Everyday Items that 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 ā every ounce counts.
So, for this article, I want to focus on what I consider the āBEST BANG FOR THE BUCKā 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, āThe best tool is the one you have on you when you need one.ā
Cade Courtley, 2024
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 personās mindset, environment, and access to those items.
In todayās world, with all its emergencies, crises and disasters, being prepared isnāt just for survivalists. It's for anyone who values safety and peace of mind.
Thatās why EDC has evolved from a niche survivalist practice to a mainstream trend. EDC helps ordinary people feel prepared.
My 7 Suggestions:
- Fire and fire starter: This is an absolute mustā¦ for cooking, staying warm, and safety. Keep fire-starters on hand at all times.
- Tactical multi-tools: This is a great example of āBang for the Buck.ā You get a dozen uses from portable, easy-to-store tools.
- 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. Itās rugged and lightweight, and can be used as a weapon.
- 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 youāre wet, youāre dead.
- Hydration packs: 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 emergency food 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.
- Bear Spray: Iām constantly answering questions regarding self-defense weapons. I personally have my concealed carry permit and highly recommend everyone get theirs. That said, if you donāt 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!
- 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. Thatās 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.
- "All-in-One" Go-Bag Kits: Sometimes, its a better fit for you and your family to use an expert-curated kit that covers all of your bases: communication, first aid, water, food, and power. I advise having one for each member of your family.
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 survivorā¦ not a statistic,
Cade Courtley, Former Navy SEAL / 4Patriots Contributor
Top Emergency Essentials
References:
- All testimonials in this advertisement are from real people; sometimes names and photos have been changed to protect their privacy and some were given free products in exchange for their honest feedback. Testimonials represent exceptional results, don't apply to the average purchaser and are not intended to guarantee that anyone will achieve the same results. The organizations, publications and people referenced on this site are not affiliated with 4Patriots. They have not endorsed, sponsored or recommended this product; no affiliation or endorsement is claimed. Terms & conditions apply. Cade Courtley is a former Navy SEAL and Platoon Commander who served 9 years of active duty and has been compensated by 4Patriots for his hard work in helping us test and endorse this product. Cade Courtley is a former Navy SEAL who served 9 years of active duty and has been compensated by 4Patriots for his hard work in helping us test and endorse products.