People have been carrying backpacks and similar satchels for thousands of years for a good reason. A good bag is useful and convenient, and people almost always have something extra to carry, whether it's small cargo like a water bottle, a snack, and a notebook or something more substantial, like a week's worth of clothes and equipment for a work trip. Today, one of the most popular and effective methods for carrying your everyday cargo around is known as EDC. What is EDC, exactly, and how can you integrate it into your life? Read on to find out.
What Does EDC Stand For?
EDC stands for "everyday carry" and describes backpacks designed to carry a person's daily essentials easily. The exact parameters of an EDC setup vary by person and situation, but depending on the size and design of the bag, they can accommodate all types of activities.
Ideally, your perfect EDC backpack is one you feel comfortable grabbing every day before you leave the house — no matter what your plans are for the day. Packing an EDC bag should be quick and easy and fit all your daily essentials. It also helps to find a bag with an appropriate number of pockets and compartments for your needs.
Why Is EDC Important?
The core of the EDC philosophy is preparedness and efficiency. Having a go-to bag can help people intentionally choose what they need for any given situation. It can also make it easier to transport and access these crucial items. These bags also minimize clutter and maximize neatness and organization, reducing stress caused by disorganization.
How EDC Can Fit Into Your Lifestyle
Honestly, there's an EDC setup for every lifestyle. Whether you're a professional who needs a stylish and high-brow bag for carrying work materials, a remote worker who needs to tote around a laptop, or a weekend warrior always packing for the next adventure, you'll find an EDC bag that fits your needs.
For the Mover and Shaker
Maybe you don't need to carry much throughout the day but still plan to be out of the house for a long time. You might need a convenient way to carry a snack, water bottle, headphones, and gym clothes. Smaller EDC bags make keeping these items separate and well-protected easy.
The Thirteen Daybag is a great example of a smaller EDC. This compact backpack with a 13-liter capacity has just enough organizational structure to keep things separate without adding much weight or bulk.
For the Commuter
Whether you drive between home and the office or take public transportation, leaving work materials behind can lead to lost time (from going home and grabbing what you need) and lower productivity. A good EDC bag fits everything you need for work, including a laptop, a tablet, a water bottle, a notebook, and a change of clothes or yoga mat to hit the gym after you clock out.
You can also choose the size bag that best fits your needs. For numerous commuters, the 21-liter Daily Plus has just the right amount of space without getting too bulky or unwieldy.
For the Weekend Warrior
If your excursions are more substantial, such as a short trip out of town or some light backpacking, a larger EDC bag like the 26-liter Max EDC can carry a significant amount of gear while providing comfort and support. The ergonomic fit helps distribute weight evenly, so you can carry various cargo without feeling achy and sore afterward. Stash clothing, electronics, and books in the three roomy compartments, and use the easy-access pockets to keep track of keys, your wallet, and other small items.
For the Heavy Hauler
For the days you need to take everything with you but the kitchen sink, opt for a massive EDC like the 30-liter Max Backpack. It can hold a lot of gear while you backpack around Europe or enjoy a multi-day hike closer to home. Thanks to the padded shoulder straps and reinforced A-frame, you won't feel weighed down or uncomfortable.
Benefits of an Everyday Carry Bag
Convenient Organization
Perhaps the most important trait of EDC bags is their ability to keep your belongings organized while you're out in the world. Mesh pockets, flexible dividers, and compartments keep items organized. You'll no longer have to waste time digging for items or emptying the bag to find what you need.
Ergonomics
Comfort is king when carrying your items around all day. Carefully designed, high-quality EDC bags have ergonomic features to make carrying whatever you need a breeze. Padded shoulder straps, a chest strap, a hip belt, and a ventilated back contribute to all-day comfort and better physical health in the long term.
Style
EDC bags are versatile so use them to hold items for hobbies, formal events, work, and other activities you have on the agenda. The choice of colors and high-quality, durable materials make it effortless to tailor your EDC bag to its environment.
Able Carry Has You Covered
Now, when asked, "What is an EDC bag?" you can confidently answer. Use this knowledge to narrow your search and find an Able Carry EDC setup that suits your unique needs.
