The 11 Essentials

[Outlander Systems]

Typically, if you look for a list of "essentials", it's usually broken down by individual items. A relatively recent evolution of this concept is to break the gear needed into categories or groups, and plan accordingly based on individual requirements, relating to those groups.

On the onset, it seems more simplistic, and the unspecific nature of the listing allows the loadout to be custom-tailored according to one's own personal needs, rather than a catch-all, everything but the kitchen sink approach.

1. Medical
2. Shelter
3. Fire
4. Hydration
5. Communication
6. Navigation
7. Nutrition
8. Insulation
9. Sun Protection
10. Tools
11. Defense

The problem with the majority of lists, is that you aren't required to think, just buy, and you could very well be stuck with some waste. The revised and updated "11 Essentials", gives you the opportunity to personalise your planning/packing based on your foreseeable needs, with reference to the 10 groups.

*Updated for Marshall's suggestion

[MarshallDodge]

Good list but what about Defense?

[K.L. Davis]

I like to use the "Rules of Three" to determine essentials...

You can live for:

3 minutes, without oxygenated blood to your brain
3 hours, without protection from harsh environments
3 days, without water, and
3 weeks without food

While certainly note a "scientific" schedule, it does help with perspective.