Too bad - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

I attempted a thru hike in '04 and while I was in Damascus I did hear rumors of packs getting jacked here and there, but I was smart, I never left my pack anywhere. The only time I left my pack unattended I learned my lesson, the sidetrack was kind enough to put a huge rock in it.

So if you leave your things out in the open don’t be surprised if they are ne there when you get back, oh well, deal wit it. And don’t go taking your frustration out on the people along the trail. They, for the most part, go out of their way to help hikers anyway they can, How many times have you come to a road crossing asnd found a cooler with food in it for hikers. Think about that next time you feel entitled to have anything you need just because you’re a hiker.

Beavis

#2

hey, I’m planning a nobo thru-hike for 06. I don’t plan on ever leaving my pack unattended in town, but what about leaving it unattended at shelters while you make a run to the spring for water? I’d imagine I’d do that if there were other tru’s around, but not otherwise. those of you with experience, what did you do?

Sean

#3

I have left my pack unattended in a number of situations as have a number of other hikers:

  1. During your daily hiking, when there is a side trail to a water source - you will see a lot of hikers taking their packs off and leaving them on the side of the trail while they go get water.

  2. Yes, at a shelter while going to get water. My only concern might be if there are folks already in the shelter who I’m not comfortable with. But then you could carry your pack out of sight from the shelter and stash it in the woods. Just remember where you left it!

Going into towns, a number of places will ask that you leave your pack outside. If you are worried and have others in your party - one of you can watch the packs. But in most towns I do feel okay about leaving my pack outside.

I’ve heard some folks say that before they hitch into town they will “bearbag” their pack hidden in the woods near where they are going to hitch into town. But there is a real problem with that idea - a lot of folks who give rides into town expect to see a pack on a hikers back. Without your pack there may not be as good a chance for a hitch.

Another problem with hanging your pack before you hitch - if you have hidden your pack well you may have trouble finding it when you return.

JAWS

#4

There’s a easy way to discourage thieves. Just lock it up.
A small steel wire cable, and a luggage lock doesnt weigh too much, and will deter all but the most determined theives.

Also have your name embroidered on the front fabric of the pack. Theives only like stuff they can re-sale. No one’s going to buy a pack with another persons name stitched on the front, and pawn shops are leery of buying goods with identification on them.

Look on the internet, they make small lightweight devices that are designed to go into laptop bags. Basically if you move them they scream bloody loud as hell. Its like a mini motion alarm.

Some packs have removable straps. Take the straps with you.

All of these are lightweight non-intrusive things you can do to discourage thieves.
Basically do anything you can to make them NOT want to take your pack, and pick the other guys pack.

bryan