The Ultimate EDC Essentials List for 2022
What Are EDC Items?
EDC stands for “everyday carry”, and simply means what it sounds like. The items we carry on our bodies and in our pockets every day.
Preparedness is essential. If you’re not paying attention and staying prepared, you’re potentially setting yourself, and those you love, up for some difficult or even dangerous times.
If you are already practicing preparedness with a solid EDC list and depending your experience level, this article may bore the pants off of you.
However, if you’re new to the world of practical prepping and everyday carry, this article may be a very important one to get you into that head-space and incorporate preparation into your daily life.
Today we’re going to identify some EDC items, how to decide what to carry every day, and overall, discuss a simple everyday preparedness lifestyle.
What is the Point of EDC?
We live in strange times. Society these days is in the midst of a MAJOR identity crisis and self-sabotage and it seems like some kind of marionette conspiracy.
We are buried in our devices and barely come up for air to notice our surroundings, but that’s another article for another time.
What I’m getting at is, our society has gotten so used to being tip-toed around and catered to that it is creating a culture of weakness. A culture that, literally for the life of them, cannot take care of themselves. It’s dangerous and it’s not slowing down. In fact, it seems to be ramping up.
You may be asking yourself how this ties in to The Ultimate EDC Essentials List of 2022. Well, preparedness is a state of mind, first and foremost, followed by a regimen of standards and practices. When we are prepared we can keep our heads about us if things get serious and times get tough.
DEEP SURVIVAL: Who Lives Who Dies &Why, is a fantastic book, diving deep into the psychology of survival and preparedness.
As time goes on, those of us who stay prepared, will inevitably find ourselves having to take on more weight and responsibility for those who have refused to ready themselves.
There has never been an easier time to stay prepared than now, with education and information at our fingertips and EDC items a few clicks of a button away.
It is laughable to think that we can have EVERYTHING we need only in our pockets or worn daily on our bodies somewhere. Aside from convenience in our daily lives, EDC items should also be looked at as a means of helping us get to our Get Home Bags and Bug-Out Bags, our cars and our homes, where the REAL preparations are hopefully ready and waiting to be deployed.
What Should I Have for My EDC?
Your EDC should be unique to YOU and completely customizable to suit your needs.
That’s a good question with some easy answers after a few things have been considered.
Today we are simply covering what you carry on your person and in your pockets every single day and how those things fit into your daily routine and keep you prepared for a few “what ifs”.
This is not a complicated topic, but if you’re completely unfamiliar with the world of preparedness, we’re going to discuss some basics today that will get you into that type of mind-set. .
Things to Consider When Putting Together Your EDC List
WHERE DO YOU LIVE?
For a few confused years, I lived in Washington D.C.. My friends were the saving grace in that concrete jungle in more ways than one. I lived in a not so good area for a short while working with a small construction crew.
I had no car, which you don’t necessarily need in a big city, (and that’s called “trapped” if you ask me these days) so I walked a lot and took the Metro Rail.
It didn’t take long for my friends to inform me that my Kershaw folder that I wore on my hip in plain sight was not legal (don’t know if that’s true) and was a recipe for a potentially terrible interaction with metro cops.
This country boy had no clue that would ever be an issue anywhere, and of course, the same will certainly apply to the open carry of firearms in certain places.
Depending on your needs and desires, some EDC items are of a more tactical nature. So, consider the laws where you live when it comes to some of your protective EDC, (and maybe consider moving somewhere where they don’t have such a big boot on your neck).
WHAT ARE YOUR DAILY TASKS?
Unless you’re a monk or a child, you already have EDC items on you almost daily. Your keys, cell phone, and wallet are all EDC items for most people. The point of refining your EDC list is to add convenience and inject self-sufficiency into everyday life, and to have what you know you need and assess what you MIGHT need, based on your occupation, routines, and how much you can reasonably carry.
Speaking of knives, for example; If you work in an office, you will probably want a small, completely concealable, pocket knife. If you work in a warehouse, you probably want some sort of knife that also has some box cutting abilities and features.
If you teach bushcraft and survival, you may choose to wear a larger fixed blade knife on your hip with a small compartment on the sheath to house a ferro rod for fire starting.
Depending on what your everyday life entails, you may only be able to carry a small amount of EDC. So, take a look at your daily routine and decide how many/what items you can reasonably carry. Out of that list, decide what’s most important to you to have access to quickly, and now you’re starting to put together your EDC list.
Whatever is left over, that you can’t fit in your pockets or somehow on your person, will inevitably become part of an EDC Kit.
