops for food and gear, bounce them up the trail, whatever. Don't fucking bother sure you might have to live off honey buns a few days but small town postal service is a joke. Imagine getting into a town 20 minutes later than planned and being stuck for 3 days until until post office opens.
Other items to bring,
- GOOD headlamp. Recommend Fenix. NOT Petzl.
- Ben's ultranet. Or other no-see-um bug headnet. There will be bugs.
- Injinji toe socks & leuko tape. If you get small toe blister, wrap toe in tape in morning, put on toe socks, the tape will not fall off. Regular socks your toes rubbing together will rub the tape off. I did not have blister problems.
- Normal food. Anything will last a couple days. Bread, eggs, cheese, deli meat. Ensure calorie shakes are gas, way better than clif bars. Had success with a whole tub of protein powder.
