Video Roundup — June 9, 2026
3 hand-picked videos from top outdoor creators.
What are The Ten Essentials? || REI
REI
Hit the trail prepared! Learn the fundamental gear every adventurer needs to safely and confidently explore the backcountry, ensuring your next outdoor escape is unforgettable for all the right reasons.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-Ae6OKjb6I
How to Use a Compass || REI
REI
Master the ancient art of navigation and unlock a world of outdoor exploration. This essential guide will equip you with the skills to confidently chart your course, no matter where your adventures take you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cF0ovA3FtY
All the Gear I Bring Backpacking (after years of testing!)
Miranda Goes Outside
Miranda’s years on the trail have refined her kit to perfection. Discover the essential gear that stands up to the wild, meticulously tested and proven.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNt_0MYH4WE
<!-- seo-rank-booster:v1 -->Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important backpacking gear essentials?
The most crucial backpacking gear essentials are often summarized as The Ten Essentials, which include navigation tools, a headlamp, sun protection, a first-aid kit, and an emergency shelter. Beyond these safety items, your "big three"—your backpack, shelter, and sleep system—form the foundation of your kit. Proper planning ensures you have the right gear for your specific trip's conditions and duration.
What is the purpose of The Ten Essentials?
The purpose of The Ten Essentials is to ensure you can safely respond to an emergency and comfortably spend an unexpected night outdoors. This standardized gear list, covering navigation, insulation, and hydration, is the cornerstone of backcountry safety. Carrying these items on every trip, from a short day hike to a multi-day trek, significantly reduces risk and improves preparedness.
How do I choose a backpacking shelter?
Choosing a backpacking shelter depends on factors like trip length, climate, and the number of occupants. For solo hikers, ultralight trekking pole tents offer significant weight savings. For couples or those wanting more space, a two-person model provides an excellent balance of weight, room, and durability. Always consider a tent's weather resistance, packed size, and ease of setup relative to your planned adventures.
Is a GPS device better than a map and compass?
While a GPS device is convenient, it's not inherently better than a map and compass because it relies on batteries, which can fail. The best practice is to carry both as part of your navigation essentials. Master using a map and compass as a reliable, fail-proof backup, ensuring you can find your way even if your electronic device malfunctions.
Related on Bucketlist Field Guide
- The Ultralight Shelter Revolution: Trekking Pole Tents in 2026 — Dive deep into modern ultralight shelters, a key component of any backpacking gear list.
- Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L — See our in-depth review of a top-tier ultralight pack, one of the foundational "big three" essentials.
- Jetboil Stash Cooking System — Explore how an efficient cook system can elevate your backcountry experience and save pack weight.
- ZOLEO Satellite Communicator — Learn about modern navigation and emergency communication tools that build upon The Ten Essentials.
- Presidential Traverse — Discover a challenging multi-day trek where having reliable backpacking gear is absolutely critical.