Based on the preparation of your EDC list, you’re already putting together an EDC kit whether you realize it or not. See how this preparedness thing is starting to gather momentum already?!
We’re not going to get deeper into EDC kits today, but as you can imagine, it is going to have most of the same items in it, plus more, and stand by in a secure location wherever you go.
Your locker at work or the gym, your car, or maybe even your desk at work. EDC kits will be covered more in-depth in another article.
WHAT I CARRY
I personally carry everything on our list today, every day. It turns out that the things I do on a daily basis and the clothing I wear are conducive to being able to carry all of these things comfortably and, believe it or not, I hardly notice because this has been my EDC criteria for many years. It works for me. Only you can decide what works for you.
Now that we’ve covered what EDC is, why it’s important, and how do decide what items you need for yours, let’s take the last step, make some decisions, and put together The Ultimate EDC Essentials List for 2022!
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A complete edc gear guide for 2022
KNIFE:
I have 3 different EDC knives for 3 distinct types of situations and activities. Depending on what the day or night has in store for me, you can be sure that I will be carrying at least one of these, on my person, at all times.
For our thorough and complete list of EDC Knives, check out
THE TOP 7 EDC (EVERYDAY CARRY) KNIVES OF 2021
Benchmade Triage 916
(Travel, Unfamiliar Territory, & Wilderness Adventures)
I carry this knife when traveling and in unfamiliar territory or while in the great outdoors. There such peace of mind in carrying this amazing tool and here’s why.
A favorite among first responders, where speed and safety are of the utmost importance, the Triage family from Benchmade are perhaps our favorite EDC knives on the planet here at Rugged Man.
The Triage Auto 9170 BK packaged in high-strength aluminum with the speed and efficiency of AXIS auto and an automatic opening hook.
It sports a N680 stainless modified drop point blade, black anodized aluminum handle with black G10 inlays, and a carbide glass breaker tip. The hook-shaped safety cutter features 440C stainless steel and an automatic opening as well as a slide release/lock.
These knives have some of the most storied reviews out there, with active overseas deployed military, law enforcement, EMT’s, fire fighters, and first responders of all kinds. Not to mention a favorite of rugged outdoorsmen and preppers/survivalists of all walks of life.
Blade Length - 3.58”
Overall Lenth - 8.31”
Weight - 5.75 oz
Ontario Rat II
(Out to Dinner/Leisurewear Blade )
This is my pocket pal for when my wife and I go out to dinner or when I’m wearing my jeans for more leisure activities. It’s sleek and less bulky and is more conducive to a relaxed clothed environment, while still providing plenty of protection and utility.
The Ontario Rat II is a great EDC knife in that it is super affordable and will accomplish most jobs you’re going to need to tackle in a day.
Ontario Knife Company is most well known as a supplier of military knives. Throughout the years they have supplied the U.S. military with products such as the M7 Bayonet, the 499 USAF Survival Knife, the 6144 Military Machete, 6141 MK 3 Navy Knife, the M9 Bayonet, and the USMC OKC3S.
The knife was tested and approved by PM Soldier and the United States Army Soldier Systems Center to meet the criteria defined by the US Army. If this isn’t enough to make them a trusted brand I don’t know what is.
Blade Length - 3”
Overall Length - 7”
Weight - 2.75 oz
Kershaw Cryo
(Beater Blade)
This is my beater. I go through at least one of these every couple of years. This is the knife that I carry to work every day. This is the knife that I’m not worried about pulling out and mistreating a bit. That’s what it’s for and that’s why I have other, more expensive, knives for other purposes.
When this knife wears out, I will put it in the “boneyard” pile on the work bench where it will find a more stationary role in the house or get parted out into a cyborg unit. And then I will get a new one to wear on my hip to work.
The Kershaw Cryo is a quintessential EDC beater knife. Aesthetics that are tactical and hard, combined with a Hinderer design that is ridiculously affordable, make this a knife that is hard not to consider. It holds its edge decent enough and with just a few sharpening strokes it is right back up to par.
Blade Length - 2.75 “
Overall Length - 6.5 “
Weight - 4.1 oz
MULTI-TOOL:
This is an item that doesn’t work for everybody and may be a bit too bulky for some. It just happens to work perfectly for me. There are slimmer multi-tools out there I would suggest finding yourself something that at least has a few basic tools on it.
Leatherman Signal Camping Multitool w/ Fire Starter, Hammer and Emergency Whistle
I’ve always packed a good Leatherman Multi-tool and it’s always done me good to do so. Leatherman keeps making them better and stronger.
