While many people have a large selection of tools and possibly a well-equipped workshop at home, when something happens while far from home, all of that gear might as well be on the moon. On the other hand, those who prepare for every possible eventuality tend to get tired from hauling around a large case full of Everyday Carry (EDC) gear.
Mary Poppins had one of everything in her magical, bottomless carpetbag, but for everyone else, the goal should be to develop a list of items that might prove useful and that can fit in a pocket or a small carry bag. The trick is to know what’s likely to be needed while at work, commuting to and from home, and while out and about for pleasure. For pocket carry, the list will be short, consisting at a minimum of a compact multitool and a tiny LED flashlight on a keychain.
