Best EDC Gear | EDC Starter Kit | Minimalist

The following list of EDC items comes from a minimalist approach that still gets the job done. This does not include a firearm, just items I can take almost anywhere.

These EDC items are the best from my perspective as a starter kit.

Best EDC Wallet

The Ridge Wallet ingeniously combines two metal plates with elastic bands, a design that balances simplicity with functionality. It securely holds cards between the plates and cash on the outside, offering a choice between a clip or strap for convenience. The wallet’s build quality is exceptional, featuring sturdy metal, resilient elastic, and tightenable screws, all contributing to an industrial yet premium feel that promises durability.

Transitioning to the Ridge Wallet from a traditional, bulky wallet marks an interesting shift towards minimalism without sacrificing ease of use. Cards easily slide in and out, with a notch at the bottom facilitating quick access and organization for up to 12 cards. The cash strap or clip efficiently holds bills, although those carrying more cash might need to fold them for a snug fit. While the Ridge Wallet challenges hoarders of business cards and receipts to pare down, it offers a sleek, streamlined solution for daily essentials, potentially revolutionizing personal item management.

Read our full review – RIDGE WALLET REVIEW: IS IT WORTH THE HYPE?

Best EDC Knife

Rely on the SOG Cash Card money clip to function as a genuine knife, featuring a robust 2.75” blade and a strong liner lock that secures it in place. SOG, located in Seattle, WA, created this knife for discreet use while offering dual functionality on the move.

• 8CR13MOV STAINLESS STEEL BLADE: This 2.75” blade combines razor-sharp edge retention with tough corrosion resistance.
• 56 GRAMS + LINER LOCK: This featherlight, flickable flipper weighs as much as two AA batteries and locks securely every time.
• STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: By skeletonizing the Cash Card handle, it maintains strength without adding weight.
• OVERSIZED CLIP + KNIFE ACCESS: Offers ample space for bills and essential cards, ensuring the knife remains functional during use.

Best EDC Watch

Designed for the outdoor enthusiast, the Timex Ironman Essential watch combines rugged durability with essential features like a stopwatch, countdown timer, and 100-meter water resistance. Its standout attribute is the impressive battery life of up to ten years, eliminating the frequent need for battery changes.

This affordability and reliability make it an ideal choice for those valuing simplicity and durability in their sports watch, even if it lacks the advanced functionalities of pricier models.

Read our Full Review – BEST IRONMAN TIMEX WATCH? VICTOR BOUT’S TIMEX IRONMAN ESSENTIAL

If you want something a little more classy than a digital watch, I’d recommend the Winfield 1941 Field Watch.

Read our Full Review – WW2 FIELD WATCH | WINFIELD 1941 PVD

Best EDC Flashlight

Among the various brands of EDC flashlights I’ve tried, the Streamlight Protac 1L-1AA frequently stands out as my go-to choice. It offers the flexibility of using either a single AA battery, which you can find almost anywhere, or a CR123 battery. This flashlight delivers a robust 350 lumens on its high setting and 40 lumens on low, making it ideal for everyday tasks. Additionally, its sturdy design allows it to serve as a personal defense tool for striking, showcasing its dual functionality.

The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA strikes an excellent balance between performance and durability, making it a reliable companion for everyday carry. When it comes to air travel, I adjust my carry-on essentials to include only the watch and flashlight, leaving the knife behind. This flashlight’s versatility and reliability ensure it remains an essential part of my travel kit, demonstrating its value beyond just illumination.

Read our Full Review – STREAMLIGHT PROTAC 1L-1AA: A POLICE OFFICERS PERSPECTIVE

Best EDC Sling Bag

Simply sling the Daylite Sling over your shoulder and you’re ready for a day out—be it a quick trip to the store, school, or a short hike. This sleek carrying option is designed for those who prefer to pack light, offering a secure way to carry your daily essentials. It features a breathable, soft spacer mesh material on its anatomically shaped shoulder strap, ensuring comfort right against your body. The sling is equipped with a front zippered mesh pocket for small, easily accessible items, and its main compartment is organized with sleeves and a key clip for efficient storage.

The Daylite Sling boasts dual U-zip access to the main compartment, an interior mesh organizer, and a key clip for added functionality. It also includes a multifunctional interior sleeve, a zippered front panel slash pocket, and a harness stretch mesh pocket, catering to various storage needs. Designed for ambidextrous use, it can be comfortably carried over either the left or right shoulder, making it a versatile choice for daily adventures.