Being prepared for emergencies is crucial, and having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re venturing into the great outdoors or simply want to be prepared for unexpected situations in your everyday life, having a well-stocked every day carry (EDC) can provide you with the tools and resources you need to handle various challenges. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive every day carry list for survival, ensuring you have the essentials to navigate any situation.
Key Takeaways:
- Stay prepared for emergencies with a well-stocked every day carry (EDC) kit.
- Ensure your EDC includes essential items like keys, wallet, and ID for identification purposes.
- A reliable multitool and folding knife are crucial tools for various tasks in survival situations.
- Don’t forget to include a cell phone and charger in your EDC for communication and emergency assistance.
- Water, light, and fire essentials like a steel water bottle, lighter, and EDC flashlight are essential for survival.
Keys, Wallet, and ID
Your keys, wallet, and ID are essential items that should always be with you in case of an emergency. These everyday carry items serve multiple purposes and can greatly aid in survival situations.
Keys provide access to your home, car, and other important locations. They are not only essential for security but also for mobility. Keep them organized and easily accessible by attaching them to a keychain or lanyard.
| Essential Items: | Functions: |
|---|---|
| Keys | Provide access, security, and mobility |
| Wallet | Store identification, cash, and cards |
| ID | Quickly prove your identity |
Your wallet serves as a portable storage for important documents, such as your driver’s license, credit cards, and emergency contact information. Having identification readily available can assist first responders and authorities in case of an emergency.
Remember, it’s important to choose a functional, durable, and versatile or low-profile wallet that can accommodate all your necessary cards and cash while being compact enough to fit comfortably in your pocket or bag.
Make it a habit to double-check that you have your keys, wallet, and ID with you whenever you leave your home. These small items can make a significant difference in your ability to navigate and survive unexpected situations.
EDC Multitool and Folding Knife
An EDC multitool and folding knife can be lifesavers in emergency situations, offering versatility and functionality. Whether you find yourself in need of a quick repair, opening packages, or even self-defense, these tools are essential for your survival EDC.
When selecting an EDC multitool, look for one that is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you at all times. The Gerber Dime, for example, is a popular choice with its various tools such as pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, and more. It’s a practical tool that can handle a wide range of tasks.
| EDC Multitool | Folding Knife |
|---|---|
| Gerber Dime | OKC Rat 1 |
Similarly, a folding knife is a must-have item in any survival EDC. It can be used for self-defense, preparing food, cutting rope, and countless other tasks. The OKC Rat 1 survival folding knife is a reliable option known for its durability and ease of use.
Remember, these tools are only effective if you know how to use them safely. Take the time to practice and familiarize yourself with their functions before relying on them in an emergency situation.
Stay Prepared with EDC Multitool and Folding Knife
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile and functional
- Gerber Dime multitool
- OKC Rat 1 survival folding knife
Having an EDC multitool and folding knife as part of your everyday carry for survival can provide you with the tools you need to handle unexpected situations. Whether it’s a quick repair, self-defense, or other tasks, these versatile tools are indispensable in an emergency.
Remember, always prioritize safety and proper usage when handling tools of any kind. With the right knowledge and preparedness, you can confidently face whatever challenges come your way.
| EDC Multitool | Folding Knife |
|---|---|
| Gerber Dime | OKC Rat 1 |
Cell Phone and Charger
Having a cell phone and charger with you ensures communication and access to helpful survival apps. In emergency situations, a cell phone can be a lifeline, allowing you to call for help or reach out to loved ones. Additionally, many survival apps provide valuable information like weather updates, first aid guides, and navigation tools. To keep your cell phone powered up, always carry a reliable charger that is compatible with your device.
When choosing a cell phone, opt for a rugged and waterproof model that can withstand harsh conditions. Look for a phone with a long battery life and the ability to work in remote areas. It’s also wise to invest in a durable case that provides added protection against drops and impacts.
Remember to regularly check your cell phone’s battery life and make sure your charger is in good working condition. Consider keeping a portable power bank as a backup in case you don’t have access to electricity. By being prepared with a cell phone and charger, you can stay connected and informed during any survival situation.
Water, Light, and Fire
Water, light, and fire are essential elements for survival, and having the right tools to access them is crucial. In this section, I will discuss the importance of carrying a steel water bottle, lighter, and EDC flashlight as part of your everyday carry for survival.
