An item that I like to keep handy when I'm on the trail is a garbage bag.

Yes, a run of the mill garbage bag from the box under the sink. Not fancy, not expensive, maybe not trendy, but oh so useful. When you're cold, wet, and the wind is whipping a simple garbage bag can save the trip or your life.

Here are some of the things I've done with mine.

• Line my backpack and stuff sacks to keep my gear dry. I don't see the point in the expensive breathable GoreTex stuff sacks (if my gear's breathing, then it needs cleaning really badly!)

• Put the garbage bag over your pack to use as a rain cover.

• Use the bag as a floor in your tent vestibule area to keep your gear out of the mud and water.

• Fill it with wet gear so the rest of the stuff in your pack doesn't get soaked.

Here are some other outstanding emergency uses for garbage bags:

• Use a garbage bag as an extra layer in really lousy weather. It'll provide extra water and wind protection.

• Use a garbage bag to collect water or snow for drinking.

• Collect food in your garbage bag.

• Use for shelter.  A garbage bag tarp will provide protection from sun or rain for you.

• Sleep on it. Get better nights rest by filling your garbage bag with leaves. The bag will keep any dampness and bugs from the filling away from you.

And of course, use your garbage bag to carry out any trash that you create or find on the trail!

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Barring all of the options above, you could also make a dress out of your garbage bag.

The  Plug