I am also planing a thru-hike starting next march. My biggest advice is to look at lots of ordinary objects that can do more than one thing, and are lightweight and cheap. goodwill and thrift stores are great. I have some great little bowls from goodwill, and a nice nylon rain jacket. ultra light is as much about having things that work for multiple uses than it is about having the newest and lightest cool gear. but who does not like new cool stuff?