Dad Approved: Everyday Carry
Being a dad means expecting the unexpected—spills, scraped knees, meltdowns, weird toys in weird places. That’s where everyday carry (EDC) comes in. It’s not about having a tactical arsenal in your pocket—it’s about being ready with the little things that make a big difference.
From a compact multi-tool to a reliable flashlight, hand wipes, snacks, or even a backup pacifier, a smart EDC setup helps you handle daily dad-life curveballs with confidence. It's peace of mind in your pocket—and the difference between chaos and cool-headed control while on a shopping excursion on a Tuesday.
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Why Every Dad Needs a Multitool
Let’s be real: kids don’t wait for the “right time” to need something fixed. Whether it’s a toy that broke mid-play, a loose screw on the stroller, or a snack package that just won’t open—a good multitool turns you from “uh-oh” to “handled” in seconds.
A multitool is like a dad superpower in your pocket. With one compact tool, you’ve got pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, a bottle opener, maybe even a mini saw—all ready to go without digging through the garage or asking a stranger for help.
When it comes to multitools Leatherman is the king. Although there are cheaper alternatives the full line of Leatherman multitools gives good variety and reliability in a small pocket-sized package. Here are the models I choose to carry on a day to day basis.
Leatherman Skeletool - This is a great tool for daily out and about work. Pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, knife, and bottle opener all in one small package. Lightweight and slim this tool will easily fit in your pocket.
Leatherman Free T2 - This is a fantastic little tool that more closely resembles a regular pocket knife, and can be carried as such. Awesome when roaming around the house. You won’t be leaving mid project to find a screwdriver with this in your pocket.
Leatherman Supertool - This model of Leatherman is the one I’ve owned the longest, and trust the most. It’s a little larger than other options, so it pairs well for carrying in a bag, but you’ll never be without the right tool to tackle an emergency job or fix.
Everyday Carry Flashlight: The Unsung Dad Hero
Kids drop stuff. Power goes out. The Lego under the couch waits in silence. A compact, reliable flashlight isn’t overkill—it’s just smart.
An EDC flashlight gives you instant visibility when the phone light doesn’t cut it. Whether you're checking under car seats, navigating a dark trail, or handling a 2 a.m. diaper blowout without waking the whole house, it's a tiny tool that makes a big impact.
Bright, compact, and built tough—it’s one of those “you’ll be glad you had it” dad essentials.
Streamlight Stylus Pro - This is a penlight utilizing AAA batteries that fits effortlessly into your pocket or bag. Provides 100 lumens, which is enough to illuminate anything you need on the fly.
Streamlight MicroStream - This small and compact light offers compact and pocket sized light for any application. With a clip that can easily be fastened to the brim of a hat this is a good versitile option to carry when out and about.
Fastpro Aluminum Flashlights - These are an honorable mention for me, however have helped in a pinch when other lights are out of reach. They are cheap and come in bundles, which makes tossing a light in the junk drawer, next to the top of the stairs, and in bedside tables in case of emergency or power outage.
The Dad Pack: Waist or Crossbody, No Shame Required
Let’s get this straight—a good bag doesn’t make you less of a man, it makes you more prepared. Whether it’s a waist pack, sling, or crossbody, having your gear on hand without digging through your kid’s backpack is just smart.
Snacks? Check. Wipes? Check. Flashlight, multitool, and backup pacifier? You’re covered.
And if you're worried about the look—Joe Rogan wears one. If the king of elk meat and kettlebells can rock a dad bag, so can you. It’s not a fashion statement. It’s functional armor for everyday fatherhood.
Own it.
Bando Bag - This makes another appearance from my Dad Approved: Bags section. I personally love this bag, and it comes with me everywhere. It makes it easy to store a light, multitool, tweezers, bandaids, snacks, and some emergency cash (we all know your kid is going to find the vending machine with their favorite candy). Pair this with some travel wipes or tissues and you’ll be able to conquer most messes, ouchies, and broken toys easily on the go. An additional pocket with hook and loop interior make it easier to carry additional protection for your family if you so choose.
Vertx Bag - This bag makes a lot of lists along with the Bando Bag. It offers the same features as the Bando Bag with similar pricing. This bag would be a good alternative if the looks of the Bando Bag aren’t quite your style.
Carhartt Waist Bag - A cheaper alternative to the other bags mentioned with the Carhartt branding and durability people have come to know and love. Fill it with what works for you on a daily basis and wear it proudly.
First Aid: Don’t Leave Home Without It
Bumps, scrapes, mystery rashes—kids are injury magnets. And when the chaos hits, you don’t want to be the parent asking strangers for a Band-Aid.
A compact first aid kit in your bag, car, or stroller setup is one of the smartest moves a dad can make. You don’t need a trauma pack—just the basics: bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, kids' meds, maybe even a sticker or two for bonus points.
Prepared dads aren’t paranoid—they’re just ready. And trust us: when the wipe comes out before the tears do, you look like a superhero.
I think most of us can come to the conclusion that bandaids, some antibiotic ointment, and wet wipes should find their way into our diaper bags, waist bags, and vehicles but here are a few mentions that may come in handy and could save a life.
CAT Tourniquet - While this might seem extreme having a tourniquet nearby can quite literally save you or someone elses life. These simple tools can help to stop massive bleeding in an extremity when other attempts have failed. If you are going to carry one I would recommend finding a local “Stop The Bleed” course, or at least viewing some video tutorials and practicing with this tool prior to applying it. Remember that these are not a long term solution for bleeding, and prompt care by a medical professional should be rendered immediately.
Israeli Bandage - These versatile bandages offer control of wounds where a normal bandage just won’t cut it. These have been carried in combat for years by our armed forces, and can be applied to yourself easily if needed. Cheap and packable these can help to control bleeding and keep wounds clean until medical care can be reached. In a pinch they can also function as a makeshift sling.
Semi-Rigid Splint - Kids jump of things and get hurt. Broken bones unfortunately come with childhood, especially if your little one is involved in sports. Having a semi-rigid splint will help to stabilize injuries, and paired with your Israeli bandage is a good way to help you get your loved one to the emergency room without additional fuss.
Final Components: The Everyday Dad Loadout
You’ve got your multitool, flashlight, and first aid handled—but no dad kit is complete without the family survival basics. These aren't luxury items—they're the difference between a smooth outing and a meltdown in aisle 7.
Here’s what should always be in the rotation:
👶 Spare Diapers – One is none. Two is safe. Three means you're the dad people point at and say, “He’s got it together.”
👕 Change of Clothes – For the kid and you. Spills, accidents, blowouts—always hit when you least expect them.
🧻 Wipes – Not just for diapers. Sticky hands, public toilet seats, surprise messes—they’re your cleanup cavalry.
🍎 Snacks – Something you don’t mind finishing when your kid suddenly hates it. Granola bars, applesauce pouches, goldfish.
💧 Water Bottle – Hydrated kid = fewer tantrums. Hydrated dad = fewer headaches. Bonus points if it keeps water cold all day.
💊 Pain Relief Meds (for Dad) – Long walks, last-minute toy assembly, or just surviving the day—bring a couple ibuprofen or acetaminophen in a travel tube. You’ll thank yourself.
