Backpacking and thru-hiking are two different approaches to long-distance hiking. Backpacking is the traditional approach, where you hike a few miles each day, carrying your gear and supplies with you.
Thru-hiking is a more ambitious approach, where you hike the entire length of a long-distance trail in one continuous journey. Both approaches require proper preparation, dedication and commitment to complete the journey successfully.
Backpacking trips typically last anywhere from a few days to several weeks; thru-hiking trips are usually much longer, lasting several months or even an entire year. As such, thru-hikers need to plan for an extended absence from home, as well as carry enough supplies for the duration of their journey. Thru-hikers also need to be prepared mentally and physically for the challenge that awaits them on the trail.
When backpacking, you can choose to camp in a variety of locations along your route; most backpacking trips focus on exploring different areas rather than covering large distances quickly. When thru-hiking however, you will generally follow one continuous route; most thru-hikers aim to cover as much ground as possible each day in order to reach their final destination quickly.
Backpackers can choose whether they want to camp in designated campsites or explore more remote areas; they typically carry more bulky gear and supplies than thru-hikers since they do not have to worry about covering large distances quickly. By contrast, thru-hikers need to carry only the essentials since they need their packs to be as light as possible for maximum speed and efficiency on the trail.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, backpacking and thru-hiking are two different approaches to long distance hiking. Backpacking is more flexible while thru-hiking requires more dedication and commitment due its longer duration and faster pace. While backpackers typically carry more gear than thru-hikers due its shorter duration trips, both require proper preparation before embarking on their respective journeys.