Gear for Multi-Day Wilderness Canoe Trips - My Kit Choices for Scandinavia - The Good and the Bad.

Hi Folks and welcome back, I have been asked a lot about the gear I took with me on the Sweden/Norway wilderness canoe trip, so this video is all about my gear choices - what worked, what didn’t, what I’d change next time and my general thoughts about the trip as a whole.
I have put some links to some of the gear below - I couldn’t include everything as there is a character limit in the description box, but hopefully they’ll steer you towards some items that I’ve been asked about.
I hope you enjoy the video,
Thanks for watching.
Links
Ally Folding Canoes
www.bergans.com/en/gear/ally-...
SealLine Drybags
www.seallinegear.com/ie/packs...
Amok Hammocks
amokequipment.eu
Honey Stove
www.backpackinglight.co.uk/bu...
Fjallraven Keb Trousers
www.raymears.com/Bushcraft_Pr...
Woolpower Jumper
www.raymears.com/Bushcraft_Pr...
Hagloffs Fleece
www.haglofs.com/en/men/tops-m...
David Friars Bags and Pouches
www.etsy.com/uk/shop/DavidFri...
Petromax Cool Bag
www.petromax-shop.de/petromax...
Garmin InReach Tracker
www.garmin.com/en-US/p/765374
Dels Outside Coffee
dels_outside?ig...
Simon, a bloke in the woods Merchandise
simon-a-bloke-in-the-woods.te...
Contact me at:
[e-mail]
Or by mail at:
Simon, a bloke in the woods
PO Box 384
Diss
Norfolk
IP22 9DB
UK
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Simon-a-blok...
Instagram - simon_a_bloke_in_the_woods
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Music
Doctor True - Jingle Punks
Through The Fields - Martin Klem

[@stephendavies923]

Dear Simon. May I take this opportunity to not only thank you for sharing this journey with us, but also on your wonderful editing. All the very best to you.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you Stephen!

[@opsoverseas]

I watched the trip with great envy and an equal dollop of empathy for the hard times, well done to keep going , I hope you and Andy have both recovered!

[@cwdiacetis4423]

As Patrick McManus would have said " A fine and pleasant misery. " that is what camping is all about. I'm Happy you enjoyed your trip. Do it as long as you are able.

[@8bitisthesh1telwell74]

You and Andy are a world class team! Thanks to both of you for all you share.

[@FotogenDK]

Thanks for all the tips! Let me know if your comming to the north again.... then me and my best friend Martin are ready for som great adventures with your guys here in the north ( were from denmark :-)

[@garylhedrickjr6863]

Thank you Simon, great job.I injoy all your vidios,Gary from Russia,Ohio.USA.

[@chrisgeoss2543]

My friend Chris here from Maine U S.A. I'll never try to win a give away... I just like watching your videos you and Andy are my favorites and I really enjoy watching them...just keep them coming...that's the best prize ever....all the best my friend!

[@tonystrange7224]

There are only 2 people that can get away with a sweat stained dirty hat. One is yourself Simon and the other, the late great Fred Dibnah. Now that’s an elite duo if ever there was one 😀 And thanks for breaking down your trip kit. I found it really interesting

[@BuckOllie]

Would highly recommend US army jungle boots for canoe trips like these, look for a genuine supplier like Altama, lots of knock offs out there. They are a mix of leather and nylon, lots of colour patterns available, can be worn laced up in the day for support, then unlaced in the evening with a fresh set of dry socks to dry them out with your feets own warmth by the fire. They have drain holes, a Panama sole for shedding mud, soft compound rubber for grip in the wet, no padding to soak up and hold water. I wore them canoeing with merino socks, didn’t even attempt to keep my feet dry, the holes pump out the water and design means they dry super quick and don’t stink up like neoprene. Accepting wet feet means you tend to lift kit into and out of the boat much more safely than awkwardly lifting trying to keep them dry. I took them off to dry my feet out over lunches. Loved the series I can’t wait to get back out canoeing in Canada next season Quetico wildlife park is amazing if your looking for locations. Thanks for sharing and carrying all that camera kit.

