AT Thru-Hike 2026 Team List – Part 2

Team list, part 2… here we go…

Introduction to electronics

Electronic devices are essential for a hike. Must be able to use navigation applications. When you’re in trouble, you should be able to call for ransom without cell service. You need light when it’s dark. When you’re really tired at the end of the day, you don’t want to get dizzy trying to blow up your sleeping pad.

You get the idea. But your electronic devices may be among your heaviest equipment. In this article, I talk about what I’m doing on the 2026 AT hike and why.

iPhone 17 Pro

Remember that one of the keys to lightening your backpack is to use multipurpose devices. My phone is one of those. I use my phone to:

1. Regular phone calls and text messages.
2. Listening to my Bible.
3. Listen to Podcasts and music.
4. Navigation (FarOut, Gaia, AllTrails).
5. SOS satellite.
6. Satellite messaging.

My phone is a great example of a multipurpose device.

If you have an iPhone 14 or later, you can use it for satellite messaging and SOS. This allows your phone to replace the functions of a standalone satellite communicator such as Garmin inReach Mini or Messenger. I have read several articles debating whether or not an iPhone can replace a Garmin. I recommend doing your own research. Then make that decision for yourself.

I have used the iPhone exclusively for satellite communication on multiple trips and it has excelled. Personally, I prefer the iPhone interface because it provides very intuitive information when trying to connect to a satellite. In my opinion, the user interface is superior to the Garmin. If you haven’t seen the interface, the iPhone has a tutorial on satellites: go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Satellite Connection Demo.

power bank

Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2

I use the Nitecore NB10000 power bank. It’s the lightest you can buy for the size. I have the old model with only 1 USB-C port. For simplicity, and also to not need adapters, all my electronic devices are USB-C. I ran several tests at home and on the road to determine how much mAh capacity I needed to power my iPhone and headlamp for at least 7 days.

First important note: I intentionally only have two devices that need charging; this is by design. Second, I configure my iPhone so I can optimize power consumption. go to this article for more details. Some quick tips that work for me:

1. Keep your phone in airplane mode when not in use.
2. Keep your phone off while you sleep.
3. Set location services for all apps to Off or During use.
4. Check your battery usage statistics to identify apps that are draining your battery.

With my optimized settings, 1 Nitecore NB10000 power bank lasts 7 days.

Wall charger and cables

Loading example

I found a great article a couple of years ago, but unfortunately I can’t find it again to link to here. In the article, the author tested several brands of wall chargers and cables by comparing wattage to weight. Anker was the clear winner. So, I use a dual-port Anker USB-C wall charger. Using a dual port is a slight hit compared to using two single port chargers. However, in public places where wall outlets are at a premium, I can charge all my devices in one outlet. I want to be courteous to all other hikers.

With 2 USB cables I can charge all my devices. I bring 1ft and 3ft cables. I can connect 2 cables to the charger to optimize charging time. The reason I carry a 3 foot cord is that in practice I have found that some wall outlets are far from a flat surface to place devices on. This requires a longer cable unless you want your device to hang on the wall.

Headlamp

Nitecore NU20

I use the Nitecore NU20. It’s lightweight and has all the features I need. Also, if you want to save additional weight, swap the standard NU20 headband for this one. one.

Headphones

Apple Wired Headphones

I use standard Apple wired headphones. I use the corded ones because, without a battery, they are lighter. Plus, one less device to charge.

Pad inflator

Alpenblow Microinflator

I may feel sorry for this luxury item, but it is a must-have for me. I hate blowing up my sleeping pad after a long day of hiking. Maybe it’s because I have small lungs, but it takes FOREVER. The Alpenblow micro inflator is amazing! It weighs almost nothing…one of my few luxury items.

Conclusion

Well, that’s it for electronics. I hope this was helpful. Look for another article on first aid, repair/emergency and hygiene kits.

If you’ve made it this far… Thank you very much for reading!

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