When you’re deep in the wilderness, the gear in your pack isn’t just an extra luxury to enjoy. It’s your lifeline. Whether carving tent stakes by firelight, cooking a backwoods meal over freshly burning coals, or fishing for trout in a cold mountain stream, having the right (and best) bushcraft gear is the difference between comfort and survival. It protects you from the elements and allows you to perform essential tasks like cutting wood and finding clean water.
From sharp cutting tools to outdoor cooking utensils and water purification supplies, here’s your essential guide to the best bushcraft tools and supplies. All products mentioned are field-tested and trusted by experts who live and breathe the lifestyle.
Before We Dive In…What Exactly Is Bushcraft?
You can never be too prepared for the outdoors (and that doesn’t just mean having all the right survival gear). Gearing up for your next adventure also means learning as much as you can so that — tools in hand or not — you’re prepared for whatever the wild throws at you.
In simple terms, bushcraft is a set of skills and knowledge that you can use to survive in the outdoors. It’s about knowing how to work with the environment once you’re there. And the more you know ahead of time, the better you’ll be able to discern what you really need versus which items are best left behind.
Ultimately, bushcraft isn’t just about gathering materials or knowing what to pack. It’s also about shifting your mindset. Before heading off-grid, check out this list of bushcraft essentials:
Bushcraft Cutting Tools
If there’s one thing your bushcraft kit needs, it’s plenty of high-quality cutting tools. These tools are used for everything from clearing trails and building shelters to preparing food. Here’s what belongs in your camping bag:
- Bushcraft Knife: The BeaverCraft BSH3 is a full-tang 1066 carbon steel knife with a blued finish for durability in wet or humid conditions. With a razor-sharp edge, ergonomic walnut handle, and 100% genuine leather sheath, it’s built for dependable performance in the wild.
- Folding Saw: Looking to build a fire? Lightweight and compact, a folding saw is perfect for processing small logs and branches, especially when you need to save energy.
- Hatchet or Camp Axe: For heavy chopping and splitting, a durable hatchet balances force and portability. Bonus: The back end doubles as a hammer for pounding stakes.
Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on quality. Your cutting tools are bound to take a beating, so cheap steel won’t cut it in the long term (literally).
Bushcraft Supplies for Sleep & Shelter
You can’t control the weather, but you can control how you prepare for it. These bushcraft supplies will keep you dry, warm, and ready to rest:
- Tarp or Bushcraft Shelter: A durable tarp or emergency shelter kit doesn’t just provide protection against wind and rain. These must-have supplies also safeguard your gear, offer shade from the sun, and can even act as a ground sheet. Look for reinforced grommets and multiple tie-out points.
- Wool Blanket or Sleeping Bag: Wool keeps you warm even when it’s wet. That’s why these blankets are a trusted favorite. For colder climates, a compact, temperature-rated sleeping bag can be a lifesaver. Some can even be worn as a poncho!
- Pathfinder Pillow: Perfect for backpackers, hardcore campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a luxurious home-like experience while camping. This pillow is easy to stuff or pack into a bag.
- Paracord: Our 550 Paracord is formulated with seven strands of strong fibers. It’s essential for suspending tarps and gear. Always carry more cordage than you think you’ll need.
Bushcraft Tools for Outdoor Cooking
A warm meal can be the morale boost you need when the wild starts testing you. These outdoor cooking tools make backcountry cooking simple and satisfying:
- Bush Pot or Kettle: Stainless steel is extremely durable and versatile. Boil water, cook your favorite stew, or make tea — all in one pot.
- Grill Grate or Tripod: Love a good BBQ? Cooking over an open fire is possible (and easy) with a collapsible grill. Simply hang your pot or set meat straight over the coals.
- Utensils & Eating Tools: A simple titanium spork or utensil set will do. It’s convenient, lightweight, and fits nicely in your pack.
- Ferro Rod & Tinder: Matches fail, lighters break, but a ferro rod throws sparks in any condition. Pair your ferro rod with natural tinder like fatwood for the ultimate fire-starting bundle.
- Fishing Gear: When canned food runs out (or gets old), a simple fishing kit can turn a quiet stream into dinner. It’s fresh, satisfying, and straight from the source.
- Shelf-Stable Foods: Think rolled oats, canned meats, nut butters, dried fruits, trail mix, granola bars, cooking oils, spices and herbs, and instant coffee to make your trip memorable.
Bushcraft Water Supplies
Clean water is non-negotiable. Here’s how to find, filter, and carry it:
- Water Bottle & Canteen: Military-style stainless steel bottles and canteens come with nesting cups and stove stands. They’re ideal for boiling water instantly and getting the fresh, safe hydration you need.
- Water Filter or Purifier: Lightweight filters (like squeeze or pump systems) remove bacteria and protozoa. For viral protection, carry water purification tablets as backup.
Pro Tip: Always boil or treat natural water sources, even if they look pristine.
Bushcraft Clothing Items
The right clothing layers keep you dry, warm, and protected in any season. Here’s a quick view on clothing that matters most in the wilderness:
- Wool Layers: Wool base and mid-layers keep you warm, wick away moisture, and fight off odors in unpredictable weather.
- Waxed Canvas Jacket: Built to last and naturally water-resistant, a canvas jacket can withstand serious abuse from brush, branches, and even fire sparks.
- Durable Pants: With ripstop fabric and reinforced knees, these pants have your back when you’re crawling through brush or tending the fire at camp.
- Hat & Gloves: Keep your hands and head warm with insulated, weatherproof gear. Cold fingers don’t just feel miserable, they make everything harder and riskier.
Other Bushcraft Essentials
Even the most experienced outdoorsman knows it’s the little things that can make or break a trip. These often-overlooked essentials help you stay safe, find your way, and handle the unexpected.
- First Aid Kit: Cuts, burns, bites, and blisters? Injuries happen when you’re exploring land. A well-stocked kit and bug repellent mean you’re ready to patch things up fast and keep moving.
- Compass & Map: Even today, technology still fails. A good compass and a physical map never will, and getting lost is something you don’t want to worry about.
- Shovel: Whether you’re digging a fire pit, building a latrine, or clearing a camp spot, a mini shovel is one of those tools you’ll be glad you packed.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: When the sun goes down, visibility becomes survival. A hands-free headlamp or sturdy flashlight keeps your camp chores — and your path — well-lit.
- Personal Protection: From wild animals to unexpected threats, having a form of personal protection (like a fixed-blade knife) gives you peace of mind when you’re miles from help.
Are you an experienced bushcrafter looking to really upgrade your pack? Check out our list of advanced bushcraft gear for even more equipment recommendations.
Build Your Bushcraft Kit Today
While surviving is certainly a core feature, bushcraft is also about reconnecting with nature, relying on your own hands, and feeling prepared for anything. The right gear doesn’t just make the journey easier. It makes it possible.
At Self Reliance Outfitters, we’ve field-tested every piece we offer to ensure it really is the best bushcraft gear. We know what works because we use it ourselves: on the trail, by the fire, and in the thick of the wild.
So whether you’re building your first ever kit or upgrading your go-to essentials, we have the tools you need to thrive outdoors.
Ready to take your skills to the next level? Explore our bushcraft training programs and start your unforgettable journey today.