[@diamondtbar9818]

Simon, when you get the chance, hire a fishing guide to take you fishing near where you live -- someone who will give you tips on rods, reels, and lures, but most especially where to fish and at what times. That will give you great confidence to fish more in waters far from where you live. Also, researching in advance the lakes, rivers, and streams where you're going would give you valuable info on baits, lures, etc. I love to fish here in Texas! Don't know that much, but am learning everyday. Thanks for the video!

[@CherryBlossomHill]

My personal favorite is your coffee pot, I love seeing the coffee coming out of that spout, it reminds me of the Italian stove top espresso makers. Thank you for mentioning where you found it! All the best kitchen gadgets are now all vintage!

[@simonbleach-wood9235]

Really excellent mini-series well worth a bing watch! I love the wrap-up, just for my own interest though :) I’m a bit past it!

[@viktoriklodi8530]

Hi Simon! I am watching your videos for 2 years now and I am always smiling on interpreting your coffee maker as a vintage one. Here in Hungary you can buy these even brand new :) Of course it is not an up-to-date technology, however they are really durable. My grandma has one that is in age of 20+ years! If you (or any other fans reading this) are around Hungary, you can get it in almost any household store. Also at antique stores for sure. note: Always buy some spare sealing ring as well. Thanks for your great videos. Waiting to watch similar good adventures from you. Viktor

[@dwaynef5410]

Good to hear from you Simon! Always look forward to seeing your adventures! Cheers!

[@denisroberts1206]

Nice one Simon. Mrs In the wood must be very understanding 😂

[@malcolmT]

Brilliant fascinating insight into the whole trip, really enjoyed that Simon was so interesting to hear your thoughts on the whole experience, again well done the pair of you thank you for all your content 👍⭐

[@almac2598]

For filter coffee on the move, or even at home, have a look at the 'Zyliss Smart Cafe One Cup Coffee Cafetiere Cup Hot Travel Mug'. I've used one for years. Its an insulated mug with a built in cafetiere. I believe the more modern ones have a lid as well. No affiliation, just a satisfied customer.

[@bluewiz28]

My boys and myself loved your vids of Andy and yourself canoeing through the Swedish and Norwegian lakes. Hopefully you will have time to do some winter overnight camping. Take care and stay safe …. regards John (Devon)

[@megankelly2082]

"For afterwards a man finds pleasure in his pains, when he has suffered long and wandered long. So I will tell you what you ask and seek to know." -Homer, The Odyssey. Simon, I love watching your adventures and am glad that you share them with us. To many more adventures, cheers!

[@rolandsalazar9562]

You’re the best. I’ve been following since you had 10k subscribers and you’re honest & genuine. 🙏🏼⛺️🇺🇸❤️

[@davidneal6920]

Great video thanks. Awesome gear

[@massivedynamic2339]

Glad you guys made it back safely

[@davidbarnfield9849]

I watched and enjoyed your trip with Andy, looked like mini SAS boat troop Selection course, well done thanks for sharing your kit plus Planning. Groundwork is important for Safety as you stress. Keep sharing I keep watching. Dave B. Thailand.

[@davidsayer3325]

Thanks Simon great review 👍

[@danny_reeltherapyfishing9915]

Great video as always. 👍👍

[@wobblyjohn]

Many thanks for taking the time to show us all the gear and how you pack it, Simon.

[@wirebiner]

Always good to reflect, glad you enjoyed it!

[@kathiwalker7512]

Glad to see you are feeling better. Beautiful place to visit. Every day is a learning curve. Great videos, but I'm having Maggie withdrawals.

[@dianejacklin4338]

Thank you for sharing all your gear and being able to watch more of the spectacular scenery.

[@rkw4565]

That was interesting, Simon. Good for both you guys for taking it on and making it through.

