Our Best EDC Bag of 2019 – Everyday Carry Reviews

quality EDC backpack

When you hear the phrase EDC bag, you might think of a bag you take to a Las Vegas rave. We know. But EDC actually stands for “every day carry,” which means you’ll take this bag with you nearly everywhere you go, each and every day (maybe even a rave). Therefore, the pack you choose needs to be durable, comfortable, functional, and versatile.

So take your time when picking out an every day carry bag, since that’s exactly when you’ll be using it. Do your due diligence and research so you can make an informed purchase.

Making the wrong choice for your EDC bag may result in buyer’s remorse and a waste of money.

As you evaluate your EDC backpack choices, make sure your sack has enough room to carry everything you need comfortably.

Of course, your needs depend on your lifestyle, your profession, and more.

To begin, keep in mind the average person uses this type of pack to carry their wallet, keys, cell phone, and other everyday essentials.

As you can see, the ideal EDC bag that you purchase will have everything to do with your daily routine.

After reviewing all the top EDC backpack available, we’ve selected our top 7 picks in the comparison table below. We’re confident you’ll find the perfect model for your needs.

Comparison Table

Mobile Users: For optimal viewing, tilt your phone to landscape (wide-view) to see the entire table.

Product

Wallet

Our Score

5.11 Rush 12 (our top pick)

$$$$

97

$$$$$

95

$$$

91

$$

88

$$$$

86

$

83

$$

80

This article will cover the criteria to consider while you shop for an EDC bag, followed by 5 quality options with reviews. The goal is to save you time and effort, so you can find the best EDC bag here on this page.

EDC Backpack Buying Considerations

The process of picking out the best EDC bag for you doesn’t need to be complicated, but there are a few things you need to carefully think about before you act. First, is deciding what items you are going to take with you on a daily basis.

It may be helpful to take a few minutes to make a list of everything you will take with you in your day-to-day life.

Keep this list of day-to-day items in your mind as you shop for the best EDC bag because finding a bag with insufficient space would be counterproductive.

mens multiple items

Getting this list started is easy, as was mentioned above. You are almost certainly going to need to take with you a wallet, phone, and keys.

Most people also like to have room for a small snack, and probably a water bottle of some kind.

Depending on your work or school situation, you may wish to carry a couple of pens or pencils, a notepad, and maybe even a tablet or small laptop.

In addition to those basics, some people like to carry something for self-defense in their bag. So, keep that in mind when looking through our list of the best EDC bags.

Self-defense items could include not only a weapon but also a quality flashlight that can be used to light your way on a dark morning or night.

If you are going to include these kinds of items in your pack, be sure that the model you choose will be able to accommodate them comfortably.

Looking for something more military like? Visit our tactical backpacks page.

Right-Sizing

person wearing the best EDC bagWhat makes the best edc bag? It should be the sizing. The ideal pack size should be large enough to carry everything you need, and no larger. You don’t want to carry extra weight for no reason (especially for hikers), and you don’t want to be limited in your movement by a big bag that is mostly empty.

Once your list is done, view the various EDC bag features that will match from a size perspective.

Not too big and not too small – that is your goal when shopping for the best EDC bag.

Fortunately, there are plenty of great bags on the market today, so you should be able to find something that is just right from a size perspective.

In addition to size, other points to consider:

quality of the bag, number of adjustable straps, material used to make the bag, number of compartments, and the price.

As you come to a final decision on which one is the best EDC bag for you, we strongly suggest taking into consideration the opinions of previous buyers along with your own personal needs and preferences.

Main Types of Everyday Carry  (EDC) Bags

EDC Organizer Pouch

organizer pouch

If you want extra convenience, I recommend you look for an organizer pouch.

Pouches are ideal for keeping all small items in one place, so you don’t have to rummage through your bag. There are many different pouches, and some can even be attached to the outside of your bag.

Look for a pouch that’s lightweight, so it doesn’t add any weight to your already heavy EDC bag.

Also, I suggest you go for a pouch that’s made of mesh materials. This way you can easily find the item you’re looking for, without having to dig through the pouch. If you want a pouch for the outside of your bag, a water-resistant model is the best for you.

A pouch is a great way to organize the small items inside your bag. Make sure to choose one that fits your EDC bag in regards to size, materials, and style.

EDC Lumbar Pack

lumbar pack edc

If you’ll be carrying many small items, an EDC lumbar pack is the best choice. It’s bigger than an organizer pouch but still smaller than a backpack or an EDC bag. The best thing about it is that it doesn’t strap around your arms or shoulders, leaving you with a full range of motion.

You wear it around the waist, so your arms are completely free to carry larger bags. However, most lumbar packs have a carry handle. It features molle webbing that allows you to attach the pack to larger bags. You can even attach your pouch to the lumbar pack. This is a convenient way to carry bigger items, or many small items while still having your arms free.

