I have a number of items that I would always carry with me when I go out. Sometimes, I might have to carry more, but if so – they will be in addition to what I carry in this essential EDC. Everything I carry is important, and has a role to fulfill. The essential items are as follows:
Bandanna
I carry my bandana with me in the case that I might need to clean my glasses. I rarely use it, but it is one of those better to have it an not need it, then need it, and not have it. Since the bandanna is of little value, it goes into my back pocket.
Contact Cards
In the unlikely event that someone comes up to me, and ask for my telephone number, I will give them a contact card. I have never had anyone come up to me, but this is in the same rationale as the bandanna. Both sides of the card is used. The front of the card will have a picture of me. Under the picture is my name, telephone number, and .tel URL. The back of the card has a QR code that will send people directly to my .vcf file on the Internet. This allows the person to add me without having to input any information. The QR code below points to my .tel address which also has a link to my .vcf file.
Earphones
I have agoraphobia, and chronic severe pain. In both instances, music helps distract from the severity of these two afflictions. I still have issues with these impairments, but the tolerance to them is a little greater. If it wasn’t for the music that play from the earphones, I would doubt that I will be able to accomplish any errand that would require taking a bus.
Keys
Obviously, I need my keys. It is what allows me to lock and unlock the apartment door. It also is the keys that tends to my mailboxes. The keys are even needed in the instance that I will go to the management office.
Mask
Ever since the mask was optional for medical establishments, I didn’t need to wear a mask. However, I always carry my mask with me in case someone is more comfortable with me wearing a mask. The mask also has a filter which is replaced every 6 months.
Phone
Obviously, if I need to call someone or if I receive a call, the phone is essential. In addition, I use the phone as my music player which the earphones are put to use (refer to above).
Pocket Knife
If there came a time that I might have to cut a box, or string from my coat or pants, then the pocket knife will be essential. The knife is too small to be a self-defense weapon, so the role it takes are very limited to cutting something. Nothing more, nothing less.
Wallet
Depending on my activities will depend on what I carry in my wallet. Most of the time, I will carry $20, but unless I suspect that I will be spending the money, I will rarely carry more. As for the cards I carry, it will depend. If I need to take a bus, I will carry my transit card. If I am picking up groceries at Target, I will carry my photo ID. Again, everything depends.
Watch
My watch does more than tell the date and time. I also have the weather displayed on my watch, and in the instance that I receive a phone call, I can look at the watch and see who’s calling. I can then use the earphones to answer the call – therefore keeping the phone in my pocket.