You’re going to want to have a good multi-tool on hand if you’re in an emergency and need to get home. If you’re in your car, hopefully you’ve got a real nice set of tools to depend on.
However, depending on conditions, you may not be able to use your car and may have to ditch it to go on foot. In either case, there are countless situations in which it is necessary to have a good multi-tool.
The Leatherman Signal features traditional tools as well as several extras to keep you prepared for the unexpected. Unique additions include a shaped diamond-coated blade sharpener, fire starter, and an emergency whistle.
A sturdy nylon sheath is included for maximum protection and portability. Don't let your pack come up short without the Signal Multi-Tool!
The Travando Slim Wallet is an amazing wallet. It gives you all the RFID protection you need while optimizing space, utility, and comfort. It’s so compact and slim that you can wear it in a front pocket on most pants without it being noticeable in the slightest.
I personally don’t have a lot of cards, but I understand it can handle more than the 10 it claims without getting bulky or compromising structural integrity.
The money clip holds plenty of cash for any reasonable adult. I was curious how this was going to work out because I like to deal mainly in cash, but have found absolutely no problems except for a few times having too many small bills, but the same would have made any wallet bulge ridiculously. It’s a wallet, not a magic portal.
Travando wallets are made from carefully selected, quality-tested materials that are assembled with the utmost precision for long-lasting durability and intelligently designed functionality.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Functional & Slim: Travando’s Wallet offers 11 card pockets. The slim wallet is ideal for carrying business cards, credit and debit cards, bills etc. The outside notch allows you to push out the cards easily
Industry-Tested Security: Tested by an independent German quality control institute. Travando wallets block the 13.56 MHz band and protect against data theft by RFID scanners.
Integrated Money Clip: The metal money clip allows you to clip several bills inside your wallet
Refined & Stylish: Designed in Germany to best combine elegance, quality and convenience.
Slim Down Your Pocket: Travando kept the dimensions of this slim wallet to 4.5" x 3.1" x 0.6". It will fit in your pocket perfectly without bulging out
Weight: 2.4 oz (empty weight)
Material: Premium faux leather
Magnetic closure
FLASHLIGHT:
“May it be a light to you in dark places, when all other lights go out.”
Streamlight ProTac 88052 HL USB
They say dynamite comes in small packages and that certainly applies to the Streamlight ProTac 88052 HL USB Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight. This little beast is amazing and if taken care of, should last for many years to come.
With 850 lumens, I’ve even used the Streamlight ProTac 88052 to look under the fender well of vehicles not only in broad daylight, but on extremely bright sunny days, you can still shine this thing in the shadows and illuminate everything! It’s one of the handiest and important everyday carry items I own.
With Li Ion Rechargeable Battery & USB Cord, this high lumen tactical light is USB rechargeable, so you can charge on-the-go using almost any USB source, and without taking the battery out.
The Streamlight ProTac HL USB Flashlight features a tail cap switch for momentary or constant on operation, three different user selectable programs and a pocket clip for convenience. The aircraft aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durable and abrasion resistant.
An absolute asset for any preparedness minded individual, the ProTac HL USB is a versatile tactical light that can charge from multiple sources and use three battery types; Streamlight rechargeable lithium ion battery, two CR123A batteries, or commercially available Rechargeable Li Ion cells.
This light will charge from a laptop or most USB wall chargers. Multi battery versatility means you can always use primary disposable cells to power the light when a charging source is not available.
FEATURES & SPECS:
USB Rechargeable
Dual 100,000 hour lifetime high intensity LED solid state bulbs
Run time: 750 continuous hours
3-1/4 Inch long by 1 inch wide
IPX4 water-resistant
1 meter impact resistance tested
Gasket sealed glass lens
Durable aircraft aluminum construction with Type II MIL-Spec anodized finish
PEN & NOTEPAD:
Have the ability to document important information, even in a downpour!
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen
Here’s another EDC that is a fantastic asset. The Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen will still write for you in the pouring rain, while offering tactical protection by serving as a durable weapon!
In collaboration with law enforcement professionals, Gerber developed the Impromptu Tactical Pen and added some good to the world of EDC.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Rugged, machined steel body w/ Cerakote
Stainless steel pocket clip keeps the pen handy
Integrated glass-breaker tip features tempered steel and is designed to get you out of trouble
"Rite in the Rain" ink cartridge works in all conditions
Reliable push-button mechanism deploys ball point pen
Made in USA
Overall Length: 5.59" (14.19 cm)
Weight: 2.4 oz (68 g)
Rite in the Rain
This 3" x 5" top-spiral notebook is small enough to fit comfortably in your pocket and tough enough to survive any of Mother Nature's onslaughts.
