The primary time I attempted to pack for the Camino de Santiago, I’ll admit it I virtually stop earlier than taking step one. The pile on my mattress regarded like I used to be transferring home, not heading out for weeks of strolling. The reality is, you possibly can Google the ‘good’ Camino packing record a thousand occasions, however nothing beats studying from somebody who truly did it (and made a bunch of errors). Right here’s a take a look at what I truly packed, what ended up being important, and a pair of issues I want I’d performed in another way. Spoiler: I’m nonetheless not over these magic wool socks.
Highlights:
- Pack gentle: Follow necessities like 2 quick-dry shirts, 1 convertible pants, and moisture-wicking wool socks.
- Good socks matter: Particular wool socks forestall blisters and hold toes dry.
- Consolation is essential: Carry a small pillow, flip-flops for showers, and a hydration pack.
- Sudden must-haves: Collagen dietary supplements for joints, a cash belt for safety, and Vaseline for blisters.
- Much less is extra: A lighter pack means much less stress and extra freedom on the path.
Key Tip: Pack gentle, each gram counts when strolling 20+ km/day!
(Much less stuff = much less stress, extra freedom.)
Packing Record for the Camino de Santiago
Right here’s your no-BS, real-talk Camino de Santiago packing record, straight from somebody who’s walked it and realized the onerous means (so that you don’t need to).
Consider this as your trail-tested, blistered-feet-approved information to packing gentle however good. Right here’s the packing record:
Backpack
- A 30–40L backpack (greater isn’t higher, your again will hate you). Deuter or Osprey are stable picks. Get one with a hip belt to avoid wasting your shoulders.
- Rain cowl (as a result of Spain’s climate is as unpredictable as a toddler’s temper).
Garments
- 2 quick-dry T-shirts (sweat + cotton = unhealthy information).
- 1 long-sleeve shirt (solar safety or chilly mornings).
- 2 pairs of mountain climbing shorts/pants (convertible pants = MVP).
- 3 pairs of underwear (merino wool = no stink, even after 3 days).
- 2 sports activities bras (girls, belief me).
- 3 pairs of socks (merino wool once more, blisters are the enemy).
- 1 light-weight fleece or puffy jacket (nights get chilly).
- 1 rain jacket or poncho (ponchos cowl your pack too, win!).
- 1 comfortable sleep outfit (suppose: leggings and a tee).
- 1 swimsuit (in the event you’re doing coastal routes or fancy a river dip).
Footwear
- Path runners or mountain climbing footwear (broken-in, NOT new). Waterproof? Provided that you want sweaty toes.
- Sandals or flip-flops (for showers and giving your toes a break). Eager or Teva sandals double as backup mountain climbing footwear.
First Help & Blister Package
- Moleskin/Leukotape (for decent spots, apply BEFORE blisters kind).
- Compeed blister pads (the Camino’s forex).
- Painkillers (ibuprofen) (for these “why did I do that?” days).
- Antiseptic wipes (hostel showers might be… questionable).
- Rehydration salts (warmth + strolling = dehydration metropolis).
Toiletries (Maintain It Tiny)
- Microfiber towel (dries quick, packs small).
- Cleaning soap bar (for physique, hair, and laundry, multitasking queen).
- Toothbrush + mini toothpaste (your breath will thanks).
- Sunscreen + lip balm (the Spanish solar doesn’t play).
- Deodorant (your fellow pilgrims will thanks).
- Earplugs + eye masks (snorers are in every single place).
Gear & Extras
- Trekking poles (knee savers on downhill stretches).
- Headlamp (for pre-dawn begins or hostel bunk raids).
- Water bottle/bladder (1–2L is lots, fountains are in every single place).
- Energy financial institution (for when your telephone dies mid-“the place’s the subsequent albergue?” panic).
- Pilgrim passport + common passport (no passport, no mattress).
- Ziplock baggage (for moist garments, snacks, or waterproofing your telephone).
Good-to-Haves (However Not Important)
- Journal + pen (you’ll wish to keep in mind this).
- Kindle/e book (hostel Wi-Fi is a delusion).
- Deck of playing cards (immediate buddies at dinner).
- Small clothesline + pegs (for laundry day).
What NOT to Carry
- Denims (heavy + gradual to dry = distress).
- Too many books (you received’t learn them).
- A full-size towel (it’ll odor like a swamp).
- Your total make-up assortment (no person cares, promise).
Ultimate Tip: Your pack ought to weigh not more than 10% of your physique weight. If it’s heavier, you’re overpacking.
