Everyday Carry (EDC) Bags & Backpacks

An everyday carry bag (EDC bag) is a backpack, shoulder bag, or pouch designed to carry essential items like your keys, wallet, and personal items. It's the bag you regularly keep with you that helps keep you organized and prepared when running errands, commuting, and navigating daily life. Depending on the size of the bag, you may also be able to pack other items including headphones/earbuds, a water bottle, first aid, a book or notebook, medication, and a charger or power bank.

Types of EDC Bags

You can make almost any bag an everyday bag, but the most common styles include:

 - Sling bags: Compact, easy to access when on the go, and lightweight.

 - Backpacks: Great for commuting to work and school and able to hold more gear. May also be more ergonomic.

 - Messenger Bags: Also great for work and campus. A more stylish option that can hold a lot of gear.

 - Totes: Versatile thanks to their large open compartment.

 - Shoulder Bags: The quintessential everyday bag style.

What To Look For

What you need in an everyday carry bag depends on your intended use. A college student or a commuter that carries a laptop, books, a water bottle, and more should carefully consider a bag's storage options. Someone who needs a bag for everyday use around town may want a lightweight, comfortable option.

Durability: A fashion shoulder bag is a trendy choice, but may not last very long. For maximum durability against daily wear and tear, look for bags made from materials like Cordura nylon that are tear-resistant or waxed fabrics that are good for a classic look.

Comfort: Ergonomic designs with padded back panels help make EDC backpacks more comfortable for all-day wear. Cross body bags are a great everyday carry option that is comfortable thanks to the weight distribution across the torso.

Quick Access: If you need a bag that allows for easy access to keys, phone, wallet, sunglasses, or other essentials, look for bags with front and side pockets. Fleece lined pockets are great for protecting devices and glasses. Zippered pockets are great for keeping items in place.

Compartment Size: Totes and backpacks offer large compartments. Many even have separate padded compartments or sleeves for a laptop. If you need to carry smaller items and want something more compact, consider a small crossbody bag or a fanny pack.

Our Favorite TNF Everyday Bags

Base Camp Voyager Sling: Designed to be lightweight for everyday and travel use, this sling has main compartment with a dedicated fleece lined tablet sleeve, several additional pockets for smaller items, and even a quick access phone pocket on the strap.

Borealis Tote: Carry it like a tote. Wear it like a backpack. The choice is yours. The Borealis Tote has two water bottle pockets, a quick access pocket perfect for a phone, and a zippered main compartment with a padded laptop compartment. It's a great choice for everyday commutes.

Glen Canyon Pocket Crossbody: A lightweight option with a classic look, the Glen Canyon Pocket Crossbody bag is designed to hold just the essentials while keeping your hands free. It has a zippered main compartment, a drop-in mesh pocket, and a key clip.