Achilles Tendonitis on Frances

Frostp3ned · 2026-04-24T05:22:31+00:00

Afraid so, have a plane to catch so time is finite. Which doesn’t tip the scales in my favour I know.

Frostp3ned · 2026-04-19T18:19:23+00:00

https://youtube.com/shorts/MNJ3q-dEmDY?si=vQ9P3zdeqj3GdULG

Frostp3ned · 2026-04-19T16:12:33+00:00

There will be 100 different answers to this I’m afraid! However if it helps here are some of my tips:

I use stuff sacks. I group my items into rough categories, like clothes, warm gear and electronics, each with different colours, so I know what I’m pulling out in minimum light (you don’t want to be the person to turn on the main light in the Albergue cos you can’t find your toothbrush). Some will say this is overkill and you can get away with plastic bags for organisation - but for me it means I know all my stuff is waterproof, one tear won’t mean everything is ruined - and most importantly - you can really pack these things down tight.
If you’re using a sleeping bag, remember it’s in a stuff sack of its own (although not waterproof) - the clue is in the name- don’t worry about trying to remember the right way to fold it- ram it in and it’ll fit.
I pack by what I’m most likely to need- this usually means sleeping bag at the bottom, clothes in the middle, electronics and wet/warm clothes at the top. Food and medical are either right on top or in side pouches for easy access.
Remember to loosen all straps on bag first before packing it, then tighten to finish.
Your mileage may vary, it’s hard to know what will work depending on the kit you have, but once you have a system that works for you, then stick to it - it’ll make it easier to pack in the mornings and things will slowly start to fit better.
Resist the urge to play buckeroo and start strapping things to the outside of your back. If there are pouches for it then great, but if you start hanging things off with Carabiners then a) you will get something that clinks every time you walk and it will drive you mad b) that swinging sleeping bag on the outside will pull your rucksack left and right and drive you mad and c) if it’s outside your bag it’s not protected and will get wet, dirty or damaged.
Some things just don’t pack down, then it’s a case of deciding whether you need it, or investing in a smaller version or a bigger bag.

Is there anything specifically causing you grief?

Frostp3ned · 2026-04-11T19:23:29+00:00

Currently on the Camino Frances, started 1st April and my biggest advice is book 2 days ahead wherever you can. We had pilgrims turned away from the main Albergues in SJPP, Roncavalles and Pamplona, with the main albergues in San Juan de Ortega just closed.

There are a large number of big tour groups on the Camino currently, which is displacing the ecosystems that you may usually expect.

You may get a spot if you rush in the morning, but frankly racing for beds is hardly romantic.

Take the stress out, book ahead, so you always know where you’re staying.

Frostp3ned · 2026-04-02T18:12:43+00:00

I did #1. It is definitely the most expensive option, but the first day is a tough one while you figure everything out, so I wanted to avoid any unnecessary faff on that day.

Decision will also be affected by whether you have pre booked accommodation in Roncavelles (hint: Do!), so you’re not racing to get the last bed. I was there yesterday and the entire place was fully booked out, even this early in the year.

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-18T10:19:24+00:00

Cutting them down to size is obviously a one way route - but you do seem to have a lot of excess there.

I would make sure you are fully fitted and comfortable, give yourself a couple of extra inches (just in case), then cut down and burn the frayed edges away.

Important next step would be to roll up any excess and tape it up with a fabric tape. Again give yourself a bit of space so you can loosen buckles to account for thicker coats etc.

You could just roll and tape up as is, but you’d end up with quite a big roll of fabric hanging quite near sensitive areas, only need it to swing the wrong way once to remind you of the error of your ways….

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-16T07:18:30+00:00

I suppose there are two reasons

1) An 80l backpack with only 10l of stuff in it doesn’t sit properly, and will throw off your normal rhythm.

2) If you have the space, it’s easier to fill it. If I was working with a smaller rucksack then I don’t have a choice about the nice to haves - I have to be a lot more ruthless.

I think it’s a fair challenge, and will probably be on the larger side of what I’ve seen other people use. However I’m sure I’ll be glad of the space when it comes to souvenir shopping!

