My Everyday Carry (EDC) Setup: Streamlined, Practical, and Ready for Anything
My everyday carry (EDC) setup is the result of years of refining what I need to stay productive, connected, and prepared without overloading my pockets. From my trusty Samsung Galaxy S24 to a well-organized Thule backpack, every item serves a purpose. Below, I’ll walk you through my EDC, why I chose each piece, and how it fits into my daily life as a business owner with a busy schedule. I’ve also included resources and tips for anyone looking to optimize their own EDC.
The Core: Samsung Galaxy S24
My smartphone is the centerpiece of my EDC, and I’m currently rocking the Samsung Galaxy S24 (not the Plus or Ultra—I prefer a compact device). At 6.2 inches, it’s pushing the limit of what I consider one-hand-texting-friendly without tweaking the keyboard settings, but it’s manageable and fits comfortably in my pocket. I typically swap phones every 12 months (keeping older ones for crypto mining, like VerusCoin, as I’ve done with past devices), but I’ve stuck with the S24 for 14 months—a personal record.
Why the S24? Samsung’s One UI 6.1 feels surprisingly close to stock Android, a big departure from the bloat-heavy interfaces I disliked in older Samsung phones. The 120Hz AMOLED display is crisp, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset handles everything from multitasking to light gaming, and the camera system (50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto) is reliable for quick business or personal shots. My only gripe after 14 months is the battery life— the 4,000mAh cell is starting to show its age, lasting about 80% of a full day under heavy use. I mitigate this with chargers at home, work, and in my car, plus power banks in my backpack (more on those later).
Resource: Check out
for specs or
for detailed reviews and comparisons.
The Game-Changer: Thule Backpack
A few years ago, my pockets were a mess—bulging with keys, headphones, a thick wallet, and random cables. It was chaotic, and I envied the simplicity of a purse. A friend pointed out that backpacks are the male equivalent, and that was a lightbulb moment. I picked up a Thule Subterra Backpack 30L from:
(retails around $139.99), and it’s been a game-changer. This sleek, durable backpack is lightweight, has a padded laptop compartment, and organizes everything I need without looking bulky. I carry it almost everywhere—work, travel, even casual outings.
The Thule’s dedicated sunglasses pocket (with a crush-proof hard case) protects my spare Oakley sunglasses ($150-$200) available at:
I wear my primary pair and keep the backup in the bag for emergencies or style switches. The backpack’s multiple compartments also keep my gear organized, from tech to business essentials.
Tip: If you’re new to EDC backpacks, look for one with a laptop sleeve, water-resistant material, and a low-profile design. Thule, Peak Design, and Aer are great brands to explore.
Streamlined Wallet: MagSafe Case and Wallet
To slim down my pocket carry, I switched to a MagSafe case for my S24 (I use the Spigen Ultra Hybrid, ~$29.99) paired with a MagSafe wallet. The wallet holds my ID and two primary cards (credit and debit). I keep it in my car or backpack most of the time, only pulling it out for places without tap-to-pay (like some Walmart locations) or where I need my ID, like bars or age-restricted venues. For my businesses, I carry additional debit cards in a slim Ridge Wallet Carbon Fiber Money Clip (~$95,
) stashed in the backpack for occasional use.
This setup eliminates the bulky wallet I used to carry, and tap-to-pay (via Google Wallet) handles 90% of my transactions. If you’re considering a MagSafe wallet, ensure your phone case supports strong magnetic alignment to prevent detachment.
Power On the Go: Dual Power Banks
Battery anxiety is real, especially with my S24’s aging battery. I carry two power banks in my Thule to stay charged:
- Baseus 65W 20,000mAh Power Bank (~$59.99, available on Amazon): This beast fast-charges my S24 from 20% to 80% in about 25 minutes thanks to Power Delivery 3.0. It also juices up my laptop (Dell XPS 13) and other USB-C devices. Its capacity is enough for 3-4 full phone charges, making it ideal for long days or travel.
- Slim 4,800mAh-Compatible Power Bank (~$29.99, I use an Anker Battery): This compact charger onto my S24 USB C for on-the-go topping up, perfect for nights out when my battery’s below 30%. It’s lightweight and doesn’t block the camera, so I can use the phone while it charges.
Tip: When choosing a power bank, prioritize USB-C Power Delivery (PD) for fast charging and check airline regulations if you travel—20,000mAh is typically the max allowed in carry-on luggage.
