A good, lightweight compass that WORKS. I have several but my current favorite IIRC is a Brunton. It's a little round plastic job without all that extra gadgetry and bulk so common on many compasses found in stores. It liquid filled, resolves quickly, and stops there (no spinning).
Second is my Mini-Mag 2-AA flashlight. If the moon is below the horizon, I can't see the compass without a light. I would rather sleep in my bed when the hunt is over. This combo has seen me back many times. If I go out in unfamiliar country, I take my Garmin Etrex HC.
Of course these things are not absolutely necessary to kill game animals, but they sure are nice when it gets real dark in the woods.
