A while ago, I discussed my every day carry (EDC) items and some of the guiding principles behind my choices. Having helpful items on your person is a great way to become better equipped to handle daily life as well as the unexpected. Since it has been over two years, let’s revisit this subject and see what has happened.

When I was getting ready to write this post, I was surprised that most of my EDC items have changed since February 2014. Some of this was due to changes in equipment, some of it was due to changing needs. The result is my current every day carry items:

Here are the one pictured:

• Jimi Wallet – carries just the essentials, including my health insurance card.
• One-day transit pass – in case car is disabled and I need to get home.
• Road ID Elite – crucial identification and medical information.
• $40 in cash – extra money in case electronic payment systems are out.
• Black Diamond D-ring Carabiner – keys, pen, light, and tool get attached to this.
• Reading Glasses and Cleaning Cloth – need help reading the fine print nowadays…
• Raven Crest Tactical Tanto – folding knife, seat belt cutter, and glass breaker*.
• Fisher Trekker – a smaller, lighter Space Pen.
• Keysmart Key Holder – home keys and office keys are attached.
• Automobile Fob – my car won’t go zoom-zoom without this.
• Leatherman Micra – lots of tools in a small package.

Not pictured:

• Cotton handkerchief
• Nokia 928 smartphone**

I’ve decided to go a little bit lighter with my every day carry items because I have more gear at the office, in my car, and at home. It is a calculated risk on my part because while my additional gear is not on my person, it is usually close at-hand. If I am out biking, hiking, or traveling; I keep more gear in one of my Camelbak backpacks. The specific load-outs will depend upon what I am doing and what the weather is supposed to be.

As I have said before, becoming better prepared is an ongoing journey, not a destination that you arrive at. My every day carry items has evolved over the past two years and I suspect it will continue to do so. This is an important principle to remember, both with EDC items and with other preparedness activities. Keep learning, adjusting, and experimenting so that the items you have on you are the best combination they can be. After all, we live in an uncertain world and it’s wise to be ready for the unexpected.

*Alas, this knife is no longer produced. Will get a replacement sometime in the near future.

**In the process of replacing this unit due to battery issues. The phone has an integrated one so replacing that particular component isn’t an option.