Independent field notes
Backpacking adventures, trail wisdom, and lessons learned the hard way.
James McAfferyJames McAffery is a lifelong backpacker who believes the best lessons are learned somewhere between the trailhead and the next campsite. He writes practical guides about gear, trail skills, backcountry meals, and avoiding mistakes—especially the ones he has already made himself.
Practical guidance for crossing loose scree while reducing rockfall risk to yourself and people below, with advice on route choice, spacing, foot placement, and pacing.
Read articleA practical framework for choosing between coastal and inland backpacking routes on Vancouver Island, with guidance on tides, mud, forest travel, water, navigation, and transportation.
Read articleA practical field method for finding the clearest collection point in a shallow, muddy stream, settling sediment, and protecting your water-treatment equipment.
Read articlePractical cleaning and drying methods for narrow bottles, soft flasks, reservoirs, and trips where a sour smell appears halfway through.
Read articleA practical guide to cleaning and checking a backpacking stove at camp and at home, with advice for clogged burners, dirty fuel connections, damaged windscreens, and safe storage.
Read articleA practical guide to choosing trekking poles that stay useful across muddy trails, snowy slopes, and rocky ground, with advice on length, baskets, locks, grips, tips, and durability.
Read articleA practical guide to deciding whether camp shoes deserve space in your pack, with comparisons of sandals, lightweight shoes, and going without footwear.
Read articleA practical comparison of closed-cell foam and inflatable sleeping pads, covering comfort, puncture risk, insulation, packability, sleeping position, and how to choose the right option for your trips.
Read articleA terrain-based way to compare trail runners, hiking shoes, and boots without treating one footwear type as universally correct.
Read articleA conservative, practical framework for choosing a first backpacking route after a long injury recovery, with guidance on distance, elevation, terrain, exit options, pack weight, and rebuilding confidence.
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