Keys? Check. Wallet? Check. Phone? Check. Pen and paper? If being prepared is your style then pen and paper are essentials that you should never leave home without. These are our packable, portable, and durable favorites.

It wasn't marketed this way when introduced in 1948, but the Fisher Space Pen has become the ultimate every day carry pen. The key is the pressurized ink cartridge. It allows you to write upside down, underwater, over grease, and in extreme cold and hot temperatures without missing a beat. The compact barrel hides perfectly in your pocket.

If you want to get really small and portable the Zebra Penpod is an excellent choice. It can be attached to a keyring, zipper, or lanyard so your pen is only a click away. The ink cartridge is refillable with any standard D1 refill giving you a wide selection of gel and ballpoint inks to choose from.

Field Notes Memo Books are designed with every day carry users in mind. The covers are durable and flexible, allowing them to survive any back pants pocket or shirt pocket. The paper is silky smooth and handles most inks with ease.