What is Reddit's opinion of Avalanche Essentials: A Step-by-Step System for Safety and Survival?

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There are a few courses online if you look around, ask over at r/backcountry

Check your local library for this book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GSYB74A/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1

Also, following along with your local avalanche center is a great way to learn about the dangers in your particular area.

There are nicer packs on the market, but the BCA Float is on sale right now at a few places for a pretty good price. As /u/joekrivak said, you still need a beacon and probe. First, you may not reach your rip cord in time, or may not stay on top. Second is that someone else in your party may get buried, and you will need that beacon and probe to save their life (and the shovel).

I really recommend taking an avalanche course so you can learn how to use all this gear correctly.

There are a lot of classes available in your area. We thought about driving down there to take one but they ended up offering one at a community college near me. A class really helps drill in rescue procedures. I highly recommend Avalanche Essentials by Bruce Tremper. I read the book Snow Sense before going to my class. Snow Sense is the book that was used in class.