121 Best EDC Gear Essentials – Be prepared for what life throws your way.
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Tell you what, guys… nothing says “prepared” like a man with the right EDC gear.
EDC (everyday carry) is more than just about your wallet and keys. It’s a lifestyle. An art form. A vehicle of self-expression.
The right EDC carry items can help you stand out from the pack of dudes that just don’t care – don’t be like those guys! You want to be prepared for what life throws your way. This could be anything from opening a beer to lighting a campfire, fixing a bicycle to dabbing spilled wine. You could also get a kit to help you explore your list of hobbies. Make sure to check out our collection of hobbies for men for some inspiration.
We get it…
What works for me may not work for you. What may be too pedestrian for me may be avant-garde for you. Take a scroll through our list of EDC items. You’re bound to find items that work for your lifestyle.
Contents
19 Best EDC Gear Essentials
Image via: Unsplash / Patrick Hendry
The best way to figure out your EDC is to determine what you need – and then weigh your options. This is where our guide to the best EDC gear comes into play. We have some tasteful, practical pieces that are bound to pique your interest.
Here are the 19 best EDC gear essentials:
Image via: Gerber
1. Gerber Dime Multi-Tool
Take your EDC to the next level with this stainless-steel multi-tool.
Image via: RovyVon
2. RovyVon 550 Lumens CREE XP-G3 S5 LED Super Bright Outdoor EDC Mini Keychain
For when you need a little more light to navigate in the dark.
Image via: Gerber
Image via: Victorinox
4. Victorinox Swiss Army Nail Clip 580 Swiss Army Knife
This Swiss Army nail clip is a great addition to any toiletry kit.
Image via: Streamlight
5. Streamlight 66118 Stylus Pro LED PenLight with Holster
Say goodbye to awkwardly stabbing the door when you forget to leave the porch light on.
Image via: Streamlight
6. Streamlight MicroStream Ultra-compact Aluminum body
A small-sized flashlight that fits in your palm and produces a powerful beam of light.
Image via: Hanks
7. Hanks Stitch Gunner Belts
A solid gun belt that will withstand abuse without breaking the bank.
Image via: LEATHERMAN
8. LEATHERMAN – Surge Heavy Duty Multitool
You never know when you’ll need a screwdriver, a glass-breaker, or even a bottle opener.
Image via: Reebow Gear
9. Reebow Gear Tactical Molle EDC Utility Pouch Gadget Belt Waist Bag with Cell Phone Holster Holder
A great EDC waist bag that will fit all of your stuff and then some.
Image via: Magpul
Image via: Reebow Gear
11. REEBOW GEAR Tactical Admin Pouch EDC Molle Military Bag Organizer
No more rummaging in the recesses for that lost multitool or pen.
Image via: Maxpedition
12. Maxpedition E.D.C. Pocket Organizer
A great way to prevent pocket clutter without dumping your favorite EDC tools.
Image via: CQR
13. CQR Men’s Combat Military Tactical Mid-Ankle Boots
Perfect for when you need both comfort and military-grade performance.
Image via: GRULLIN
14. GRULLIN Tactical MOLLE
A light-weight, yet rigid EDC belt for the serious outdoors-man.
Image via: GearOZ
15. Folding Grappling Hook
The outdoors won’t be the same with this multi-functional gravity hook. It does everything.
Image via: Limitless Equipment
16. Mark 1 Survival Kit
For the man who’s always prepared for what life throws at them.
Image via: TG
17. TG Plasma Lighter
The outdoorsman will need to produce a large flame at a moments notice.
Image via: READYMAN
18. READYMAN Medical Card
A set of tools that will instantly move from scenario to scenario.
Image via: LA Police Gear
19. Jumbo Bail Out Bag
A rugged, versatile, lightweight bug out bag with a high level of mobility
16 Best EDC Knives
Image via: Unsplash / Valdemars Magone
Simple, sturdy, and versatile…
Best EDC knives are arguably a man’s best companion.
And now, you’re thinking… the knife has outlived its usefulness. Not by a long shot. But I’ll admit that it can feel archaic sitting next to your smartphone.
Even then, what are you going to open your mail and packages with? Certainly not a butter knife…
An investment in a pocket-sized folding knife will pay off for years to come. It’s amazing how you suddenly find yourself using it all the time after you’ve bought one. We aver that you should never leave home without one.
So, which knife should you go with?
And the answer is… it depends. Different people require different things from the tools they carry. We’ll help you narrow down your options with our collection of the best EDC knives available right now. You’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.
