Re: The NEW Ten Essentials

I also carry a hammock and tarp. But not in the winter. Then I have a bivy and avalanche shovel for making a snow cave if needed.

That is why I think the so-called "ten essentials" need to be revised to focus on essential needs rather than specific equipment. You need the ability to stay warm and dry. That could mean a tent, a hammock, tarp, a bivey, a space blanket, a shovel for making a snow cave, or just the ability to construct an evergreen bough lean-to, depending on where you are going and the conditions. It may may also mean dry clothing and the ability to start a fire.

Listing equipment instead of needs as an essential can only be done if you are listing the essentials for a particular circumstance. For a general guide, it is better to list the essnetial needs that have to be coverd first, then the possible equipment alternatives for fullfilling those needs.