When it was first published in 1998, The Backpacker"s Field Manual set the standard for comprehensive backpacking books. Now exhaustively updated to offer a more complete view of backpacking today, it covers the latest developments in gear—such as Global Positioning Systems and ultralight hiking equipment—first aid, and Leave No Trace comping, and includes a chapter devoted to outdoor leadership resources and basics. Beginners and experienced hikers alike will find this book indispensable for trip planning strategies and also as a quick reference on the trail for: BACKCOUNTRY SKILLS—how to forecast the weather, identify trees, bear-proof your campsite, wrap an injured ankle, and more--illustrated with more than 100 line drawings. TRICKS OF THE TRAIL—time-tested practical lessons learned along the way GOING ULTRALIGHT—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.