Here are the 16 best EDC knives:
Image via: Benchmade
20. Benchmade – Mini Griptilian 556 EDC Manual Open Folding Knife
A versatile knife that exemplifies simplicity and function.
Image via: Gerber
21. Gerber GDC Money Clip w/ Built-in Fixed Blade
A discreet and portable fixed blade that can be seamlessly integrated into any daily task.
Image via: Victorinox
22. Victorinox 43323 VN43323 Fixed Blade
A simple but sophisticated way to keep your EDC knife sharp.
Image via: Western Active
23. Western Active Honey Badger Pocket Knife Flipper
A combat knife, tactical knife, camping knife, hunting knife, and an army knife – all in one package.
Image via: Columbia River Knife & Tool
24. CRKT M16-03S EDC Folding Pocket Knife
The perfect knife for rapid deployment and unshakeable safety.
Image via: Benchmade
25. Benchmade – 940 EDC Manual Open Folding Knife
A slim and stylish blade with a supremely durable anodized aluminum handle.
Image via: Spyderco
26. Spyderco Tenacious Plain Edge Folding Knife
A tough and tireless knife that’s made out of steel.
Image via: ANVIL BLADESMITHS
27. ANVIL BLADESMITHS – BULLSHARK G-10 8CR13 Knife w/Glass Breaker and Seatbelt Paracord Cutter
Sharp and durable!
Image via: Vortek
28. VORTEK Heavy Duty Folding Pocket Knife
When you need a knife with a superior grip.
Image via: Kershaw
29. Kershaw Barricade (8650) Multifunction Rescue Pocket Knife
A budget-friendly, reliable foldable knife that’s perfect for one-handed blade deployment.
Image via: Bartech
30. NEBA Keychain Knife Module
A mini utility knife that’s designed to go wherever you go.
Image via: KEKS
Image via: D2
32. Mini Pocket Knife D2 Blade
A pint-seized knife that can be worn on the neck.
Image via: Damascus
Image via: Commando
34. Commando Stag Folding Pocket Knife
A handy, little folding pocket knife that packs a punch.
Image via: Case Amber
35. Case Amber Bone XX-Changer Pocket Knife
The perfect gift for an outdoorsman.
15 Best EDC Gear Flashlights
Image via: Unsplash / William Carlson
Whether you’re experiencing a power cut, working outdoors, or going camping, you’ll need a good EDC flashlight.
So, how do you go about choosing the best EDC flashlight?
It’s simple. You should get one that’s resilient, efficient, adjustable, compact, and with a good battery life. Nothing will be able to hide from the swath of luminosity you cast upon it. We have a collection of flashlights you might want to check out.
You’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.
Here are the 15 best EDC gear flashlights:
Image via: ThruNite
Image via: Streamlight
37. Streamlight 66608 250 Lumen Microstream
A flashlight that’s all about performance.
Image via: Olight
38. Olight I3T EOS 180 Lumens Dual-Output Slim EDC Flashlight
An incredibly convenient tail switch flashlight.
Image via: LUMINTOP
39. LUMINTOP TOOL AA 2.0 EDC Flashlight
Excellent choice as a backup at home or a necessity outdoors.
Image via: ThorFire
40. ThorFire Mini Flashlight, 500 Lumen Professional EDC Light with Strobe
When you need a flashlight for your glovebox, drawer, or tent.
Image via: WUBEN
41. WUBEN 1200 Lumens LED Flashlight USB Rechargeable
A waterproof flashlight designed for the harshest conditions.
Image via: BYB
42. BYB F18 LED Tactical Flashlight
A rechargeable flashlight that’s compact and comfortable to grip.
Image via: SdeNow
43. Mini Flashlight Keychain with Micro USB Rechargeable Tiny Flashlight
It’s as tiny as it gets.
Image via: COAST
Image via: NICRON
45. Flashlight, NICRON N7 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight
Light up an entire room in a snap.
Image via: OLIGHT
46. Olight S1R Baton II
A durable, ultra-bright flashlight with the perfect grip and feel.
Image via: Nitecore
Image via: EdisonBright
Image via: NEBO
49. NEBO Slim 500 Lumen LED Rechargeable Pocket Light
When you need convenient hands-free lighting.
Image via: WISSBLUE
50. WISSBLUE X2 Military Grade Tactical Flashlight
Military-grade! That’s all we have to say.
15 Best EDC Gear Bags
Image via: Unsplash / Louis Hansel
Need something to stash all your EDC gear? Gotchu…
An EDC bag is just what the doctor ordered. The bag is meant to make it easier to carry all your “necessities”. Today, thank goodness, we have tons of options compared to the 90’s style fanny packs.
We have a collection of EDC bags that are stylish and timeless.
