Reading through old journals and manuals, it always strikes me how certain essentials rarely get mentioned these days. Everyone talks about water, food, and fire, but what about the small things that make all the difference when the chips are down? One of mine is simple: quality needles and heavy thread. If you've ever tried repairing boots, coats, or even a torn pack out in camp, you know how critical this can be for long-term survival.

I keep a small sewing kit in every bag, with various needle sizes and waxed thread. It weighs next to nothing, but it's saved my gear more than once. Also, a couple of fish hooks stashed in the kit don’t hurt.

Curious what others keep in their kits that’s often overlooked by mainstream lists. Is there one item you’d never want