Chris Townsend (Granton-on-Spey, Scotland), an internationally recognized rough-terrain hiker, is the author of several books, including Wilderness Skiing and Winter Camping and Backpacker's Handbook, Second Edition.

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)

Introduction: Into the Wilderness
1. Preparing for the Trail
Fitness
The Art of Walking
Going Alone
Slackpacking and Fastpacking
Planning
2. The Load on Your Back
Weight
Checklists
Choosing and Buying
Final Thoughts
3. Footwear and Wilderness Travel
About Footwear
Footwear Types
Fitting Boots and Shoes
Footwear Materials and Construction
Footwear Models and Choices
Care of Footwear
Foot Care
Socks
Gaiters
Overboots
Campwear
Trekking Poles and Staffs
Ice Axes
Crampons
Skis and Snowshoes
4. Carrying the Load: The Pack
Types of Packs
Suspension Systems
Fitting the Pack
Packbags
Materials
Durability
Packing
Putting on the Pack
Pack Care
Pack Accessories
5. Keeping Warm and Dry: Dressing for the Wilderness
Heat Loss and Heat Production
The Layer System
The Vapor-Barrier Theory
Legwear
Headgear
Gloves and Mittens
Bandannas
Carrying Clothes
Fabric Treatment and Care
6. Shelter: Camping in the Wilderness
Bivouac Bags
Tarps
Groundsheets
Tents
Pitches and Pitching: Minimum-Impact Camping
Tent Care
Wilderness Shelters
Snow Caves
Sleeping Bags
Sleeping Pads
Other Comforts
7. The Wilderness Kitchen
Food and Drink
Water
The Campfire
Stoves
Utensils
Siting the Kitchen
8. Comfort and Safety in Camp and on the Trail
Light
Health and Body Care
Equipment Maintenance and Repair
In Case of Emergency
Office
Binoculars and Monoculars
Photography
Entertainment
9. On the Move: Skills and Hazards
Finding the Way
Coping with Terrain
Minimizing Impact
Wilderness Hazards
Dealing with Animals
Hunters
A Final Word
1. Equipment Checklist
2. Further Reading
3. Resources
4. Metric Conversions
Index