[@paulseeman6481]

An amazing and memorable trip Simon, thanks for sharing it all. Look forward to the next one.

[@margreetvanderbent1361]

Thanks for the videos, I always likes them go forwards

[@kingrafa3938]

It is a great and fun adventure for the both of you Simon. I enjoyed watching the series on both of your channel.

[@thebikepackingadventurer]

I totally agree with the mindset of push yourself to make it mean something. Going out of your comfort zone and beyond is a good thing. Especially as we get older, so easy to just say we are getting older and must slow down, but we are still very capable. All about being strong minded. Loves this video, the honesty and I loved your trip. Glad the foot is feeling better now

[@jobygochoco2731]

outstanding video Simon, thanks for sharing the journey!!!

[@johnpalmer6822]

Nice info video. I use Salomon X Ultra boots, Keen sandals, and LaCrosse Burly boots for canoeing. Salomons can take wet footing and dry out ok. In warm water and weather the Keens are great. The LaCrosse at 18" high if I recall correctly work great in cold water wet footing. Cook kits for me are Trangia 27 with alcohol and isobutane burner, or toaks 1000ml and 750ml pots with the fancy feast alcohol stove. I do have wood gas stoves but find I don't care for carrying them. I carry a spare paddle also.

[@tuftywhite9628]

Man, you're an inspiration.

[@jkline999]

When horse packing on multi-day trips, I use dried ice (frozen nitrogen) on foods that will be used later in the trip, so I don't have to eat the ridiculous amount of carbs in army rations and/or freeze dryied foods. nice vid. thx.

[@guyshannon7732]

Great video I have a suggestion on the fishing. Rub bacon grease on the spoons and when you slice the garlic sausage rub the grease from that onto the spoon as well. I am now googling folding canoes. Thanks gor the great video

[@Kenbur]

great memories made AND shared with us. I would love to do it with a pack raft. maybe a 70-year-old - as old as your Moka pot LOL - could do it in a pack raft. I'm fool enough to try now that the back has healed as much as possible. Thanks for the info as always Simon. I retire in two months - Norway might be a great place to visit in retirement and see how those pack rafts would work out. Grandma was from there so could use that as an excuse. Can't wait to see you using the pack raft during "an adventure" atb

[@lafonevc5663]

Good to see the load out! Such a well filmed series appreciate the hard work involved in creating the film for us.

[@tcschenks]

Thanks. This last series was very good to watch.

[@bennibo85]

good to see u on a boat again simon

[@holzjj1573]

Your organisation is so satisfying 😅👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@spacemandan5906]

Great trip - so nice to see the whole trip and both your views on it - thank you

[@RegNarnoc21]

I’m sure Andy will be delighted you showed that clip of him falling in again..🙈

[@oldsmokeeater7075]

What a great adventure and this behind the scenes look at what worked and what wasn't as good. Thanks for sharing, stay safe . looking forward to your next adventure

[@martinoutdoors6941]

Fantastic video Simon, it’s good to dissect sometimes to see what worked and what didn’t.

[@aynsleycooper365]

Useful kit list, and a great if occasionally arduous trip for you both. Well done.

[@brightantwerp]

Nice video. I love your coffee pot. 💜

[@andrewforrest8938]

That was a cracking adventure in Sweden and Norway that was fantastic gear you took with you Sweden and Norway cracking video thanks Simon 😊 👍

[@southcoastoutdoorsuk6301]

Thanks for showing us around all your gear super impressive and very well thought out , loved the trip videos and await your next adventure 👌

[@arievangaal5918]

Another great video Simon. Enyoed it . Good and clear facts. Good memories of an great time ! Greets from Holland.

[@pault1289]

Thanks for taking the time to share a bit more information about the trip Simon. It's clear from your face that it was an enjoyable and memorable trip!

[@wombatbreath]

Thanks Simon - appreciate the debrief. Interesting to hear your thoughts re ultralight/packraft and look forward to more of your great adventures and videography!

