That is definitely a valid concept, Jim. It also jives with the military concept of 1st line - 2nd line - 3rd line equipment:

1st line: bare minimum gear to survive & fight another day. Never ever leaves your body. Examples: knife, sidearm, trauma kit, compass, minimal water (maybe), etc. Carried in pockets or a dedicated belt that stays on no matter what.

2nd line: main equipment to carry out the mission. Examples: spare magazines, explosives, etc. Carried in load-bearing gear that can be ditched if necessary though you wouldn't want to ditch it if not forced to.

3rd line: longer-term items for comfort or sustainment. Examples: sleeping bag, extra food, spare clothing, etc. Carried in a backpack or pouch that is easy to ditch.

Of course you must adjust the equipment list & carrying methods based on your mission: military vs. civilian, area of operations, environment, that kind of thing. But your thinking seems to be along these lines, and it has been borne out through others' experience.