[pct-l] Resupply Strategy

[DayLate07 .]

Alan, both ways work fine, it is just a matter of preference.  I do a few
more packages than the average thru hiker because I like the added variety
and quality of the food I can get via mail.  I wouldn't even consider
mailing a package to a bigger town like Big Bear or Ashland as they will
have really big grocery stores with lots of variety.

One important point is that if you don't really know what foods you like or
will work for you then supply as you go may work better.  If you do send
resupply packages I recommend sending a lot of variety in them.  Sometimes
on the trail you just get sick of some foods, if you have enough variety
that helps a lot.  Also with packages from home you have more opportunities
to send yourself more healthy meals.  To be honest, a lot of thru hikers
eat really crappy food on the trail - Think ramen, pop tarts, mac and
cheese, etc.  While I can, and do have these occasionally, I can ensure I
have a few better meals thrown in there too with my resupply packages.

As a rule of thumb, I never have never sent myself more than 5 of the same
dinners on a thru hike and do not send myself anything that is a staple at
limited resupply points - think instant mashed potatoes, nuts, jerky, mac &
chees, ramen, etc.   I'll have all the opportunities I could care for to
have these during the hike without sending them to myself.

I remember once, on the PCT, giving away one of my meals - one I liked less
at that time  (can't remember what it was) from my resupply box, as I had
more food then I wanted to carry to the next town and having the recipient
tell me later that it was the best meal he had eaten on the trail so far.

In summary - Both ways work, both have pluses and minuses.

Enjoy your thru hike.  It is one of life's great experiences.

Day-Late




>
> .
> shape, but like all older people I have my moments. It seems folly to plan
> too far ahead, yet I can see the need. Do people really plan and pack five
> months worth of food?
>
> Thanks for the help,
>
>