What is bushcraft?

Bushcraft. It's a common term in the outdoor world, but what exactly does it mean? And how does it differ from other outdoor disciplines such as survival or hiking? Many people think bushcraft is simply about surviving in the forest. In this article, we will explain what bushcraft involves, the mindset that comes with it, and why it is very different from just 'surviving in the woods.' We’ll also tell you what you need in terms of bushcraft equipment and which bushcraft essentials are truly indispensable.

At the intersection of survival, trekking and camping

To understand the concept of bushcrafting, it's nice to consider other, similar, outdoor activities. Take survival, for example: survival is about surviving in the great outdoors using only the bare necessities. The goal of this outdoor activity? To return to civilization alive and well, as quickly as possible.

Then there's trekking. Trekking is about long-distance hiking. You move, you look, you appreciate. You sleep wherever you end up, pack up your light camping gear in the morning and keep moving.

And then there’s classic camping, the kind we all know: staying at a campsite with electricity, hot showers, a fridge and a comfortable chair in front of your tent or caravan. It’s being outdoors with a touch of home comfort. The campsite offers structure, convenience, and a bit of luxury: ideal for those who want to enjoy nature without having to sacrifice comfort.

Bushcraft strikes the perfect balance between these activities. You head into nature to stay there for a while, not just to survive, but also to thrive and be comfortable. You turn the forest into your temporary living room. It’s all about tranquility, self-sufficiency and truly getting to know your surroundings. Good bushcraft equipment supports you in this, such as a sturdy bushcraft backpack, durable clothing and reliable tools.

Unlike the survivalist, who focuses on getting enough calories from foraged food, the trekker, who watches every gram of weight, or the camper, who seeks convenience, bushcraft is all about immersion in nature. Comfort is key. Imagine a breakfast of eggs and bacon cooked in a cast-iron skillet, coffee brewed in a French press, served in a hand-carved kuksa – all enjoyed by a campfire on the shore of a vast lake. No rush, no next stage to reach; just pure enjoyment of the moment and your place in nature. It’s at times like these that you realise how important the right bushcraft essentials are.

Living in and with nature

What makes bushcraft unique is the focus on knowledge. Not just knowing how to start a fire, but understanding which types of wood burn best and where to find dry wood. You learn to read the landscape, recognise edible plants, and identify the animals that live there.

This expertise not only helps you find your way in nature, but also makes you feel more at home in it. Bushcrafters spend time studying their surroundings, building shelters, cooking over open fires, and carving their own tools and utensils from wood. Good equipment becomes an extension of your knowledge: simple, well-designed and reliable.

Bushcraft gear tips: what can not be missing from your backpack?

Your bushcraft equipment does not need to be super extensive or expensive. It just needs to be well-thought-through. Here's a list of indispensable bushcraft items:

• Bushcraft backpack: it needs to be sturdy and have enough compartments. Bonus points if its waterproof or comes with a waterproof cover.
• Bushcraft knife or multi-tool: essential for woodworking, starting fires, cooking or small repairs.
• Firestarter: a firesteel is more reliable than matches as it also functions fine in damp conditions.
• Tarp with bivvy bag: to create a lightweight shelter.
• Cooking set: think of a cast-iron skillet, mug, kuksa and your favourite outdoor coffee.
• Water filter or purification tablets: for safe drinking water on the go.
• Basic first-aid set: small, containing essentials for minor emergencies.

Whether you're a beginner or already have experience, with the right bushcraft essentials you can turn every stay in nature into a comfortable, safe and enriching experience.

Bushcraft in one sentence

Bushcraft is about staying comfortably and consciously in nature, supported by knowledge of your surroundings and gear that makes your stay more enjoyable; it's not a race against the clock, but an exercise in slowing down, where nature briefly becomes your home.