Army survival instructor Gordon Dedman reveals the items he won't travel without

This bushcraft expert can survive in the harshest environments and is always prepared for whatever the elements throw at him. 

The bushcraft expert and Alone Australia survival consultant Gordon Dedman also leads a secret life playing trumpet on cruise ships. This is how he travels:

I travel …

Mostly for business. For the hit TV series Alone, I travel for reconnaissance, boot camps and contestant selection. 

So far, I’ve worked on seasons filmed in Tasmania and New Zealand. As a senior instructor with Bushcraft Survival Australia, I travel across Victoria, NSW, Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia to run remote courses in bushcraft and survival. I’m also an army survival instructor in Norforce in Darwin and a Survive Evade Resist Escape instructor at the Combat Survival Training School in Townsville and I visit both locations several times a year.

And in my other life, I’m a professional trumpet player and musical director, touring internationally with Cunard cruise ships like the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2. Every now and then I do carve out time for a leisure holiday – I usually end up somewhere off-grid, surrounded by nature.

I mostly plan the trip…

Myself. My work-related trips are mostly booked for me, especially military or television assignments. But when it comes to Bushcraft Survival Australia courses, I handle everything myself.

Inside my carry-on you’ll always find…

My 10-piece survival kit (minus sharps for airline travel). It always includes essentials like a metal container for collecting water, cordage, compass, duct tape and key clothing and personal items. It’s second nature for me to carry this kit – you never know when it might come in handy.

As soon as I check in I…

Head straight to the Qantas lounge to catch up on admin. It’s a great time to get emails done and reset before the next mission.

My favourite type of travel companion is…

Honestly, I usually travel alone. It allows me to stay focused, efficient and flexible, especially when I’m working in demanding environments.

I like to get to the airport…

With minutes to spare. I’m not one for sitting around unless there’s a lounge involved.

The way I accumulate points is…

Linking Qantas Frequent Flyer points to my credit card. Over time, it’s helped me save significantly on flights.

I pack my suitcase…

Meticulously. I organise, pack and weigh my bag to ensure I have exactly what I need and nothing more. Efficiency is key, especially when heading into the bush. When flying, I pack strategically, ensuring I have everything I need for a night in my day bag in case my main luggage is delayed.

My one tip for cruising is…

Choose a cruise line that prioritises live music and entertainment, like Cunard or Princess Cruises. The presence of live musicians creates an unmatched atmosphere and a truly high-quality experience.

My favourite sort of travel is…

I thrive on outback adventures. Travelling to remote bush locations around Australia for my work with Bushcraft Survival Australia is my passion. The rugged landscapes, raw beauty and self-sufficiency required make every trip an unforgettable experience.

When I travel I dress…

For comfort and practicality. I always dress for the conditions I’ll be facing, whether it’s the harsh Australian outback or a long-haul flight.

My tip for keeping valuables safe is…

I always keep my valuables on my person and stay hyper-aware of my gear at all times. Situational awareness is key.

I save money when travelling by…

Only buying what I need, though I do allow myself the occasional splurge. Prioritising experiences over material things helps keep costs down.

The type of accommodation I prefer is…

Most of the time, I’m sleeping on the ground or in a hammock out in the bush for work. But when I do get the chance to stay in a hotel, I relish the chance to enjoy a hot shower and some downtime.

My preferred camping meal is…

Barramundi or mullet, cooked whole and unscaled on an open fire, Arnhem Land-style. Nothing beats fresh, fire-cooked fish in the great outdoors.

The hack saves me hundreds is…

Loyalty pays off! Get a frequent flyer number with a particular airline and stick with them. I’ve booked plenty of flights on points, and having access to lounges makes travel far more comfortable.

Gordon Dedman is running Bushcraft Survival Australia courses now. For more information visit bushcraftsurvivalaustralia.com.au

Originally published as Army survival instructor Gordon Dedman reveals the items he won't travel without