Camino de Santiago Minimalist Packing: Why Much less is Extra
Let’s be actual: on the subject of packing for Camino de Santiago, the thought of “much less is extra” isn’t only a cute Pinterest slogan it’s survival.
I realized this the onerous means, standing over my mattress, surrounded by piles of garments, making an attempt to persuade myself that three t-shirts was someway “minimalist.”
Spoiler: I left one behind after twenty minutes of agonizing. And actually? I didn’t miss it as soon as.
Right here’s the factor about minimalist journey clothes necessities: you’re going to put on the identical stuff time and again. I absolutely embraced being the ‘outfit-repeater of the yr.’
At first, it felt bizarre, however by day 4, it was simply life. The true key’s selecting items that work onerous for you light-weight, quick-dry, and, above all, comfy. This and timing you Camino could make the entire expertise!
Moisture-Wicking Wool Socks: The Unsung Heroes
If you happen to take away nothing else, keep in mind this: good socks are the whole lot. I’m not speaking about your common cotton pair. I imply these particular, moisture-wicking wool socks designed for lengthy distances.
As I stated (and can hold saying): “Crucial issues for certain would be the socks. Like I discussed earlier, you want to get their particular form of, like, weak socks.”
These socks are comprised of a magical wool that absorbs moisture, retains your toes dry, and helps forestall blisters.
Analysis exhibits that finest moisture-wicking socks are vital for consolation and hygiene, particularly if you’re strolling all day, daily.
I introduced two pairs, rotated them, and by no means regarded again. My toes have been pleased, and actually, that made the whole lot else simpler.
Fast-Dry Pants for Journey: Genius in Disguise
Let’s speak pants. I packed one pair of quick-dry pants for journey that convert into shorts. At first, I felt somewhat dorky zipping the legs on and off, however by day 4, I felt like a genius.
These pants dried very quickly (even after shock rain), and the convertible characteristic was a lifesaver when the climate flipped between chilly mornings and blazing afternoons.
Research point out that light-weight journey clothes choices like these are good for summer season circumstances and unpredictable climates.
Shirts and Shorts: The Minimalist Wardrobe
My “wardrobe” for the Camino was laughably small: two fast-drying t-shirts, one or two pairs of shorts, and that’s about it. I selected shirts comprised of light-weight, quick-dry materials good for decent days and straightforward to scrub in a sink at evening.
I’d put on one, wash one, repeat. Certain, I received uninterested in seeing myself in the identical outfit in each photograph, however the freedom of not lugging round further weight was price it.
- 1-2 pairs of shorts
- 2 t-shirts (fast-drying, light-weight)
- Pants that convert to shorts
- Particular wool socks (moisture-wicking)
That’s it. No “simply in case” extras. No third t-shirt. No heavy denims. I saved my record as tiny as doable, and it paid off each single day.
Journey-Pleasant Underwear: Don’t Overlook It
One other factor I didn’t understand till I began researching: travel-friendly underwear is a game-changer. I picked up a few pairs comprised of quick-dry, breathable cloth.
They didn’t chafe, dried tremendous quick, and actually, I might have gotten away with simply two pairs.
While you’re strolling all day, daily, consolation issues greater than selection.
Minimalist Packing: The Actual Takeaway
There’s a sure freedom in having much less. My pack was lighter, my selections have been simpler, and laundry was a breeze.
Analysis backs this up minimalist journey clothes necessities, particularly these comprised of light-weight, quick-dry, and moisture-wicking materials, are the approach to go for long-distance walks just like the Camino.
If you happen to’re questioning what to pack for Camino de Santiago, begin with the naked minimal. You’ll be stunned how little you really need and the way a lot you recognize each single merchandise you carry.
Bizarre Should-Haves: The Stuff I By no means Anticipated to Want
Let’s be actual if you begin planning for the Camino de Santiago, you count on to pack the fundamentals: good footwear, a rain jacket, perhaps a hat.
However the important gadgets for Camino de Santiago aren’t all the time what you’d suppose. A few of my most necessary issues have been those I virtually didn’t carry.
Right here’s my sincere record of bizarre must-haves that absolutely saved my sanity (and my toes, and my sleep, and my dignity).
Tiny Pillow: As a result of Apparently, I’m a Sleep Diva
I’ll admit it: I’m choosy about my sleep. There’s one thing a few pillow that simply makes the whole lot higher, even if you’re in a loud hostel or a creaky albergue.
I keep in mind saying,
“I’d take somewhat small pillow as a result of I do wish to sleep with my pillows.”
