Best EDC Bag – Reviews, Comparison And Advice

In the most literal way, EDC means ‘everyday carry’ or items you use on a daily basis. EDC’s philosophy is built upon the foundation of utility and preparation. Every component of your EDC has to serve an objective, it needs to be useful and accessible. Those things that you can’t leave the front door without are the true essentials you need. You have to think about what you will need in your routine, and when deciding on EDCs, you’ll have to focus on durability, strength, material, quality, and high activity.

That’s why in today’s article, we will help you choose the best EDC bag, which can contain all your everyday carry items. There are many features, styles, and brands, and we are here to narrow it down for you and guide your way to optimizing your day-to-day preparedness. Identifying what you want and need is essential in selecting an EDC bag.

1. The 5.11 Tactical RUSH12

With 16 individual compartments, spacious main storage, and a hydration pocket, this is the best choice for a durable, sturdy, and comfortable EDC bag. It’s equipped with a contoured yoke shoulder strap system, an adjustable height sternum strap, and two external compression straps with a total capacity of 24 liters.

This tactical pack is made from durable nylon threads and is water-resistant while featuring self-repairing YKK zippers and the 5.11 signature design.

The 5.11 embodies those who are ready to protect and help people in need while crushing goals and making gear for everyone ready for a mission. RUSH 12 is perfect for hunting and recreation, active duty, or day-to-day routine with the unmatched storage capability and SlickStick compatible web platform.

Our favorite option can be used as a multipurpose backpack, hunting backpack, range bag, or everyday outdoor one. This EDC pack is ready for whatever adventure or rescue you’re on, packed with equipment and gear.

2. SHANGRI-LA Assault Sling Pack

The SHANGRI-LA Sling pack is a relatively larger waist belt, suitable for a day-hike bag, an ammo pack, and an everyday carry. Sometimes this bag style will work for outdoor and military enthusiasts and their gear as well. This product has more exterior PALS webbing, added loop field for patches, paracord retention, and almost 50% more interior compartment and pocket space.

If you’re looking for a bag that will stay in place, fit your belongings, and still be comfortable while you’re on your day hikes or hunting trips, the SHANGRI-LA Sling will be ideal for you.

Made out of high-density Oxford nylon fabric that is incredibly durable and lightweight, these sling bags are an excellent outdoor companion with MOLLE system pouches that can be attached freely. Easy and convenient with a three-way design that can be used as a shoulder bag, waist pouch, or handbag. You get a product that offers an adjustable fit with its padded waist belt and removable shoulder strap.

3. LIGHT DUST Outdoor Chest Bag

Light Dust is an excellent chest bag constructed with heavy-duty nylon canvas and water-resistant polyester fabric for unexpected weather conditions. Not only is it water-resistant, but this awesome pack is also anti-scratch and continues looking new for a long time. This exciting and stylish product has an adjustable fit.

You can fit the slider buckle and the two nylon straps to your body’s height and shape to receive a comfortable wear experience, perfect for both men and women.

With a MOLLE system like no other, the Light Dust provides you with several pouches suitable for small items and gear, which can be very useful for daily use or traveling. The chest bag is compact and lightweight, so you can easily transport it and use it for many outdoor activities.

You can store numerous items inside, such as your phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, etc. Practical and functional this item has a convenient rubber earphone hole with which you can listen to music or call during exercise and fitness.

4. MYSTERY RANCH In And Out

Mystery Ranch is a company with over four decades of design and manufacturing experience in which they’ve created some of the best, fully field-tested specs available on the market today at an affordable price. Using top-shelf materials that are built to last, the In & Out bag is constructed from CORDURA mini-rip for high abrasion and tear resistance, perfect for your next adventure.

Whether you’re deep in the mountains or on the frontline, Mystery Ranch’s pack was created with the most durable construction methods that exist, so you know that you can rely on your bag for any mission.

Each bag contains a unique combination of the manufacturer’s design elements, with the main compartment that has a hydration reservoir pocket with a drinking tube port above the shoulders. These bags will suit every personality and embody the fun of the brand while enduring the most rugged terrains and conditions.

