essential: swiss army pocket knife
i’ve had my swiss army pocket knife since i was a sophomore in high school. i had the classic red one before this one, but was forced to throw it away upon entering a lynyrd skynyrd concert (i’m sure security confiscated much worse that night). my dad never leaves home without his. he’s always the hero when someone has a loose string on their jacket or shirt or needs help cutting ribbon on christmas. i’m not saying you need to carry one at all times, but it’s essential to have one close by during the holidays when you need a little extra to open that well-taped package. they also make great stocking stuffers.