[@NaturalExplorerNZ]

Great to hear some future goals and plans come from this amazing trip Simon! lightweight would be an incredibly different experience. Cool to hear you being so positive and looking forward to the next adventure!

[@columbo1966]

thanks for the detail on the extras to the first aid kit, interesting stuff and wise choices

[@hurleyflyer263]

Planning the trip, would be interesting video to watch Simon. How you contacted your help etc, now you're the , on point guy, so to speak. People will want to follow in your footsteps, and do it for themselves. Great adventure video, you both did amazing and completed the task on time and in good British fashion. I'd love to see the out takes 😉 Thank you.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

The outtakes would take some serious bleeping out! 😂

[@hurleyflyer263]

@@simonablokeinthewoods I bet it would 😉🤣

[@marknthetrails7627]

I got one of those fake "you won" deals. Did my homework first and pushed delete. Loved watching both your channels. 👍✌🥃

[@condamned18]

I've just finished the Series yesterday, what an amazing adventure! I was looking forward to this follow-up video!

[@troymadison7082]

Great video Simon! It was enjoyable, informative and educational. Thank you.

[@thomascraig7230]

Great stuff sir. I enjoyed watching the you and Andy on your epic adventure. Looking forward to the next one. Stay safe.

[@insoleandlaces]

Excellent way of closing your brilliant adventure. Simon buying a pack raft I didn't see that one coming. Many thanks sharing.

[@theresababb8103]

Beautiful footage of the whole trip! It always amazes me how much gear you pack so perfectly. You've given really good insight on gear for solo camping. You and Andy make a great travel team. Cheers!

[@marcomiceli1]

Very informative video... thanks for sharing 🙂

[@theswede303]

Looking foward to your next adventure packrafting.. 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@Dwdanieldotdd]

I thoroughly enjoyed this series. Thank you. Tootles... Wade 👍😎👍

[@karlsomers1145]

What an amazing trip that was!!love Zweden,have not been to Norway yet! As always,love your videos 👍

[@thizizliz]

It's always interesting to see what you take and how well it's packed. Even more so when you describe what you learned; mistakes, improvements, what was great and not so great. Your series was so well worth watching; you did a great job filming and narrating.

[@paulcarter8215]

You’re right, I did think when I watched you’re videos that a day off would have given you both a breather. Great trip - what a memory,

[@OregonMikeH]

We do so appreciate the importance of detailed post gear reviews. Not often offered enough by others and you did an exceptional very appreciated Job. Blessings as always to you both from Oregon & Thank You!! ... Mike.

[@chrislonsberry1974]

Thanks for your review! Experience is the best teacher! Loved the videos of your trip and this follow up on the gear.

[@brianlykins6663]

Great trip, beautiful scenery. Memories for a lifetime, better shared with a friend. Can't wait to see your next adventure. Stay safe and God bless.

[@robwendt7006]

Your trip reminded me of several canoe excursions I went on in the late 80s in the BWCA. The most memorable was also the most brutal. 7 days...7 lakes...6 long portages, and a 100 lb canoe. Good times!

[@craiglake6091]

This has been an epic trip.

[@billsomerville984]

The logistics of your trip was as enjoyable as the trip itself,but please Simon ,if you want to catch fish as your sole source of food on any future trip please take Rick T with you 😁,love your videos mate 👍

[@clairedeare1139]

I have a chronic condition which means the kind of outdoors stuff you do is a no go for me. So I love to see your videos, and explore the woods and waterways vicariously through your videos. Thank you!

[@ltxoutdoors4097]

Thank you Simon! regards to Andy.

