Hi

I'm new here, so forgive me if I am treading on any toes asking what seem to be stupid questions.

I have been a little confused by the acronyms around the site; EDC, BOB etc; but I think I have them straight in my head.

I enjoy recreational camping and when I set off I tend to take little, that way I can enjoy the hike without lugging unneccessary gear with me. I tend to carry a few things around with me at all times (knives, tools etc) but living in the countryside no-one gives them a second glance.

The information discussed here is fascinating but my main question is, how often do you folks actually test out the kits you have assembled? By testing, I suppose I mean just getting up and wandering off into the woods for three days to see how you fare. I like to think that I could get up and head off camping at the drop of a hat (the benefits of being self-employed). I would grab a pack, throw a bit of food into it and that would be me set for a long weekend; but I know that I will be comfortable having done that before.

I understand that the main focus here is preparing for a sudden disaster or stranding and how one might best survive long enough to be rescued but those situations are, if one is fortunate, rare. So how do you go about confirming that you are carrying what you need, and are informed enough to use it?

Thanks!

Nick.