Beacon, Shovel, Probe, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons. These are items that you should bring on any of your outings where you'll be in technical terrain. The problem I've had in the past is that this all adds up to weight and space in your pack, which slows me down. Fortunately, with the advancements made with ski mountaineering gear, I can stash this gear in my pack on any outing, even if I don't know that I'll need it -- and I won't suffer a weight penalty.
