Its been ten months since I last camped in the Jeep and the build has come a long way since then. My first Summer outing of 2022 takes me to a place called Ekopark Käringberget which is located in Västerbotten Sweden. Its a beautiful place and an amazing time of year to get out and be in nature. On this camp I'm sleeping in the ARB Awning room for three nights while trying out my drawer system, stove, battery and fridge system to see how it all works in the real world. The aim of the build was always to have a comfortable basecamp in wilderness locations while having the ability to hike, wild camp, fish and return to camp making extended trips and traveling long distances more comfortable. Thanks for watching.
Your One Funny Fooker , Those Saville Jokes , Plus You Brits have Gadgets 007's Q , Some of those are Hilarious , Yeah that Chat you had about Just Having the Freedom To Live , the RATT Race making sure You Have the Enslavement Money for things and at Any time those things can Be taken so we try to Protect it like It's Life But it's not It's Things , Be Well
@TryNDoxMe good question. I guess overland to me means very long distance across country. Expeditions can vary in duration and distance ect. To be honest fuck knows but I see what I do as small excursions
Hey Mike, you can’t understand how happy I was finding out that this channel exists. I’ve watched your videos on mcqbushcraft years ago and went back to the channel today to reminisce, not knowing you’ve created another channel. I sometimes wish I were in your shoes, getting to experience the adventures you have and having your knowledge. I am only 21 years old but hopefully in a few years time when I have the money and wisdom I can be like you and return to the real world, even if for only a few days. Please keep making more videos like this and maybe one day if I’m really lucky, our paths may somehow cross!
Thanks for watching and for the comment. I hope you can be in my shoes also. I never did it on much money but just a lot of desire. I wish I had saved a bit more for our big trip just to make things easier. I started most of my adventures at 27, before that was lots of working and trying to make a living. Thanks again and appreciate you tuning in.
It's great to hear your thoughts like we did at the end of the video. Being out in a place like that can really make you look at life from a different perspective and you explained it perfectly. I really look forward to some more fly fishing content too, and the jeep is looking as amazing as ever.
I need the the real world more than the fake. It was easier when I lived in Africa, but not so much now in the UK. One thing I miss with all my soul is the peace of the bush. Just sitting there watching the animals live their lives brought me so much harmony.
I've lived outside for quite a few years so I wouldn't say I'm soft when it comes to biting insects... but they can still drive me nuts when I'm just trying to relax. Like Mike said, you _can_ get used to them but sometimes it's hard, especially if you're already stressed... they can really detract from the outdoor experience. So! One of my favorite bits of kit ever is an ultralight bug jacket with a hood, and a bug net to fit over a wide-brimmed hat. They weigh almost nothing, pack down tiny and make a world of difference, especially for someone who doesn't use repellent. The jacket is great because I can still wear a t-shirt (or no shirt at all!) while hiking/working/fishing in the heat, which is wonderfully more pleasant than sweating in my camouflage or getting eaten alive. Highly recommend getting some 👍
Hi Mike, I live in the state of Maine in the USA. I agree with you a 100%. I live in a wooded area of Maine but still can’t wait too get to my camp in northern Maine, it’s a huge stress reliever for me. I’m big into ATVING and go camping with it every chance I get. Being in the wilderness is the Reality of life. Love all your videos!! Take care.🙂⛺️🌲
The ramblings are the best bits. Well, apart from all the other great bits. No tips for the flies other than to get a headnet or continue to not care about them. Keep doing what you love and sod the analytics 👍
I am following you at least for six years now, but between 43:43 and 46:20 you have said your cleverest words ever. Thank God am not alone with my similar toughts. I wish you the best, brother.
"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous." - Aristotle Except flies and mosquitoes. They're pretty much shite, oh, and pissed off bears, I don't think I'd marvel too much about one tearing off my head! Another great video my friend.
I'm here for the camping videos. But I do enjoy the build and kit videos. You have the most well thought out camping xjs I've ever seen. And while I do enjoy the camp kit vids also, everyone's kit will be different so it's best to get out there and see what you need rather than someone telling you. But as always great content Mike. Best cherokee content on RUclips.
I have an XJ like yours except mine has a 4 litre straight 6 gas engine. You have done a great job fixing up yours and I appreciate how much work and money you've put into it. Its worth the effort because it is purpose built to get you into beautiful nature spots like you show in this video and I enjoy doing the same in Canada. You've made me want to go on a camping trip with my Xj. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and life philosophy.
Ah nice, I was thinking of buying a 4l as another project before their all gone. I think most people must think I'm crazy dumping a load of money into this, but it isnt that much when you compare it to a handfull of holidays aboard. At least its a home away from home and I can get out and spend time in these amazing places. Thanks for watching and safe travels on your camping trips ahead. Canada is an stunning place.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness You have given me many hours of viewing pleasure watching your Cherokee build and camping adventures, so I must thank you for your excellent RUclips content. You also helped me pass the time during our Covid lock downs here. Yes, XJ's are getting harder to find, so if you think you want another one, you better act on it soon. Canada is great because we have so much wilderness with open access to 4 wheeling. Cheers.
Hi Mike just want to say I love how your haircut evolves thru the years from your first channel then to having the curly hair and this clean cut now. Love your work man! Keep safe and happy!
Love all the British cultural references to Yorkshire tea and Saville as well as the occasional lapses into a broad Forest of Dean accent. Entertaining as always Mike. Guess I’m one of those subscribers who will listen no matter what the content is each time! Keep enjoying the filming so we can keep enjoying the viewing 👍
Haha the country accent does slip through from time to time. You should listen to Megan next time she's on camera, she's a Gloucestershire girl and she makes me sound like I speak the Queens English. Thanks for watching!
I'm digging the new griddle thingie. DIY, eh? With the dip in towards the center, kind of a cross between griddle and wok. I'lll bet it would make some great stir fries. And clean up is a breeze! Brilliant that you can use dual fuel!
Its DIY as far as assembly goes but not fabricated. The real one is 400USD and its super expensive. The cast iron pan was 700Kr and the rest I had so at least it kept it at a resonable price. Works well though and like you sy easy to clean.
