I think the cord for the shelter should not have to count as an item, many shelters have the cords attached.

As far as a head lamp goes, I use mine almost every day, around the house, at work, camping. It has become such a useful tool I just don't see going without. I have a tiny LED cord lock light that replaces my main cord lock on my pack to see gear inside the pack. I really like multipurpose items. Like the poncho tarp, rain gear and shelter rolled into one, same with the trekking pole.