How to Streamline your Dive Gear

Standardize attachment hardware.  Decide on a quick-release clip style or type then multiply it as your needs change. All attachments being the same, makes it easier for you to use it. For example, always put the male end on the BC and the female end on the accessory (or vice versa). That way, one BC clip will work for several alternative accessories, and you don't need as many clips. You can change positions more easily too.

Mount a knife. Most BC's have a place to mount a knife. If yours doesn't then find a convenient location and use a soldering iron or wood burning iron to melt small holes that match your sheath. It seals the nylon as it melts the hole.  Make sure you don't try to mount over the bladder. Smaller knives can be mounted on shoulder straps, pocket flaps and even hoses. Numerous types of mounts are available in addition to what your knife came with. 

Organize your toys. The BC is the inevitable attachment point for accessories. But there's more to it than hanging stuff randomly. Think how well accessories will be accessible when your gear is on, when the BC is inflated, or if you wear gloves. Retractor's strengths vary, so match yours with the piece of gear you are attaching. 

 Arrange things to minimize drag and entanglement hazards too. Lower on the "skirt" of the BC may be a better home for many gadgets than on the shoulders.

Upgrade the inflator. An alternate inflation regulator combines the octopus second stage with the power inflation device, making for a simpler and cleaner package. You completely eliminate your octo hose. If someone needs air you hand them your primary and you use the reg attached to your BC hose. Sometimes less is more.