At Palexpo military surplus sale

Geneva, Switzerland – A trip to the opening of the Military Surplus Exhibition and sale at Palexpo today found the following must have items: antique scuba set complete with respirator, air tanks and inflatable vest; Swiss army issue chocolate; camouflage panties; and my favorite a full array of replacement parts for military issue bicycles.

Other super cool or just plain super useful gear included heavy wool blankets big enough for your bed, sturdy enough to serve as a ground cloth (CHF29-39), cat’s paws and crowbars for a fraction of the cost at the hardware store (CHF5-25), and cloth and leather gaters for snowshoeing or other snow sports (CHF5-19).

You can also find heavy-duty all-weather boots (CHF69-99) and a nice selection of wool socks and gloves.

If you happen to be Bigfoot, literally, you can pick up a gorgeous pair of black leather, insulated work boots for a song (CHF 29 but only in size 48) but hurry as I only saw a few pairs. And I almost forgot the camouflage hot-pants, for hunting season no doubt.

Of course, you can also find the usual surplus items such as military jackets, pants, tents, packs and cutlery, to outfit your 2010 adventures.

Enjoy the browsing! And remember, sales are cash only! The event runs through January 29th, open every day and evening except Sundays (check the Palexpo site for specifics).