My quick link snapped on a steep climb outside Flagstaff

I was about 15 miles from my car when my chain broke on a rocky section. I had a spare quick link in my bag, but I didn't check it before I left. The one I had was old and it gave out after I put it on. I had to walk the bike back to the trailhead in the dark. Does anyone else make a point to check the age of their spare parts before a ride?