EDC Sling Bag

sling bag

A quality sling bag is lightweight and extremely easy to use. Sling bags have long and adjustable straps that are padded and can go from left to right. It features a padded back panel that provides comfort even when you carry sharp things such as rulers and pens.

It’s ideal for organizing small items such as your phone, a tablet, a notebook, and maybe a small laptop. Most people like it because it can be worn on both back and chest. This allows you to have easy access to your items at all times. The convenience of this bag provides freedom for you to move around busy areas regardless of whether you’re walking or riding a bike.

EDC Backpack

edc backpack at night

The best EDC bags and backpacks on the market are usually durable and made to carry anything you’d possibly need. Ideally, you want a backpack made of a long-lasting material that can endure different weather conditions. Look for a backpack that’s made of 500S-1200D Cordura nylon fabric. I suggest you avoid materials such as kodra and polyester since these aren’t as durable.

An EDC backpack made of 500 Cordura nylon is usually heavier than the one made of polyester, but it’s also weather resistant and can take a beating. Also, always check the quality of the hardware when searching for the best EDC bag. It’s crucial to pay attention to zippers and buckles as those are important parts of every EDC backpack.

Backpacks should have many compartments, different in size so that you can carry both big and small items. Luckily, there are many different models (such as army duffel bags) to choose from based on your needs and preference.

Best EDC Bag Reviews & Features – Top Backpack for 2019

 5.11 Rush 12

The backpack is modern looking, and it comes in a few different colors. It’s a multipurpose bag that you can use in many ways from a tactical backpack to a carry-on.

This first item on our list of the best EDC bags features 16 compartments, which is perfect for carrying both big and small items.

The bag has self-repairing YKK zippers that are durable and reliable. It’s made of 1050D nylon that’s water-resistant. Besides, it features an admin panel on the inside, as well as a 60 oz. water bottle pocket.

It also has a fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses.

The web platform that’s wrapped around is Molle and 5.11 SlickStick system compatible. This allows you to customize the inside of the bag to suit your needs the best.

The backpack features adjustable shoulder straps, external compression straps, and a sternum strap for stability. Most people who own the backpack like its convenience but claim it’s not very laptop-friendly.

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5.11 Tactical COVRT 18

 This is another 5.11 backpack that’s convenient and versatile. The Covrt 18is a roomy backpack with a main and secondary storage areas fit for big and small items.

It also has a side-entry Back-Up belt system compartment. This backpack can fit a full-size firearm in its Roll-down assault compartment.

Much like other 5.11 backpacks, the Covrt 18 features QuickTact accessory straps at the shoulder. Its grab handle is reinforced and durable. The Covrt 18 has a flip-down ID panel, a padded laptop compartment as well as a pocket for your sunglasses.

On the outside, the backpack features compression straps, yoke-style shoulder straps, and an adjustable sternum strap. This EDC is made from water-resistant, durable 500D nylon, featuring Duraflex hardware and YKK zippers.

Some users say that the backpack distributes weight evenly. Although it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s important we say that its side pockets can’t fit large water bottles.

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3V Gear Posse Tactical Sling Pack

 This rugged sling pack is convenient and roomy. Its front pocket is 8x8x1 inches in size and it has a divider, elastic mag loops, keeper, and drainage grommet. The front slip pocket is 6×4 inches featuring keeper pocket and elastic mag loops.

It’s made of 600 Denier PVC backed polyester with the main compartment being 11x8x4 inches.

The compartment has a back and front divider as well as an internal zipped pouch for small items such as a phone or keys.

The sling pack has a shoulder strap that’s integrated with 2’’ webbing. It also has a buckle that’s reliable and can be concealed in the back.

Most users claim the sling pack is best for hiking. It features quality zippers and many functional pockets.

Still, some say it would be better if the sling pack had a plug for the drain hole.

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ArcEnCiel

 Made from 1000D nylon, this tactical bag is resistant to tear and abrasion. The bag features adjustable shoulder straps and thickened sponge on the back. This allows good air permeability at all times.

Pals webbing is on both sides and can be locked to safely carry items such as pliers, wallet, keys, phone, flashlight, etc.

This is a heavy-duty bag that’s ideal for camping, hiking (similar to the Maxpedition Falcon II backpack), cycling and all other activities in nature.

It can carry both large and heavy items, as well as different small items.

At the top of the bag, you can find the earphone jack so that you can wear your headset with ease. Its many compartments and pockets feature quality zippers that are durable.

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile, this might be what you’re looking for according to its users. Most people like the versatility and convenience they found with this bag thanks to its overall quality.

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Fami Outdoor Tactical Shoulder Backpack

 This is a useful and convenient backpack that’s ideal for indoor and outdoor use. It’s handy and offers three different ways of carrying it. You can carry it as a hand carry, back and chest sling, and a shoulder bag.

