What you carry in your EDC bag will vary from person to person. No two people are going to have the same edc bag setup.
If I’m going on a trip to London or Paris, my EDC bag is going to look different than what I use day-to-day in Northeastern Ohio.
My EDC bag is not meant to be a survival bag or bug-out bag. It’s meant to carry what I need on a daily basis with a few additional support items such as medical and maybe a spare mag or two for my concealed carry gun. Everything is legal.
My EDC bag is the 5.11 Overwatch Briefcase.
With that said, here is what I carry in my EDC Bag
- 13” MacBook Air laptop
- Charging cables for my laptop and cell phone
- File folders with client information
- Small custom medical kit (tourniquet, chest seal, trauma bandage, and gauze)
- Small first aid kit for common cuts and scrapes
- Notebook and pens
- Water Bottle
- Gerber Multi-Tool
- Two spare mags for my Glock 17
Why Did I Choose The 5.11 Overwatch Briefcase?
When choosing an EDC bag, I wanted something that could seamlessly transition between daily use, business meetings, and travel—all while keeping my gear organized and protected. The 5.11 Tactical Overwatch Briefcase checked all the right boxes.
Professional Yet Tactical
Unlike traditional messenger bags, which can lack structure, the Overwatch Briefcase provides a professional look while maintaining the durability and adaptability I expect from a tactical bag. Whether I’m in a formal setting, at the airport, or working remotely, it blends in without drawing unnecessary attention.
Structured and Organized
One of the biggest frustrations with soft messenger bags is their tendency to sag and bulge, making organization a challenge. The Overwatch Briefcase, on the other hand, offers:
- Padded compartments to protect my MacBook Air and sensitive documents.
- Multiple organizer pockets for essentials like pens, notebooks, cables, and spare magazines.
- A dedicated medical kit space, ensuring my tourniquet, chest seal, and trauma supplies are accessible when needed.
Tactical Features Without Looking Too “Tactical”
While I appreciate tactical gear, I don’t always want to look like I’m carrying a go-bag. Although there is some velcro on the outside, the low-profile design of the Overwatch Briefcase allows me to carry my EDC essentials—including spare Glock 17 mags—without broadcasting it to the world.
It even has a hidden CCW compartment for those who carry off body. You could also use that pocket to keep your passport and emergency cash as well.
Versatile Carrying Options
Another major selling point was its ability to transform into a backpack when necessary. If I need to move quickly, navigate a crowded airport, or keep my hands free, I can sling it on my back for added convenience.
Built for Real-World Use
At the end of the day, my EDC bag isn’t just a daily commuter bag—it’s something that needs to keep up with my lifestyle, work, and travels. The 5.11 Overwatch Briefcase provides the structure of a briefcase, the adaptability of a messenger bag, and the durability of a tactical pack, making it the ideal choice for my EDC bag.
Final Thoughts on My EDC Bag Setup
Your EDC bag should be tailored to your lifestyle, daily needs, and potential challenges. For me, the 5.11 Overwatch Briefcase strikes the perfect balance between professionalism, organization, and tactical functionality. It carries everything I need—tech, medical supplies, spare magazines, and essential tools—without unnecessary bulk.
One key point: I don’t keep my weapon, knife, or flashlight in my EDC bag. Those are always concealed on my person, ensuring quick access when needed. My bag serves as a support system, not a primary carry solution.
At the end of the day, your EDC setup should work for you—whether that means a briefcase, backpack, or messenger bag. The goal is preparedness, accessibility, and efficiency, all while maintaining a low profile.
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