If you do buy higher quality you sometimes have an advantage over cheap stuff. That comes in the form of a good warranty.

I have broken off my leatherman multi-tools more than once, sent them in and got brand new tools no questions asked(I even admitted it was my own fault once)25 years from time of purchase. Accidently ran over a pelican light, same thing. They never even asked how I managed to run over a flashlight they just sent me a new one. Other brands with excellent service have been surefire, eberlestock and badlands.

You are less inclined to leave expensive stuff at home if you are no longer afraid to break it.