An avalanche backpack, also known as an ABS backpack, is similar to a regular snowshoeing backpack, ski touring backpack or freeride backpack . But in addition to having practical compartments for your winter set-up, an avalanche backpack with ABS (Avalanche Balloon System, or Avalanche Balloon Security System) has a built-in airbag. The air bag in these backpacks reduces your chances of being fully buried by an avalanche and makes rescuing easier since the airbag will keep you near the surface of the avalanche. This substantially increases chances of survival, which is why in addition to an avalanche transceiver or beacon, and an avalanche shovel and probe, an avalanche airbag backpack should be a standard part of your avalanche safety equipment, whether you’re mountaineering in winter or skiing in the backcountry.