In "A Walk in the Woods," Bill Bryson humorously recounts his decisions regarding various hiking accessories, showcasing his practical approach to outdoor preparation. He deliberately declined several items such as a first-aid kit, a sewing kit, and an anti-snake-bite kit, viewing them as excessive or impractical for his adventure on the Appalachian Trail.

Furthermore, Bryson critiques the cost of certain items, like a whistle and a shovel meant for waste disposal, arguing that they either serve no real purpose, are overpriced, or could subject him to mockery. His reflections highlight a blend of humor and skepticism about traditional hiking gear, emphasizing a more straightforward and less encumbered experience on the trail.