Gear I Always Carry But Almost Never Use

Why would anyone carry gear they almost never use? In ultralight backpacking, one of the core ideas is “don’t pack your fears” — so why do certain rarely used items still earn a permanent place in my pack? In this video, I walk through eight pieces of backpacking gear I carry on every trip, rarely use, and still think are worth bringing along. These aren’t the obvious safety items like bear spray or repair kits. Instead, they’re small, quiet pieces of gear — most weighing around an ounce — that provide margin when conditions don’t go as planned. From unexpected cold and high winds to navigation issues and true emergencies, this is the gear that almost always comes home unused… and that’s exactly why I’m glad it’s there. Gear discussed in this video includes: • Patagonia balaclava: https://www.patagonia.com/product/bal... • Fire starter (Lite My Fire): https://amzn.to/3Nrfa2y (SOL): https://rei.pxf.io/55WBaN • Mini carabiners (Nite Ize): https://rei.pxf.io/LKjYaM • Extra cordage (HMG): https://alnk.to/btqRX0V Lawson Equipment: https://www.lawsonequipment.com/produ... • Knife (SAK Classic): https://rei.pxf.io/9LmBG3 • Compass (Silva): https://amzn.to/4jsa7ev • SAM splint: https://rei.pxf.io/19dLBg • Blood-clotting sponge: https://rei.pxf.io/e1ZMXg If you backpack, hike, or spend time in remote places, I’d be curious to hear your thoughts: what gear do you carry that rarely gets used, but you wouldn’t leave behind? Thanks so much for subscribing — I really appreciate it. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some of the links in this description are affiliate links, which means I will receive a small commission if you purchase an item after clicking on the links. This comes at no extra cost to you and will help this channel to continue producing videos with the goal of inspiring people to get out and enjoy the wilderness. Thanks for your support!