If you are coming to Bali don’t forget your Swiss Army knife

Travelers the world over owe a debt of thanks to their loyal Swiss Army knife. The little red friend has opened cans, bottles, cut packaging, toenails, fruit and has often meant the difference between success and failure.

One of my most memorable times, was trying to mail a large package from India to the US. It took 4 and half hours, and I had to write an essay, on the outside of the cloth covered sack. Not having a pen handy, I used the ball point pen inside my Swiss Army knife. That was 10 years ago, and its still working.

Nowadays there are other companies offering alternatives to Swiss Army knives, such as Leatherman. Personally I’m a backpacker and need light tools I’ll use, so my old knife is just the ticket. Recently, one of the companies that makes the Swiss Army knife, came out with the latest version. At 2lbs, and 85 tools, its a bit bigger than mine. I’d like to see somebody try to cut a slice of cheese with that thing. Its probably impossible, but for bragging rights, or just the ‘Oh my God you bought that thing?’ effect, you’ll win.

Visitors to Bali might want to bring a Swiss Army knife and small flashlight. In my experience I always use both, when travelling, whether its getting through a power outage, navigating a dark alley, climbing a volcano at night, cutting the mango I just bought, or the ‘safety wrapping’ off of my backpack. Be sure to bring your Swiss Army knife in your checked luggage, and don’t let Customs get their sticky hands on it, if you have the choice.