Going through my bug out bag again today, I realized I’ve never really settled on a decent backup for clean water if my main filter fails. Have iodine tabs, but I’m not fond of the taste, and boiling isn’t always an option on the move. Does anyone keep a compact secondary option that actually works in a crunch?

Also started wondering what else people tend to forget about or swap out, especially as needs change. For example, I swapped out some first aid gear for more trauma-specific stuff last year after realizing how much basic bandaids and ointment I already carry every day. I’m also curious if anyone packs natural remedies or essentials that might get overlooked—things outside the usual antiseptics and over-the-counter meds. Arnica or activated charcoal, anyone?

Feels like every time I revisit the bag, I spot something missing or that could be improved. What’s your “I really should add this” item, or what did you realize you’d forgotten during a real test? Always looking to tighten things up, so would love to know what others see as the “most overlooked” piece of kit.