Oh, here's one I just remembered ... have a shovel in the car! Often you may arrive at a hike to find the trailhead not plowed. Even worse, you may finish a hike (or backpack) and find yourself snowed in.
A thermos of hot cocoa or tomato soup can be a welcome treat on the summit. Don't forget the hand and/or toe warmers too, they can save you from frostbite if you're having extremity issues.
Bring on the cold!