A durable and reliable steel water bottle is an essential item for any survivalist. Look for one made of stainless steel, as it is sturdy enough to withstand rough conditions. A steel water bottle ensures you have access to clean drinking water wherever you go.
| Essential Water, Light, and Fire Tools | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|
| Steel Water Bottle | Hydro Flask, Klean Kanteen, Stanley |
Fire is another vital resource in survival situations. A reliable lighter, such as the Ronson Jetlite, is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your everyday carry kit. Having a dependable lighter ensures you can start a fire for warmth, cooking, or signaling in emergency situations.
| Fire Starting Tools | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|
| Lighter | Ronson Jetlite, Bic Classic |
Lastly, an EDC flashlight is essential for illuminating your surroundings and signaling for help during low-light or dark conditions. The Olight i3T EOS is a compact and reliable flashlight that provides a strong beam of light for various purposes, including navigation, searching for supplies, and self-defense.
| EDC Flashlight | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|
| Flashlight | Olight i3T EOS, Fenix LD22, Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA |
Having these essential tools in your everyday carry can make a significant difference in survival situations. With a steel water bottle, reliable lighter, and EDC flashlight, you’ll be better equipped to access these crucial elements and increase your chances of staying safe and prepared.
Writing Tools and First Aid
Writing tools and first aid items are vital for documenting information and attending to injuries in emergency situations. When it comes to recording important details, a rainproof pen like the Rite in the Rain EDC Pen is an excellent choice. Its waterproof ink ensures that your notes won’t smudge or fade, even in wet conditions. Pair it with a notebook that features rainproof paper, such as the one from Elan Publishing, to create a reliable and durable writing setup.
In addition to writing tools, a mini first aid kit is essential for addressing injuries. The Adventure Medical Kits Hiker Kit is a compact and portable option that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other necessary items. It’s important to have basic first aid supplies on hand to treat wounds, reduce the risk of infection, and provide immediate care until professional help is available.
The Importance of Writing Tools and First Aid
When faced with an emergency, being able to document important information is crucial. Whether it’s recording your location, jotting down critical details, or leaving messages for others, writing tools allow you to communicate and stay organized. Similarly, first aid items play a vital role in addressing injuries and providing immediate care until professional medical assistance can be obtained.
By including rainproof writing tools like a pen and notebook and carrying a mini first aid kit, you can be better prepared to handle unexpected situations. These items are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them essential additions to your everyday carry for survival.
| Writing Tools | First Aid |
|---|---|
With a rainproof pen and notebook, you can capture essential information, instructions, and observations even in challenging conditions. Meanwhile, a mini first aid kit ensures you have the necessary supplies to address minor injuries and provide initial care until professional medical help is available.
Remember, being prepared is key to surviving and managing emergencies effectively. Don’t overlook the significance of writing tools and first aid items in your everyday carry. By including these essential items, you can be better equipped to handle unexpected situations and increase your chances of survival.
Additional Survival Gear
Along with the essential items, there are additional survival gear options that can be valuable in various situations. These items can enhance your preparedness and help you tackle unexpected challenges.
EDC Pouch
An EDC pouch is a versatile and practical accessory to carry additional items. It provides a convenient way to organize and store your gear while keeping everything easily accessible. Consider a pouch made from durable materials with multiple compartments for efficient storage. Look for one with a secure closure to prevent loss of items.
Scarf/Shemagh
A scarf, also known as a shemagh, is a versatile accessory that can serve multiple purposes in survival situations. It can provide protection from the sun, act as a face mask in dusty environments, keep you warm during cold weather, or even be used as a makeshift sling or tourniquet if necessary. Choose a scarf made from lightweight and breathable fabric that can withstand rugged conditions.
Compressed Towels
Compressed towels are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for your survival kit. These towels expand when exposed to water, providing a quick and convenient way to clean yourself or wipe surfaces. They are perfect for outdoor activities, camping, and emergencies where regular towels may not be practical. Ensure that the compressed towels you choose are made from high-quality biodegradable material for eco-friendly disposal.
