Why I Keep Coming Back to Simple, Practical Gear

This isn’t a review, a buyer’s guide, or a “must-have” list.

These are just my thoughts, based on time spent outdoors, testing gear in real conditions, and learning what actually works for me in UK woodland.

Over the years, I’ve tried plenty of kit. Some of it was expensive. Some of it looked great online. Some of it came highly recommended. But the gear that stays in my bag long-term is usually the simplest stuff — the things that quietly do their job without fuss.

I’m not interested in fantasy survival scenarios or carrying gear just for the sake of it. My focus has always been practical bushcraft, comfort, and preparedness for everyday outdoor use. That means kit that works when it’s cold, damp, muddy, or rushed — because that’s what the woods are actually like most of the time.

A lot of people ask why my setup looks “basic” compared to others. The answer is simple: reliability beats novelty every time. If something earns its place in my bag, it’s because I’ve used it, trusted it, and reached for it more than once.

Fire is a good example. I don’t carry ten different ignition methods for the sake of it — but I do carry redundancy. Shelter is another. I don’t need the biggest or most technical setup, just something I know I can put up quickly when the weather turns.

Comfort matters too. Being warm, dry, and fed helps you think clearly and make better decisions. That’s not weakness — it’s common sense.

This page exists so I can explain why I use what I use, not just what I carry. Some of this gear appears in my videos. Some of it never makes it on camera. And some of it will change over time as I learn more or find better solutions.

If you’re building your own kit, don’t feel like you need to copy anyone else — including me. Start small, learn the basics, and let your setup grow naturally with your skills.

These are just my thoughts. Nothing more. Nothing less.

If you want to see this gear in use, or hear me talk through these decisions in more detail, it regularly appears in my videos.