Pair with the Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen, you’ve got a couple of EDC items that will allow you to write down important information in any weather condition.
This scrappy pocket notebook will survive rain, sweat, mud, Snow, oil, and grease. The non-glare gray paper is legible in bright sunlight. The impact-resistant Wire-O binding won't lose its shape.
PARACORD:
Surprising power and utility for such a small amount of space!
Paracord Planet 1,000 Foot Spool of 550 Paracord
I carry 550 paracord everywhere I go. Every single day, without a doubt, I will have paracord. I usually take about 35 ft at a time off of a 1000 ft roll, make a small and neatly compact roll, and stick it in a utility pocket or front pocket of my jeans.
Although I try to avoid cutting my 35 ft section of cord, occasionally I find that I have to cut certain lengths in certain situations where more than one piece is needed. When this happens, I toss what’s left in a tackle or tool box when I get home for later use and then cut off a new 35 ft. section to put back in my pocket, and I’m ready to go again when cordage is needed.
Paracord has come in handy for me time and time again. I could go on and on and on! It’s too useful, simple, and cheap not to have handy. I keep it everywhere.
Tree work, block and tackle style uses, camping, gear hoists, kindling bundles, survival belts and bracelets, load securement, the uses really are just about endless! I have pulled dead hanging limbs (widow makers), up to 15 ft long and 12” in diameter, down from trees and safely to the ground when no other tool was available and the job needed to get done.
Another cool tip, use it for your boot laces and watch it outlast your boots, over and over again. I’ve been through 3 pairs of boots in about 6 years so far, all with the same run of paracord with no signs of wear on the cord at all! As long as you don’t cut or rub it on anything sharp, this stuff will last a lifetime!
Atwood Parapocalypse Paracord
I’m delighted by this advancement in the world of paracord utility. I have never used this stuff, but I have to throw it on the list today because it just seems amazing!
Not only do you get all the benefits of paracord, you also get high-end practical survival tools.
With a waxed-jute strand, you can easily start fires with little effort. Use the 10lb fishing line to catch your dinner. Use the 900F heat-resistant cord for campfire rotisserie cooking, friction saws, or suspending a hot broken muffler.
Lastly, you have the almighty Dyna X cord with super strength, ultra low-stretch and perfect for emergency sutures, dental floss or animal snares.
Zippo's All-in-one kit has all the essentials needed to operate your lighter. This kit includes a Zippo Street Chrome lighter, flint dispenser (6 flints), and a 4 ounce can of Zippo lighter fluid.
The ever-satisfying, globally-recognized "Zippo click" is one of the more distinctive sounds you'll hear, and this classic lighter brings it to you in an elegant and refined matte chrome finish. The all-in-one kit also includes four ounces of lighter fluid and six replacement flints with an installation tool. Made in the USA, all Zippo lighters feature sturdy construction and a wind-proof flame.
BIC Classic Lighter
I always carry at least 1 Bic lighter. They’re a great back up flame and durable enough to last me for years. I have had the same Bic lighter in my pocket for going on 3 years now, as I usually only need to use it very sparingly. So you can imagine how long this 50 count tray will last me.
Using a Bic lighter as a back up to a good quality Zippo is a simple, inexpensive EDC prep and insurance plan to guarantee you WILL have flame when you need it, without fail. We all know that energy, in the form of heat, is one of the top cardinal rules for survival, along with water, shelter, and food. What an easy way to make sure you’re always covered!
KEYCHAIN ACCESSORIES & TOOLS:
Utilize this small amount of space with useful tools that hang from your side!
Gerber Shard Keychain Tool
Don't let its size fool you, the Gerber Shard keychain tool is the perfect companion when you want just the basics.
With a shape of its own, the Shard has seven useful functions: small flat driver, medium flat driver, cross driver, pry bar, wire stripper, lanyard hole, and bottle opener.
It is light enough to carry on your keychain, but tough and durable enough for everyday use. The Shard is made of stainless steel with a titanium coating, and it measures 2.75 inches. It's backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Overall Length: 2.75"
Weight: 0.6 oz
Stainless Steel: w/ titanium nitride coating for corrosion resistance
7 functions: Pry bar, Small flat-head driver, Large flat-head driver, Wire stripper puller, Bottle opener, Lanyard hole, Cross driver
Favofit Carabiner Clips
I love multipurpose items. One of the most versatile tools, and an efficient way to carry your keys, is by clipping a good quality, high weight-rated carabiner to your pants as a key ring holder.
