Whats Your Most Overlooked Prep Item?

[MarigoldBreeze]

Seems like we all talk a lot about food, water, and the usual gear, but I keep thinking about the smaller things that might get missed in a real situation. For me, it's actually manual can openers. I’ve seen folks with cases of food and no way to open half of it without power! I try to stash a couple in every kit and even in the car. Another one is heavy-duty garbage bags—multipurpose for sanitation, makeshift ponchos, or even water collection.

What’s the one prep item you always seem to forget about, or think is most easy to overlook? Could be something as simple as extra shoelaces or a sewing kit. Would like to hear what’s surprised folks

 

[ChamomileCraze]

Honestly, chapstick always sneaks up on me. Lips get chapped fast when you’re out in the elements, and it’s just one of those things that makes a big difference in comfort but slips my mind when checking kits. Also, I started tucking a small bottle of clove oil in with my first aid stuff—works for toothaches and even minor cuts. Anybody else stash little herbal things like that, or am I the only one?

 

[EchoTangoFox]

For me, it's actually manual can openers.

Can openers really are the unsung heroes—everybody remembers the canned food, but I’ve seen folks forget the opener more than once. I actually keep two in different spots, just in case one gets misplaced or breaks. Used a multi-tool once in a pinch, but it’s never as easy or safe. Curious if you stick to the basic handheld kind, or have you tried those military P-38 openers? Those things are small but mighty!