It’s not the only thing we have with us every day. Certainly, they are the main focus of what we do here at Fratello, but sometimes it’s good to focus on other elements of our everyday carry (or EDC). Today, I will most days contribute to the Fratero EDC series by walking you some items I have with me.
Realistically, all you always find in my person is my watch, keys, sunglasses, phone and wallet. But beyond what you can see when you empty your pocket, we’ll also introduce some of the essentials you’ll need in your work bag. A lot has changed since I last covered EDC three years ago. Almost everything has been replaced in some way. Looking back, only my Hamilton Khaki Field Auto has stood the test of time. So let’s take a closer look at the current state of my everyday carry as of July 2025. But first, a simple sidebar.
My approach to EDC
Before entering EDC, we would like to discuss the approach to selecting these items. I don’t overly cherish these things, as you can see the fact that most of my daily kits have changed in just three years. It feels like an ongoing process. There, I’m always looking for new options to go through their pace. There is the joy you can get from getting a new piece of reliable gear. And although there are many expensive options (I’m not against it), I tend to aim for more affordable pieces. Certain things that are the basic tools of your profession are places you can’t compromise on.
Speaking of which, there are a few things I’ve mentioned briefly, as it’s a necessary part of my daily kit, but not particularly interesting. Everyone has a phone and mine is a Google Pixel 6a. Since I got my first smartphone, I have been a stubborn Android user. And while the iPhone may have been objectively better in the past, it seems like the difference today is minimal. I have never prioritized spending more than a minimum on the phone, and have never treated it as a functional need. The Pixel 6a was a good option when I got it two years ago to replace Xiaomi (that camera had so much to be desired). It continues to work well for me as it is protected by a bellroy leather case.
The second of these “so interesting” items is my stickered MacBook Air M1. Fratello’s standard problem has proven to be a job-friendly (if not sometimes inadequate) tool. It balances size, weight and performance and unlike the previous laptops I had, this has proven to be a quiet and reliable tool.
Fratello EDC: Nacho shares daily carry
Normally I start with my own bag and check what’s in it, but I want to dedicate a section to my bag and bag in general, so let’s start with a few basics. It’s the key to your home that you probably shouldn’t leave your home. But, as interesting as the keys, the way they keep them together can make a huge difference. I don’t like keychains. They add bulk and do not serve their purpose. I have had a key to a simple split ring for many years. Recently I upgraded to an inexpensive titanium split ring/carabiner. When I run, I take my keys, so this was lightweight and not an overly bulky way to keep it firmly on me.
I also notice two other items on my keychain. A custom brass ID tag with a message “slightly censored in the image above for privacy.” For the past decade, one of these has been in the keychain. I haven’t lost the keys yet, but I think this will greatly increase the chances they’ll be returned to me. This tag is a cheap dog tag that can be purchased on eBay with custom-engine text. Another item is a tool for opening a SIM card tray and serves as a handy pin tool for adjusting the clasp with a watch bracelet.
Newer kits
Other items painted above include my Soundpeats Air 3 Pro, affordable yet decent noise cancelling earbuds. I’m carrying it too Small plastic calipers and Victorinox Classic SD. the latter I bought it from a souvenir shop in Picos de Europe, Spain, as a gift from my parents. In my experience, I can fly in my bag without any problems. Also, there are the right tools that aren’t as noticeable as a big knife and can help you get into a pinch.
The pen uses Rze’s titanium bolt action pen. Muji refills are required and are perfect for scribbling simple notes in my field notes. Bolt action levels are addictive in their actions, refills are easy to find and inexpensive. Also, there is a tendency to have a fountain pen in the bag. Ever since picked it up in Japan two years ago, my go-to is the clear black Pilot Custom Heritage 92, with a fine medium nib (no photo).
