Paracord 550

Paracord 550 is the ultimate multitool in string form, holding a 550-pound break strength while weighing just four ounces for 50 feet. You can use it for guy lines, clotheslines, bear hangs, gear repair, or emergency tourniquets — and the seven inner strands pull apart for fishing line or sewing thread. Compared to the GSI Outdoors JavaPress at #9, paracord costs 60% less at $8 for 50 feet and serves 50 more uses. It's faster than the average survival kit, too, deploying instantly to build shelter or lash gear. No camper should leave home without 100 feet in their pack.