EDC on a Commercial Airline Flight

Everyday carry gear. Traveling by plane can be both fun and stressful. There are so many rules and regulations regarding what you can carry onto the plane that it may give you a headache just trying to figure out what to pack in case of an emergency. Having an emergency survival kit is important when you’re at home, in the car, or even on an airplane.

When planning a trip abroad or just visiting your in-laws, you should always pack a small emergency kit. Many of the items included will fit easily in your pack and pass through security checkpoints just fine, while others should be adapted for plane travel.

Many people like to fly with just a carry-on bag, which limits the variety and quantity of items that can be carried. By taking items from your home survival kit and adding a few additional items you will be prepared in case of an emergency, whether it’s at the airport, in the air, or while you’re on vacation.

Items for your EDC when traveling by plane with only a carry-on bag:

–       Headlamp (so you can use your hands) or flashlight

–       Small first aid kit including adhesive bandages, gauze, tweezers, thread or plain dental floss and sewing needle, disposable antiseptic wipes, ibuprofen tablets, chapstick or lip balm with SPF, and rubber gloves. This kit should be in a small container/bag of it’s own, in your pack.

–       Reusable water bottle, empty (will pass through security just fine – especially if you take the lid off when passing through the scanner – and refill at a water fountain once past security)

–       Wallet with government ID, credit cards, and cash. Cash is very important to have as credit cards may not be usable during an emergency.

–       At least 5 feet of paracord (a paracord emergency bracelet is an easy, space-saving way to include it, or tie it onto your bag)

–       One lighter or fire striker and flint

–       Compass – many wrist watches have compasses built in

–       Small reflective mirror

–       A whistle

–       Cell phone and charger (with plug adapter if traveling overseas or on an international airline)

–       A change of clothes

–       Any prescription medications you need

–       A multi-tool without a knife blade

–       A photocopy of your passport, government ID, birth certificate, and social security card. This is especially important if traveling abroad.

 Items to keep in your checked luggage:

–       A knife, safety blade, or multi-tool with a knife blade

–       Any weapons you feel you might need on your trip (as well as copies of any licenses, registration, or other documentation you have for them). Be sure to declare any weapons!

–       Additional copies of your important documents including contact information such as home address, phone number, and emergency contact (an easy way to prove a bag is yours, replace lost documents, or to get a bag back if it is lost)

Most airlines in the United States have standard TSA rules by which you must comply to take your carry-on luggage, including your EDC, onto an airplane. International airlines have different rules and regulations when it comes to carry-on bags. Always check with your particular airline as well as the TSA to find out about specific items or recent changes to the rules.

Pack your EDC before you pack the rest of your bag so you know that all of your items will fit. Utilize side and inside pockets of your luggage for optimal space. Make sure your bag isn’t too heavy for you to carry, for both airport comfort and emergency survival.

Always pay attention to and obey flight crew instructions when aboard the flight, and never argue with a TSA agent about items in your carry-on bag. TSA rules and regulations exist for the safety of passengers and flight crew, not to make your life miserable. Most of the items listed above can always be purchased once you reach your destination or even within the airport, so don’t fret if a TSA agent confiscates your lighter or sewing needle. Air travel is still the safest mode of transport, but by packing the items listed above you will be ready for a multitude of emergencies or discomforts. Travel safe and be prepared!