It's great to see my favorite "Adventure Mike" back out in the Bush. Nothing better than enjoying the Earth as it was meant to be. Come on Everyone!!!! 👍👍👍
I particularly liked your end of video philosophy talk, the kit was good and addressed the challenges well, I thought the hanging stove arrangement made good use of the boot door and looked well sheltered.
Hey Mike, this is a tremendous video in so many ways. Entertaining, informative, and stimulating. Thank you so much for creating and sharing. I’ve been a subscriber since your early MCQ days on RUclips and I have always thoroughly enjoyed your presenting style and content on each and every video. Watching your videos and how you approach life is very inspirational to me and give me hope so please keep up the great work!
I’m late to the party - didn’t realise you had another channel now that the bushcraft one is no more. Really enjoyed that and was still awake at the end!
Couple of things. 1. If that cooking setup is cast iron, you'd be wise to season it regularly. Apologies if you do, or have mention it in previous videos. 2. I really miss my 99' XJ. Couldn't keep three vehicles with my growing family. I enjoy my old one vicariously through you.
The iron plate shall be seasoned. My previous cast iron pot was seasoned also fairly regularly. I can understand missing the XJ and they are quite expensive now for what they are. Thanks for watching
Really enjoyed your piece to camera at the end regarding the bullshit of modern life - and I’m not just saying that because you talked about the three people that watch to the end. I enjoy your videos of just getting out there and sharing your thoughts and experiences. Good stuff.
Your videos are I diary of your life that you bring us along on. I appreciate both sides of what you show. Your prep work on your vehicle you’re prepping on your trip. And then your trip. It’s wonderful to see your hard work pay off and you get to reap the reward in such special places. Life is so short you need to enjoy what you do where are you go and family.
love the ending segment. I agree with all of it. I’ve got my own XJ and take it out into the bush every chance i get. It’s a really effective stress relieving hobby.
Pankies without maple syrple?!?! Oh my! Nononono! I'll give you a pass on calling your pankies 'pankos', fair enough, but you've got to have maple goodness dripping off each delish sporkful! They have maple trees in Sweden, don't they?... :) Enjoyed tagging along with you Mike! Thanks for taking the trouble of sharing your wondering wanderings with us. Stay safe in these strange days!
Haha I get what you mean. My half Canadian wife agrees. You cant get Maple Syrup here and they don't grow here so I guess if you can its imported. I will try and get some next time! Thanks for watching!
Course there's more than 3 still watching to the end :) It's probably about time you renamed the channel Pancakes & Asparagus Adventures, and get sponsored by Yorkshire Tea. Failing that set up a PO Box and plenty of us over here will send you tea bags mate!
Haha thanks mate, I have no PO box but you can email me if you like and I can get an address. Info@mcqbushcraft.co.uk. I would never say no to Yorkshire Tea! Hahahha Asparagus Adventures! My wife laughed her ass off. Thanks for watching mate.
I've been a regular viewer for a few years now and as much as I enjoy all the videos, I think my favorite part is the bits of insight like at the end of this video. I think there are a lot more people that share the same views and thoughts than you might think. I can only speak for myself but I think most long term viewers on your videos are here for you, no matter the content. The beauty of these videos are largely that they're about a fellow, and his family, going on adventures. I'll watch videos about kits, I'll watch videos about fishing, I'll watch videos about over landing. I just enjoy that you keep making videos.
love your ramble your right 100% what you said but enjoy while you can l am 73 with disability now and can no longer camp like that or at all. you do make me laugh some of the things you said, anyway take care
I guess all I can do is enjoy while I can. I'm sorry to hear about your disability, although I also don't want to offend you because for all I know you could be absolutely content with everything. My time will come I'm sure. Thanks for watching 👀 🙂
I was an avid fan of of MCQbushcraft and I've missed your videos a whole lot. I'm very happy to stumble upon this channel having a few camping videos of yours. I always enjoy hearing your thoughts on stuff and seeing you camp out. You are the main reason I found the joy of wilderness and camping and I've learned so much from you. Thanks so very much for your videos, you are awesome!
Really appreciate the comment and thanks for watching again! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Not quite the same as the old channel but more of a combination of many things I guess. Thanks again!
@@WorkshoptoWilderness I like that fact that these videos are less "serious" in the way you joke around at times. Not that I didn't like the seriousness of the MCQbushcraft videos, but it's fun to see this side of you. I'm not very interested in or good with cars and mechanics, but I'm catching some stuff here and there. These excursion videos are great though! Hope you feel like making some every now and then when it doesn't take too much joy out of the trip itself.
43:40 Amen! Great content man. Thanks to your videos, last week I put the awning on my 2011 Cherokee, packed it up with food and camping gear and took the kids to a nearby lake, here in Buenos Aires, Argentina. No remote controls, no microwave, no spring mattress... Just us, nature, and some awesome moments to remember. Thank you 🙌👍
Enjoy all the content ( various subjects ) in your video's your observations and experiences. Always look forward to the next, hope you and your family stay safe and well !
Ah Mike man, I was absolutely gutted this video came to an end. I honestly felt like I was there too and I so wish I was, brilliant video, loved the humour too, I properly laughed out loud several times. Thank you very much for taking the time to put it all together, it is massively appreciated. I was happy and sad at the same time, it's emotional stuff man 😁🙂 The asparagus (or whatever), yep, I'm with Meg, it's got to be facing in the same direction. If you're gonna do it, do it right 😁 Food is a science, don't mess with the science 😉😂 You saying about living the moment whilst you're out there in nature, I live it daily what with being homeless in the Scottish Highlands, I just wish there were no piggin tourists trying to get a good look or wanting to muscle in in my spot , totally ruins it for my daughter and I, it's stressful. This is why I need to do what I'm doing here in Sweden, I know I've said it before and I'm still not there but I mean it, I'm just really scared of failing and losing what I truly believe I need, my daughter is the same. I have no idea how to make it work, you said about networking before, there's you, I've networked you, do we come now? 😊 Seriously, I can't take the risk of coming and doing whatever networking even is and then fucking it up by not doing it properly because I didn't get it right and either ran out of time and money and was forced to leave, I couldn't hack that but I still want it so badly. I hope you enjoyed the remaining two days with your friend. The Jeep is looking sweet and so we're your pancakes 🙂 I enjoy your little talks at the end, I take it all in, you make sense to me. Keep doing it, never change, you're a top person and I have the greatest respect for you. You've achieved a lot and in a different country that you've made your home and made a success of it, you and Meg too that is, be proud of yourselves, I am and I've never met you, just followed you for years on RUclips and Instagram. Jeeze, who's waffling now! 😂 I'll leave it there, that's if you even got this far 😌🧐😂 Thanks again for sharing your stuff. I look forward to the next installment. All the best to you and your family.