The In & Out features contoured shoulder straps and a sternum strap for comfortably carrying, giving it the needed final touch.

5. Flowfold Denizen 18L

The Denizen 18L is made with high-performance outdoor materials, which are water-resistant and can withstand the elements, resists moisture and sweat, and dry off quickly. Flowfold has used outdoor technology to design a spacious and stylish outdoor pack, engineered to have extremely high strength-to-weight ratios and endure your adventures for years to come.

What makes this bag interesting is the fact that it is a part tote, part backpack, which allows for a smooth transition from street to trail in no time.

You get what you pay for. With this bag, you get above and beyond with an ultra-light and waterproof product that features water-repellent YKK zippers and durable water-repellent coating, keeping belongings secure and dry. This everyday carry is backed by a Flowfold lifetime warranty with a large internal laptop sleeve, an interior zip pouch, and a deep outer pocket for easy access. You also get padded shoulder straps, and comfortable tote handles to provide you with the ultimate experience.

6. Filson Bandera Backpack

Filson is a company with over 120 years of experience in creating tough and comfortable products for hunters, explorers, marines, and outdoor enthusiasts. Known worldwide for their impeccable reputation, honesty, quality, and hard work that has been put into every single item created.

This is a backpack that can be described in three simple words, and they are: practical, tough, and long-lasting. Made out of rugged twill that delivers industrial-strength abrasion resistance, this bag has one main compartment, one zippered external pocket, and an interior laptop sleeve that can hold devices up to 15”.

The Bandera Backpack is a US product that delivers a timeless look and years of reliability, whether you’re on your great outdoor adventure or simply commuting to the office. For added comfort, Filson has designed a pack with a quilted back panel and padded adjustable shoulder straps. Spacious and reliable, the Bandera bag will provide you with durability and performance on another level.

7. MYSTERY RANCH Rip Ruck

Mystery Ranch is a company with years of design and manufacturing experience in which they’ve created premium products with top-shelf materials. The brand preys on itself in the fact that they don’t skimp on any product or material so that it can create the highest quality products available today. The Rip Ruck is a bag built for the harshest conditions, which makes it suitable for rugged terrains, adventures, and day-to-day activities.

With the most durable construction methods that exist, this Mystery Ranch pack features a padded, zippered laptop sleeve, a large main compartment for easy organization and access, and multiple external pockets for gear essentials. It works great as a professional or school backpack with a rip-zip opening, a volume expansion pocket, and weather protection zippers with urethane. Keep your belongings safe and secure with the Rip Ruck backpack.

8. Mil-Tec Tactical Cargo Bag

Mil-Tec was founded in 1971 with the utilization of ex-army stocks and the manufacturing and distribution of clothing and pieces of equipment for the outdoor field. The company is part of the “Social Fair” initiative that works hard towards achieving a social, humane environment with working conditions while providing high-quality products.

The Tactical CARGO bag is a versatile option, ideal for day or weekend use, with a good capacity and various carrying options.

Practical outdoor bag for trekking tours, demanding hikes, and outdoor trips, suitable for most weather conditions and harsh situations. This cargo pack has a large main compartment, eight front pockets for quick and easy access, and removable shoulder straps for extra comfort. There is a clear name tag holder on the side with which you can easily recognize your bag. You get an item with a fantastic paddle handle and a reinforced base with an internal plastic plate.

9. SLOTRA 17 Laptop Backpack

SLOTRA is a brand that specializes in backpacks while taking innovation and quality to another level by creating high-quality products with great feedback. Made from tear and water-resistant oxford fabric for unexpected weather conditions, the Slotra 17 comes with an insulated lunch bag with a separate compartment for storing it.

With a large storage capacity, this bag has a separate, easy access side entry back laptop compartment, a spacious main compartment, and many pockets for easy organization.

