The Backpacker S Handbook

Explains how to plan and prepare before a trip, and includes information on traveling in various conditions, setting up a safe and environmentally friendly camp, and dealing with natural hazards.

What you need to know before you hit the trails Whether you are backpacking for the first time or a veteran follower of the trails, this enormously practical guide includes everything you need to know, from essential techniques such as map and compass work to the skills needed for more remote wilderness journeys. The Backpacker's Handbook also gives you the latest information on gear. You'll find the last word on: How to choose packs and footwear—and make sure they fit What clothing to take on the trail Tents, tarps, stoves, water purifiers, and other gear GPS, cell phones, and other electronic devices And much more Reviews from previous editions "The most up-to-date and comprehensive guide to equipment and technique available anywhere." --Backpack (UK) "A clear and comprehensive primer on backpacking gear. Townsend's knowledge is immense." --Sierra "Belongs in every bookcase dealing with outdoor topics. . . . Chockablock full of useful, practical, commonsense info. . . . If you tramp the outdoors, get this book." —Maine Sportsman "For those thinking of taking a backpack journey, The Backpacker's Handbook is required reading." —Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)

This thoroughly researched yet accessible backpacking book offers a complete view of backpacking today, exploring everything from how to plan a trip and select gear to emergency procedures and first-aid care in the field A revised, updated, and comprehensive guide to backpacking with a complete view of modern-day backpacking, The Backpacker’s Field Manual covers the best in gear, first aid, and Leave No Trace camping, and also includes chapters dedicated to trip planning, cooking and nutrition, hygiene and water purification, and more. Whether you’re about to set off on your first hike or have been camping for decades, The Backpacker’s Field Manual is an indispensable guide for trip planning strategies and also works as a quick reference on the trail for: • Back-country skills: how to forecast the weather, identify trees, bear-proof your campsite, wrap an injured ankle, and more—with over one hundred illustrations to guide you • Tricks of the trail: time-tested practical lessons learned along the way • Going ultra-light: downsizing suggestions for those who want to lighten up Every traveler knows that space in a backpack is limited, so on your next trip, carry the only guide you'll ever need—this one—and take to the great outdoors with confidence.

""Every imaginable topic covered thoroughly and engagingly."" "--"Backpacker ""Townsend's knowledge is immense." --"Sierra A top-selling recipient of the "Outdoor Writers Guild Award for Excellence," "The Backpacker's Handbook "owes its success to its enormous practicality for backpackers of all skill levels, covering everything from essential techniques for every backpacking trip--such as map and compass work--to the skills needed for more remote wilderness journeys--such as how to ford rivers safely and how to choose a route through untracked terrain.

This thoroughly researched yet accessible backpacking book offers a complete view of backpacking today, exploring everything from how to plan a trip and select gear to emergency procedures and first-aid care in the field A revised, updated, and comprehensive guide to backpacking with a complete view of modern-day backpacking, The Backpacker’s Field Manual covers the best in gear, first aid, and Leave No Trace camping, and also includes chapters dedicated to trip planning, cooking and nutrition, hygiene and water purification, and more. Whether you’re about to set off on your first hike or have been camping for decades, The Backpacker’s Field Manual is an indispensable guide for trip planning strategies and also works as a quick reference on the trail for: • Back-country skills: how to forecast the weather, identify trees, bear-proof your campsite, wrap an injured ankle, and more—with over one hundred illustrations to guide you • Tricks of the trail: time-tested practical lessons learned along the way • Going ultra-light: downsizing suggestions for those who want to lighten up Every traveler knows that space in a backpack is limited, so on your next trip, carry the only guide you'll ever need—this one—and take to the great outdoors with confidence.

A photo-illustrated guide to backpacking and hiking that covers preparation, setting up camp, purifying water, dealing with weather, health and safety, insect and plant nuisances, risks on trails, hiking groups, and other related topics.

A complete guide to America's fastest growing pastime.