Backpack, bag, or waist pack – what’s best for carrying your EDC?

EDC, or “everyday carry,” is all about the gear you have with you daily. The term first emerged among bushcraft and outdoor enthusiasts to refer to tools they carried to handle any situation, even survival scenarios. Over time, EDC has expanded to a broader audience, becoming popular for urban and travel use. Now, it’s more than just a set of items; it’s an integral part of a lifestyle. What you carry and how you carry it depends on personal preferences.

What’s your daily gear? Do you only need the bare minimum, which fits into a discreet waist pack? Or are you always ready for anything, preferring to organize all your gear in a well-designed backpack? Choosing the right way to carry your EDC balances functionality, comfort, and style. Backpack, bag, or waist pack – each Helikon-Tex option has unique advantages and can become your reliable companion on any mission. 

Dive into our guide to discover which of these solutions best meets your needs. This will allow you to carry your daily essentials with ease and confidence. 

EDC backpacks: versatility and capacity

At Helikon-Tex, we design backpacks with versatility in mind, so you’ll find something for every occasion in our range. We have options perfect for daily use in the city or outdoors and for tactical operations. Many of our backpacks combine these purposes seamlessly (and even more). Here’s why packing your EDC in a backpack is a good idea. 

Storage space. Backpacks generally offer more capacity than bags and waist packs, allowing you to carry more gear. This is particularly useful if your EDC includes tools, gadgets, extra clothing, or personal items that require more space. Are you looking for a backpack that fits everything yet remains lightweight and handy? Check out our champion in this category – the Raccoon Mk2 Backpack. 

Organizational features. Many Helikon-Tex backpacks come with various compartments and pockets to help keep your gear organized. Look for models with dedicated pockets for electronics, tools, and everyday essentials. For example, our Traveler Backpack features a detachable mesh organizer and a special compartment for a laptop and documents, making it the perfect companion for business trips and short getaways.  

Comfort. With reinforced shoulder straps, spacer mesh, and adjustable carrying systems, Helikon-Tex backpacks ensure comfort during extended wear. This is especially important if you carry EDC gear all day and need an ergonomic solution. The EDC Backpack (and more) also comes with a detachable hip belt that takes the weight off your shoulders and provides better stability. 

Need extra pockets quickly? Rely on MOLLE/PALS

The MOLLE/PALS system (for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment / Pouch Attachment Ladder System) is a modular load-carrying system designed for maximum flexibility and gear customization. MOLLE consists of rows of horizontal webbing, usually made of durable nylon, sewn onto backpacks and bags to create a grid that allows easy attachment of additional pockets, pouches, and accessories. With MOLLE/PALS, you can optimally organize and distribute your gear, knowing it’s easily accessible and securely fastened.  

If you want to personalize your daily bag by adding a first aid kit, a hydration pocket, or a compass pouch, click here to view the full range of MOLLE/PALS accessories. 

Bags for EDC: functionality and flexibility

Our bags are designed for those who prefer a more compact and flexible solution for carrying their EDC. With a stylish crossbody or shoulder bag, everything gets noticed, and all your gear is at your fingertips. What else matters here?  

Easy access. Many bags are designed for quick access to your gear, making them ideal for urban environments or situations where time is of the essence. Check out, for example, the Bushcraft Satchel or Bushcraft Haversack – open one zipper or buckle, and you can easily reach what you need without rummaging through multiple compartments.  

Shoulder and crossbody options. Helikon-Tex bags have adjustable straps that allow you to wear them over the shoulder or across the body. This versatility enhances comfort and accessibility, especially in crowded places. Some bags, like the compact EDC Side Bag or the spacious Urban Courier Bag, have extra ergonomic reinforcements on the straps to prevent neck or shoulder chafing during extended wear. 

Lightweight design. Bags are usually lighter than backpacks, which can be a more comfortable option for carrying EDC gear when you don’t need to bring much. This makes them suitable for daily errands or short trips, like the Carryall Backup or Carryall Daily bags – both as light as a feather.  

Stylish appearance. We pay special attention to aesthetics in our designs, making Helikon-Tex bags suitable for casual and professional use. This is advantageous if you want your EDC gear to blend seamlessly with your everyday attire, packed in the Essential Kitbag or Foxhole. 

Perfect internal organization? The VIS system to the rescue

The VIS (short for Versatile Insert System) is an innovative solution created by Helikon-Tex that enables flexible management of the interior of a bag, backpack, or even a waist pack. The system is based on special Velcro panels to which you can easily attach various inserts—from organizers for small items and magazine pockets to mounts for medical gear. With the VIS system, you can quickly and easily change the layout and contents of your gear, adapting it to your current needs or mission.  

Waist packs: compact and efficient

This option is perfect for EDC minimalists or an excellent choice for carrying the essentials close to your body, regardless of your backpack or bag. If you value lightness and quick access to essentials, Helikon-Tex waist packs are recommended for EDC with all their advantages.

Compact size. Waist packs are designed to carry only essential items, encouraging you to prioritize what you need in your EDC. Are you carrying just a phone, flashlight, documents, and a multitool? Our smallest, clever Bandicoot Waist Pack will be your favorite. 

Quick access. With a waist pack, you can quickly reach your items, even if it’s just a bandage or a pen. This feature is handy for carrying small tools, keys, or personal items. The Possum Waist Pack perfectly accommodates small items with its built-in organizer, mesh pouch, and hidden pocket. 

Comfortable fit. Designed to be worn around the waist, waist packs evenly distribute weight, allowing for comfortable use during various activities. This is particularly advantageous for outdoor adventures or urban explorations. 

Versatile use. Waist packs can be worn over clothing or under jackets, making them suitable for various environments. They are also great for hiking, running, or cycling, where you must keep your hands free. If you prefer waist packs but want to carry more, check out our Rat Waist Pack – its capacity will surprise you. 

Something for everyone… The best fit for you!

Choosing between a backpack, bag, or waist pack for your EDC depends on your needs and lifestyle. Backpacks are ideal for those who need ample space and organizational features. Bags offer a lightweight, stylish, and accessible option for everyday use. Waist packs provide a compact and efficient solution for minimalists. 

Consider your daily activities, the amount of gear you carry, and your style, and we’ll take care of the rest. Each option from Helikon-Tex is designed to enhance your comfort when carrying EDC.