I remember we spoke before and you were one day wanting to come to Sweden and try and take a new path over here. I can imagine your living in the moment every day which must be fantastic in many ways but I guess its also nice to have a moment to not need to live in the moment at times. I bed its pretty tough with the tourists where you are given its a really beautiful place. You certainly wouldn't need to worry about tourists here, just the flies and the cold, and making some money from time to time. Oh and fuel, its ridiculously expensive here. But that aside depending on how you pay your life here you can live a very low key, non financially driven life. The main issues up where I am is the winter. Living in a van or any vehicle in the winter is not possible. The temps are too cold and it can be quite dangerous. The forest roads are also not accessible as they are not ploughed. I think if you were going to drive here it would be best to leave the UK in late May and spend some time in the South of Sweden first. The weather is totally different down there and more like Scotland. Networking I guess is knowing people but it also requires you to be here. A friend of mine has just sold everything and moved here and hes finding it very hard. Its basically a risk and it might be a total fail or it might work. Coming here at the right time of year before the summer, finding work and then a place to live is basically the formula for surviving and then after three years things get much easier. Anyway I am sure you will make the best decision. If you do come I will obviously try and help and I could probably find you some work if your a good handyman. I really appreciate your kind words though. Means a great deal and glad the videos can provide some window into what it might be like if or when you come here. You can always email me at info@mcqbushcraft.co.uk if you have some serious questions about coming and need longer more detailed answers. Take care and drive safe!
Alright mike I’ll subscribe. I’ve been watching your videos for months now and getting recommended your videos in my feed every day, but your rant finally made me press the red button 🥳🤘 From a fellow XJ owner, here in Australia
Really enjoyed the mix of vehicle, camping and out in the bush, I do miss the old bushcraft stuff and often dip back into it, but this was a happy balance which I think there is an apatite for. As someone diagnosed with PTSD I totally get how being out in the wild sorts your head out and cant wait to get out into wilds of Northumberland, keep up the good work, much appreciated
Great video man, thanks for the “payoff” video after all the wrenching…and I did see a little bit of the old Mike with the nice axe work and even a ferro rod..:) hope you had a super time
Absolutely agreed to what you stated at the end of the Video and good to see you doing Outdoor activities than beeing in the Garage. All best from Germany/Bochum far from Nature
I love your channel and great videos! I am a RUclipsr also nothing major though since I’m new and I’ve actually started a Cherokee build as well to travel more for my videos. Keep up the great work. Always enjoy watching your content!
I personally subscribe because of the personality of the creator and how much I feel i would get along with them I guess. So after many years as your sub i really enjoy the videos you make and have liked the newer more laid back style compared to Mcqbushcraft channel (which i of course liked as well) ✌🏻😄
with soo many you tubers doing reviews or gourmet cooking video.. its great to see someone actually camping, cooking and enjoying themselves - well apart from the super biting midges . looking fwd to the next vid :-)
Zed knows a great mosquito/fly repellant product one of the people he interviewed mentioned in one of his uploads - not one you'd expect but the Royal Commandos swear by it. Its Avon's 'Skin So Soft Dry Oil Spray'. Only costs 2.25 a bottle.
I know that one but they changed it and took out the stuff that repels the insects. I think it was citronella. The do sell a variant with the citronella back in but the price is stupid. I've tried citronella on these flies here and it doesn't seem to deter them. Autan and 80 percent deet seem to be the only thing or the electrical thermacel device but personally I just let them bite me, my skin doesn't seem to react.
Mike, loved your thoughts on the meditative and dare I say, almost spiritual experience of wilderness living. I totally get what you mean about the necessity of being in a certain zone, flow or focus when out in the elements and the contrast of that versus the hyper-stimulated everyday world. I came to this channel from your old channel and above the educational aspect my favorite parts were the moments of wisdom and comedy you impart. I wanted an XJ since I was a kid when my dad worked at a dealership and you convinced me to just go for it and buy one last year, so thanks for that and all the inspiration to work on it.
Great video Mike thanks for taking the time to share your wilderness and thoughts. Very enjoyable watch. Re fly fishing technique try not to cast with the wrist. The rod should be an extension of your arm. Looking forward to your next instalment.
Glad you enjoyed it. Was a nice camp out, I'm going to head back there I think when the snow comes. See what it's like in the winter. Thanks for watching
I went to Scotland and rode my motorbike past Jimmy Savilles old residence in Glencoe recently, "Hows about that then?" Great to see you out on an adventure at long last Mike and the setup looked really good and comfortable. Your right about the world of Bullshit Mike, Nature will always do it's thing no matter what the world of man does Now I've got leatherwork and knives to grind so back into the workshop for me. My elbows hurt now with all the manual work, 60 soon...! Viewer Nr 4 :) Fly fishing.....It's all in the Wrist Action Jimmy Sandy
Jimmy left a stain on society and my mind. Haha I don't want to imagine him when fly fishing but now its burnt into my mind. Nature is healing for sure, I guess it makes sense, we are odd creatures and our intelligence has taken us out of the basics and into the atom. No wonder we use nature and we don't live in it so much. Its a resource to us all these days which is sad but I cant see it being any other way these days. I hope the knife work goes well mate, miss you and if you every come here let me know. Mike
i love you videos i haxe a 2.5 td xj in uk just lifted 4.5 with 33s so want to get few more bits and out on the trails need to copy your cooling mods and to get some bonnet vents but love the fact you made the td semi reliable
Really enjoy seeing things IN USE! That’s the real point of all the “kit” innit? I’m a year into my very first project to involve welding; building back up our rusty ‘99 XJ so i can take some big telescopes to less accessible spots. Almost ready to paint!
