A good walking stick:
Even slush can make a mild hill difficult to climb off trail. I take my favorite stick along on most of my caching hikes anyway.

Good boots:
If you didn’t check the tread on your shoes before you leave, you just might wish you had.

Chemical Hand warmers:
The colder it is, the bigger the gloves get, the harder it is to use your hands. It’s nice to warm them up quick if you have to take off the gloves. ALSO, if you have ever tried to use batteries in cold weather you know they just don’t work as well. You can squeeze a lot more juice out of a battery if you warm it up just a little before you use them. It’s ok to store batteries in the cold (they do last longer) but don’t draw energy from a cold battery if you can avoid it. It’s nice to have a close friend who’s willing to share warmth too, but that can be hard to find sometimes.

WATER:
I didn’t see anyone mention this, it’s so obvious it shouldn’t need to be mentioned, but I’ve forgotten/lost my water bottle before. No fun to go thirsty! I usually have a small bottle with me, and a jug in the car for refills.

FOOD:
Protein bars, granola bars, candy, anything that has calories/sugar. Even if you’re on diet, you burn more energy keeping yourself warm. It’s good to have a reserve.

INK WILL FREEZE:
Always have a good old fashion pencil on hand.

Snow/Ice pick:
Some kind of well built metal object that you can beat up on ice if the need arises. The stick can usually help, but sometimes you need heavier gear.

Dry kindling/Candle/matches/lighter:
If you’re in the woods in the winter you might need to take a break and build a fire. Even if you’re in a park that doesn’t allow it, it’s better to have the option than to freeze. I’ve found a good fat candle (and some patience) can get even wet wood to light. The wax can be poured on small sticks, and it’s a constant flame. Keep it in one spot long enough and you can get a lot of things to catch that would otherwise be difficult.

Cell Phone/Radio
Communication, this probably doesn’t need to be stressed for most people, but it should be on the checklist. Backup power can be handy too, I’m looking into getting a solar charger.

String or cord:
Don’t need a lot, but you can find yourself needing a bit of string from time to time. It’s just a good multi-use item.

A GOOD BOOK!
People read in weird places. If you pull out a book a lot of people will leave you alone.

“Big Fish” Stories
No matter if you run into another geocacher or a muggle, it’s nice to have a story to share. Tell them about that impossible to find cache or the most interesting container. Spread the knowledge! Just don’t let on where the one you’re looking for is

Any thoughts?

(Which made no sense at all. But her little boy will really like it because Happy Feet is his fave movie.)