Here are the 15 best EDC gear bags:
Image via: Orca Tactical
51. Orca Tactical MOLLE Horizontal Admin Pouch Utility EDC Tool Bag
There’s so much more to love about it.
Image via: SOG Specialty Knives & Tools
Image via: Nicgid
53. Nicgid Sling Bag Chest Shoulder Backpack Fanny Pack Crossbody Bags
The perfect EDC bag for when you’re on a budget.
Image via: G4Free
Image via: Qcute
55. Qcute Tactical Bag
Fashionable, compact, and comfortable. What more could you ask for?
Image via: Leaper
56. Leaper Retro Messenger Bag Canvas Shoulder Backpack Travel Rucksack Sling Bag
A timeless, retro bag for the timeless man.
Image via: Unigear
57. Tactical Molle EDC Pouch Compact 1000D Multipurpose Utility Gadget Belt Waist Bag with Cell Phone Holster Holder
For the man who’s always on the move.
Image via: SHANGRI-LA
58. SHANGRI-LA Tactical Assault Gear Sling Pack Range Bag Hiking Fanny Pack
An EDC bag for outdoors enthusiasts.
Image via: 5.11
59. 5.11Tactical RUSH12 Military Backpack, Molle Bag Rucksack Pack, 24 Liter Small, Style 56892
A military backpack to conquer the great outdoors.
Image via: CAMTOA
60. CAMTOA Multi-Purpose Poly Tool Holder EDC Pouch Camo Bag Military Nylon Utility Tactical Waist Pack Camping Hiking Pouch (Black 1)
Love hiking? You’ll love this multi-purpose waist pack.
Image via: ArcEnCiel
61. ArcEnCiel Men Outdoor Tactical Bag
Keep your EDC gear organized with this outdoor tactical bag.
Image via: WATERFLY
62. WATERFLY Sling Bag
Strap this across your back and chest before you take on the world.
Image via: Gearrific
63. Gearrific Cross Body Tactical Sling Bag
This all-purpose, durable outdoor tactical bag is worth every penny.
Image via: Oakley
64. Oakley Men’s Extractor Sling Pack
An EDC bag for the active athlete who needs to mobilize quickly.
Image via: FUNANASUN
15 Best EDC Gear Wallets
Image via: Unsplash / Artem Beliaikin
The modern-day EDC wallet is a huge departure from the wallets of yore. It doesn’t waste an inch of space – beyond holding your cards and cash. You want a wallet with the right combination of flair and function. After all, a wallet is a statement piece – an accessory that speaks to your character and style. Once you see these EDC wallets, you won’t be able to live without them.
Here are the 15 best EDC gear wallets:
Image via: Fidelo
66. FIDELO Minimalist Wallet for Men – Slim Credit Card Holder
For the man who lives by the less is more mantra.
Image via: Shevrov
67. Carbon Fiber Money Clip Wallet
This handcrafted top-grain leather wallet comfortably carries all your cards and cash.
Image via: SERMAN BRANDS
Image via: TRAVANDO
69. TRAVANDO Money Clip Wallet”RIO”
A stylish, super-slim wallet to accentuate your style.
Image via: Zitahli
70. Minimalist Slim Bifold Front Pocket Wallet with Money Clip for men, Effective RFID Blocking & Smart Design
A rugged and durable wallet for the man who pushes himself to the limit.
Image via: Flipside
71. Flipside Wallets New RFID Blocking Flipside 4 Wallet
You’ll never have to worry about a bloated back pocket.
Image via: ARW
Image via: Maxpedition
Image via: Trayvax
Image via: Radix
75. Radix One Slim Wallet – Minimalist Ultralight Polycarbonate Money Clip
A wallet that’s resistant to just about anything.
Image via: Magpul
Image via: Dango
77. Dango D01 Dapper EDC Wallet
Looking for a minimalist wallet with compact function? This is it!
Image via: Savage Spartan
78. Savage Spartan Tactical Wallet
This wallet in three words… Durable. Slim. Modern.
Image via: OneTigris
79. OneTigris Tactical ID Card Holder
Badge holder, pen holder, and wallet in one convenient package.
Image via: RAPDOM
10 Best EDC gear Pens
Image via: Unsplash / Aaron Burden
Fun fact! Good old-fashioned writing is not going out of style.
You may rely more on your gadgets these days, but you probably still write more than you realize. Yep… an EDC pen is an invaluable tool for the modern man.
So, how do you pick the best pen for your EDC gear?
You want a pen that goes everywhere with you, doesn’t snap, bend, or get covered in germs from other people touching and chewing on it. Your options range from sleek and modern to rugged and tactical. See if our collection has anything that fits the bill.