Loved your videos for years and really good to see you out and about again Mike! My boys and I get a great deal of inspiration from your outdoor pursuits. Nice to see you more relaxed and playful in your videos too. Real shame the about language though. Looking forward to the next one despite that.
Sorry mate I can beep my language out if it slips out or just stop swearing. I've been mindful of that anyway so what your saying just reminds me that there is a younger audience out there. Anyway thanks for watching. PS: I blame Sweden, swearing is like normal language here, radios, TV etc.... Anyway enough excuses.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness don’t let others control and limit your style of communication. You’re a brilliant and articulate person and every word has a use and place. Someone offended by non hurtful use of any word isn’t living in a real world. Then spending time trying to control others’ word choice over the internet is even more pathological. Be yourself. That’s why we’re here.
Always a good video Mike 👍. If I can make a recommendation, a brilliant tent that you may want to try out to solving your ARB QC issues would be the Oztent RV-5. I try to mimic your style of camping. Drive to a spot and setup base to travel elsewhere on foot. The OZtent is canvas and almost blackout. Love your work as always.
G.day Mike, you've covered some ground in this one mate. Fantastic to see you out doing the business and opening up more with humor too. I know you've always been cogsignant of vehicle weight, the blood, sweat and tears alone must've added an extra 50 or so %, where do you reckon she stands now ? Like that height adjustable parabolic dish, .....potential back up comms too ; ) I'm a few years older than your good self, but man I can see the signs, hehehe. Especially with modern gear, no reason why you cant tweak things for more comfort, whilst still immersing yourself, (and family), in nature. Aren't we all just that.............creatures in nature; but society makes you wonder sometimes
Hey Duke, I think its around 2.2 Tons now loaded. I think 2.35 is like GVM max. I mean its probabaly capable of a lot more given the chassis reinforcement and suspension but the brakes and such are still stock. I want to put it on a weight loss program next winter. Hehe yeah I'm not in my 20s anymore and I feel it. Sleep has become something of a rare and valued currency since having kids. Thanks again mate for watching!
Funny how you mention that people tune in for the build and the kits lol. I'm the opposite, which I suppose makes me a subscriber lol. Although I also do watch most of the build videos. Absolutely loving these videos, so down to earth and captures exactly why I do the same thing. The moment I get out into nature I just totally relax and shit just don't matter no more, just catch and cook fish over fire and chill. Totally zen for sure. Also awesome to see you keep exploring beautiful Sweden, hopefully it starts to feel like home to you by now! Hope you are well mate.
Sweden is really feeling like home these days. So much so that when I visit the UK I cant wait to get back and I miss my life here. The more I learn the language the better it all seems to feel also. Glad that you can relate to the videos and appreciate the comment! The zen world.
would making a little smudge pot from birch bark, moss, grass, and an ember from the fire be helpful with the flies as you hike, or too much of a PITA to deal with?
IT would probably take quite some time to get that sorted. I think a big ganoderma mushroom would work. They stink when burnt but It would be something I would have to collect and dry. I will try it next time, worked in the UK but these flies here are HUNGRY!
@@WorkshoptoWilderness I could have left off the 'lol', that wasn't nice. I just grew up driving on roads worse than that with my XJ. Great video though.
Ah don't worry about it. The place in this video has some well maintained roads, I think its pretty touristy in the summer. Normally I get worried about all the pot holes shacking the crap out of my poor jeep haha. Anyway thanks for watching
Its been ten months since I last camped in the Jeep and the build has come a long way since then. My first Summer outing of 2022 takes me to a place called Ekopark Käringberget which is located in Västerbotten Sweden. Its a beautiful place and an amazing time of year to get out and be in nature.
On this camp I'm sleeping in the ARB Awning room for three nights while trying out my drawer system, stove, battery and fridge system to see how it all works in the real world. The aim of the build was always to have a comfortable basecamp in wilderness locations while having the ability to hike, wild camp, fish and return to camp making extended trips and traveling long distances more comfortable.
Thanks for watching.
Your One Funny Fooker , Those Saville Jokes , Plus You Brits have Gadgets 007's Q , Some of those are Hilarious , Yeah that Chat you had about Just Having the Freedom To Live , the RATT Race making sure You Have the Enslavement Money for things and at Any time those things can Be taken so we try to Protect it like It's Life But it's not It's Things , Be Well
@TryNDoxMe good question. I guess overland to me means very long distance across country. Expeditions can vary in duration and distance ect. To be honest fuck knows but I see what I do as small excursions
have you tried tenkara fly fishing? I prefer it if I have to fish
Hey Mike, you can’t understand how happy I was finding out that this channel exists. I’ve watched your videos on mcqbushcraft years ago and went back to the channel today to reminisce, not knowing you’ve created another channel. I sometimes wish I were in your shoes, getting to experience the adventures you have and having your knowledge. I am only 21 years old but hopefully in a few years time when I have the money and wisdom I can be like you and return to the real world, even if for only a few days. Please keep making more videos like this and maybe one day if I’m really lucky, our paths may somehow cross!
Thanks for watching and for the comment. I hope you can be in my shoes also. I never did it on much money but just a lot of desire. I wish I had saved a bit more for our big trip just to make things easier.
I started most of my adventures at 27, before that was lots of working and trying to make a living.
Thanks again and appreciate you tuning in.
Cant agree more about the importance of separating work life with free time. it makes the world of difference. thank you for the great content.
It's great to hear your thoughts like we did at the end of the video. Being out in a place like that can really make you look at life from a different perspective and you explained it perfectly. I really look forward to some more fly fishing content too, and the jeep is looking as amazing as ever.
I need the the real world more than the fake. It was easier when I lived in Africa, but not so much now in the UK. One thing I miss with all my soul is the peace of the bush. Just sitting there watching the animals live their lives brought me so much harmony.
That must be really hard because its a massive change in environment.
Was a great fan of the old channel and now this one. Your ending dialogue just summed up the reasons why I love to solo camp.
