Everyday carry has become a bit clich茅, but there鈥檚 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.听
Topo Designs Core Pack ($120)
is the very definition of 鈥渆veryday carry鈥, 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鈥檚 a water bottle pouch that folds flat when not in use. The burly YKK zippers, 1000 denier听Cordura fabric, and contoured padded shoulder straps ensure years of service.
Bellroy Hide and Seek Wallet ($90)
The magic of is its ability to hold everything you need while not being a literal pain in the butt. There are four quick-access slots hold听cards, a full-length bill slot accommodates most international currency, plus there鈥檚 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听seen on the wrist of Matt Hooper, the marine biologist played by Richard Dreyfuss in 1975's听Jaws. Its iconic look has been recreated in great detail on the , 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听and comes with a leather strap for topside duty, or a more 鈥渟hark-proof鈥 steel mesh band for forays beneath the waves.
Sunski Dipsea Sunglasses ($55)
The right sunglasses are a fine balance鈥攖oo tech-y and they鈥檙e confined to weekend duty, but too refined and you don鈥檛 want to risk them snowboarding or kitesurfing. splits the difference with a classic keyhole nose shape听and tortoiseshell frame with triple-spoke hinges, but the amber lenses are pure performance鈥攃ertified 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. has an anodized aluminum handle and a drop point blade听for good wear and edge retention. Clip it on a lanyard or keyring and you鈥檒l find a dozen uses for it every week. Just don鈥檛 accidentally try to take it through airport security. This one鈥檚 too good to give up.
Arcade Blackwood Belt ($26)
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.