Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
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Over the years, I have accumulated an extensive collection of gadgets, multitools, and small utility devices that promise to make daily life just a little bit easier. Yet, despite this enthusiasm for portable tools, I cannot recall how many times I have found myself in a situation where I desperately needed one of these items, only to discover that the particular gadget was inconveniently left behind at my house or tucked away in the car. Carrying a full-sized toolbox with me wherever I go is simply unrealistic—it is neither practical nor efficient.

Fortunately, one item is an almost permanent companion: my keychain. It is with me nearly every moment of the day, whether I am at work, out running errands, or traveling. This unassuming object has become the ideal foundation for integrating essential everyday carry tools, ensuring that I always have immediate access to the equipment I rely on most. By cleverly attaching compact yet functional devices to my keychain, I’ve essentially transformed it from a simple holder of keys into a miniature toolkit that is both practical and personalized.

Interestingly, my keychain is also one of the belongings I get asked about the most. People often notice that it holds much more than the standard set of keys, and they are frequently surprised by the variety of small but capable tools attached to it. For most individuals, a keychain is nothing more than a utilitarian object with one purpose: to keep their house or car keys in order. In my case, however, the keychain has evolved into an adaptable everyday carry kit. The beauty of this approach is its flexibility; it offers the freedom to design a collection that fits one’s personal needs rather than adhering to someone else’s standard.

Below is a detailed tour of the carefully chosen tools that I carry on mine. Of course, this selection is tailored to my specific requirements, and there is no need for anyone else to replicate it exactly. The appeal lies in building something customizable, functional, and uniquely yours.

1. **KeySmart Air**
At the heart of my keychain setup is the KeySmart Air. This device functions as both a compact main key organizer and as a convenient holder for an Apple AirTag, which means I can easily track the location of my keys if they are ever misplaced. Were I not interested in the ability to carry an AirTag, I would likely opt for the smaller and simpler KeySmart Mini, which offers similar portability. Alternatively, for individuals who use Tile tracking devices instead of Apple’s tracker, the KeySmart Max provides an equally clever solution.

2. **YubiKey 5C NFC**
One of the most essential items I carry is a YubiKey 5C NFC. Unlike traditional methods of digital security that rely on text-message verification or simple two-factor authentication codes, this hardware-based security key provides a far more robust defense against unauthorized access. Its dual support for USB-C connections and NFC compatibility ensures seamless operation across virtually all modern devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets, making it one of the most future-proof security tools you can own.

3. **KeySmart MultiTool, 5-in-1**
Despite its tiny size, this compact multitool hidden within the KeySmart Air offers impressive versatility. It serves as a box opener, a pry bar for stubborn tasks, a miniature ruler, and both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers. Remarkably affordable and designed with convenience in mind, it allows me to address a wide range of everyday challenges without having to carry a bulkier multitool in my pocket.

4. **KeySmart Safe Box Cutter**
Next is the KeySmart Safe Box Cutter, constructed from durable polyamide plastic and expressly created for safely opening letters, packages, and similar items. Yet, in my experience, it doubles as a surprisingly capable prying tool for carefully disassembling electronic devices—without leaving scratches or damaging delicate surfaces. This dual functionality makes it indispensable.

5. **KeySmart NanoScissors**
Compact, retractable, and feather-light, these scissors are designed to integrate seamlessly with other KeySmart accessories. While ideal for lightweight tasks such as trimming frayed threads, cutting off clothing tags, or slicing slender pieces of plastic, I’ve also pushed them beyond their recommended use by snipping through fine wires and thicker plastics. Even after extended use, they remain as sharp and dependable as the day I first attached them to my keychain.

6. **Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock**
The stainless steel S-Biner SlideLock features two gates, each equipped with secure locking sliders. I find these connectors vastly superior to traditional split rings, as they allow me to quickly and easily attach or remove items from my keychain without the usual hassle. This design provides both convenience and confidence, ensuring that important tools stay securely in place when needed.

7. **Lumintop EDC Pico**
A reliable flashlight is one of the core elements of any well-prepared everyday carry kit, and for more than a year the Lumintop EDC Pico has served that role for me. Despite its exceptionally small form factor, this rechargeable light offers an impressive runtime of up to 4.5 hours in low-power mode. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, it carries an IP68 rating, meaning it is resistant to dust and submersible in water. Best of all, its simple twist-cap design avoids the confusing button sequences often found in other miniature lights. Though the black anodized finish now bears visible wear, the flashlight itself continues to function perfectly. More recently, I have begun testing the Olight iMini 2, which also offers excellent performance and has the intelligent advantage of an integrated USB-A charging connector.

8. **Gear Aid Glowing Keychain**
Locating keys in the dark can be frustrating, which is why I keep a Gear Aid glow-in-the-dark tag attached. This small, luminous marker glows brightly enough to help me spot my keys quickly, no matter the situation. Waterproof to 50 meters, dustproof, and resilient against harsh weather conditions, it is not just useful for everyday application but could even serve as an aid during activities like night fishing.

9. **KeyUnity Carabiner Clip Multitool**
The KeyUnity Carabiner Clip Multitool exemplifies compact versatility. Within its single clip lies seven integrated functions: a slotted screwdriver, a flathead driver, seven different hex wrench options, a bottle opener, a handy pry bar, a scraping tool, a measuring ruler, and of course a reliable key loop. By incorporating all these functions into one minimalist carabiner, it manages to save both pocket space and time.

10. **SIM Tray Tool**
Finally, one of the simplest but most surprisingly indispensable tools on my keychain is a SIM tray ejector. As someone who often needs to switch SIM cards between devices, I cannot overstate how useful it is to have this tiny implement readily available. No more improvising with unfolded paper clips or searching through drawers—this keychain version ensures immediate access whenever it’s required.

Ultimately, the philosophy behind my keychain setup is centered not on owning every imaginable gadget but on carrying only those items that directly serve my lifestyle. The combination of these compact, durable, and carefully selected tools allows me to be flexible, efficient, and prepared for both minor inconveniences and unexpected challenges. What begins as a simple object for holding keys has become a powerful companion that reflects practical design, everyday efficiency, and personal customization.

Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/10-pocket-sized-tools-that-make-life-easier-and-how-i-use-each/