The Complete Walker IV by C. L. Rawlins, Colin Fletcher (2002, Paperback, Revised)

This is the fourth in Colin Fletcher's "Complete Walker" series, having been updated as gear, environmental awareness, and techniques changed. His first Complete Walker was written in the 1960's, before the Great Backpacking Craze and Gear Boom hit. This one is about as up-to-date as the ever changing backpacking gear scene will allow (although if you're looking for the VERY latest in gear to be reviewed here, this book is now a couple of years old, but the best there is for now).

This, and every previous edition are in my outdoors library, and I have no plans to change this any time soon...

I'm sorry to tell you that Colin just passed away at age 85, but in this edition he introduced another very experienced writer/backpacker to "pass the torch" for this series. As he said in his introduction, he's co-authoring this with Chip Rawlins, but the next Complete Walker, if published, will very likely be written in full by Chip.

It's interesting to read their various experiences and styles, which differ, but augment each other. Both have spent countless days and miles in the outdoors (both for pleasure and for work). Each has his own system, and gives you enough detail to make your own choices about what to pack, what to eat, which type of shelter to use, how to vary your basic gear by season and adventure, etc.

Don't leave home for the Great Outdoors without reading this book! I like it, and refer to it from time to time, even though I'm no stranger to long distance backpacking and I own and use much of the gear they talk about in this book.

There are other similar books on the market, but if I had to choose just one, The Complete Walker IV would be it.

p.s. As I understand it, Colin was struck at age 80 by a car on a country road near his California home -- shortly after this book went to press. He lingered, probably through his excellent health and strength of spirit, although he was never again able to go backpacking. I'll personally miss him and I hope that his buddy, Chip, will continue this series as updates are required.