What's In My Backpack
How organizing my everyday carry keeps me focused.
Everyday carry (EDC) are the items and tools that we use on a daily basis. I’ve learned to appreciate the organized efficiency of having my backpack ready-to-go with everything I need for the day.
Search ‘EDC’ and you’ll likely see highly-stylized photos of an expensive watch, a mini-flashlight, high-tech wallet, or a trendy knife. This isn’t one of those posts. I’m not concerned with what’s flashy or ‘cool’, only the items that serve a purpose. Putting some thought into an EDC system can save you time, energy, and help you out of a situation in a pinch.
My goal here is to demonstrate that organizing your EDC gives you peace of mind to focus on the important stuff throughout your day.
In my less organized days, I would leave home unprepared and then my phone would inevitably die leaving me stranded or I’d be caught without a pen or notebook when I had to write something down. Over the past few years I’ve refined my EDC into a system that works whether I’m working, writing at a coffee shop, or spending the day outdoors.
Let’s take a look at my EDC and then I’ll give you some tips to get yours organized.
Here’s what I’m carrying with me:
Backpack. A sturdy, comfortable backpack keeps all my gear stowed and accessible when I need it. This one is the perfect size and works well for my uses. I keep mine by the door and take it with me everywhere, supplementing my laptop or an extra item of clothing depending on the day or activity.
Essentials. I keep a small canvas pouch packed with daily essentials like tissues, hand sanitizer, gum, earplugs, sunscreen, chapstick and a utensil.
Tote bag. Handy when I need to carry extra stuff or pick up groceries.
Tarp. This small, lightweight and packable ground tarp keeps me dry and bug-free at the park or beach.
Bandana. A multi-functional item to keep cool or use as a mask or handkerchief.
Tech kit. A spare battery pack and phone charger ensures my phone is always charged. I keep it all in a waterproof pouch.
Notebook. I never leave home without one!
Pens. I keep a variety of pens, markers and pencils in my bag, and a pen light.
Wallet. I use a simple bi-fold wallet for my cards and cash.
Earbuds. I like noise-isolating earbuds for daily use because they protect your ears and you don’t have to charge them. For flights I’ll bring noise-cancelling headphones.
Watch. I didn’t wear a watch for years but now it’s one of my essential items. This is a relatively inexpensive field-style watch I can use in a variety of settings.
Keys. I keep my them on a carabiner so I can clip it to my pants or backpack.
Sunglasses. I like the polarized kind.
Multi-tool. This covers just about every fix during my day-to-day.
Bottle. I always carry water with me. This is a 1-liter bottle that keeps liquids cool.
Drumsticks. I bring a pair of rubber-tipped sticks so I can practice on any surface.
Book. I always have something to read in my backpack because you never know when you have some time to spare. (Not pictured because it’s always changing!)
Phone. Last but not least, this is an essential piece of gear (which I used to take the above photo).
I like the idea of carrying all the essentials I need on my back, nothing more and nothing less. I think my EDC practice comes from hiking and travelling - making lists of gear, swapping out stuff I don’t need or upgrading to a piece I can rely on. This equipment serves me best but depending on what you’re doing or where you’re heading your EDC will likely change.
Tips to get started with your EDC:
Make a list. First, list all the tasks or activities you’re likely to do in a day, or week. Next, write down all the items you absolutely need to complete those tasks. Do you constantly find yourself without a jacket? Or maybe you’re always forgetting your car keys. These are indicators of which items to add to your EDC list. If you find yourself in a situation where you wish you had something, write it down.
Experiment. Once you’ve got your equipment don’t be afraid to experiment. As your daily routine changes your EDC may change too. Remember: everything serves a purpose. If you’re not using it, lose it.
Group stuff. Keep groups of stuff - tech, toiletries, tools - in their own kit, like a pouch or bag.
Customize. If something doesn’t serve your needs perfectly, customize it! I like writing my name on stuff I might leave behind.
Have fun! The gear doesn’t matter, it’s just a means to an end. Pick the items you need to have fun on the streets or trails.
Less time worrying if you forgot something means more time focused on what’s really important.
My EDC is the result of years of trial and error. I’d be completely lost without an organized backpack packed with all the essentials I need to get through the day. Now I’m confident that when I head out the door I have all the stuff I need to be prepared and productive.
I hope this helps you consider the items and methods you’ll use to create your everyday carry so you can stay focused in your daily routine.
What’s in your backpack? Let me know your EDC tips and tricks in the comments.
Until next time,
Keith.
Note: I’m not endorsed or sponsored by any products or companies.