It has a small molle pouch. It’s compact and can fit all your necessary items. Made from 600D fabric, it’s durable, lightweight and suits all body shapes.

The backpack features an adjustable, detachable strap that’s comfortable even after hours of wearing the bag. This Fami backpack is ideal for hiking, camping, school supplies, hunting and other tools.

It has many pockets featuring durable zippers to help you organize your items.

Its users claim that it’s handy for carrying all the items you’d usually carry in your pockets. Its only downside is that it’s not quite suitable to carry large and heavy objects.

Mostly, it’s best for carrying those few extra items you like having on hand at all times.

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Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack

Image of Assault PackCompact, affordable, functional, well-rated – it is hard to find much to complain about when it comes to the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack. This pack comes in a range of colors so you can pick the one that suits your tastes.

It is praised as a bag that you can easily keep in your vehicle or carry around town conveniently while having all of your personal items close at hand.

Some reviewers have discussed how they traveled to many different states and countries with this pack in tow, a good testament to its durability and functionality as an everyday carry bag.

It is on the compact side of the backpack world, so those hoping to carry around large volumes of equipment on a daily basis might need to look for a larger option.

However, if compact and convenient is at the top of your list, the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack should be one to watch.

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Fieldline Alpha OPS Daypack

Image of Fieldline Alpha OPS DaypackThis is another pack that gets good marks for ‘all-around’ performance.

It is affordable and it has plenty of space for almost anyone to carry around their daily items, and it is compatible with a hydration pouch (although a pouch is not included).

It is the value of this bag that has won it plenty of fans. For the cost, users are impressed with both the quality and function of the bag.

They acknowledge that the overall quality may not be on par with a more expensive unit – but that should go without saying.

If you are looking for an affordable backpack to meet your everyday needs, then the Fieldline Alpha OPS Daypack is a strong contender on our list of the best EDC bags.

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G4Free Multipurpose Hiking Shoulder Pack

Image of G4Free Multipurpose TacticalSimply the presence of the word ‘multipurpose’ in the title of this item should let you know that it is suitable as an EDC option.

When it comes down to it, the whole purpose behind an everyday carry bag is the fact that it should be able to deal with your daily needs comfortably.

This pack is up to that challenge thanks to quality 600D polyester fabric, self-repairing zippers, a hydration pocket, and more.

Whether you are just going about your daily work or school routine, or you are headed out for an enjoyable day hike, the G4Free should be ready to get to work for you.

This is another item that reviewers have pointed out is a value option. The varied reviews that have been left indicate this bag is being used for a wide variety of purposes, from attending college classes to serving as a bug out bag and more.

This is probably not the right pack for someone looking for a high-end option, but it can be a good value play considering its versatility and full complement of standard everyday carry bag features.

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TravTac Stage I Premium Small EDC Tactical Sling Pack

Image of TravTac Stage I Premium Small EDC TacticalThis unit is not a traditional backpack, as it only uses one shoulder strap and works more as a ‘sling’ than a backpack.

However, it still meets many of the criteria that consumers look for in the best EDC bag, so it warrants inclusion in this list. Created with 900D fabric, the shoulder strap is detach

able, and it includes three total zippered pockets to carry all of your daily goods.

Buyers of this item are impressed by the quality of the pack, especially for the price at which it is offered.

It is always a good feeling to get good value for your money, and that is exactly what has been reported by most of the buyers.

The versatility of this bag is also praised, as it can serve many purposes despite its relatively small size.

If you don’t have a large amount of time to take around with you on a daily basis, consider the TravTac Stage I Premium Small EDC Tactical Sling Pack as your everyday carry bag.

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Vertx

Image of Vertx EDC GamutAre you looking for quality in your EDC backpack, even if you have to pay a steep price for it? When the top of the line quality is what you are after, the Vertx EDC Gamut Bag is a product worth a second look.

It is easily the most expensive bag on our list. With that said, the reviews that have been left indicate plenty of quality is being returned for that investment.

Quality is the first thing you noticed mentioned over and over again in the reviews for this product. It is clearly a well-made bag, as users have been willing to pay a relatively high price and are still impressed with what they receive.

Users have found all sorts of different uses for this bag, from traveling with it for work to simple everyday use around town.

Beyond the quality of the item, we need to highlight the number of pockets this item features, which is something many customers look for in the best EDC bag would likely be a great choice for you if a high number of pockets is something that is on your shopping list.

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Final Thoughts on the Top EDC Bags

When you decide to purchase a new EDC backpack, you want to take your time to ensure you find the right one for your needs and budget. We hope we saved you some time with our list above of some of the best EDC bags that are available on the market today.

You should be able to locate one that matches all of your needs for the budget, features, and overall quality. We hope that you enjoyed reading our best edc bag guide.