Mastering EDC: How to Carry Everyday Gear

Carrying everyday carry (EDC) gear efficiently and securely is a skill that every prepared individual should master. EDC gear is designed to be compact, versatile, and useful in a variety of situations, but without the right carrying method, it can become a disorganized mess that's difficult to access and use. In this guide, we'll explore how to carry EDC gear effectively, ensuring that you're always ready for whatever life throws at you.

Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to understand that the key to effective EDC gear carrying is organization and accessibility. Your gear should be easily accessible, securely fastened, and organized in a way that makes sense to you. With that in mind, let's look at some of the best ways to carry your EDC gear.

Choosing the Right Carrying Method

There are several methods for carrying EDC gear, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The right method for you will depend on your personal preferences, the type of gear you carry, and your daily activities.

Let's explore two of the most popular EDC carrying methods: pockets and bags.

Pockets

Pockets are the most convenient and discreet way to carry EDC gear. They allow you to keep your gear close at hand and out of sight. However, not all pockets are created equal, and some are better suited for certain types of gear than others.

For example, front pockets are generally more secure and easier to access than back pockets, making them ideal for carrying valuable items like wallets and keys. On the other hand, chest pockets are great for carrying pens, notebooks, or other flat items. When carrying gear in your pockets, it's important to distribute the weight evenly to avoid discomfort and to ensure that your gear is secure.

Bags

Bags are a great option for carrying larger amounts of EDC gear or for those who prefer to keep their gear in a single, organized location. There are many different types of bags to choose from, including backpacks, sling bags, and messenger bags. When choosing a bag for your EDC gear, it's important to consider factors like size, weight, and comfort.

For example, a smaller bag may be more discreet and easier to carry, but it may not have enough space for all of your gear. On the other hand, a larger bag may have plenty of space, but it may be heavier and more noticeable. Ultimately, the best bag for you will depend on your personal preferences and your specific EDC gear needs.

Organizing Your EDC Gear

Once you've chosen the right carrying method, it's time to organize your EDC gear. Organization is key to effective EDC carrying, as it ensures that you can find and access your gear quickly and easily.

Let's look at some tips for organizing your EDC gear.

Use Pouches and Cases

Pouches and cases are a great way to organize your EDC gear, especially if you're carrying a bag. They allow you to keep similar items together and make it easy to find what you need. For example, you might use a pouch to store your writing implements, another for your multitool and knife, and a third for your electronics.

When using pouches and cases, it's important to choose ones that are the right size for your gear and that have enough compartments to keep everything organized. Additionally, consider using clear pouches or cases so that you can see what's inside without having to open them.

Use the Right Pockets

As we mentioned earlier, not all pockets are created equal. When organizing your EDC gear in your pockets, it's important to use the right pockets for the right items. For example, you might use your front pockets for valuable items like your wallet and keys, while using your back pockets for less valuable items like your phone or notebook.

Additionally, consider using pocket organizers or suspenders to keep your pockets from becoming too bulky or disorganized. These can help you keep your gear organized and make it easier to find what you need.

Keep Like Items Together

When organizing your EDC gear, it's important to keep like items together. This makes it easier to find what you need and ensures that you have everything you need for a particular task. For example, you might keep all of your writing implements together, or all of your tools together.

Additionally, consider using dividers or compartments to separate different types of gear. This can help you keep your gear organized and make it easier to find what you need.

In the world of EDC, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for carrying and organizing your gear. The key is to find what works best for you and to adapt your carrying method as your needs change. With a little experimentation and some careful planning, you can carry your EDC gear efficiently and effectively, ensuring that you're always prepared for whatever life throws your way.