I often wound about the wisdom of adding a compass to this essential ten. If you know how to use one and know how to use to the good map you carry with it, it makes perfect sense.

The problem I see with the common wisdom is that many people simply don't know how to use them. Whenever I see compass on a recommended list, I always wish it said "Take an orienteering class and learn how to use it. Otherwise, use only well marked trails and stay on the trail so you don't get lost."

Carrying a compass might encourage inexperienced people more likely to give into Getthereitis when in the possession of one. I'm not advocating more more people waiting for rescue, but I'll bet that in most cases, the average hiker would benefit more from sitting down for a brew up then trying to press on navigate their way out when they're lost.