Here are the 10 best EDC gear pens:
Image via: Gerber
Image via: Fisher Space
82. Fisher Space NonReflective Military Cap-O-Matic Space Pen
Zero gravity has got nothing on this mean little pen.
Image via: ATECH
83. ATECH Multifunction Pen 7 in 1 Tech Tool Pen
When you need more in a pen than just ink.
Image via: Rite In The Rain
84. Rite in the Rain All-Weather Durable Clicker Pen – Black Ink (No. 93K)
It will write through anything…
Image via: True Utility
85. True-Utility Stainless Steel Pen KeychainA refillable pen that makes for the perfect Father’s Day gift.
Image via: Columbia River Knife & Tool
86. CRKT Williams Tactical Pen: Low Profile
For when you just have to make a statement.
Image via: Valtcan
87. Valtcan Impel Titanium Bolt Pen
A beautiful and reliable pen for the discerning man.
Image via: SMOOTHERPRO
88. SMOOTHERPRO Solid Brass Bolt Action Pen
Your Johnny Hancock never looked so good.
Image via: Kozo
Image via: Ti Click
15 EDC Gear Belts
Image via: Unsplash / Erik Mclean
Know what’s boring – a normal belt!
Yeah, we get it. It holds up your pants. But if that’s all you’re getting, then you’re punching way below your weight. As an EDCer, you want to find utility and quality in every piece of gear you pick.
An EDC belt shouldn’t be limited to just pieces of metal and leather. They should come with better construction and materials, and plenty of room for extra features.
We have rounded up some EDC belts that are not only functional but downright stylish.
Here are the 15 best EDC gear belts:
Image via: Blue Alpha Gear
91. Blue Alpha Gear 1.5″ Cobra EDC Belt
Comfortable yet rigid enough to be the foundation for your EDC gear.
Image via: Elite Survival Systems
92. Elite CO Shooters Belt with Cobra Buckle, 1.5″
When you need a buckle without an equal.
Image via: CQR
93. CQR Tactical Belt (Pack of 1, 2) Assurance Nylon Webbing EDC Duty 1.5 Inches Belt
The only Tactical belt you’ll ever need.
Image via: Relentless Tactical
94. Relentless Tactical The Ultimate Concealed Carry CCW Gun Belt
A handmade concealed carry belt that won’t bend or sag.
Image via: WYUZE
95. WYuZe 2 Pack Nylon Belt Outdoor Military Web Belt 1.5″ Men Tactical Webbing Belt
The toughest gun belt you’ll ever see.
Image via: Relentless Tactical
96. The Ultimate Steel Core Gun Belt | Concealed Carry CCW Leather Gun Belt
A belt that can withstand up to 500kg without damage. Fancy that?
Image via: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear
97. Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Professional Heavy Duty Competition Belt
If you love shooting, you’ll adore this heavy-duty competition belt.
Image via: YAHILL
98. YAHILL Security Tactical Belt Combat Gear Adjustable Heavy Duty Police Military Equipment
A belt designed for law enforcement.
Image via: FEIKCOR
99. Tactical Belt Military Style Heavy Duty Belt Tactical Sports Belts
Will look good with jeans and tactical pants.
Image via: Condor
Image via: Klik Belts
101. Cobra Quick Release Buckle Men’s Tactical Belt –2 PLY 1.5″
Nylon Heavy Duty BeltIt’s not just belting up, it’s an experience.
Image via: Ares Gear
Image via: Nexbelt
103. Nexbelt Ratchet System Technology – Defender Leather EDC Gun Belt Series for Men
Perfect belt for the conceal and carry dude.
Image via: Fairwin
104. Fairwin Tactical Rigger Belt
Looking for the perfect gift for an EDCer? You can’t go wrong with this belt.
Image via: VELCRO
105. Lucky Mantis Tactical Duty Nylon Web Belt
A highly durable gun belt with a sturdy buckle to match.
7 Best EDC Fixed Blades
Image via: Unsplash / 2 Bro’s Media
A folding knife is all good.
But here’s the thing…
Nothing comes close to an EDC fixed blade when you want a knife that cannot fail you. The thing with fixed blade knives is that they don’t have any moving parts that can break. Also, complicated opening mechanisms won’t get in your way when you’re in a rush. In some states, it’s the only legal option you have. Check out our collection of fixed blades to see what they deserve a place in your own carry.
Here are the 7 best EDC fixed blades:
Image via: Cold Steel
106. Cold Steel Super Edge
Looks can be deceiving. This little workhorse will tear through anything.