Handwarmers
In cold weather conditions, handwarmers can be a lifesaver. These small, portable heat sources provide warmth for your hands and body when the temperature drops. They are activated by simply shaking or opening the packaging, and can last for several hours. Keep a few handwarmers in your coat pocket or EDC pouch to combat the chill and ensure your comfort in cold climates.
| Additional Survival Gear | Description |
|---|---|
| EDC Pouch | A versatile and practical accessory to carry additional items. Provides convenient organization and easy accessibility. |
| Scarf/Shemagh | A multipurpose accessory for sun protection, dust filtration, warmth, and makeshift use. |
| Compressed Towels | Lightweight and compact towels that expand when exposed to water, suitable for cleaning and wiping. |
| Handwarmers | Small portable heat sources that provide warmth in cold weather conditions. |
These additional survival gear options can complement your everyday carry list for survival, increasing your capability to handle various situations effectively. Remember to choose high-quality items that align with your specific needs and preferences. Adding these tools and accessories to your survival kit can provide you with the peace of mind and confidence to face any challenges that come your way.
Communication and Navigation
Communication and navigation are crucial factors in survival situations, and having the right tools can greatly improve your chances. In this section, I will discuss some essential items that should be included in your everyday carry for survival.
HAM Radio and CB Radio
Having a portable HAM radio can provide you with reliable communication, especially in remote areas where cell phone coverage may be limited or non-existent. Consider investing in a radio with a long-range and multiple frequency bands to ensure effective communication. Additionally, a CB radio can serve as an alternative communication option, especially in emergencies where you need to reach out to other people over short distances.
Compass and Local Maps
A reliable compass is an essential tool for navigation. It can help you determine your direction and navigate through unfamiliar territory. Pair your compass with printed copies of local maps to have a comprehensive understanding of the area you are in. These maps will provide valuable information on landmarks, trails, water sources, and potential escape routes.
Ranger Beads
Ranger beads are a practical tool for pace counting, which enables you to measure distances traveled accurately. They consist of a set of beads and a string, and every time you pass a predetermined number of paces, you move one bead, allowing you to keep track of how far you’ve traveled. Ranger beads are especially useful when navigating through dense forests or areas with limited visibility.
| Communication and Navigation Essentials | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|
| HAM Radio | Yaesu VX-6R, Baofeng UV-5R |
| CB Radio | Midland 75-822, Cobra HH RT 50 |
| Compass | Brunton TruArc 3, Suunto MC-2 |
| Local Maps | National Geographic Trails Illustrated Maps, USGS Topographic Maps |
| Ranger Beads | Black Beaded Ranger Pace Counter |
By including these communication and navigation tools in your everyday carry, you can navigate your surroundings, maintain contact with others, and increase your chances of survival in challenging situations.
Miscellaneous Items for Survival
In addition to the essential and additional gear, there are small items that can provide comfort, hygiene, and convenience during survival scenarios. These miscellaneous items may seem minor, but they can make a significant difference in your overall preparedness. Here are some important miscellaneous items to consider including in your everyday carry for survival:
Playing Cards
While it’s essential to focus on practicality during survival situations, it’s also important to find ways to maintain mental well-being. Playing cards can provide entertainment and help alleviate stress. Consider including a deck of playing cards in your everyday carry for some much-needed leisure.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial even during survival situations. A small travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste can help freshen breath and prevent dental issues. Keeping these items in your everyday carry ensures that you can maintain good oral health, even when resources are limited.
Wet Wipes
Having biodegradable wet wipes handy can be incredibly useful for personal hygiene. They can be used to clean hands, freshen up, or wipe down surfaces. Make sure to include a pack of wet wipes in your everyday carry to stay clean and refreshed in any situation.
Zip Ties
Zip ties are versatile tools that can be used for various purposes during survival scenarios. They can be used for securing gear, creating makeshift shelters, or even as makeshift handcuffs. Carry a few durable zip ties in your everyday carry to have a quick and reliable fix for any situation that may arise.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Playing Cards | A deck of playing cards for entertainment and stress relief. |
| Toothbrush and Toothpaste | A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste for maintaining oral hygiene. |
| Wet Wipes | Biodegradable wet wipes for hygiene purposes. |
| Zip Ties | Durable zip ties for various uses. |
Remember, survival situations can be unpredictable, and being prepared with these small items can significantly improve your overall comfort and well-being. Include these miscellaneous items in your everyday carry for survival to ensure you have everything you need for any scenario that comes your way.
