I hiked the trail with 3,300 excluding gear…And, i’d say I hiked comfortably. But once again, this all depends. Are you using food drops or buying food? For me, food drops were much more inexpensive b/c I went to grocery outlet stores, and coops. I can’t say that I was uncomfortable, and frequented hostels b/c of their cheapness. I highly suggest this to save money. Also, if staying in a hotel, split it up with other hikers, to keep your costs down. Thanks to PA Mule who gave me twenty bucks after I summitted big K, b/c I was on my last few bucks! And remember, A bus ticket from millinocket to PHilladelphia was only 80 dollars for me…and what a long ride through babylon it is!
blessings.
Hawkeye