I've not had any luck with zipper pull items - especially tiny compasses. They just haven't lasted.

These days EDC involves stuff in my pockets - carefully selected. I don't carry massive amounts - just the basics - whistle, light, knife, small ferro rod ...

When out and about - I carry gear in a daypack ... which is getting too heavy since I have too much gear in it - including weather radio, lightening detector, GPS, several knives (Leatherman, Mk1 fullsize, Mk3), and more.

I don't carry small kits (tins). Nothing against them - I just don't carry them. If I did it would be Doug's PSP with some additions (purification tablets, lighter, ...).