10 little tools I keep on my keychain and how they make my life easier

I own countless multi-tools and other gadgets, but I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve needed something and it ended up left at home or in the car because I couldn’t have a toolbox dangling from my belt. mine.

What I always carry with me, however, is my keychain — and as it turns out, it’s the perfect way to carry useful EDC (Everyday Carry) stuff. And with Black Friday Finally here, some of these useful tools are on sale!

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My keychain is the set of products I get asked about the most. People are often surprised at the things I carry with me. I guess most people just carry their keys on their keychain. Odd.

Here’s a tour of what I brought. Don’t feel like you need everything on this list. Remember, the beauty of this method is that you can customize the EDC to suit your needs.

1. KeySmart Air

the KeySmart Air is the core of my keychain (it’s currently 10% off on Amazon for $29). This device acts as a master key ring and also a way to attach one Apple AirTag (also currently on sale for $24 on Amazon) for my belongings, so I don’t lose my entire keychain.

If I didn’t need the AirTag carry feature, I’d probably use it Smart Mini Keycurrently $5 off the regular price at Amazon (yes, I love the KeySmart device). If you are a Tile user, KeySmart Max is a good alternative.

2. YubiKey 5C NFC

Hardware security key is a high-tech, highly secure alternative to using text messaging and two-factor authentication (2FA) to log into websites.

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This security key from Yubico has both USB-C and NFC, making it suitable for most modern devices, from computers to smartphones and tablets.

3. KeySmart MultiTool, 5 in 1

This Small multipurpose fits inside the KeySmart Air (and is now nearly 50% off, down to $10). These are a can opener, mini pry bar, mini ruler, flat head screwdriver and Phillips head screwdriver.

4. KeySmart safe box cutter

This Handy box cutter is made from hard polyamide plastic and is a safe way to open letters and packages.

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However, I used the device in a different way and found it to be a handy pry-open tool without damaging the device’s plastic shell.

5. KeySmart NanoScissors

This is Retractable scissors, portable and lightweight Designed to fit KeySmart accessories. They are perfect for trimming threads and nails, cutting tags or cutting zip ties. I’ve had mine for a year and they’re still in good shape, and I’ve used them to cut things I shouldn’t have — like thin wire and thick plastic.

6. Nite Ize S-Biner Slide Lock

This stainless steel S-Biner slide lock There are two gates with sliders that lock securely in place. I find these buckles are perfect for things that need to be easily removed from the keychain, and they are much simpler to use than split rings.

7. Lumintop EDC Pico

This Small rechargeable flashlight has a runtime of 4.5 hours in low power mode, is made of solid aircraft-grade aluminum, and is water and dust resistant with an IP68 rating.

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Unlike most small flashlights that are controlled by a multitude of complicated buttons, this one has a screw-on cap – twist for a low-energy beam, twist more for a high-energy beam.

This has been on my keychain for over a year now, and although the black anodizing is showing signs of wear, the flashlight is still going strong.

I have started testing Olight IMINI 2and it also seems like a great everyday carry flashlight, and I like that the USB-A connector is integrated into the design.

8. Gear Aid glowing keychain

This Tag glows in the dark Makes locating the key much easier. The card is waterproof up to 50 meters, dustproof and weatherproof. You can also use it for night fishing!

9. KeyUnity Carabiner Clip Multi-Tool

This Compact multi-function keychainyou can get 10% discount using Amazon coupon, there are seven functions built into the carabiner:

• Flat head and slotted screwdriver
• Seven size hex wrench
• Bottle opener
• Bar raised
• scraper
• Key rings
• Measure

10. SIM tray tool

I frequently need a SIM tray ejection tool, so now I carry one this on my keychain — and now it’s only $6.