Great for camping, hiking, backpacking, trekking, cycling, fishing, hunting, travel, leashes & harnesses for your pet, and potentially a life-saving tool, why wouldn’t you at least have one of these on your person at all times? It also frees up space in your pockets by dangling on your side instead.
Rated at 12KN, these carabiners have a 2,697 lb weight limit! That’s enough to lift a small car! Surely, it can can get you out of a jam if you needed to hoist something or someone out of a situation, and that’s the type of ‘biner I like.
“Please note, according to UIAA standard, the carabiners for climbing should be above 20KN (say 4496lbs). These are rated at 12KN (2697 lbs each) only, thus they are not for climbing according to UIAA standard, but they can definitely hold your weight for hammock hanging and etc..”
Geekey Multi-Tool
A tool like no other, The Geekey Multi-tool is a solid chunk of 420 Stainless Steel made by Metal Injection Molding (MIM), heat treated to H900, and featuring over 16+ tool functions that each provide multiple uses. Geekey's durability and ultra compact design allow it to be an easy companion for your every day carry.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Smoking Pipe
3.2/3.3mm Bike Spoke KeyS
Screw Driver tip that will fit a #2/3 Slotted, #2 Square Drive, #2/3 Phillips, and #2/3 Combinations (Phillips/Slotted or Phillips/Square) screw all in one bit
Imperial and Metric Closed Wrench
¼” Open Wrench
¼” Bit Driver
Scoring Tip
Serrated Edge
Can Opener
Wire Stripper
File
Imperial and Metric Ruler
Protractor
Bottle Opener
Multi-head fit Driver
Lanyard Hole.
This is just a cheap no-brainer that takes up no space and adds an extra light source. They come in a 5 pack which makes them less than $2 a piece.
I usually keep a couple for myself and a couple for my wife so we each have one back-up, and then give one to someone who I think could use it and maybe enjoy it enough to start developing a mind-set for preparedness!
HANDKERCHIEF, SOAP, & SUNGLASSES:
Perhaps an odd combination with the sunglasses, but it makes sense when you read the story at the end.
It’s just good to have some bandanas handy in case you need to do some sort of impromptu clean-up, either on yourself, your wife may need a hand, or maybe just a spill in the truck while rolling down the highway.
I usually carry 2 of these in my back pocket or front cargo pocket of certain pants. These can also be a real life-saver, combined with a bottle of water and a small bottle of soap when it comes to some more serious on the spot clean-ups when you’re nowhere near anything or anyone else.
REAL LIFE EDC SUCCESS STORY
Driving a dump truck with hydraulic lines connecting a transfer trailer one time, I went to hook up to the lines and one of them exploded in my face, soaking my face and head in hydraulic oil. Fortunately I was wearing my sunglasses, another EDC item for me, and my eyes were protected.
However, as far as I know, you don’t really want to take a hydraulic oil soak for too long and I was far away from any person or place. I keep a gallon jug of clean water in the truck, not counting my gallon of drinking water.
The combo of preps here, being my gallon of water, tiny bottle of soap, sunglasses, and my 2 bandanas saved the day! If I had been without just one of that combination, life would’ve been harder that day!
Every single one of these items, minus the gallon of water in the floorboard of my truck, were actually EDC items that I keep on my body or in the pockets of my clothing!
“Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.”
― Theodore Roosevelt
Well, there you have it! That is a complete and detailed list of my personal EDC. Over the years, I have paid attention to situations and scenarios with the idea in mind to optimize my life. Experience and a solution based mind-set have led me to carry the things I do every single day.
The EDC that I choose may not work for you. It may be WAY to much for you, depending on your situation, daily attire, and lifestyle. For some of you, what I carry may not be enough! Or, maybe you think that what I carry is a waste of space and can think of other things that you’d rather have at your disposal.
The point is, with deciding on what tools and accessories you would like to have for your everyday carry, the list should be unique to YOUR needs and considerations, not your buddy, not me, or anybody else.
We here at Rugged Man hope this was a starting point to help you get the gears turning about your everyday needs and how to get them met. Over time, your EDC will come together until you reach a point where you find that sweet combination that works just right for your life.
Until next time, set yourself up to walk with the confidence of a man who has his house in order, one piece at a time!
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VEHICLE EDC ESSENTIALS LIST FOR 2022
THE BEST & BRIGHTEST EDC FLASHLIGHTS OF 2022
THE TOP 7 EDC (EVERYDAY CARRY) KNIVES OF 2022
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