Rotated a few things in mine after the past year. Kept the basics—multi-tool, water filter, first aid, flashlight (with spare batteries), and a couple of protein bars. I did add a compact crowbar (just one from the hardware store, nothing fancy) after seeing some of the blocked routes during protests last year. Also, switched out my old face covering for a better mask that’s good for both dust and crowds, and tossed in a small bottle of pepper spray.
One thing I realized: cash is getting trickier to use in some spots, but it’s still in my bag. Tucked in an old phone charger and one of those cheap “burner” phones too, just in case. Didn’t really update my water, though I’m thinking about adding some extra purification tablets. Has anybody tried those new UV water purifiers? Wondering if they’re worth the extra weight compared to tabs.
For food, I stick to a couple of high-calorie bars and dried fruit, but I’m thinking about switching to those military rations—they last forever, but
