Random Top Backpacking Tips and Tricks (10 items)

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  (#9) Lightweight Backpacking Stool

  When I was younger, I would have scoffed at the added weight this stool puts on your back. But I'm here to tell you, as a former pack-weight-snob, that having something to sit on at the end of a long day of hiking is akin to heaven. I can't even tell you the difference it makes to sit and not squat on a rock or the cold ground. HUGE DIFFERENCE.
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  (#1) Parachute Cord

  This stuff RULES. You can use it as rope, as cord to tie off guy lines on your tent. You can peel away skinnier threads for snares, fishing line and sewing and repair thread. This stuff is a MUST for any packer.
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  (#7) Flexible Plastic Placemat

  This thing is so lightweight and easy to stuff into your pack... and you will find a zillion uses for it out in the backcountry. Use it to put your muddy boots on in the tent. Use it for a food prep surface on the ground. Use it to play frigging cards on. It weighs nothing, takes almost no space... and I guarantee you will find a use for it.
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  (#4) Heavy Duty Trash Bag

  Sure, you can always use this to store wet clothes... but did you know you could use it as a pack cover in the rain, or a makeshift poncho? In emergency situations, you can even dig a shallow trench, line it with this and collect rainwater.

  Oh, you can also use it for trash, I guess.
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  (#10) Blacken Your Pot

  Simple stuff. Blackened cooking gear heats faster. You're welcome.
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  (#6) Small Tarp

  This should be small for weight and space reasons, unless you plan on using in the place of a tent -- which you can do, but which I've only done a few times. It tends to be a little chilly unless you are in the right clime. However, it works great when you need to wrap something up or cover something that's not in the tent with you. It can become a makeshift bear-bag of sorts, for hauling gear up into the trees away from bears and other wildlife. And you can use it as an emergency shell blanket if it's extra cold or wet out. Beware high humidity in these cases, however, as they are not breathable and can create a shell of dripping water inside that will soak your sleeping bags.

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