I've lived outside for quite a few years so I wouldn't say I'm soft when it comes to biting insects... but they can still drive me nuts when I'm just trying to relax. Like Mike said, you _can_ get used to them but sometimes it's hard, especially if you're already stressed... they can really detract from the outdoor experience.
So! One of my favorite bits of kit ever is an ultralight bug jacket with a hood, and a bug net to fit over a wide-brimmed hat. They weigh almost nothing, pack down tiny and make a world of difference, especially for someone who doesn't use repellent. The jacket is great because I can still wear a t-shirt (or no shirt at all!) while hiking/working/fishing in the heat, which is wonderfully more pleasant than sweating in my camouflage or getting eaten alive. Highly recommend getting some 👍
Brilliant! Totally resonate with your thoughts. "The fake world" I call it " the artificial comfort bubble".
The whole speech at the end was beautiful I completely agree 💯✔️🐇👊🙏💛💛💛💛💛 THE WOODZ BABY
Hi Mike, I live in the state of Maine in the USA. I agree with you a 100%. I live in a wooded area of Maine but still can’t wait too get to my camp in northern Maine, it’s a huge stress reliever for me. I’m big into ATVING and go camping with it every chance I get. Being in the wilderness is the Reality of life. Love all your videos!! Take care.🙂⛺️🌲
The comedy moments had me in stitches. I like your sense of humour 😀
Nothing beats going solo !!
The ramblings are the best bits. Well, apart from all the other great bits. No tips for the flies other than to get a headnet or continue to not care about them. Keep doing what you love and sod the analytics 👍
Great video, thanks. Recharging the batteries by disconnecting is essential, enjoy.
I am following you at least for six years now, but between 43:43 and 46:20 you have said your cleverest words ever. Thank God am not alone with my similar toughts. I wish you the best, brother.
"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous." - Aristotle
Except flies and mosquitoes. They're pretty much shite, oh, and pissed off bears, I don't think I'd marvel too much about one tearing off my head! Another great video my friend.
Would love more videos like this. Keep up the great work. Do what makes you happy.
Birch tar and clove essential oil helps well against mosquitos and forest gnats
👍🏻 your talk at the end hits home now iam going out as soon as i can thank you👍🏻🏕🏕🏕
I too, was lured into the woods once by a howling creature promising new suspension parts.
The things I had to do in return...
I'm here for the camping videos. But I do enjoy the build and kit videos. You have the most well thought out camping xjs I've ever seen. And while I do enjoy the camp kit vids also, everyone's kit will be different so it's best to get out there and see what you need rather than someone telling you. But as always great content Mike. Best cherokee content on RUclips.
I have an XJ like yours except mine has a 4 litre straight 6 gas engine. You have done a great job fixing up yours and I appreciate how much work and money you've put into it. Its worth the effort because it is purpose built to get you into beautiful nature spots like you show in this video and I enjoy doing the same in Canada. You've made me want to go on a camping trip with my Xj. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and life philosophy.
Ah nice, I was thinking of buying a 4l as another project before their all gone. I think most people must think I'm crazy dumping a load of money into this, but it isnt that much when you compare it to a handfull of holidays aboard. At least its a home away from home and I can get out and spend time in these amazing places. Thanks for watching and safe travels on your camping trips ahead. Canada is an stunning place.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness You have given me many hours of viewing pleasure watching your Cherokee build and camping adventures, so I must thank you for your excellent RUclips content. You also helped me pass the time during our Covid lock downs here. Yes, XJ's are getting harder to find, so if you think you want another one, you better act on it soon. Canada is great because we have so much wilderness with open access to 4 wheeling. Cheers.
Hi Mike just want to say I love how your haircut evolves thru the years from your first channel then to having the curly hair and this clean cut now. Love your work man! Keep safe and happy!
Haha yeah the old mop has evolved a few times. Thanks for tuning in and stay safe!
Great video Mike. When you lost the butter I had a laughing fit...
Sirens calling you!
It was useful information I found it enteresti he was getting away from the rooftop tent
Some deep discussion and food for thought. I definitely feel the same way, getting out and away from it all. Thanks for sharing.
Love all the British cultural references to Yorkshire tea and Saville as well as the occasional lapses into a broad Forest of Dean accent. Entertaining as always Mike. Guess I’m one of those subscribers who will listen no matter what the content is each time! Keep enjoying the filming so we can keep enjoying the viewing 👍
Haha the country accent does slip through from time to time. You should listen to Megan next time she's on camera, she's a Gloucestershire girl and she makes me sound like I speak the Queens English. Thanks for watching!
I'm digging the new griddle thingie. DIY, eh? With the dip in towards the center, kind of a cross between griddle and wok. I'lll bet it would make some great stir fries. And clean up is a breeze! Brilliant that you can use dual fuel!
Its DIY as far as assembly goes but not fabricated. The real one is 400USD and its super expensive. The cast iron pan was 700Kr and the rest I had so at least it kept it at a resonable price. Works well though and like you sy easy to clean.
It's great to see my favorite "Adventure Mike" back out in the Bush. Nothing better than enjoying the Earth as it was meant to be. Come on Everyone!!!! 👍👍👍
gotta watch out for those samsquanches sneaky they are made off with a case of my beer one night lol
Still awake ! 👍👌
Some of the best flys are the ones biting you.. enjoy your content.. stay true.
I particularly liked your end of video philosophy talk, the kit was good and addressed the challenges well, I thought the hanging stove arrangement made good use of the boot door and looked well sheltered.
I really like your videos from 2013 to 2021.
Great trip and i totally agree with the end ramblings. 😀
Hey Mike, this is a tremendous video in so many ways. Entertaining, informative, and stimulating. Thank you so much for creating and sharing.
I’ve been a subscriber since your early MCQ days on RUclips and I have always thoroughly enjoyed your presenting style and content on each and every video.
Watching your videos and how you approach life is very inspirational to me and give me hope so please keep up the great work!
That steak seasoning name looks about to be the most Swedish thing I've ever seen. A lot of letters to spell "Overlanding Mix"
Hahah! It does feel like a good mix for travelling. Put it on everything mix.
I’m late to the party - didn’t realise you had another channel now that the bushcraft one is no more. Really enjoyed that and was still awake at the end!
