Get in gear
Lylah M. Alphonse, Globe Staff, 12/09/01

Watch where you're going

With the Timex Expedition Compass Watch, you'll know if you're on time, of course, but also if you're on track -- or at least headed in the right direction. There is a built-in compass as well as Indiglo light, timer, alarm, and stopwatch. It costs about $50 at REI stores and online at www.rei.com

Blanket security

A 4¼-by-7 foot emergency blanket folds up into an east-to-carry, ¼-inch thick, 2-ounce packet that won't leave you in the cold. When wrapped snugly around you, the blanket retains up to 80 percent of your body heat. It's rainproof, windproof, and completely reusable. Available for about $5 through Magellan's catalog (800-962-4943) and Survivor Industries (800-263-6818).

Inside-out idea

Need to pack light? Reversible clothing is a great way to save on space. A floral dress from TravelSmith is made of polyester crepe and weighs just 18 ounces. It reverses to a solid navy blue that you can dress up or down for almost any occasion. Wrinkles are not a problem. It's on sale for $69 in the TravelSmith catalog (800-950-1600) and online at www.travelsmith.com

Lylah M. Alphonse's e-mail address is lalphonse@globe.com.