EDC for Beginners – Everyday Carry (EDC) refers to the items we carry with us daily to be prepared for various situations and challenges.
EDC encompasses both essential items and specialized tools that can prove invaluable in emergencies, daily tasks, or even crisis situations.
In this article, we’ll outline what should be included in a beginner’s EDC kit, the most important items, how to choose them, and how to tailor them to your individual needs.
What is EDC?
EDC is not just a collection of items you carry with you; it’s also a philosophy of preparation and self-sufficiency. EDC includes tools that aid in daily life, such as keys, a wallet, and a phone, but also items that can be crucial in unexpected situations, like a knife, flashlight, or first aid kit. A key aspect of EDC is personalization—each kit should be customized to fit the user’s unique needs and lifestyle.
Essential EDC Items
Wallet
The wallet is one of the most important elements of EDC. It should be compact yet large enough to hold essential documents, payment cards, and cash. Consider wallets with RFID protection to guard against data theft from payment cards.
Keys
Keys are an indispensable part of the daily kit. Investing in a keychain or key organizer helps keep things orderly, prevents noise, and avoids pocket damage. Multi-functional key tools, combining a bottle opener, screwdriver, or file, can also be beneficial.
Phone
The phone is the modern command center. Beyond communication, it functions as a navigation tool, planner, and can store medical information or emergency contacts. Ensure you have a good protective case and an additional power bank to stay accessible.
EDC Knife
A knife is one of the most versatile tools in EDC. It can be used for opening packages, preparing food, and in emergencies. When selecting a knife, consider its size, blade material, and locking mechanism. Folding knives are popular for their compactness and ease of carry.
Flashlight
A flashlight is an invaluable part of EDC, especially in emergencies. Modern LED flashlights are small but extremely powerful. Look for models with adjustable brightness and strobe mode, which can be used for signaling in crises.
Pen
A pen is a simple yet highly useful tool. The ability to jot down information, write a phone number, or sign documents can be crucial. Choose pens with durable refills and a sturdy construction.
Notebook
A small notebook complements the pen well. It can be used for recording important information, making to-do lists, or planning the day. An EDC notebook should be compact but large enough to hold essential notes.
Additional EDC Items
Multitool
A multitool combines various tools such as pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, and bottle openers. It is incredibly versatile and can replace multiple single tools. When choosing a multitool, consider its compactness, build quality, and number of functions.
First Aid Kit
A small, portable first aid kit is an essential tool for emergencies. It should include basic bandages, adhesive strips, gauze, and a disinfectant. Adding pain relievers, antihistamines, and any personal medications is also a good idea.
Paracord
Paracord, or parachute cord, is an incredibly strong and versatile material with many uses. It can be used for repairs, building shelter, or even as makeshift shoelaces. Carrying a few meters of paracord, perhaps as a bracelet or keychain, is worthwhile.
Personal Hygiene Items
A small personal hygiene kit, including antibacterial wipes, a tiny bottle of hand sanitizer, or a folding toothbrush, can be very useful in daily situations. It helps maintain hygiene in various conditions.
Emergency Tools
Emergency tools, such as a whistle, mini survival kit, or fire starter, can be invaluable in crises. While not everyday items, having them in your EDC kit can significantly increase your sense of security.
Personalizing Your EDC
Assessing Needs
Personalizing EDC starts with analyzing your own needs and lifestyle. Before selecting specific items, consider the situations you are most likely to encounter, where you spend most of your time, and your priorities.
Choosing Items
Once you’ve identified your needs, choose items that best meet your requirements. There is no one-size-fits-all EDC kit; everyone should customize their kit to their specific needs. It’s important not to overload your kit—EDC should be functional but not cumbersome.
Testing and Modifying
Personalizing EDC is an ongoing process. After assembling your kit, test it in daily situations and make adjustments as needed. Over time, you can add new items or replace those that have proven less useful.
Selecting and Purchasing EDC Items
Quality and Durability
When choosing EDC items, focus on quality and durability. Everyday items must be robust and reliable to serve you well over time. Investing in products from reputable brands ensures high-quality craftsmanship.
Compactness
Compactness is a key aspect of EDC. Items should be small and lightweight enough to carry comfortably. Opt for multi-functional tools that combine several functions to save space.
Accessibility
EDC items should be easily accessible. Whether carried in a pocket, bag, or backpack, you need quick and easy access to them. Organizers and cases can help keep things orderly and ensure you can find what you need quickly.
EDC and Safety
Self-Defense
EDC can include self-defense items such as pepper spray, a tactical pen, or a kubotan. It’s crucial to know how to use these tools and understand the legal regulations regarding their carry.
First Aid
Having a basic first aid kit in your EDC can be crucial in emergencies. Taking a first aid course to know how to respond to injuries or sudden illnesses is also recommended.
Signaling
A flashlight with a strobe function, an emergency whistle, or a signaling mirror are tools that can help attract attention in emergencies. Know how to use these tools and keep them with you at all times.
EDC While Traveling
Adapting the Kit
Travel, whether short or long, requires adapting your EDC kit. Consider the destination’s specifics, climate, and local regulations regarding carrying certain items.
Documents and Finances
While traveling, it’s essential to carry important documents such as a passport, payment cards, and cash. Also, protect against theft with an RFID wallet or hidden pockets.
Survival Tools
In travel, especially in the outdoors, additional survival tools like a compass, water filter, or mini repair kit can be useful. Basic hygiene items and medications are also good to have.
EDC and Lifestyle
EDC in the City
Urban dwellers have different needs compared to those living in rural areas or mountainous regions. An urban EDC kit might include tools for everyday tasks like a multitool, a small flashlight, or a power bank.
EDC in the Wilderness
Those living in rural areas or frequently outdoors may need more advanced tools like a survival knife, first aid kit, or paracord. Consider also items that aid in navigation.
EDC and Hobbies
Hobbies and interests can also influence EDC contents. Photographers might add spare batteries, memory cards, or lens cleaning cloths. Cyclists might include a mini tool kit for bike repairs.
Example EDC Kits
Minimalist Kit
- RFID wallet
- Key organizer
- Phone with power bank
- Small folding knife
- Mini LED flashlight
- Tactical pen
- Pocket notebook
Urban Kit
- RFID wallet
- Keychain
- Phone with power bank
- Multitool knife
- LED flashlight with brightness adjustment
- Pen and notebook
- Small first aid kit
- Personal hygiene items
Survival Kit
- RFID wallet
- Keys with multitool
- Phone with power bank
- Survival knife
- Tactical flashlight
- Paracord bracelet
- First aid kit
- Compass
- Fire starter and fire-making kit
Summary
An EDC kit is not just a collection of items but a philosophy of preparation and self-sufficiency. The choice of tools depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and daily challenges. It’s important for the kit to be functional, compact, and tailored to specific situations you may encounter.
Investing in high-quality, durable items and regularly testing and modifying your EDC kit will ensure you are prepared for anything life throws your way.