Couple of things.
1. If that cooking setup is cast iron, you'd be wise to season it regularly. Apologies if you do, or have mention it in previous videos.
2. I really miss my 99' XJ. Couldn't keep three vehicles with my growing family. I enjoy my old one vicariously through you.
The iron plate shall be seasoned. My previous cast iron pot was seasoned also fairly regularly. I can understand missing the XJ and they are quite expensive now for what they are. Thanks for watching
Really enjoyed your piece to camera at the end regarding the bullshit of modern life - and I’m not just saying that because you talked about the three people that watch to the end. I enjoy your videos of just getting out there and sharing your thoughts and experiences. Good stuff.
Thanks Jon, appreciate the comment and thanks for watching. Safe travels!
I understand about the tea
Liptons...... help me
Your videos are I diary of your life that you bring us along on. I appreciate both sides of what you show. Your prep work on your vehicle you’re prepping on your trip. And then your trip. It’s wonderful to see your hard work pay off and you get to reap the reward in such special places. Life is so short you need to enjoy what you do where are you go and family.
love the ending segment. I agree with all of it. I’ve got my own XJ and take it out into the bush every chance i get. It’s a really effective stress relieving hobby.
Great video mate Jimmy savile you crack me up 👍🏴
😁👍👍 great to see you out - love the site you chose
Well deserved rest...
The lost smörklick had me laughing out loud!
Pankies without maple syrple?!?! Oh my! Nononono! I'll give you a pass on calling your pankies 'pankos', fair enough, but you've got to have maple goodness dripping off each delish sporkful! They have maple trees in Sweden, don't they?... :)
Enjoyed tagging along with you Mike! Thanks for taking the trouble of sharing your wondering wanderings with us. Stay safe in these strange days!
Haha I get what you mean. My half Canadian wife agrees. You cant get Maple Syrup here and they don't grow here so I guess if you can its imported. I will try and get some next time! Thanks for watching!
Great inspiring words on top of the cliff at the end. Looking to get back into exploring the wilderness myself here soon. It's been far too long.
44:00 onwards 👍
Live in the moment 🙏
Course there's more than 3 still watching to the end :) It's probably about time you renamed the channel Pancakes & Asparagus Adventures, and get sponsored by Yorkshire Tea. Failing that set up a PO Box and plenty of us over here will send you tea bags mate!
Haha thanks mate, I have no PO box but you can email me if you like and I can get an address. Info@mcqbushcraft.co.uk. I would never say no to Yorkshire Tea! Hahahha Asparagus Adventures! My wife laughed her ass off. Thanks for watching mate.
I've been a regular viewer for a few years now and as much as I enjoy all the videos, I think my favorite part is the bits of insight like at the end of this video. I think there are a lot more people that share the same views and thoughts than you might think. I can only speak for myself but I think most long term viewers on your videos are here for you, no matter the content. The beauty of these videos are largely that they're about a fellow, and his family, going on adventures. I'll watch videos about kits, I'll watch videos about fishing, I'll watch videos about over landing. I just enjoy that you keep making videos.
love your ramble your right 100% what you said but enjoy while you can l am 73 with disability now and can no longer camp like that or at all. you do make me laugh some of the things you said, anyway take care
I guess all I can do is enjoy while I can. I'm sorry to hear about your disability, although I also don't want to offend you because for all I know you could be absolutely content with everything.
My time will come I'm sure. Thanks for watching 👀 🙂
@@WorkshoptoWilderness thats ok had my fun lol thats why l like watching this type of content
wonderful
I was an avid fan of of MCQbushcraft and I've missed your videos a whole lot. I'm very happy to stumble upon this channel having a few camping videos of yours. I always enjoy hearing your thoughts on stuff and seeing you camp out. You are the main reason I found the joy of wilderness and camping and I've learned so much from you. Thanks so very much for your videos, you are awesome!
Really appreciate the comment and thanks for watching again! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Not quite the same as the old channel but more of a combination of many things I guess. Thanks again!
@@WorkshoptoWilderness I like that fact that these videos are less "serious" in the way you joke around at times. Not that I didn't like the seriousness of the MCQbushcraft videos, but it's fun to see this side of you. I'm not very interested in or good with cars and mechanics, but I'm catching some stuff here and there. These excursion videos are great though! Hope you feel like making some every now and then when it doesn't take too much joy out of the trip itself.
Love your vids!
I have a 99 xj and live somewhat close to the rockies here in America!
Keep up the Jimmy Saville jokes🤣🤙
Awesome stuff Mike!
43:40 Amen! Great content man.
Thanks to your videos, last week I put the awning on my 2011 Cherokee, packed it up with food and camping gear and took the kids to a nearby lake, here in Buenos Aires, Argentina. No remote controls, no microwave, no spring mattress... Just us, nature, and some awesome moments to remember.
Thank you 🙌👍
Enjoy all the content ( various subjects ) in your video's your observations and experiences. Always look forward to the next, hope you and your family stay safe and well !
Ah Mike man, I was absolutely gutted this video came to an end.
I honestly felt like I was there too and I so wish I was, brilliant video, loved the humour too, I properly laughed out loud several times. Thank you very much for taking the time to put it all together, it is massively appreciated. I was happy and sad at the same time, it's emotional stuff man 😁🙂
The asparagus (or whatever), yep, I'm with Meg, it's got to be facing in the same direction. If you're gonna do it, do it right 😁 Food is a science, don't mess with the science 😉😂
You saying about living the moment whilst you're out there in nature, I live it daily what with being homeless in the Scottish Highlands, I just wish there were no piggin tourists trying to get a good look or wanting to muscle in in my spot , totally ruins it for my daughter and I, it's stressful.
This is why I need to do what I'm doing here in Sweden, I know I've said it before and I'm still not there but I mean it, I'm just really scared of failing and losing what I truly believe I need, my daughter is the same. I have no idea how to make it work, you said about networking before, there's you, I've networked you, do we come now? 😊 Seriously, I can't take the risk of coming and doing whatever networking even is and then fucking it up by not doing it properly because I didn't get it right and either ran out of time and money and was forced to leave, I couldn't hack that but I still want it so badly.
