The everyday carry (EDC) mini kit: what to carry daily so you can get home if something happens
A small kit, the size of a pencil case or waist bag, that is always with you: what goes in it, how to adapt it for the city, winter or children, and why it helps you get home after an earthquake, a blackout or a transport strike.
In short
- EDC (everyday carry) means the small things you carry every day: phone, keys, wallet and a few extra items for emergencies.
- The goal is simple: to be able to walk home even if transport, your phone or your card stop working.
- It fits in a pencil case or waist bag: flashlight, power bank, water, a snack, plasters, cash, important numbers.
- The 72-hour bag stays at home; the EDC kit is always with you.
An earthquake can catch you at the office, a blackout can strand you on the underground, and a storm can stop transport when you are on the other side of town. Your emergency bag is at home. What you carry at that moment decides how easily you get back to your family.
What EDC means
“Everyday carry” is what you have on you every day. You already carry a phone, keys and a wallet. The EDC kit adds a few small items so you can walk home, even if it takes hours and your phone, transport or card do not work.
The basic kit (fits in a pencil case)
- Small LED flashlight, AAA or rechargeable
- Small power bank and cable
- Small bottle of water (0.5 l)
- Cereal bar or chocolate
- Plasters, gauze and a few antiseptic wipes
- Personal medicines for a day or two
- N95/FFP2 mask for dust and smoke
- Cash in small notes
- Important numbers on a slip of paper
- Whistle
- Lighter
- Emergency blanket (foil)
Optional
- Small pocket knife or multi-tool (where allowed)
- A few metres of duct tape wrapped round a card
- Rain poncho or thin packable jacket
- Work gloves
- Spare glasses
- Printed map of the city
- Small radio with earphones
Adapted to the situation
| Situation | Add |
|---|---|
| Winter | Hat, gloves, chemical hand warmers |
| Summer | Extra water, cap, sunscreen |
| Children | A recent photo of the child and their details, biscuits, wet wipes |
| Long commutes | Comfortable shoes at work, a bigger power bank |
The get-home plan
The kit only helps if you know what to do with it:
- Know two walking routes from work or school to home.
- Estimate the time: about 4–5 km (3 miles) an hour, less in the dark or with debris.
- Agree with your family who collects the children from school if phones are down.
- Text your contact person when you set off and when you arrive.
At work, a bigger set can live in a drawer: the office kit. For the car: the car kit. At home: the 72-hour go bag.
Recommended equipment
What to look for when buying. The links open a search in an online shop; we earn nothing from them.Details.
Small power bank
So your phone lasts until you get home.
- 5,000–10,000 mAh
- The right cable for your phone
- Light and pocket-sized
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry a knife or multi-tool?
A small pocket knife or multi-tool is useful, but do not carry it where it is banned (planes, courts, schools, concerts). Check local laws: in many places long or locking blades are restricted in public.
How often should I check the kit?
Every few months: charge the power bank, replace the water and snacks, check medicines.
Sources and further reading
Preper is for general education and does not replace instructions from your local authorities or advice from a doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.