u/Starlight_Alchemy

Obviously both would probably be ideal.. but if you had to carry one for self defense, which would you choose?

Pepper spray would be convenient because it has some range on it, and it's deadly if it happens to be turned on you.. but I've heard of many cases of pepper spray failing to spray, not stopping an attack, or straight up exploding in your bag.

A knife would have more uses than just defense.. but I'd be worried that in a close-hand attack that the attacker could get it away from me and use it on me, which obviously would probably end way worse than getting pepper sprayed.

Also.. if you choose pepper spray then would you upgrade that to a bear spray? I heard it's stronger and might be more effective.. thoughts?

I just bought a 3L fanny pack to carry daily on the days I don't really want to carry our 12L backpack (that doubles as a diaper bag for our two year old).

Besides wallet, keys, phone.. what other absolutely essential items should I put in it? Maybe a very small first aid kit? Would love to hear your ideas.

I'm tired of carrying backpacks everywhere (: