Bill, I think it fits right in with my original intent: it's backup gear people carry, they just don't know it because it's in your pack.

I tend to do the same, and toss in some extra stuff if I know I've got a rookie (or an incredibly disorganized veteran) backpacker with me. It's sometimes an extra plastic spoon, or a pair of socks, or a mug, or a sweater or down vest. Because, yes, I've had a guy come up to me at supper and say, "Umm, I don't know how to say this, but I guess I forgot my bowl and spoon, heh, heh..."

I find I do this more often with people who have their own gear. If they're relying on loaner gear, I've got more control: I know my spare pack has a poncho, a small first aid kit, eating and cooking utensils, and so forth already in it when I give it to them at the trailhead and watch/teach as they pack it up.