9 Steps to Planning Your Every Day Carry Items

The concept behind every day carry (EDC) items is always being prepared with the very basics. Nearly everyone these days checks for phone, wallet, keys before they leave the house. But there are other things you may want to consider bringing along in your pockets or purse.

Depending on your situation, some items may be harder to carry at all times. Some office places don’t allow knives or guns, so those items can’t be part of your every day carry plan. Some states allow pepper spray, but others don’t.

These small items aren’t meant to be a burden or weigh you down, they are just simple survival items to never leave home without.

How to Plan Your Everyday Carry Items

#1 Carrying Space.

Think about your bag, purse or pockets. How much space do you have for survival items?

#2 Your Expected Environment.

Think about your environment, what are possible emergencies that could happen there?

• Blizzards, flood, fire, terrorist attack, construction accidents, etc

#3 First Aid Items

What first aid items do you need and have space for?

• Band aides, wet wipes, bandana, etc
• 3 Extra Places for a First Aid Kit

#4 Self-Defense

What self-defense items do you feel comfortable using and are allowed to carry?

• Gun, knife, pepper spray, brass knuckles, etc

#5 Fire Making

What fire making supplies do you know how to use and could carry with you?

• Bic Lighter, Ferro rod, waterproof matches, etc

#6 Night-time Items

What general items would be handy to have at night?

• Flashlight, glow stick, hand warmers

#7 Day-time Items

What general items would be handy to have during the day?

• Sun screen, hat, bandana, sunglasses

#8 Important Information

What other items might be important?

• Emergency contacts, copy of passport, cash, etc
• 21 Important Pieces of Information to Gather for Your Family's Reference

#9 Relax

Relax knowing you have the knowledge, skills and tools to survive the day with what you keep on your person.