And actually? Finest resolution ever. Certain, it’s somewhat further weight, however after a day of strolling 20+ kilometers, having the ability to crash with a well-known little bit of consolation is price each gram.
Analysis exhibits that comfy journey sleep necessities like a small pillow could make an enormous distinction in your relaxation high quality.
If you happen to’re somebody who tosses and turns or simply can’t get comfortable on these flat hostel pillows, don’t skip this. You’ll thank your self later.
Hydration ‘Camel’: By no means Thirsty, By no means Sorry
I used to suppose water bottles have been wonderful. However after studying a bunch of packing lists and speaking to different pilgrims, I caved and acquired a Camelbak hydration system for my backpack.
Recreation changer.
Severely, hydration options for vacationers on the Camino, Camelbak model, are the way in which to go. You simply sip as you stroll, no stopping, no fumbling.
It’s the distinction between feeling sluggish and staying energized, particularly on these lengthy, scorching stretches with no shade in sight.
Research point out that staying hydrated is likely one of the must-have gadgets for Camino de Santiago. The Camelbak made it really easy to drink constantly, and I by no means needed to fear about working out or rationing.
Plus, it’s means much less annoying than digging round for a bottle each twenty minutes.
Dietary supplements and Collagen: My Knees Are Not 20 Anymore
Let’s speak about one thing no person warns you about: your joints. I’m not historic, however I’m undoubtedly not a teen, and after a couple of days on the path, my knees began sending me indignant texts.
That’s after I was actually glad I’d packed some collagen dietary supplements and some different nutritional vitamins. I do know, it sounds somewhat further, however belief me strolling for hours daily is brutal in your physique.
Analysis backs this up: dietary supplements like collagen may help with joint well being, particularly on lengthy walks. If you happen to’re anxious about your knees hating you eternally, toss a small bottle in your bag.
It doesn’t take up a lot house, and it would simply save your Camino.
Flip Flops: The Unsung Heroes of Shared Showers
Okay, let’s get gross for a second. Shared showers on the Camino are…effectively, they’re shared. I don’t care how clear you suppose you’re by no means, ever belief a communal lavatory.
Flip flops for shared showers journey are non-negotiable. I introduced an affordable pair and wore them each time I showered, no exceptions.
Not solely do they hold your toes secure from no matter’s lurking on these flooring (fungus, micro organism, who is aware of what else), however they’re additionally nice for letting your toes breathe after an extended day in boots.
Severely, don’t skip this. Your toes will thanks, and also you’ll keep away from bringing dwelling any undesirable souvenirs.
- Small pillow for sleep consolation definitely worth the house.
- Camelbak hydration system hydration on the go, no trouble.
- Collagen dietary supplements for pleased joints and fewer remorse.
- Flip flops for surviving shared showers and retaining your toes wholesome.
So yeah, these are the bizarre must-haves I by no means anticipated to want, however now I wouldn’t do the Camino with out them.
Typically the little issues find yourself being essentially the most important gadgets for Camino de Santiago and actually, somewhat consolation goes a good distance if you’re removed from dwelling.
The Not-So-Glam Facet: Tech, Cash Belts, and Odd Toiletries
Let’s be actual for a second packing for the Camino de Santiago isn’t all about these Instagrammable moments along with your completely rolled socks and color-coordinated packing cubes.
There’s a not-so-glam facet to the Camino de Santiago gear record, and belief me, it’s the place issues get somewhat bizarre, somewhat heavy, and generally, somewhat sticky (thanks, Vaseline).
That is the half the place practicality trumps model, and the place each gram in your pack abruptly appears like a private betrayal.
1. The Tech Dilemma: Bringing an iPad
First up, tech. I introduced my iPad. Not the mini, not the featherweight model nope, the large one. I wanted it for work, and actually, I agonized over this resolution for weeks.
Did I actually need to hold this a lot further weight? However if you’re making an attempt to squeeze in some freelance work or journal your journey with out squinting at a telephone display, the iPad turns into a mandatory evil.
Certain, it’s heavier than it appears, and I felt each ounce of it on these lengthy days, however in the long run, I couldn’t have performed with out it.
If you happen to’re contemplating iPad journey equipment and carriers, go for the lightest, slimmest choice you’ll find your again will thanks later.
2. Journey Safety: The Cash Belt Debate
Now, let’s speak about safety. I do know, cash belts aren’t precisely the peak of trend. However after studying means too many horror tales about misplaced passports and pickpockets, I caved and acquired one. As I stated to myself (and anybody who’d hear):
“I additionally purchased a cash belt the place I’m gonna be retaining, like, my essential paperwork on me in any respect time as effectively, and that’s one thing that’s actually necessary to have.”
