Flew last week. Had the plan & lines on map (I really do love that part of the prep), gps, ndb & vor all set up. Truth is I only really looked at the map once or twice, the ndb once (inbound to my destination field) and enjoyed a relaxing flight in the full knowledge the others were prepared and ready should the need arise.
I got lost during my GST in March 2005 (TUOMP in CAVOK
......), which was rather embarrassing. In the 150 hours of flying since, from the western australian desert (where there are no landmarks worth talking about) to the great outdoors of Minnesota and plenty of time here in Blighty, I can say hand on heart that I have not been lost, nor TUOMP. Sure there have been times when I have looked out the window and not been sure, used the VOR and NBD for a fix and yes, pulled the cover of the GPS. But within two minutes I have always been sure of where I am.
These incidents are now few and far between, hence my comment above that I have a long hard look at the map before I go and start the watch - not using any of the other aids.
But until I decide different, they will be there in reserve.
The Wombat