I was thinking that rope could be introduced to the game. It could be made from hemp or the plant fibres from harvesting certain crops. Its use would be to lead animals around (once domestication of animals is implanted). Perhaps it could also be used with straw? Take 10 things of straw and a rope, and then tie them together. Thus it would condense 10 items into one item and you can break that item apart whenever you need a piece.
Just some ideas, feel free to add more of course!