And actually? It was.
The peace of thoughts alone made it definitely worth the gentle paranoia and the awkward bulge below my shirt. Analysis exhibits that journey safety gadgets like cash belts are important for safeguarding valuables, particularly on routes as busy because the Camino.
I saved my passport, bank cards, and a bit of money in there, and didn’t need to stress about my stuff each time I left my backpack in a hostel.
If you happen to’re constructing your personal Camino de Santiago gear record, don’t skip the cash belt. It’s not glamorous, but it surely’s a should.
3. Toiletries: Minimalist however Strategic
Then there’s the toiletries state of affairs. I went full minimalist right here, however with a twist. As an alternative of lugging round leaky bottles, I packed a stable shampoo bar (extremely suggest for spill discount and weight financial savings) and a tiny tub of Vaseline.
Why Vaseline? Since you by no means know if you’ll get a blister, chafing, or some random pores and skin emergency. It’s the last word fix-all.
My journey toiletries must-haves additionally included a travel-sized toothpaste, sunscreen, and somewhat first-aid equipment.
Research point out that travel-sized containers of shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and sunscreen are the way in which to go something greater simply weighs you down and takes up treasured house.
4. Light-weight Towels & Sheets: A Recreation-Changer
Oh, and let’s not neglect the light-weight towels and sheets for journey. If you happen to’ve ever tried to dry a full-size towel in a moist hostel lavatory, you’ll know why I went for the quick-dry, ultra-light variations.
They pack right down to nothing, dry in a flash, and don’t find yourself smelling like a swamp after a few days.
Analysis backs this up: light-weight towels and sheets are really helpful for straightforward packing and fast drying, particularly on lengthy treks just like the Camino.
What I Packed vs. What I Really Used
| Merchandise | What I Packed | What I Really Used | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clothes | 3 t-shirts | 2 quick-dry t-shirts | Used much less—left one behind. |
| Pants | 2 convertible quick-dry pair | Similar (lifesaver!) | Important—dried quick, versatile. |
| Socks | 2 pairs moisture-wicking wool socks | Similar (rotated every day) | Crucial—saved my toes. |
| Underwear | 6 pairs | 4 quick-dry pairs | May’ve packed much less. |
| Footwear | Climbing boots + sneakers | Solely mountain climbing boots | Remorse: Sneakers unused. |
| Sleep Gear | None | Small journey pillow | Sudden MVP for hostel sleep. |
| Hydration | Water bottle | Camelbak hydration system | Recreation-changer—hands-free ingesting. |
| Tech | iPad (full-size) | Similar (heavy however mandatory) | Love-hate: Helpful however heavy. |
| Toiletries | Full-sized merchandise | Stable shampoo bar, Vaseline, mini sunscreen | Minimalist win. |
| Foot Care | Fundamental bandaids | Vaseline + blister pads | Want I’d packed extra foot care! |
| Footwear Extras | None | Flip-flops for showers | Non-negotiable for hygiene. |
| Safety | None | Cash belt for paperwork | Peace of thoughts |
📖 Advisable Studying: If you happen to’re in search of extra helpful info, try:
Ultimate Ideas: Pack Good, Not Good
I’d be mendacity if I stated I didn’t sweat over each single merchandise. Each gram counts if you’re carrying your life in your again.
There have been moments after I regretted bringing the iPad (normally on steep hills), and occasions after I wished I’d packed even much less.
However there have been additionally moments after I was grateful for each “odd” factor I’d squeezed in like flip flops for these questionable communal showers, or that tiny tube of Vaseline when my heels began to insurgent.
So, in the event you’re prepping your personal Camino de Santiago gear record, my recommendation is that this: embrace the not-so-glam facet. Carry what you want, even when it’s not fairly or gentle.
Prioritize journey safety gadgets like a cash belt, go for light-weight towels and sheets, and don’t underestimate the facility of journey toiletries must-haves.
The Camino isn’t about perfection it’s about being ready, staying comfy, and rolling with no matter comes your means. And generally, which means carrying a giant iPad and a secret stash of Vaseline. No disgrace.
TL;DR
Packing for long-distance walks just like the Camino de Santiago? Prioritize the necessities, hold it minimal, and don’t underestimate the worth of excellent socks. Right here’s what truly made the reduce and what I’d change subsequent time.