Adapters for Every Scenario
I’ve been burned before by not having the right cable or adapter, so my backpack has a dedicated pocket with:
- USB-C Dock (Anker 553, ~$79.99, Anker.com): Connects my phone or laptop to external displays or peripherals.
- USB-C to HDMI Cable (4K, ~$19.99): For presentations or mirroring my phone/laptop to a TV.
- USB-C to USB-A Adapter (~$9.99): For older devices or chargers.
- USB-A to USB-C Adapter (~$9.99): For reverse compatibility.
- USB-C to 3.5mm Adapter (~$12.99): For wired audio when Bluetooth isn’t an option.
This kit ensures I’m never stuck, whether I’m at a client meeting, a coffee shop, or a friend’s place. I use a small cable organizer:
to keep everything tangle-free.
Tech Essentials: Laptop and Tablet
My backpack always has my Dell XPS 13 (2024, Snapdragon X Elite) (~$1,299).
This 13.4-inch ultrabook is a powerhouse for work—its ARM-based chip delivers excellent performance and up to 20 hours of battery life. I use it for everything from managing my businesses to editing documents on the go. The 3K OLED display is a bonus for presentations or downtime streaming.
For lighter tasks, I carry a Lenovo Legion Tab (~$499).
which replaced my Kindle. This 8 inch gaming tablet doubles as a tablet for reading, browsing, or strategy games like Mafia City (a nod to my love for mafia-themed strategy, as seen in past games like Empire of Sin).
Audio Done Right: Nothing Ear Buds and JBL Quantum TWS
Audio is critical for calls, music, and blocking out noise. My primary earbuds are the Nothing Ear (2) in black (~$149).
These buds check every box: excellent noise cancellation, crisp sound, and a lightweight design I barely notice. The sleek, transparent case is compact and stylish, and battery life (up to 6 hours with ANC on, 36 hours with the case) keeps me going all day. I’ve tried countless earbuds, but the Nothing Ear (2) stands out for comfort and aesthetics.
For situations where I need wired audio or want to avoid Bluetooth juggling across devices, I carry the JBL Quantum TWS (~$149.95).
These earbuds support USB-C audio input, letting me plug directly into my phone, laptop, or tablet for low-latency sound. This is a lifesaver in meetings or when my devices are paired to multiple Bluetooth sources.
Resource: Compare earbuds on
for noise cancellation and sound quality metrics.
Personal Protection: S&W Bodyguard 2
As part of my EDC, I carry a Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 (~$399). Available at:
This compact .380 ACP pistol is lightweight (11.5 oz loaded), concealable, and reliable, making it ideal for everyday carry. Its slim profile means I barely notice it, whether holstered inside the waistband or in a pocket holster. I appreciate its affordability and how fun it is to shoot at the range.
Note: Firearm carry laws vary by state and locality. Always check local regulations and ensure proper permits, training, and safety practices. Resources like
offer training and legal guidance for concealed carry.
The Minimal On-Person Carry
Beyond my backpack, I keep my on-person carry minimal:
- Car FOB: Always in my pocket for quick access to my vehicle.
- Nothing Ear (2) Case: Slips into my pocket for instant audio access.
This setup keeps my pockets light while ensuring I have what I need. The backpack handles the rest, letting me move freely without the clutter I used to deal with.
Why This EDC Works for Me
My EDC reflects my lifestyle as a business owner who’s always on the move, juggling multiple ventures and personal commitments. The S24 keeps me connected, the Thule backpack organizes my tech and essentials, and thoughtful additions like power banks, adapters, and the Bodyguard 2.0 ensure I’m prepared for any situation. By streamlining my wallet and pocket carry, I’ve eliminated the chaos of overstuffed pockets while maintaining functionality.
Tip for Readers: Build your EDC around your daily needs. Start with a quality phone and bag, then add tools that solve specific problems (e.g., charging, connectivity, or security). Test and refine over time—your perfect setup is unique to you.
Resources:
- EverydayCarry.com: Inspiration and gear reviews for EDC enthusiasts.
- Wirecutter: Expert picks for backpacks, chargers, and tech.
- Reddit r/EDC: Community ideas for optimizing your carry.
What’s in your EDC? Let me know how you stay prepared, and feel free to borrow ideas from my setup to craft your own!