Put away those bulky books and monster manuals!
For a generation, the Basic Essentials® series has been as much a part of the outdoors experience as backpacks and hiking boots. Information-packed tools for the novice or handy references for the veteran, these volumes distill years of knowledge into affordable and portable books. Whether you're planning a trip or thumbing for facts in the field, Basic Essentials® books tell you what you need to know.
Discover how to
build a fire, even in wet weather
select and use your camping gear
cook quick and tasty meals in the outdoors
rig a campsite tent with the four basic knots and hitches
use a map and compass to master the fundamentals of backcountry navigation

This new edition is packed with essential information for the camping novice, as well as a quick refresher for the veteran, with an emphasis on the all-important skills. Readers will discover how to select and use their camping gear effectively; build a fire quickly and efficiently, even in wet weather; use the right cutting tools; cook quick and tasty meals in the outdoors; rig a snug camp with four basic knots and hitches; and use a map and compass to master the basics of backcountry navigation. With ample illustrations, it covers camping gear, how to select it and how to use it, including: how to measure a sleeping bag, what kinds of boots to look for, what kinds of packs to use, and what kind of ax is handy. Easy-to-use and portable, this book should be in every backpack.

Cliff Jacobson is one of North America's most respected outdoors writers and wilderness canoe guides. He is a professional outfitter for the Science Museum of Minnesota, a canoeing consultant, and the author of more than a dozen top-selling book son camping and canoeing.