Conclusion
Being prepared for survival situations requires careful consideration of the gear you carry every day. In this comprehensive every day carry list, I have provided a wide range of essential items that can help you stay prepared for any situation.
Starting with the basics, it is important to have your keys, wallet, and ID on hand. These items not only assist in everyday tasks but also provide essential identification and access.
Next, a reliable multitool and folding knife can be invaluable in various scenarios. They offer versatile functionalities and can assist in tasks ranging from opening packages to self-defense.
Communication devices such as a cell phone and charger are crucial in emergency situations. They enable you to call for help and stay connected with loved ones. Additionally, a steel water bottle, lighter, and EDC flashlight provide essential hydration, fire-starting capabilities, and illumination.
Other important items to consider include rainproof writing tools, a mini first aid kit, and additional survival gear such as an EDC pouch, scarf, compressed towels, and handwarmers.
Finally, communication and navigation tools like a HAM radio, CB radio, compass, and local maps can greatly enhance your preparedness. Miscellaneous items such as playing cards, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, and zip ties can also prove useful in emergency situations.
By incorporating these essential everyday carry items into your survival gear, you can increase your chances of effectively navigating and addressing various survival scenarios.
FAQ
Q: What are the essential everyday carry items for survival?
A: The essential everyday carry items for survival include keys, wallet, ID, cash stash, EDC multitool, folding knife, cell phone, cell phone charger, steel water bottle, lighter, EDC flashlight, rainproof pen, rainproof paper, mini first aid kit, prescription medication, protein bars, feminine hygiene supplies, EDC pouch, scarf/shemaugh, compressed towels, handwarmers, HAM radio, CB radio, pocket sharpener, ammo pouch, handcuff key, EDC fishing kit, beef jerky, condiments, multi-vitamins, fishing/hunting license, compass, local maps, ranger beads, playing cards, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wet wipes, zip ties, oil lubricant, garbage bags, super glue, pencil sharpener, EDC checklist, everyday carry printable PDF checklist, everyday carry Excel/Google Sheet checklist, multi-tool, civilian radio (AM/FM/SW), power station, water purification, first aid, fire source, utensils, cookware, emergency food, flashlight/headlamp.
Q: Why are keys, wallet, and ID important for everyday carry?
A: Keys, wallet, and ID are important for everyday carry because they ensure that you have access to your belongings, can prove your identity quickly, and have a means of payment or identification in various situations.
Q: What are the advantages of carrying an EDC multitool and folding knife?
A: Carrying an EDC multitool and folding knife provides you with a versatile set of tools that can help you tackle various tasks and handle emergencies during survival situations.
Q: Why should I carry a cell phone and charger in my survival everyday carry?
A: Carrying a cell phone and charger in your survival everyday carry ensures that you have access to communication, emergency services, and other survival apps or tools that can help you navigate and stay informed during emergencies.
Q: What is the importance of having a steel water bottle, lighter, and EDC flashlight in my everyday carry?
A: A steel water bottle provides a durable and reliable source of hydration, a lighter can help you start fires for warmth or cooking, and an EDC flashlight ensures you have a portable and reliable source of light in the dark or during emergencies.
Q: Why should I carry rainproof writing tools and a mini first aid kit in my everyday carry?
A: Carrying rainproof writing tools ensures that you can write or take notes in any weather conditions, while a mini first aid kit provides basic medical supplies to address minor injuries or emergencies.
Q: What additional survival gear should I consider for my everyday carry?
A: Additional survival gear that you should consider for your everyday carry includes an EDC pouch for organizing and carrying additional items, a scarf/shemaugh for staying covered in any environment, compressed towels for lightweight and compact hygiene purposes, and handwarmers for keeping warm in cold conditions.
Q: Why are communication and navigation tools important in my everyday carry for survival?
A: Communication and navigation tools like HAM radio, CB radio, compass, and local maps ensure that you can stay connected with others and navigate your surroundings effectively during emergencies or survival situations.
Q: What miscellaneous items should I include in my everyday carry for survival?
A: Miscellaneous items that you should consider including in your everyday carry for survival are playing cards for entertainment, a toothbrush and toothpaste for maintaining oral hygiene, wet wipes for versatile and biodegradable hygiene purposes, and zip ties for various uses such as securing items or creating makeshift tools.