Finally, my sunglasses. In my article three years ago, I mentioned a pair of classic Black Ray-Ban wayfarers. Unfortunately, I lost them just a few weeks ago, so I used the opportunity to replace them with a turtle shell pair (RB 2140, size 50/22). These are not my only sunglasses, but they are the ones that I live in my bag all year round. I tend to use gradient lenses in the winter to switch to a black pair.
New camera
After three and a half years of loyal service (and tens of thousands of images), my trusty Olympus Pen E-PL8 was forced to retire. I was already considering upgrade options, including the Nikon ZF, which I reviewed in December 2023. Ultimately, after much deliberation, I used the Fujifilm X-T4. Just as Full Frame was calling my name, there was good reason behind my decision to choose one of Fuji’s APS-C offers. The first was the file size. Larger 40+ megapixel sensors are great, but working with larger files can be painful, especially when working on the go.
My second reason to choose the X-T4 was the form factor. I didn’t want this to be a camera just for the studio. I also enjoy photography as a hobby. And just as extracting Canon EOS on the street is an effective way to get great images, the “more “pro” look of those cameras can get a bit more intrusive. Cameras like my old Olympus and the current X-T4 look pros and draw attention while performing when necessary. The camera strap is truly made by yours, using 32 threaded nylon paracords that hold olive drab, 6mm diameter, 1250 type V, 500 kg. Tie the “perfect loop” knot with a 15mm steel split ring with the Nite Ize Microlink Carabiner for a quick release.
Since switching to the X-T4, I have been enjoying photography much more than before. Not only did it help with clock photography, it also rekindled a love for the hobby that was generally taken and disappeared into the background over the years. As for the lens, it is usually Fuji 30mm f/2.8 macro or violtrox 35mm f/1.4.
The dilemma of the bag
I firmly believe that there is no such thing as a perfect bag. Some bags are great for one scenario, but soon fades away in the next. Differences can be difficult to split up, especially when you’re looking for a daily bag, especially if you have very specific needs. Say something small, light, not overly sporty, but with moderate weather. So far, that sounds reasonable, but it’s a factor that you need to fit your laptop, camera, lenses and a few accessories and don’t want to be a backpack. Suddenly things get complicated. But if you find yourself in this situation like me, I have half the solution. This is a Uniqlo Utility 2-way bag (now from Discontin). Ripstop Nylon Helmet Bag Inspired Tote – and a Peak Design Camera Cube V2 (Extra Small).
This is as close as I ended up finding the “perfect” bag. Will the handle be more comfortable? of course. Do you have a more padded bottom panel? absolutely. But it has enough storage to get the job done and fit my gear (including two spare camera batteries and chargers, notebooks, business cards, etc.). The PD Camera Cube protects the camera and second lens. The bag also has a retractable backpack strap. This is useful for releasing your hands when bringing in a lot of gear. One thing missing is the trolley strap when traveling with rolling luggage. I said there’s nothing like the perfect bag!
What is your wallet?
Finally, I would like to talk about wallets. This is the latest in my must-have kit to be upgraded. The standard for my large wallet is simple. It should be as small and thin as possible and hold at least six cards. Most places in the Netherlands have become cashless so I don’t usually have to carry it with me. With that in mind, the Alpaca Ark Wallet is the perfect option.
This was my first experience with the brand and I’m used to it through Instagram ads. There were a few products I was interested in, but I wanted to replace my wallet for a while so this seemed like a good place to start. I went to the Coyote Brown version and it has proven to be an excellent alternative to the previous Gucci leather card holder. It’s cheap, made of portable materials and looks great to boot!
Final Thoughts
Well, if one thing becomes clear after putting all of this into writing, then it means that you’re hooked on a small functional object and don’t stop at what lives on our wrists. It’s also interesting to see how everyone on the team still has a completely different kit. We all face similar needs and have found solutions that each of us has been informed by our preferences and preferences. Hopefully, you all enjoyed peeking into these personal possessions.
I look forward to revisiting this in a few years to see how my kit continues to evolve. In the meantime, please leave your thoughts (or questions) in the comments below!
