Whether I am hunting or backpacking or just hiking, I always have at least the following basic items in my pocket or attached to my belt when in the woods:

A paracord belt lanyard with:
Fox whistle
shrink wrapped flint
compass
mini bic shrink wrapped with flint striker

Leatherman Wave or Supertool

cell phone

AA Maglite

a belt knife (Mora MG640 Clipper, or Green River 4215, or Western W-36)

XL bandana

All of the above is attached, the rest of my kit is in the pack or pouch depending on climate, area, and activity.