I hope you enjoyed the remaining two days with your friend.
The Jeep is looking sweet and so we're your pancakes 🙂
I enjoy your little talks at the end, I take it all in, you make sense to me. Keep doing it, never change, you're a top person and I have the greatest respect for you. You've achieved a lot and in a different country that you've made your home and made a success of it, you and Meg too that is, be proud of yourselves, I am and I've never met you, just followed you for years on RUclips and Instagram. Jeeze, who's waffling now! 😂
I'll leave it there, that's if you even got this far 😌🧐😂
Thanks again for sharing your stuff. I look forward to the next installment.
All the best to you and your family.
I remember we spoke before and you were one day wanting to come to Sweden and try and take a new path over here. I can imagine your living in the moment every day which must be fantastic in many ways but I guess its also nice to have a moment to not need to live in the moment at times.
I bed its pretty tough with the tourists where you are given its a really beautiful place.
You certainly wouldn't need to worry about tourists here, just the flies and the cold, and making some money from time to time. Oh and fuel, its ridiculously expensive here.
But that aside depending on how you pay your life here you can live a very low key, non financially driven life.
The main issues up where I am is the winter. Living in a van or any vehicle in the winter is not possible. The temps are too cold and it can be quite dangerous. The forest roads are also not accessible as they are not ploughed.
I think if you were going to drive here it would be best to leave the UK in late May and spend some time in the South of Sweden first. The weather is totally different down there and more like Scotland. Networking I guess is knowing people but it also requires you to be here. A friend of mine has just sold everything and moved here and hes finding it very hard. Its basically a risk and it might be a total fail or it might work. Coming here at the right time of year before the summer, finding work and then a place to live is basically the formula for surviving and then after three years things get much easier.
Anyway I am sure you will make the best decision. If you do come I will obviously try and help and I could probably find you some work if your a good handyman.
I really appreciate your kind words though. Means a great deal and glad the videos can provide some window into what it might be like if or when you come here. You can always email me at info@mcqbushcraft.co.uk if you have some serious questions about coming and need longer more detailed answers.
Take care and drive safe!
Love the video and your outlook on life.
Thanks for watching
Alright mike I’ll subscribe. I’ve been watching your videos for months now and getting recommended your videos in my feed every day, but your rant finally made me press the red button 🥳🤘 From a fellow XJ owner, here in Australia
Haha thanks, nice to know I was recommended, its normally the opposite lol. But anyway thanks for subscribing and for watching.
Haha thanks, nice to know I was recommended, its normally the opposite lol. But anyway thanks for subscribing and for watching.
Mate....3 mins in and you've got me in stitches with the 'voices; and the 'snake' humour !!!
....and the butter falling off ! Mike you need a another comedy channel !!
Really enjoyed the mix of vehicle, camping and out in the bush, I do miss the old bushcraft stuff and often dip back into it, but this was a happy balance which I think there is an apatite for. As someone diagnosed with PTSD I totally get how being out in the wild sorts your head out and cant wait to get out into wilds of Northumberland, keep up the good work, much appreciated
Great video man, thanks for the “payoff” video after all the wrenching…and I did see a little bit of the old Mike with the nice axe work and even a ferro rod..:) hope you had a super time
It's nice to finally see you use that gear, that you've worked so hard and made it work so good. Love the cooking equipment!
Absolutely agreed to what you stated at the end of the Video and good to see you doing Outdoor activities than beeing in the Garage. All best from Germany/Bochum far from Nature
Great Stuff !
I'm pretty sure hearing voices is called schizophrenia Mike, not 'the river'. Great video, glad to see you out and about again.
I love your channel and great videos! I am a RUclipsr also nothing major though since I’m new and I’ve actually started a Cherokee build as well to travel more for my videos. Keep up the great work. Always enjoy watching your content!
Loved the end! Always good stuff and love the humor and sarcasm. Keep it up and you Jeep is what landed me in the first place. But love it all now.
I personally subscribe because of the personality of the creator and how much I feel i would get along with them I guess. So after many years as your sub i really enjoy the videos you make and have liked the newer more laid back style compared to Mcqbushcraft channel (which i of course liked as well) ✌🏻😄
with soo many you tubers doing reviews or gourmet cooking video.. its great to see someone actually camping, cooking and enjoying themselves - well apart from the super biting midges . looking fwd to the next vid :-)
Zed knows a great mosquito/fly repellant product one of the people he interviewed mentioned in one of his uploads - not one you'd expect but the Royal Commandos swear by it. Its Avon's 'Skin So Soft Dry Oil Spray'. Only costs 2.25 a bottle.
I know that one but they changed it and took out the stuff that repels the insects. I think it was citronella. The do sell a variant with the citronella back in but the price is stupid. I've tried citronella on these flies here and it doesn't seem to deter them. Autan and 80 percent deet seem to be the only thing or the electrical thermacel device but personally I just let them bite me, my skin doesn't seem to react.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness Thanks Mike. We have Bushman Ultra heavy duty here in Australia with 80% Deet.
@@mtate02 That stuff works. I put it on hats and around clothing and it does the job without getting on me skin.
That hot plate looks fantastic.
Mike, loved your thoughts on the meditative and dare I say, almost spiritual experience of wilderness living. I totally get what you mean about the necessity of being in a certain zone, flow or focus when out in the elements and the contrast of that versus the hyper-stimulated everyday world. I came to this channel from your old channel and above the educational aspect my favorite parts were the moments of wisdom and comedy you impart. I wanted an XJ since I was a kid when my dad worked at a dealership and you convinced me to just go for it and buy one last year, so thanks for that and all the inspiration to work on it.
So glad to see you Mike!
Wonderful video. Glad all the hard work ended with a restful trip.
the real world, and fake world, I related too so much, awesome vid mate. look forward to more
You're too funny sometimes Mike, I got a good chuckle at big foot luring you in to the forest haha. Great vid as always, that 50 mins flew by
From bush craft to overland to mechanics to camping and stand up comedy, what will this channel bring next? The Bigfoot joke had me rolling lol
Love my MegaMat, more comfy than my mattress at home ($2,800), not even kidding.