This travel backpack comes with an external USB port and cable inside for a convenient device charge if you have a power bank inside. If you’re over-carrying multiple bags for your laptop, lunch box, and other miscellaneous items, then simply choose this simple and stylish-looking computer bag. You are provided extra comfort from the ergonomically shaped padded shoulder strap with a breathable back system and lockable zipper design for extra safety.

10. SOG TOC

Whether you are walking in the city or jumping over creeks, the TOC backpack makes a great companion for the modern user all day long. With quick-adjust shoulder straps, padded hip belts, and rigid suspension, this bag will provide you with the comfort you need for your day-to-day activities and outdoor adventures. This SOG product houses plenty of options for storage and organization with multiple interior zippered pockets and small sleeves inside the large main compartment.

On the top of the pack, you have a small organizing system for quick access, two side pockets, and a pass-through access laptop compartment that doubles as a hydration carry.

With PE sheet suspension, which is used to distribute weight for comfort, the TOC backpack has a sternum strap with whistle stabilizers that work as an emergency audio Alert, making it ideal for the outdoors. Last but not least, this product comes with webbing lash points and hyperon zinger tabs on your shoulder strap for additional item carry.

How To Choose The Best EDC Bag?

Finding the appropriate EDC bag can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve created this guide to help you check off some factors you need to be on the lookout for:

Needed EDC Items

Firstly, you’ll have to think about what items you need to carry to be able to accomplish your daily routine. The things we’re talking about are the ones you can’t leave your home without. Depending on your occupation and situation, they may differ, but one thing to always have in mind is to keep it as light as possible.

After that, it will be an excellent idea to consider the risks and common problems you will most likely face throughout the day. Think about your surroundings and try and identify potential adverse events that might occur.

Size

After you’ve thought about the items you need, it’s time to talk about the size of the EDC bag. Our advice is to start with the largest item and measure it to make sure that the bag you choose will indeed fit it. Next, you should think about the number of compartments and pockets you will require and the extra space for miscellaneous objects you might need. Everyday carries come in different shapes and sizes, which gives you a lot of options to choose from.

Type

Since there are numerous options on the market today, we are going to try and separate the into different group types, so you can further understand the use of each one.

Pouch

This is the smallest option you can as an EDC bag. The everyday carry organizer pouch is for people with a minimal amount of items who don’t want to carry their belongings in their pockets. Usually, the items they have don’t require a pack, which is where this type of bag can come in handy.

Lumbar Pack

Lumbar packs are next in size, and they are larger than a pouch but smaller than a sling bag. These EDC bags are used if you intend to carry a bigger quantity of smaller items or if you need a few larger times. They can turn out to be very useful but super comfortable and lightweight.

Sling Bag

Sling bags are usually utilized for heavier items because of their over-the-shoulder design. The main idea behind their design is the comfortable and convenient carry of larger and heavier loads. If you’re someone that carries a lot of items, this is a great option to consider.

Backpack

If you are one of the people who want to be prepared for every situation and you tend to carry a lot of gear, an EDC backpack is what you need. This is the appropriate choice if you want to carry a laptop or a tablet as well as other larger items.

Features

As you’ve already decided what items you need and what size will best work for you, it’s time to think about the features you’ll want to take a closer look at.

High-Quality Materials

The quality of materials used for the EDC bag is essential. We all know that craftsmanship is important, and getting a cheap flimsy bag won’t do the job. We strongly recommend picking materials like nylon and CORDURA fabrics so you know the worth of your everyday carry. 

MOLLE Systems

Having a MOLLE integration feature will allow you to have limitless customization options regardless of the size and type of EDC bag. If you get a bag with a MOLLE system, you will further understand the flexible adaptation it can provide and all the benefits it can bring.

Zippers

Some people won’t pay enough attention to zippers, but they are the weak point in any bag, which is why you have to make sure you’ll choose ones that won’t break or get stuck. You need to be able to use the thousands of times over and over again without having an issue. A quality zipper means a high-quality bag, and the best ones on the market today are YKK zippers.

