When thru-hiking, a debit/credit card is VERY helpful. It's still my preferred method of paying my way. HOWEVER, on the Appalachian Trail, you'll occasionally encounter a small store or hostel which cannot process cards.

For this reason, I generally try to carry $40-80 cash on me as well as 2 or 3 checks. (Yes, that's right, I've encountered a number of places which aren't equipped to process plastic but will accept personal checks - both on the AT and on the Colorado Trail last summer as well.)

It pays to research the trail you have in mind. The AT in the south is a good place for cash or check. Many of the hostels don't take plastic. It appears that the John Muir Trail is another good spot for such - it appears Muir Trail Ranch (where I intend to resupply with a pre-paid mail drop) doesn't take plastic.

Is there a specific trail you were looking into?
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http://www.trailjournals.com/BearpawAT99/