I generally carry a good sighting compass in my pack. In my pocket I usually have a loop of cord with a small knife, match case, lighter, and a small wrist compass strung on it. I've never really thought of it as carrying a spare, rather it is to make sure I always have it, even if I should become separated from my pack. But I suppose it is a spare. Like hikermore, I find that in the terrain I frequent, I rarely ever need a compass. However, when you need a compass you often need it really really bad.

I don't think you should feel sorry for posting. I thought it stimulated some worthwhile discussion.