Everyday Carry Items Will Keep You Prepared

Fighter pilots strap into their weapon. In the SEAL Teams, we are the weapon.

And because we are often in very hazardous situations, we have to rely massively on the equipment we carry into battle. It has to be lightweight, multi-functional, weather-proof, rugged, and reliable.

There were times I carried 100 pounds of gear (weapons, ammo, Kevlar, communications equipment, first-aid, water/food, etc.) on an operation. If there is any distance to be covered on the infiltration – every ounce counts.

So, for this article, I want to focus on what I consider the “BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK” gear and my recommendations for Everyday Carry (EDC).

What Is EDC?

But before I do, let me say a few words about EDC. In a nutshell, EDC is the collection of small, practical tools you can carry with you daily to handle unexpected situations.

From power outages to car troubles, having the right EDC gear can make all the difference. A common quote I hear from people who believe strongly in EDC is, “The best tool is the one you have on you when you need one.”

With self-sufficiency and preparedness in mind, these items are used for everything from opening packages to minor repairs to problem solving. Toss self-defense and first-aid into the mix as well.

These items will be different for each individual. And will depend on the person’s mindset, environment, and access to those items.

In today’s world, with all its emergencies, crises and disasters, being prepared isn’t just for survivalists. It's for anyone who values safety and peace of mind.

That’s why EDC has evolved from a niche survivalist practice to a mainstream trend. EDC helps ordinary people feel prepared.

My 7 Suggestions

  1. Fire and fire starter: This is an absolute must… for cooking, staying warm, and safety. Keep fire-starters on hand at all times.
  2. Multi-tool: This is a great example of “Bang for the Buck.” You get a dozen uses from something that fits in your hand/pocket. I prefer larger claws on the pliers vs. the needle nose.
  3. HaloXT Flashlight: Again, you have multiple uses in a handheld flashlight to include bright and strobe mode, solar recharging, windshield breaker, and seatbelt cutting tool. It’s rugged and lightweight, and can be used as a weapon.
  4. Rain jacket: Even when I was operating in the desert, I never forgot to bring a rain jacket. You can crush it down to the size of your fist, but it will be worth its weight in gold when the weather turns for the worse. It can also be used to make a shelter. Always remember: if you’re wet, you’re dead.
  5. Hydration pack: With shoulder straps and a built-in two-liter water bladder, this can double as a Go Bag. Small in size and weight but able to carry water, survival food (I prefer the 4Patriots bars), first-aid, and signaling device with chest strap whistle. I strongly recommend having one of these in your home, at work, and in your car. You can grab it and go when the stuff hits the fan.
  6. Bear Spray: I’m constantly answering questions regarding self-defense weapons. I personally have my concealed carry permit and highly recommend everyone get theirs. That said, if you don’t feel comfortable carrying a handgun, the next best thing is bear spray. Compact, easy to use, non-lethal, and VERY effective. Trust me, I had the opportunity to use it and it works!
  7. Patriot Power Cell-CX: If it uses power, it will need to be charged. And if you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, the last thing you want is a dead battery. That’s why I love the Power Cell. In addition to having the ability to charge multiple electronic devices, it also has a solar panel and an integrated light.

In summary, if it is lightweight, small, rugged and multi-functional, it could save your life. The items I have recommended above can get you through many life-threatening survival situations. Best of all? Combined they weigh less than 15 pounds.

Be a survivor… not a statistic,

Cade Courtley

Former Navy SEAL / 4Patriots Contributor

Comments

  • Charlie - September 10, 2024

    Yes, a combo pack like this would be very good. For example, I would like a sun kettle but I don’t need six of them. The soecisls are great but a combo pack of one or two of each item would be great. A kit to carry in the car or whoever one goes.

  • Catherine Rhodes - September 10, 2024

    Yes please put togeter EDC package.

  • Susan Breunig-Walker - September 10, 2024

    I have food for a while but I’m interested in getting some for my handicapped sister

  • Thomas P - September 09, 2024

    Are these items your selling individually or as a promotion. As a veteran, you got my interest.
    Sincerely, Thomas

  • Edward - September 09, 2024

    I would add a blowout kit—I was trained that if you carry a weapon as part of your EDK, you need to carry a medical trauma kit (aka Blow Out Kit)—it should contain battle dressings, quick clot, tourniquet, chest seal, etc. There’s lots of options out there which will fit in a tactical assault pant thight pocket.

  • Laura Miolan - September 09, 2024

    I would like to buy all that I might need to survive.
    Right now, I can only do it on a monthly basis, since I am a retired 70 years old woman who lives alone with my three cats.

  • Anthony Primiano - September 09, 2024

    Thank you For Sharing this information

  • Jeff Taylor - September 09, 2024

    you refer to a hydration pack in general terms. Is there a particular hydration pack you recommend?
    Thank you for offering all of these suggestions; it is very much appreciated!!

  • Donald Louis Steigel - September 09, 2024

    Will wasp spray work as well as bear spray? Since it comes out in a stream rather than a fine mist, I would think it would be more effective. What are your thoughts?
    DLS

  • Jackie - September 09, 2024

    Your should sell a kit that has all the above items

  • Raymond Pelky - September 09, 2024

    Except for bear spray, have it all, & fall more secure.

  • Gale - September 09, 2024

    First Cade thank you for your Service and thank you for the expert information on how to safeguard my family and my person. I am now elderly so not going to do much of the hiking and mountain climbing but have purchased several items such as the solar generator 2000X, six months supply of food, solar flash light, solar charger, solar water bottle and quite a few misc for hug out bag. I also thank 4patriots for their quality merchandise and for having high caliper people to do the videos and to help teach survival.

    God bless you and God bless America !!!

  • Ralph - September 09, 2024

    I’m always a fan of being prepared. One area I’ve always recommended is an emergency candle for every car/van/truck etc. This is simply a coffee can, the old metal type with a ring of punched holes around the side bottom. The can contains a solid candle that will last about (8) hours. When you’re caught in interstate traffic in winter (accident, weather or rock slide) with no why to escape, people run their car to stay warm. In a car, with windows slightly cracked, the candle will keep the vehicle at about ((40) degrees. I also pack matches, packs of crackers and energy bars in the can. So, you don’t run out of gas staying warm and you have something to eat.

  • Brad L. - September 09, 2024

    Great suggestions! I would add a knife. (Maybe it’s on the multi tool) but, I don’t leave home without it.
    Also, bring with you a water filter. You never know when you might need it and they are small and lightweight.

  • Dave Tyree - September 09, 2024

    I suggest, also, adding water purification tabs. One new bottle is very small and contains enough tabs to make safe up to 25 quarts of water.

  • Daniel Sherwood - September 09, 2024

    4patriots should put together a EDC PACKAGE for us !!!!!!

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