View Full Version : Any age related problems?
Entropy2012
03-18-2011, 17:43
Since I'll only be 18 when I hike the trail next march, is there any possiblity of issues over accommodation or travel? I read in another thread that some places maintain an over 21 rule and I'd rather not get into town expecting a good night's rest and be turned away. Any such places I should avoid?
Also, what's the likelihood of making some good trekking buddies along the way? While I'm not totally adverse to hiking sections of the trail alone, I'd rather not spend the whole time by myself. I'll be leaving in the first couple of days of March if all goes to plan.
Thanks. :)
Blissful
03-18-2011, 18:21
The over age 21 is for drinking alcohol. I don't know of age restrictions for any other reason.
Plenty of hikers to pal up with. You won't be lonely
Bo Knows
03-18-2011, 18:52
i always heard the rumor you needed to be 25 to rent a car but never experienced it myself. im sure most places will be happy to see a smelly hiker or will try to get rid of said hiker asap... i dont think age really factors into that
The over 25 car rental thing is for insurance purposes and you cant get around that. There are always other hikers out there who would split costs for you and put things in their name like a hotel though. People are nice.
Pickles&Shakespeare
03-24-2011, 22:16
i always heard the rumor you needed to be 25 to rent a car but never experienced it myself. im sure most places will be happy to see a smelly hiker or will try to get rid of said hiker asap... i dont think age really factors into that
Most car rental companies will allow you to rent a car below age 25 but you will pay a hefty young driver fee of 20-35 extra a day. My mom works for Hertz. Hertz doesn't allow under 25 period.
garlic08
03-25-2011, 09:13
Lots of older folks enjoy being around younger folks, especially adventurous ones. When I met Kirby, who hiked during his senior year in HS in '08, he was hiking with Cookie, a crusty retired firefighter. They were both having a great time and it looked like a fine partnership. Look up Kirby on Trailjournals.com for a teenager's perspective on the AT.