Universally useful -- what goes into every pack?

Some things are so useful, I've got them in nearly every pack, case or kit. Here are some of mine -- What are yours?

-a knife
- cash
- a light
- watch cap
- garbage bag
- pen

I like your list. To that I would add:

Lighter
Multitool

MT/SAK
Light
Flint (non-piezo)lighter
Pen&pencil
Cash
Compass

I've never had a watch cap. What uses does it have (other than as a hat)?

Just a hat - but for its small, light cost, its a great way to warm up

Mine is a Smartwool cuffed beanie.

My favorite is the Countycomm WX Warrior Beanie (http://www.countycomm.com/warriorbeanie.html no affiliation). Super warm and easy to carry.

Knife and SAK or multitool
Canteen and cup
BIC lighter and firesteel
Rain poncho
Flashlight/headlamp
Paracord and duct tape
Bandana x2
Extra socks wool (Can also be used on hands like mittens)
Garbage bag
Standard PSK


BOATMAN
John

food - usually bars of some sort
Water.

my mininum:



mini swiss army knife, peanut lighter, flashlight, lock-blade folder

"Don't leave home without it!"

Being a Minnesotan...a hankie! I'll go without a knife, I'll go without a lighter but you'll have to pry my hankie from my cold, dead rear pocket!
-Blast

I usually carry everything from OP's list, minus garbage bag.

Add:
leatherman wave in holster (which holds Tank007 flashlight and fire steel with PJ impregnated cotton balls in a heat shrink tube)
Ball cap
bandana
Buff (http://www.planetbuff.com/how-to-wear.html)
2" wide milspec nylon belt

Speaking of bandanas, the jumbo sizes ones are about the same dimensions as a Furoshiki cloth. Now if I can just get a couple without paying shipping....

Knife. lighter, cash, powerbar, bandanna, sidearm, pen, paper, are always on me. GoBag to get home is within arm's reach...