Today we live in convenient cities with developed infrastructure and everything we need seems to be within walking distance. However, fate is always ready to cheer you up with a couple of surprises even in the most favourable places. That’s why it’s never a bad idea to carry a set of everyday items so you’re never caught off guard!

Introduction to EDC 

What is EDC? 

So, EDC abbreviation means “Everyday Carry.” In addition to your wallet, phone and flat keys, this set can include a knife for self-defence, a mini first aid kit for all occasions and other items that you can’t do without. 

Importance of having an EDC kit

An EDC kit is important for several reasons, primarily centred around preparedness, convenience, and safety. Here are some key reasons why having an EDC kit can be crucial:

  • Emergency Preparedness: An EDC kit typically includes items that can be essential during emergencies or unexpected situations. This can range from basic first aid supplies to tools for minor repairs.
  • Personal Safety: Carrying items like a flashlight, a multitool, or a personal alarm can enhance personal safety in various situations, such as walking alone at night or during power outages.
  • Convenience and Practicality: Many EDC items are practical tools that can be used in everyday situations, such as opening packages, fixing items, or even just having a pen and notepad handy.
  • Self-Reliance: Having a well-thought-out EDC kit promotes self-reliance by ensuring you have the tools and resources to handle common tasks and challenges without relying on others.
  • Customisation to Needs: An EDC kit can be customised based on individual needs and lifestyle. For example, someone who commutes by public transport might include items like a transit pass and hand sanitizer, while someone who hikes and needs camp edc might include a compass and emergency whistle.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have essential tools and supplies readily available can provide peace of mind, whether you’re at home, working, or travelling.
  • Adaptability: Your EDC kit can adapt to different environments and situations. For instance, you might adjust the items based on whether you’re in an urban or rural setting, or travelling abroad.

Overall, an EDC kit serves as a practical and prepared approach to daily life, ensuring you’re equipped to handle both routine tasks and unexpected challenges effectively.

First Step is Determining Your Needs 

To avoid lugging around a 40kg edc backpack that’s full of all sorts of stuff, it’s important to match them to the terrain you’re in and the challenges you face every day. 

Assessing your daily activities and environment 

Carefully consider what your daily activities are. Consider what you do on a typical day. Are you commuting, working in an office or outdoors? What kind of terrain are you travelling in? Your EDC should cater to these activities. 

Predict extreme situations that could interrupt your routine (car accident, heatstroke, assault etc.).

Identifying the essential items for your lifestyle 

EDC bag setup depending on your profession, hobbies, or specific needs, you might include additional items like a first aid kit, a small toolset, or specific gadgets. The key is to balance preparedness and convenience without overburdening yourself. Adapt your EDC to fit your lifestyle and the situations you typically encounter.

Urban vs. Rural 

Urban EDC will weigh an order of magnitude less than Rural EDC. Here’s why:

  • urban infrastructure means that most of the things you need will be within walking distance, eliminating the need to carry extensive supplies.
  • cities are much safer than rural areas, because the bigger the city – the more police, security cameras, security, which reduces the need to carry  some of self-defence items.
  • modern cities are very technologically advanced, which means you don’t need to carry food, special navigation tools or survival kits.
  • as said above, space and weight considerations might favour smaller, more lightweight EDC items that are easy to carry in crowded spaces.

 

Urban EDC kit

 

But in the case of Rural EDC, things get more interesting:

  • in rural areas, you may need a travel EDC kit, requiring items like outdoor survival gear, first aid kits, and tools for potential emergencies and self-defence.
  • depending on specific rural activities (hiking, farming, etc.), your EDC might include items like a multi-tool, compass, or flashlight for outdoor use.
  • cellular coverage might be less reliable, making satellite phones or emergency communication devices more essential.
  • longer distances between services mean that having essentials like water purification, extra food, and shelter options could be critical.
  • be prepared for a heavier, bulkier and more uncomfortable EDC than in urban areas.

Ultimately, your EDC should be tailored to your environment and daily activities. Many people find a hybrid approach works best, adapting their carry items based on where they’ll be spending most of their time each day.

Professional vs. Casual 

Ultimately, the best EDC gear setup is one that suits your needs, reflects your lifestyle, and ensures you’re prepared for whatever the day may bring, whether it’s in a professional or casual setting. 

The functionality of Professional EDC focuses on tools and items that are practical for work-related tasks of the wearer. It tends to be sleek, minimalistic, and often pragmatic.

Casual EDC emphasises versatility and utility for everyday tasks outside of work. It can be more rugged or relaxed, reflecting personal taste and activities.

Factors to consider which EDC to choose:

  • Environment: Your workplace and daily activities influence what tools are appropriate and useful.
  • Comfort: Your comfort level with carrying certain items regularly.
  • Style: Reflecting your personal style and preferences in your EDC setup.
  • Practicality: Ensuring that the items you carry are genuinely useful in your daily life.

Blend of both EDC types is a very good option! Some people opt for a blend of professional and casual elements in their EDC, allowing them to transition seamlessly between work and personal activities. For instance, a high-quality multitool might be both practical for professional tasks and handy during casual outings.

Key Items for an EDC Kit 

There are a number of items that should undoubtedly be present in every EDC. Such as:

  • Wallet. Keep essential cards, cash, and perhaps a small survival tool like a credit card multi-tool;
  • Phone. Essential for communication, navigation, and accessing information;
  • Dont forget your best edc knife. This can be a folding knife, a multi-tool knife useful for various tasks like opening packages, cutting ropes, or even for self-defence if legal and appropriate;
  • Flashlight. To dispel darkness in your hour of need;
  • First aid kit. You never know what’s coming your way;

Additional Items for Personalisation 

  • Fire Starter. A small lighter or waterproof matches can be crucial for warmth, cooking, or signalling;
  • Rope. Exclusively for securing items, building shelters, or emergency situations, don’t hang yourself with it;
  • Personal Defence Items. Depending on legality and personal preference, these might include pepper spray, a concealed carry permit, or a non-lethal gun. 
  • Portable Battery Charger. Ensure your devices stay charged, especially your phone for communication and navigation.
  • Watch: A reliable timepiece can be crucial if your phone battery dies.
  • Bandana or Handkerchief. Can serve multiple purposes from wiping hands to filtering debris from water.
  • Duct Tape or Electrical Tape. Wrapped around a small card or spool, it can fix gear, make repairs, or even serve medical purposes.
  • Gloves. Lightweight gloves can protect your hands during various tasks or in emergencies.
  • Small Sewing Kit. A few basic sewing supplies can repair clothing or gear.
  • Navigation Tools. A compass, map, or GPS device can help you find your way in unfamiliar areas.
  • Personal Hygiene Items. Such as hand sanitizer, tissues, or wet wipes.

 

Big EDC kit

 

Organizing Your EDC 

And of course it all needs to be packed properly! If you have a small urban EDC, a compact tactical bag will do the trick and will be very comfortable to move around with.

And if you are an adventurer and decided to walk in the wilderness, you will need a backpack at least, maybe even a 40 litre bag.

Product Recommendations

In our online shop, you’ll find a variety of useful items that will perfectly complement your EDC kit. Not only will you find the answer to the question “what is an edc knife?”, but also you will find the right one for you. For example, our Mini Kiridashi CSH is ideal for opening packages and cutting rope. Its compact size and clip on sheath make it easy to carry around.

 

Mini Kiridashi CSH from BPS Knives

 

Conclusion

That’s all, folks! From now on you know how to build the EDC of your dreams. Now let’s go, adventure is coming!