For the last 30 years I’ve been carrying what I call a “blue bag”.
It’s a travel kit with three zippered compartments. I put my first-aid kit , toiletries, flashlight, cup, spoon, Swiss Army knife, compass, lighter, water purification and all other essential items in it.
I had gotten tired of having lots of small items to look for every time I wanted to go hiking. There’s nothing worst than opening your pack only to find out you have forgotten to bring something important. So instead I put all of those items into this one bag so I would not leave them at home.
Another advantage of having everything in one bag is knowing you have a majority of the ten essentials that you will need. My bag has six of the ten essentials.
1. Compass
2. Headlamp: Plus extra batteries
3. Sun protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen
4. First aid kit
5. Knife and repair kit
6. Matches, lighter
Before each trip I take inventory of items in the bag to make sure I have restocked what I may have used.
Not only do I take it hiking, but also on vacations and any trip away from home. I keep it in my truck so I know I have them if needed. When hurricanes, tornadoes or natural disasters are forecasted this gives me peace of mind knowing those small but critical items are taken care of. See Preparing for a Hurricane.