Listicle based articles help me understand content better as a writer and as a reader. As a writer, I decide whether I should make an article a listicle or an essay depending on 2 things:

1.) The subject of that article

2.) Whether I want to talk to my audience or just share information on a particular subject I'm experienced in (in my case, trekking).

In my opinion, experiences are better understood when written as essays, and informative articles are better understood as listicles.