You're preaching to the choir, brother. I always carry at least these 10 basics: a light, a blade, fire, a whistle, lip balm, sunglasses, a bandana, some paracord, water bottle and FAK, along with seasonally appropriate clothing for the worst potential weather. i've also usjally got an extra jacket or sweater. it's exceptionally rare for me to hit the trail without a pack. Unfortunately, my challenge is the opposite one to this: I need to figure out how to carry less so my achy body can enjoy it out there more.

With the exception of the water bottle and extra jacket, everything else I EDC either goes in my pockets or in my "purse" or backpack.