I've not gone on any seriously extended hikes, but I've had an itch to try my hand on the AT for a couple years now. I have about 6 to 6 1/2 months to do it before the start of grad school for me in the fall. I've done a lot of reading on the subject, but I'm thinking I might need some advice. Rather than just go off what these books are telling me (which honestly seems like too much stuff that's definitely too heavy), I figured I'd go to the source of such knowledge itself. I mean, a forum like this has to have more collective knowledge than some random author trying to make a quick buck - especially considering his writing was probably sponsored by a gear outfitter.
Anyway... I'm trying to compile a list of needs, wants, and don't needs for my hike of uncertain length (potentially and hopefully ending in Maine), starting in Georgia in early March.
What gear would people say is absolutely necessary? What is nice to have? And, most importantly, what would be foolish to bring?