7. Get The Money Right

Running out of cash is a surefire way to end your trek early. Plan ahead and track your budget along the way. Hotel stays, restaurant bills, and rest days in town will eat into your budget, but they’re also huge for your sanity. You’ll also need cash for resupply food, gear repair/ replacement, postage, and laundry. The average hiker probably spends about $1,000 per month on the trail, but that really depends on your hiking style. Some do it for far less and some ball out.

8. Arrange Social Support

You’ll make new friends on the trail, but it’s also common to feel lonely and homesick. Simple comforts like postcards and care packages from loved ones can make a world of difference. Tell your family and friends about your trek and let them know some dates and locations that they can send notes/ small food packages. Just make sure to be very specific about what you’re looking for. Nobody wants to lug around a 10-pound summer sausage that Aunt Gina sent.

9. Go Easy On Resupply – Save Time & Money

Obsessing too much about resupply packages can be a big waste of time and money. Don’t get me wrong, resupply strategy is a critical part of any thru-hike and a very personal choice, just be careful not to overdo it.

Most of the trail towns along the AT and PCT see hundreds of thru-hikers every year. They know what hikers need and their businesses stock up for hiking season. It usually costs much more to ship a bunch of food packages than it would to buy the same exact food at a small store along the way. Also, your food preferences will change over time and you’ll find that you’re tired of eating the meals you thought you’d want months ago.

The main disadvantage to trail-town resupply is that you won’t have the same variety. Make up for that by sending yourself a few smaller packages at tougher resupply points along the trail.

Helpful Link - Lightweight Trail Food Video