editor Key Takeaways:
- Pocket knives, flashlights, multitools, power banks, compasses, protective cases, and firestarters are the most important EDC tools
- The purpose of an EDC tool is to serve you when you need it while taking up minimal space
If you’re a regular hiker, you know that there are a lot of everyday carry gadgets that don’t have to take up too much space, and they can come in handy every once in a while. From compasses to pocket knives, the entire idea of EDC gear is that it’s small enough to fit into your pocket, but incredibly useful should you use it.
These are the best EDC (everyday carry) pieces for outdoor enthusiasts.
A Pocket Knife
A pocket knife is essentially the most basic EDC piece of every hiker’s loadout. You shouldn’t leave home without it, as it’s applicable in a million different ways.
For example, a knife is useful for:
- Opening cans
- Preparing and eating food
- Fixing your fishing line
- Carving wood
- Cutting rope
- Self-defense (if it comes to that)
It is, without any exaggeration, the most important tool you should carry on your person at all times.
When it comes to choosing your knife, you’re looking at compactness before size, such as something small and fixed with high-carbon steel that won’t break under pressure. You likely won’t need too big of a knife (it won’t make a difference if you’re attacked by a bear or a cougar), and folding knives are more prone to breaking than fixed-blade knives.
A Flashlight
Similar to a knife, a flashlight is something that you shouldn’t leave your home without. Even if you’re planning to be back home before dark, you never know what’s going to happen out there, and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of the woods without a source of light.
Durable flashlights are the best flashlights. Make sure you’re buying a flashlight that will work even when it rains.
If you want to go a step further, find a flashlight with several working modes. These flashlights are pretty popular with hikers nowadays because they’re ideal for survival scenarios. If you’re ever lost, you can use the strobe and SOS modes to signal your position to rescue services.
Also, don’t forget to bring extra batteries!
Multitool
There are infinite possible uses for a multitool, depending on what kind of situation you find yourself in.
You can use the pliers for a bunch of different purposes, as well as the screwdrivers. Both functions come in handy when setting up camp. You can also use your multitool to repair some of your equipment.
Some multitools come with can openers (which is a better option than dulling your knife), nail trimmers, built-in flashlights, and even a fork and spoon. You can also use a multitool in everyday life, as some of them have wire strippers, bottle openers, a ruler, and other parts that have more options than we can think of!
Power Bank
This entry is self-explanatory. You do not want your cellphone battery running out on you, especially if you find yourself lost in the wilderness.
Most people don’t need more than a single power bank per trip as long as it’s charged before the trip. Some manufacturers solved this problem by designing power banks with their own solar panels that you can attach to the back of your backpack, so the power bank can charge while hiking – definitely something worth looking into.
Read: 5 Famous Spots in Bangalore You Must Visit
Mini Compass
A compass is another outdoor EDC piece that you shouldn’t be leaving your home without. Although you likely won’t need it, it can prove invaluable if you ever find yourself lost without reception on your phone.
There are many tiny compasses out there so small you’ll forget they’re in your pocket, and although some knives come with built-in compasses, the accuracy of these tiny devices is questionable.
Also, make sure you actually know how to use a compass before you buy it – don’t just buy it for the sake of having it.
Protective Micro Cases
There’s a plethora of protective cases to pick from, and some of them are so small you can just attach them to your belt and forget you have them. The purpose of a protective case is to keep stuff dry, and they’re generally built to be dust and crush-proof. You can store memory cards, batteries, electronic keys, or anything else that needs safekeeping in them.
Paracord
A paracord is an infinitely useful tool that has a million different applications. You can use it to set up camp, catch food, fix your gear, or even tie it to your AR -15 stock and use it as a makeshift sling. It’s probably the most widely applicable EDC piece for hikers!
Firestarting Tool
Finally, we have one of the most important tools for a successful camping trip: a firestarting tool. Whether you want to use a flint and a knife or a really sturdy lighter, all of these tools are designed to withstand harsh weather and create a spark no matter how windy it is.
Some hiking lighters are incredibly durable as they’re built entirely from titanium, specifically designed to still do their job no matter what kind of abuse they take beforehand, and to avoid corrosion even if you leave them out in the rain.
For those who value preparedness across their kit, pairing these essentials with rugged accessories like an AR-15 stock can round out a setup built for tough conditions. A firestarter should be an essential piece of your EDC gear for the great outdoors, as you never know when you’ll need it. These are eight of the best EDC pieces for outdoor enthusiasts, and they’ll take up so little space you won’t even notice you’re carrying them. Add the ‘big’ camping gear on top of that, and they’ll perfectly complement one another for a fun and safe trip!
