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.
A practical guide to choosing and combining shelter, ground insulation, sleep insulation, and moisture-management strategies for damp shoulder-season nights when rain can turn to wet snow.
Read articleA practical guide to creating a solo backpacking check-in plan, including what to share, when a response is overdue, and how to avoid false reassurance.
Read articleA practical backpacking repair kit for fixing shelters, packs, sleeping systems, clothing, and stoves without hauling a full toolbox.
Read articleA practical decision process for replacing a route, adjusting mileage, or postponing a trip when access changes at the last minute.
Read articleA flexible meal system that lets people adjust portions and snacks without creating excessive cooking or packing work.
Read articleA practical guide to assembling a backpacking first-aid kit for the injuries, illnesses, and environmental problems a small group is most likely to face in the Canadian backcountry.
Read articleA practical worksheet for estimating the full cost of a backpacking trip, including transportation, campsites, parking, permits, food, fuel, reservations, and commonly overlooked expenses in Canada and the United States.
Read articleA practical guide to taking a dog on a backpacking route with long boardwalks and bridges, including paw protection, leash control, water planning, wildlife, and route restrictions.
Read articleA practical guide to keeping your voice, music, camp chores, and travel habits considerate in shared backcountry spaces—without expecting every other hiker to disappear.
Read articleA practical pre- and post-trip routine for cleaning boots, packs, clothing, and other gear so invasive seeds don’t hitchhike between trails, farms, parks, and backcountry campsites.
Read article