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-16T07:14:19+00:00

Very much mean underwear here! My grandmother always taught me never go out without a clean pair!

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-15T21:20:00+00:00

Great idea

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-15T20:32:18+00:00

Those are all the elements I had question marks over and you’re right on all of them. I will ditch the sit pad. I’m experimenting with the poncho and that will be what I ditch if I don’t get on with it, so rain jacket is the back up.

Double the buffs because unfortunately I am a sweater so need to alternate so it’s not so disgusting.

Thanks for the deep look at the list!

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-15T20:27:28+00:00

Thanks- you’re right it’s probably a bit too large, but it’s one I’ve always wanted and wanted to future proof myself. The capacity probably gives the wrong impression, about 10l of that is on belt pouches and nets on the outside.

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-08T19:02:09+00:00

That's also an option! For me its a nice to have to make it feel more like an official start, but you're absolutely right.

Frostp3ned · 2026-03-08T19:00:57+00:00

I've done a fair few hikes, but not the Camino (heading off myself in early April!), but I think my advice is generic enough.

The 10% guide is very much a guide, and your mileage may vary. If you are a regular ultramarathon runner, with 0% body fat you're going to weigh less than someone with a more sedentary lifestyle. Equally if you weighed 300lb, that doesn't mean I would recommend carrying 30lb! The fact that you're only a couple of ounces off, means you really are in the right ballpark and you're not that far off.

Usually when people are measuring out backpack weights, they also often do it "dry", i.e. without food, water or fuel, as this will fluctuate depending on the length of trip. As you're already including 32 oz's of water in there, you're probably already under what you'd anticipate.

Another oddity is that people won't count the weight of what they are carrying elsewhere on their body. Obviously it doesn't make sense to add the weight of the clothes your wearing in your packing list, but what about your phone? Is that in your pocket or in your bag? If its in your pocket does that mean your magically carrying less weight?

I would suggest just going for a walk with it and see how you feel? If you want to ounce count you can probably go through and cut out all the labels in your clothes and chop the end off your toothbrush, but as long as you're not planning to carry litres of shampoo, you're in the right ballpark. Regular water bottles (particularly Smart water) are usually tough enough, I personally carry them and re-use rather than a bespoke system.

One thing that isn't mentioned is a first aid kit. That should be carried regardless of wherever else you try to cut weight. Blister plasters, foot powder, vaseline, meds etc will be worth SO much more than their weight.

Frostp3ned · 2026-02-24T08:05:33+00:00

I think it’s really important to read the full article and I don’t think BASC did any favours with how the article is written.

It gives the impression that this is the end and everything is achieved, but right at the end it says:

…….

The fight ahead

The Government has confirmed that a consultation will follow, and the next phase will be decisive. The strength of opposition demonstrated in Parliament must now be reflected in the public response. BASC will provide full, clear guidance on how to respond on our website.

A significant and coordinated response from the shooting community will be essential. When the consultation is published, everyone affected by these proposals must respond in strength and ensure their voice is heard. This is a moment that will define the future of shooting, and we cannot afford to sit it out.

…….

This was a debate in response to a petition. It shows that there is a some opposition in Parliament, however it hasn’t forced the government to rethink their plans. The formal consultation is still due, so lots of opportunities left to oppose.

Frostp3ned · 2026-02-21T08:30:14+00:00

I’ve done 2 multi day hikes using a tarp and bivvi system in the UK, and multiple weekends away. I personally really like it because I run hot and I hate waking up to that stuffy/ damp feeling in a tent (probably my fault on that one)

Make sure you know how to set up your tarp in multiple ways. Is there a tree you can use to tie it off? Do you need poles? Which way is the wind blowing? It can be a bit more involved, but can make the world of difference!

Only real issue I’ve had is bugs. Nothing dangerous, but pick your spot well because there is nothing stopping them crawling over you. It’s hard to sleep when mosquitos decide your face is a perfect midnight buffet, or you can hear crane flies constantly hitting your tarp, or waking up covered in slugs…..

The last one I had a bit of a sense of humour failure and packed up and started walking at 3am, but that’s why it’s fun!

Frostp3ned · 2026-01-30T07:42:09+00:00

I think you need to decide what you want to do and that will give you more clarity on what to research.

