Must be bored but I think after the last weekend when I went hiking with a group I need to pass on the these tips and tricks.
1. You don't need a trowel or in the case on the last weekend a fold out shovel. I thought the guy must have been going to dig a fox hole. A metal peg from your shelter system is perfectly adequate. Carry one of those L shaped ones. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K71MBXQ?psc=1
2. Carry your duct tape for repairs wrapped around the top of your poles just below the grips. I have a piece, long enough to go around my 13+ boots at least twice on each pole. Used one on the weekend to hold together someone else's boot for the last 6 miles of the walk. Very handy and strong stuff.
3. Lastly never, or if you like a laugh please do, go for a walk in a tropical rainforest with someone afraid of leeches. Laughed so much I'm sure that on at least one occasion my shorts were wet by more than precipitation alone.
Please keep your tip and tricks coming because I'm sure even the most experienced hikers will be sure to find at least one they didn't know, let alone the less experienced walkers.