Great video Mike thanks for taking the time to share your wilderness and thoughts. Very enjoyable watch. Re fly fishing technique try not to cast with the wrist. The rod should be an extension of your arm. Looking forward to your next instalment.
GREAT to see you out and back at it Mike! Hope the rest of the trip went well...
love your content, i feel less stressed just watching your video! enjoyed every minute of it and learned a thing or two about axe handling
Glad you enjoyed it. Was a nice camp out, I'm going to head back there I think when the snow comes. See what it's like in the winter. Thanks for watching
I went to Scotland and rode my motorbike past Jimmy Savilles old residence in Glencoe recently, "Hows about that then?"
Great to see you out on an adventure at long last Mike and the setup looked really good and comfortable.
Your right about the world of Bullshit Mike, Nature will always do it's thing no matter what the world of man does
Now I've got leatherwork and knives to grind so back into the workshop for me.
My elbows hurt now with all the manual work, 60 soon...!
Viewer Nr 4 :) Fly fishing.....It's all in the Wrist Action Jimmy
Sandy
Jimmy left a stain on society and my mind. Haha I don't want to imagine him when fly fishing but now its burnt into my mind. Nature is healing for sure, I guess it makes sense, we are odd creatures and our intelligence has taken us out of the basics and into the atom. No wonder we use nature and we don't live in it so much. Its a resource to us all these days which is sad but I cant see it being any other way these days.
I hope the knife work goes well mate, miss you and if you every come here let me know.
Mike
i love you videos i haxe a 2.5 td xj in uk just lifted 4.5 with 33s so want to get few more bits and out on the trails need to copy your cooling mods and to get some bonnet vents but love the fact you made the td semi reliable
Great video mike! Funny, Entertaining, interesting..also makes me very jealous 🤣 love the little chat at the ends. Really touches base 👍
Really enjoy seeing things IN USE! That’s the real point of all the “kit” innit?
I’m a year into my very first project to involve welding; building back up our rusty ‘99 XJ so i can take some big telescopes to less accessible spots. Almost ready to paint!
Rite Get those Boonie Hats or just the Head Netting for those Summer flies so Saville can't Recognize you
The lady screaming noises here in America are foxes.
Loved your videos for years and really good to see you out and about again Mike! My boys and I get a great deal of inspiration from your outdoor pursuits. Nice to see you more relaxed and playful in your videos too. Real shame the about language though. Looking forward to the next one despite that.
Sorry mate I can beep my language out if it slips out or just stop swearing. I've been mindful of that anyway so what your saying just reminds me that there is a younger audience out there.
Anyway thanks for watching. PS: I blame Sweden, swearing is like normal language here, radios, TV etc.... Anyway enough excuses.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness don’t let others control and limit your style of communication. You’re a brilliant and articulate person and every word has a use and place. Someone offended by non hurtful use of any word isn’t living in a real world. Then spending time trying to control others’ word choice over the internet is even more pathological. Be yourself. That’s why we’re here.
Always a good video Mike 👍.
If I can make a recommendation, a brilliant tent that you may want to try out to solving your ARB QC issues would be the Oztent RV-5. I try to mimic your style of camping. Drive to a spot and setup base to travel elsewhere on foot. The OZtent is canvas and almost blackout.
Love your work as always.
43:55 truth.
really enjoyed this video Mike, keep it up!
G.day Mike, you've covered some ground in this one mate.
Fantastic to see you out doing the business and opening up more with humor too.
I know you've always been cogsignant of vehicle weight, the blood, sweat and tears alone must've added an extra 50 or so %, where do you reckon she stands now ?
Like that height adjustable parabolic dish, .....potential back up comms too ; )
I'm a few years older than your good self, but man I can see the signs, hehehe. Especially with modern gear, no reason why you cant tweak things for more comfort, whilst still immersing yourself, (and family), in nature. Aren't we all just that.............creatures in nature; but society makes you wonder sometimes
Hey Duke, I think its around 2.2 Tons now loaded. I think 2.35 is like GVM max. I mean its probabaly capable of a lot more given the chassis reinforcement and suspension but the brakes and such are still stock. I want to put it on a weight loss program next winter. Hehe yeah I'm not in my 20s anymore and I feel it. Sleep has become something of a rare and valued currency since having kids.
Thanks again mate for watching!
Long time viewer and love your videos. Keep up the awesome adventures!
Funny how you mention that people tune in for the build and the kits lol. I'm the opposite, which I suppose makes me a subscriber lol. Although I also do watch most of the build videos. Absolutely loving these videos, so down to earth and captures exactly why I do the same thing. The moment I get out into nature I just totally relax and shit just don't matter no more, just catch and cook fish over fire and chill. Totally zen for sure. Also awesome to see you keep exploring beautiful Sweden, hopefully it starts to feel like home to you by now! Hope you are well mate.
Sweden is really feeling like home these days. So much so that when I visit the UK I cant wait to get back and I miss my life here. The more I learn the language the better it all seems to feel also. Glad that you can relate to the videos and appreciate the comment! The zen world.
would making a little smudge pot from birch bark, moss, grass, and an ember from the fire be helpful with the flies as you hike, or too much of a PITA to deal with?
IT would probably take quite some time to get that sorted. I think a big ganoderma mushroom would work. They stink when burnt but It would be something I would have to collect and dry. I will try it next time, worked in the UK but these flies here are HUNGRY!
None of that required lowering tire pressure or removing the sway bar. To me that's just the ride home each day.
You'r absolutely right. But I just do it our of habit to make the old jeep ride smoother.
@@WorkshoptoWilderness I could have left off the 'lol', that wasn't nice. I just grew up driving on roads worse than that with my XJ. Great video though.
Ah don't worry about it. The place in this video has some well maintained roads, I think its pretty touristy in the summer. Normally I get worried about all the pot holes shacking the crap out of my poor jeep haha. Anyway thanks for watching
Great video, I like that awning room!
BTW,what kind of wood is that? Looks like it'd split with a karate chop.
Thanks for watching! Its Birch and Pine (Pinus sylvestris). It was super dry and just popped apart. Nice to split with the axe, or a karate chop! haha