[@stephenlambert9826]

Been waiting for this 👍

[@gigi3242]

You were definitely in your element. It was a beautiful trip, thank you so much for sharing it. Glad your feet are better, watching you limp was harsh, was worried. Take care, be well

[@seamusgallagher4316]

Thoroughly enjoyed watching this entire trip. Absolutely amazing footage and transports you to a beautiful place. Please reassure Andy that mishaps will eventually become the adventure you remember and talk about for many years. Keep up the amazing content, thank you, Seamus

[@lauriebloggs8391]

Brilliant. You've come a long way from that delightful film of your two day trip down the Stour 🙂 (Mind you, I still watch it occasionally....) Many thanks to both of you.

[@michaelwolf8781]

Cool stuff. I see you like gear as much I do. Greetings from 🇨🇦

[@mikewilliams544]

Hi Simon ! I am amazed by you'll doing this trip, planning and planning. Then to pull it total together and had a good time. I had a very good time watching it, kinda felt like I was with you'll. Be safe and keep doing trips! Thanks. Mike

[@briankirkup]

Good one Simon very well explained and interesting. All the best Cheers. Take care B. K

[@jeffstevens763]

Enjoyed this Simon, the one thing that you identify is footwear and a very big risk out there broken ankles would be a disaster, mentioned before diver rock boots would be a must for me. Pack rafting is a good way to go could be part of the sleep system with a good tarp, look forward to seeing a trip👍

[@bonpecheur4565]

You should come to Canada for some spectacular canoe trip 😀 great gear load out as usual , you are prepared for everything , thanks !

[@samball6813]

Hi Simon. I enjoy this channel, and this series of videos in particular. I certainly appreciate the extra effort you go to in order to produce a well edited video; along with the content that's the reason why i'm a subscriber to this channel. You captured the 'feel' of being on this trip which is where the inspiration comes from for us to embark on adventures of our own. Keep doing that - you're a great storyteller. And then making informative videos about your kit helps those who wouldn't necessarily know the 'nuts and bolts' of planning for such an adventure. Great stuff mate.

[@alicegamble6145]

Very interesting video about your equipment & the reasons for taking the items. I am not a camping person. I am too old for such things but I really enjoy watching your videos.

[@garryandrews]

Very useful Simon, thank you. I’m planning an Algonquin trip next year so this is good information.

[@skookumjack]

Thanks for the gear review and 'post-mortem ' on the trip..... Tough lesson on the footwear, but I bet you'll have it resolved on the next trek ! ha! Great video Simon........

[@mikedelacruz3135]

Awesome episode Sir Simon ✊🏼🧐 Cheers from across the pond..California 🇺🇸 👊🏼😎🤙🏼

[@wadly312]

I love the update at the end - “I’ve already bought…” 😀 Classic me move the minute I get back from a trip! Fantastic video as always.

[@MattGoesOutside]

Thanks for this Simon. I'm off for a similar trip this summer and this has helped a lot. Love your video style - keep them coming!

[@robertogrilli4574]

Excellent, topman as usual 11/10

[@cuisineundercover]

Hi Simon, I had watched this series when you first uploaded it months ago and thought it was brilliant. But having now watched Andys epic 3 hour video, I binge watched all of yours again. Amazing trip for you both! Yes it was gruelling in parts, but what a great achievement for you both. I also admire your friendship and just how well you worked and supported each other. Just brilliant 👍🏻👏🏻

[@optimisticgal]

Thoroughly enjoyed watching your trip! Defo good challenge, thanks for sharing the footage as it must have been a challenge just doing that!? Here's to the next 😉

[@downeastprimitiveskills7688]

The water shoes could be used for such carrying on trips if one was to condition to them, the minimalist foot wear crowd has been perfecting this over years. You should expect tired feet if you have not conditioned to them. Yes, I went bare foot for a year to fix a foot problem and it helped greatly and I still use minimalist foot wear. It is possible.

[@kennb.3389]

Amazing trip, we loved watching it ! Great review of trip equipment. Good footwear for portages is important , often overlooked. I would stick with my canoe for that trip ,don't want to hit my tailbone in the rapids. Looking forward to you and Andy's next adventure ! Thank You so very much.

[@DustyData]

Great video