Image via: MTECH USA
107. MTech USA MT-20-35 Series Fixed Blade Knife
A tasteful, well-constructed hunting knife.
Image via: Outdoor Edge
108. Outdoor Edge Razor Series Replacement Blades
A set of replacement blades for the Outdoor Edge knife.
Image via: Morakniv
109. Morakniv Eldris Fixed-Blade Pocket-Sized Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade
An award-winning pocket-sized fixed blade.
Image via: Ka-Bar
110. KA-BAR 1477CB, TDI Law Enforcement Clip
A law-enforcement blade for close-quarter encounters.
Image via: Benchmade
Image via: Ka-Bar
112. Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement Tanto Knife
The perfect little knife for concealed carry.
Best 9 EDC Gear Kits
Image via: Unsplash / Chang Duong
The Boy Scout motto, “Be Prepared” should be every man’s mantra. You can achieve a lot if you leave your house with a wallet and a smile, but what happens when life throws a curveball? It’s such moments that make us wish we were better prepared.
I know what you’re thinking…
You can’t possibly be prepared for every eventuality. But here’s the thing… you can carry the tools you need to tackle most problems.
So, what’s my point?
The right EDC kit will supply you with more than enough tools to tackle most situations. Pretty neat, huh? We have a selection of EDC gear kits that can get you out of a minor bind.
Here are the 9 best EDC gear kits:
Image via: Stealth Angel
113. Stealth Angel Compact 8-in-1 Survival Kit
This kit will stand you in good stead in any emergency situation.
Image via: bayite
114. bayite 1/2 Inch X 6 Inch Large Ferro Rods Ferrocerium Rod Drilled Survival Fire Starter
When you just have to start a fire instantly.
Image via: Pro Bike Tool
Image via: EMDMAK
116. EMDMAK Survival Kit Outdoor Emergency Gear Kit
You can’t leave this kit behind when going hiking.
Image via: BOOSTEADY
117. BOOSTEADY Pack of 10 Tactical Gear Clip Molle Web Dominators for Outdoor Hydration
Tie down any loose hiking items with the Tactical Web Dominator.
Image via: Diroca
118. Paracord Bracelet Survival Gear
A load of tools tucked into a single bracelet.
Image via: BushLore
Image via: Superesse
Image via: BAALAND
121. BAALAND Folding Camp Shovel Portable Survival Gear
Everything you need for an amazing camping trip.
More Awesome Idea Buying Guide Posts
Our collection of EDC gear can make for the perfect gift for a man. But we have more where that came from.
- Here’s a handy list of beer gifts for any occasion.
- If he loves wine, then you can check out these wine-of-the-month clubs.
- For the outdoorsman, our collection of gas grills will work a treat.
How To Pick The Best EDC gear?
Image via: Unsplash / Francisco Perez Carrasco
Ready to pull the trigger and assemble an EDC kit for yourself? Congratulations! We love men who are prepared.
So, what items go into your EDC gear?
Other than your keys, phone, and wallet, it can be pretty much anything you can imagine. You might want to stick to basics or carry purpose-made gear to solve specific problems. We have some tips to help you make an objective assessment of your needs.
Here is how to pick the best EDC gear:
1. Assess the Threats and Challenges You’re Likely to face
Image via: Unsplash / Tom Pottiger
Tailor your gear to your specific needs. You can do this by looking at the threats you’re likely to face as you go about your day. Are you likely to get mugged? Will you be walking in the dark? Do you need to open boxes frequently? Now make a list of items based on this assessment.
2. Scrutinize What You Already Carry
Image via: Unsplash / Spring Fed Images
Go over the items that you already carry with you. Assess each item to determine whether you can remove it or upgrade it to better address the challenges you listed.
3. Identify What You Can Add to Your Kit
Image via: Unsplash / Markus Spiske
Are all the challenges in your list addressed? If not, this is the time to determine what you need to address those challenges.
4. Determine How You’re Going to carry Your Gear
Image via: Unsplash / Lionello DelPiccolo
Do you need an EDC bag to carry your gear around? Make sure you choose one that makes it easier to organize your stuff so that it’s easy to find.
5. Review Your Gear Periodically
Image via: Unsplash / Ezra Jeffrey-Comeau
Don’t rest on your laurels. Your needs keep changing with time. Periodically evaluate what you’re carrying to find out if it’s still relevant to your needs.
In Conclusion
Now you know what to include in EDC gear. In case you’re still not sure, go through your list of hobbies and find out what tools could help. Make sure to go through our collection of hobbies for men. You might just pick up a new hobby and a few tools to add to your everyday carry.
