This is where I like to start; a good, well-built knife. While it might be a little bulky, and not all of its implements are useful on the trail, Victorinox does manufacture a variety of knives to suit the individual's taste. I personally like the saw best, but you never know what you might need, so I take the big one. I rides in my pack, and I hardly notice the weight.

My boots. A good pair of boots will make the difference between a pleasant experience and a bunch of blisters. Waterproof, too.

Great for cactus thorns. I've gotten a few needles out of dogs' muzzles that have gone sniffing around cacti. Very useful.

Just a standard first aid kit- any light one would do. Bandaids, neosporin, and such. Preferably a light one that will fit in a butt pack.

A great pack with enough room for your gear.

I use a 6 foot length of bamboo for my hiking pole. But, if I were going to go and spend my money on a pair, it would be something like this. Anti-shock for the win!

Sunscreen! Self explanatory

Expensive, but spectacular. A little on the heavy side.

Great to have in a pinch. One at a time, of course :)