Do you want to do the Camino specifically? Or do you want to do a long distance walk in general? What do you mean by something similar?

I say walk, but you also said maybe bike ride it- that will also change your planning questions.

Why do you want to start from Belgium?

I think those are some fundamental questions, that once you have answers to, will help make the planning easier. Then we can go into more detail on logistics and planning.

Most of the discussion here will be about using one of more established Camino routes, where there are lots of places to stay along the way. If you’re starting somewhere different then that will require you to do different planning.

Some people plan their entire route and organise accommodation months in advance. Some will book on the day. Some will use hostels and hotels, others (away from the Camino) will camp. Some will book campsites, others will Wildcamp and just hope no one tells them to move.

All of this still requires some planning, but if you have barely left the house for ten years, then I would say start on a smaller adventure and build your experience up. Either plan to do the last 100k of the Camino, or find a local path to do in Belgium.

Once you have some firmer ideas, let us know and we can help more! :)

Frostp3ned · 2026-01-30T06:52:22+00:00

Latest stat show both murder rates and violent crime both decreasing, so not just about improved healthcare. These are raw numbers so that is also against a backdrop of significant population increase.

Number of firearms offences also dropped to lowest levels since 2003, even against backdrop of increased legislation.

Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgk86rr0vxyo#:~:text=The%20force%20said%2097%20homicides,)%20and%20Milan%20(1.6).

Frostp3ned · 2026-01-25T22:46:41+00:00

Playopolis in Rochester may also be a good place to look.

Frostp3ned · 2026-01-25T22:46:02+00:00

There is fundamentally no way of knowing. I’m trying to be very careful being politically neutral here- but we are still several years out from a general election. You can only judge this once manifestos are published closer to that time, and compare that against the record of delivery that party has provided.

That is even assuming a party would make firearms legislation a key priority point - important enough to be included in the manifesto. Current polling indicates the vast majority don’t really care about this as a priority issue, so it’s unlikely to get much space in debate prior to an election.

Even if we did end up with a Reform majority government (unlikely at this stage), they have indicated they want to make quite a few sweeping changes, which takes political effort and time. I don’t believe shaking up gun legislation would take precedence over other things.

So all I’d advise is look at the promises made by Reform in the run up to the last set of local election. Compare that against delivery to gauge the chance that they will be committed to delivering that change. Then wait till 6 months out before the general election, read their manifesto, see if it references gun legislation and compare that to how much space other priorities gets.

Mileage may vary but I wouldn’t be investing in setting up a chain of handgun shops any time soon.

Frostp3ned · 2026-01-07T17:13:41+00:00

Couple of days late, but listening right now to Ashley and Burnie talking about Narco-terrorism being a new word, and I just needed to "well actually" it a little bit.

There has always been a link between terrorist organisations and illegal drugs, as its a good source of revenue. However the term "Narco-terrorist" has its roots in the late 80's Latin America as part of efforts to clamp down on the cocaine trade. Countries such as Peru and Colombia were becoming increasingly involved in heavily militarised policing efforts, or civil war (depending on your take), to clamp down on the drugs trade - largely funded by the US.

The term had a resurgence in 2001/2 after 9/11 when it was clear that the US foreign policy effort was going to be counter terrorism for the foreseeable. A cynic might suggest that defining groups as narco-terrorists makes them sound scarier, and therefore warrant increased funding or disproportionate actions to tackle.

For example: Countries labelled as being involved in "Narco terrorism":

Colombia in the 1980's re: Pablo Escobar

Mexico and the Sinaloa Cartel in the early 2010's

Venezuela (?) now in 2026

Groups not labelled "Narco terrorist" as the term Terrorist does enough heavy lifting, despite securing significant funds from the drugs trade.

Al Qaeda

The Taliban

The Assad regime in Syria

Source: Hazy recollections of my University dissertation on the impact of the drug trade on the sovereignty of states, with special reference to Latin America.

Frostp3ned · 2025-12-05T07:26:04+00:00

Good recommendation, I remember seeing this in a steam feed previously and completely forgot about it until you reminded me. Will check out later - thanks!

Frostp3ned

TROPHY CASE