Never used the air bladder myself, though the utility of the thing is plain. I did use the Pathfinder tool in my first run, and built it in the second, but didn't actually use it. I did use a lot of beacons however. For example with extensive cave systems I would drop and name a beacon at the exit. Jellyshroom cave for example. Cave exit markers used their own color to make them easy to find quickly. I had so many beacons out that it was a bit of a mess in the HUD at times.
Bases and vehicles used yellow beacons Exits used red Entrances (and lifepods) used orange Points of interest above the LR* used blue Below and including the LR* used green
* I used LR as I reckon if you haven't found it you won't know what it is, so no spoilers. But if you have you'll know what I am referring to.
How'd your deep dives go JC?
No, now go away or I shall taunt you a second time!