6 Everyday Carry Essentials
The tools to help you survive the 9-to-5
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Everyday carry has become a bit cliché, but there’s no denying the few pieces of essential gear that gets you out the door in the morning, day after day. If it's time to upgrade your kit, here are some good options.
Topo Designs Core Pack ($120)
The Core is the very definition of “everyday carry”, from commuting to weekends away. A dedicated laptop compartment doubles as a hydration sleeve and the main compartment is big enough for a spare outfit, including shoes. The outside pocket has an internal organizer sleeve for smaller items and there’s a water bottle pouch that folds flat when not in use. The burly YKK zippers, 1000 denier Cordura fabric, and contoured padded shoulder straps ensure years of service.
Bellroy Hide and Seek Wallet ($90)
The magic of this wallet is its ability to hold everything you need while not being a literal pain in the butt. There are four quick-access slots hold cards, a full-length bill slot accommodates most international currency, plus there’s a hidden area for less-used items and a flap to keep emergency cash tucked away. The vegetable-tanned leather is handsome, durable, and environmentally friendly.
Alsta Nautoscaph II Watch ($880)
The original Alsta Nautoscaph was seen on the wrist of Matt Hooper, the marine biologist played by Richard Dreyfuss in 1975's Jaws. Its iconic look has been recreated in great detail on the Nautoscaph II, right down to the retro font and bold dial of the original. The stainless steel case is water resistant down to 1,000 feet and the rotating bezel tracks dive time (or a parking meter) up to one hour. The watch is powered by a self-winding movement and comes with a leather strap for topside duty, or a more “shark-proof” steel mesh band for forays beneath the waves.
Sunski Dipsea Sunglasses ($55)
The right sunglasses are a fine balance—too tech-y and they’re confined to weekend duty, but too refined and you don’t want to risk them snowboarding or kitesurfing. The Dipsea splits the difference with a classic keyhole nose shape and tortoiseshell frame with triple-spoke hinges, but the amber lenses are pure performance—certified UVA/B polarized protection.
James Brand Elko Knife ($60)
Few items are as handy as a good pocketknife, whether for opening a delivery box, slicing an apple, or whittling a stick to pass the time. The Elko has an anodized aluminum handle and a drop point blade for good wear and edge retention. Clip it on a lanyard or keyring and you’ll find a dozen uses for it every week. Just don’t accidentally try to take it through airport security. This one’s too good to give up.
Arcade Blackwood Belt ($26)
The Blackwood is a versatile, outdoorsy belt that makes an easy transition to more urban environs. Made from heavy-duty elastic webbing, it is both TSA- and washer/dryer-friendly and stretches for all-day comfort.