Adjustable Fit

Every person is different; therefore, you need a bag that can be easily adjusted to avoid any possible discomfort or restriction in movement. By picking an everyday carry with adjustable straps and clips, you ensure your comfort and secure fit for your daily needs.

Organization System

The way to distinguish a great EDC bag from a bad one is its organizational system. Most quality everyday carries are designed with various pouches, compartments, zippers, webbing, Velcro, and sleeves, which allow efficient storage of your belongings.

Comfort & Restrictions

Everyone needs a well-fitted bag that will provide them with comfort and easy portability. Having no restrictions is an important aspect of your purchase. You need a bag that will stay in place without making you uncomfortable.

Hydration System

This is a feature that will be ideal if you use your EDC bag for covering large distances. Having a hydration system will save you a lot of space, and it will reduce the need to carry a separate water bottle with you at all times.

FAQs

What Is An EDC Bag?

EDC means “Everyday Carry,” which is a collection of items you carry daily. Some you might carry in your pockets, others in a bag. Your everyday carry consists of belongings you find truly essential. The EDC philosophy is built upon the cornerstones of preparedness and utility, in which each component of your carry serves a purpose or has a specific function.

An Everyday Carry Bag is not just a regular bag since it is one that you spend a considerable amount of time using. There are different types of EDC bags, such as pouches, packs, and sling bags, and the most common one is backpacks. Inside them, you place your everyday gear and tools. The essential items typically are a wallet, keys, your phone and charger, a lighter, etc. Its main purpose is to ease carrying all of your specific necessities.

Why And How Is Different From Tactical Bags?

We’ve explained what an EDC bag is, now, let’s talk about tactical bags so you can fully understand their differences and purpose. The first thing to know about tactical bags is the fact that they are made from incredibly durable materials that usually are weather-resistant and can withstand long-term wear.

You can expose it to the elements, toss it in your car, scrape it and travel the whole world with it, and even go to war with it. Tactical bags are designed to stand up to abuse and harsh conditions. Often this type of bag will have MOLLE webbing, Velcro patch zones, and tactical colors like black and cameo.

EDC bags typically look very minimalistic and compact, whereas tactical bags were built for warfighters and tend to be a lot bulkier and heavier. They are intended for heavy survival gear and tools, where an EDC bag is used for items needed on a daily basis.

What EDC Items Should Always Be In Your Bag?

Everyone has items they rely on the most, whether it is your grandfather’s watch or a wallet your mom gifted you. However, everyday carry consists of things that have proven useful in day-to-day activities and situations. Those objects are what you rely on throughout your day.

It is very important to understand that the EDC philosophy stands behind less is more, which means only bringing what’s important. Your everyday life isn’t a war zone unless you’re a soldier. With that said, you have to be able to carry your bag with ease.

As far as essentials go, most people will carry the same items since they use them every day. Most of those items will consist of a phone, a wallet, keys, a multi-tool, a watch, a flashlight, a pen, and paper. If you consider yourself a prepper, this is the minimum standard for practical and useful day-to-day activities.

What Do You Need It For?

Typically an EDC bag is needed because you can’t fit all your belongings in your pockets. Having an everyday carry will allow you to transport items easily and comfortably. These bags are typically used for their amazing organizing sections with many pockets and compartments, as well as the MOLLE straps, which provide additional storage space. 

After all the everyday carry items you can’t leave your home without, there are some items still that will need a way to be transported. What you carry and use may vary on the different environments and situations you’re in. Many firearm owners purchase EDC bags because they can have their concealed carry with them at all times. Others get a bag so that they can fit their laptop or tablet.

Final Words

Deciding on the right EDC bag is essential because, after all, it’s going to be a big part of your daily routine for years, that’s why you have to be sure it suits your requirements and taste, both from a functional and esthetic point of view. When you’re deciding on an everyday carry, it’s wise to identify your priorities without compromising quality. We hope that today’s article was helpful and informative enough to let you make your decision on the right EDC bag for you. However, if there are any questions we haven’t answered regarding the subject, feel free to share them in the comments below.