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.TRICKS OF THE TRAIL-time-tested practical lessons learned along the wayGOING ULTRALIGHT-downsizing suggestions for those who want to lighten upEvery 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.