When it comes to prepping for the unexpected, you don’t need to break the bank. Harbor Freight is an underrated goldmine for essential Everyday Carry (EDC) gear that can elevate your truck setup and general preparedness. Whether you’re new to EDC or a seasoned prepper, Harbor Freight offers budget-friendly tools to help you stay ready for whatever comes your way.
Here’s a list of 12 must-have Harbor Freight items that preppers and overlanders alike will appreciate.
1. Stackable Large Toolbox – $40 Well Spent
One of the standout items for truck EDC is the stackable large toolbox. With an IP65 dust and water resistance rating, this is more than just a storage bin. It’s built tough with a rubber gasket that seals out dirt and moisture, keeping your gear safe. The removable organizers are a nice bonus, allowing you to keep small tools and parts separate. Whether you’re storing tools or emergency supplies, this versatile toolbox is worth every penny.
2. Classic Metal 50 Cal Ammo Cans – Secure Storage
Harbor Freight’s 50 cal ammo cans are a steal at about $16. Durable, weatherproof, and perfect for storing not just ammunition but any supplies you need to keep safe from the elements. Whether it’s food rations, medical supplies, or just more gear, these cans offer solid protection. Toss in a silica gel packet to keep moisture at bay, and you’ve got long-term storage that’s as reliable as it is affordable.
3. Headlamps – Hands-Free Illumination
When darkness falls, having reliable light is critical. Harbor Freight offers various headlamp models, with the 500-lumen option being one of the best deals at around $15. It even includes a red light mode to preserve night vision, making it ideal for late-night tasks or emergencies. For the price, it’s an unbeatable tool for hands-free lighting when you need to work on your vehicle or navigate in the dark.
4. Camo Tarps – Versatile Shelter Solutions
Tarps are the unsung heroes of EDC. Harbor Freight’s camo tarps come in multiple sizes, with reinforced grommets for easy securing. These can be used for shelter, covering gear, catching rainwater, or as ground cover. At just $7 to $8 for a larger tarp, they are essential for keeping your supplies dry and hidden if need be. The camo design is particularly handy for those looking to stay under the radar in the wilderness.
5. Parachute Hammock – Compact Comfort
For just $20, the parachute hammock is a compact and lightweight addition to your gear. Perfect for overnights in the wild or even just lounging around at camp, it can hold up to 500 pounds and takes up almost no space in your truck. Pair it with a tarp for extra protection from the elements, and you’ve got a comfortable, portable sleeping setup in minutes.
6. Rope – Multi-Purpose Must-Have
You can never have too much rope in your EDC kit. Harbor Freight’s 75-foot diamond braided poly rope, priced around $6, is durable and versatile. From securing tarps to hanging food out of reach of animals, rope is a true multipurpose item that every prepper needs. It’s strong enough for most tasks and compact enough to store easily.
7. Jiggler Pump – Siphon Gas Easily
At $10, this self-priming jiggler pump is a great item to have in a pinch. In survival situations, fuel is a precious commodity, and this tool makes siphoning gas quick and easy—without the need to use your mouth. Whether you’re refilling your vehicle or helping someone else, this tool will be a lifesaver when gas is hard to come by.
8. Fire Extinguisher – Emergency Fire Control
No truck EDC setup is complete without a fire extinguisher. For about $25, you can pick up a compact unit that can handle multiple types of fires – whether from gasoline, electrical malfunctions, or other hazards. Keeping one in your vehicle can make the difference between a small mishap and a disaster. It’s affordable, life-saving gear that’s worth the minimal space it takes up.
9. Bolt Cutters – Break Through Barriers
Though not for everyday use, bolt cutters can be invaluable in a survival situation. These 24-inch cutters, priced at around $17, give you the mechanical advantage to cut through locks, fences, or other obstacles. When you need to break through in an emergency, you’ll be glad you have this powerful tool at your disposal.
10. Gorilla Tape – Fix Anything
At about $8 for a roll, Gorilla Tape is one of the most versatile items on this list. Whether you’re fixing broken gear, sealing up leaks, or improvising tools, duct tape is a go-to solution. Stronger than your average tape, Gorilla Tape sticks to almost anything and can withstand the toughest conditions. It’s a small investment with massive utility.
11. Shop Towels – Clean Up On the Go
For $13, a pack of 50 red shop towels will be a helpful addition to your EDC. Whether you’re cleaning up after working on your vehicle or using them for first aid, they’re inexpensive, reusable, and highly practical. Their bright color also makes them useful as markers or signals in an emergency.
12. Adjustable Rubber Straps – Secure Everything
When you’re hauling gear, nothing beats adjustable rubber straps for securing items. Harbor Freight offers a pack of five 36-inch straps for $10, which are perfect for keeping your gear locked down and in place. Use them to secure toolboxes, tarps, or even bulky items in your truck bed. The adjustability makes them especially handy for odd-shaped items.
13. Rugged Weatherproof Cases – Heavy-Duty Protection
Last but not least, the Apache rugged weatherproof cases are a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive Pelican cases. Priced much lower but offering similar protection, these cases come in various sizes and are perfect for storing sensitive gear like electronics, cameras, or firearms. With sturdy latches and customizable foam inserts, these cases ensure your valuable equipment stays safe from water, dust, and impact.
Essentials to Help You Stay Prepared
Harbor Freight might not be the first place you think of when shopping for prepping gear, but it offers a surprising array of budget-friendly items that are both durable and useful. For anyone building out their truck EDC, this store has the essentials to help you stay prepared – without draining your bank account.
Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.