We always carry two flags. About once or twice a year I have a play where I throw 2.

Its very position dependent. As an R, you could easily have a hold and a rough, grounding, etc. The wings might have an illegal formation then a PI or late hit.

Any official that follows players out of bounds needs 2 flags. The umpire may one example of someone who doesn't.

Recently retired from officiating; however, my carry list was: two flags, two bean bags, two whistles,two down indicators, two writing utensils, two clips (if linesman, one clip as LJ) one coin (not a Friday night R but saved a few over the years) a count-down watches (two if BJ/FJ) and one game card.

Sounds like you need a "Batman-like" utility belt for all that stuff! :p

I'm just the opposite these days. After realizing I hadn't thrown the second flag in 2 years as the R, I stopped carrying it. I have one beanbag (mainly for momentum exception on free kicks), one flag, one whistle (although in cold weather I take a Fox 40 in case my metal Thunderer freezes), one down indicator, one wristwatch, one coin, no clips (unless I'm working L).

If I need a second flag, I'll throw my hat and get fined by my crew. Hasn't happened yet.

Just started carrying a second flag this year after a couple of illegal motions followed by a hold or roughing. Prior to carrying the backup flag, I used my beanbag for the second penalty rather than my hat.

1. All officials in my association are supposed to have two flags. I doubt all of them do.

2) I have used the flag in my back pocket twice. The first time I called a foul during a down, then had to flag a coach mouthing off afterward. The second time a B player committed a personal foul, then the A player retaliated. Both occurred this past season, my second year officiating.

So, it is rare, but it happens.