The first stretchable cords were made out of caribou gut and used by Siberian travelers around 500 A.D.  They were able to hold their belongings together as they made their way through the rough terrain of northern Russia. 

Over time, the idea of the stretchable cord was riffed on for different uses and industries - from English glider pilots to NASA to bungee jumping and beyond - all of this innovation led to the humble, ubiquitous bungee cords we all know and use today. 

Bungee cords package firewood, extension cords, hoses, lawn and garden tools, wooden dowels, and rugs. Additionally, anyone heading off on a camping trip should tote along bungee cords to secure sleeping bags, air mattresses, and fishing tackle.