Everyday Carry (EDC) refers to essential items and survival gear you keep with you daily. These tools are discreet, lightweight, and practical for everyday tasks and emergency situations.

While you can carry some items on your person (like in your pockets or on a keychain), it’s often impractical to carry everything you might need, especially in survival scenarios.

If you spend significant time in your car, your vehicle becomes a logical extension of your EDC, providing extra storage for tools and supplies. This approach is especially useful for professional drivers or those who travel frequently.

When unforeseen situations arise, having a vehicle equipped with crucial EDC items can increase your preparedness.

Here’s a breakdown of key EDC essentials and why they matter:

Critical Items

Always keep these fundamental items at hand:

1. Keys with accessories like a glow fob for visibility in the dark.

2. Cell Phone and Charger to ensure communication and navigation are possible.

3. Wallet and ID for personal identification, cash, and cards.

4. Proof of Insurance to meet legal obligations.

5. Decoy Wallet with minimal cash to mitigate the impact of theft in high-crime areas.

Essential Tools for Your Vehicle

Equipping your vehicle with the right tools can make a significant difference during emergencies:

6. Multi-tool for versatile use in minor vehicle repairs or roadside tasks.

7. Pocket Knife for cutting tasks or self-defense, depending on jurisdictional regulations.

8. Flashlight to illuminate dark environments or provide safety in low light conditions.

9. Fire Extinguisher in case of vehicle fires.

10. Jumper Cables for dead battery situations.

11. Emergency Blanket and Extra Clothing to combat cold weather during breakdowns.

12. Notepad and Pen to jot down critical information quickly.

Self-Defense and Personal Safety

If permitted in your area, self-defense weapons such as a 13. handgun or 14. pepper spray can provide added security while on the road. Always ensure compliance with local and state laws.

Hydration and Sustenance

15. Bottled Water for hydration.

16. Non-Perishable Snacks like jerky or dried fruit to maintain energy levels during long waits or emergencies.

Comfort Items

Small comforts can lessen stress during uncomfortable situations:

17. Hand Cream and Chapstick to prevent dryness.

18. Sunglasses to reduce glare while driving.

19. Hand Sanitizer and Napkins for hygiene and minor clean-up needs.

Repair and Emergency Items

Prepare for roadside repairs with:

20. Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench to handle flat tires.

21. Tire Repair Kit and Air Compressor to address minor punctures.

22. Duct Tape for temporary fixes.

23. Tow Strap to assist in recovery if your vehicle gets stuck.

For Professional Drivers

Professionals who spend most of their days on the road need to plan for extended distances from home. Tools like a 24. radio, maps, and 25. compass can assist navigation if digital devices fail.

Additionally, having supplies like 26. paracord, 27. fishing kits, or a backup 28. gas can may come in handy, especially for long-haul scenarios.