Something good just got better: the REI backpacking checklist.

If you've used it before, you're likely already a fan. If you weren't aware of it, good news—the chances that you'll leave behind your headlamp or insect repellent on a future trip just went down.

Demonstrating that we respond to user feedback, here are some changes on the new list:

• The new version mentions a bear canister, not a "food-storage" container as the old list did. The old term is perhaps more technically accurate, but conversationally we call 'em bear canisters, too, so we made this change.

• We've also added bear spray.

• Satellite communicators (such as SPOT and the DeLorme inReach) have been added to the cell phone/2-way radios line.

• To placate the peace-and-quiet crowd, we lopped off music player and headphones and instead added eyeshades and earplugs.

Plus, in the electronic version, nearly all of the items on the list are now linked to what REI calls "category" pages. For example, when you see Backpacks next to its checkbox, you can click Backpacks and be transported to REI's backpack assortment. Handy.

It's also easier than before to make a one-page printout of the list. Near the top of the checklist, click on the "printer-friendly version" link next to the printer icon. Then just click the Print button that automatically appears; no separate software or program needed.

Yes, we realize this checklist is jammed with options. We point out right at the top of the checklist that this list (and every REI checklist; we offer 27 of them) is "intentionally extensive."

No way do we expect any backpacker to carry every item on the list on any trip. We just tried to think of everything the backpacking masses might want to carry. What actually goes into your individual pack is up to you. But we think we've got some good "Oh, yeah" reminders on it. Headnet? "Oh, yeah…"

Take a look at our updated list. How did we do? Have any suggestions? Please let us know. You'll even find a couple of blank spaces at the bottom where you can write in some only-you items.

If you consider yourself an ultralight backpacker, we've thought of you, too. We've just updated the REI Ultralight Backpacking checklist, too. Updates to every REI checklist are coming soon. By the way, if you have any suggestions for things we could add or extract from our checklists, please leave us a comment.

Meanwhile, it's never too early to start dreaming about and planning for your next backcountry adventure. Use the new list to jump-start your imagination.