I heard a radio interview with Les yesterday and, when asked what he'd take in real life, he pretty much said everything he doesn't on the show. His top four don't leave home without items were water, fire, shelter and signalling.

It's a good point about Bear always taking water, fire and a knife. There is a definite upside to his shows, and valuable education to be had. Like anything, I prefer not to throw the baby out with the bathwater, and take the self-imposed adreniline stuff for what it is - entertainment value.