The Camino de Santiago is not just a walk – it’s a journey that tests you, opens you up, and changes you.
Every day brings new faces, new villages, new questions… and simple answers we often find – in silence, in the rhythm of our steps, within ourselves.
If you’re planning your first Camino, you probably have many questions. What should I pack? How much do I really need? Should I book in advance? What about water, medicine, shoes?
This guide isn’t perfect, but it’s honest. It’s written from personal experience – from trial and error, and most importantly, from what actually proved useful.
The goal is not to overwhelm you with advice, but to help you carry less – and experience more.
As you’ll soon discover, on the Camino, every gram matters… but so does every smile.
Below you’ll find a short overview, and then – part by part – everything I’ve learned and tested over the years.
I hope it helps you start your journey with more confidence, calm, and space – not just in your backpack, but in your mind too.
CAMINO GUIDE: WHAT TO PACK AND HOW TO PREPARE – PERSONAL TIPS FROM EXPERIENCE
Practical advice for future pilgrims, written from personal experience, to help make your Camino more comfortable, lighter – and more fulfilling.
No clutter, no overthinking – just what truly matters.
Clothing and Footwear – The Most Common Question (with a Very Simple Answer)
One of the first questions future pilgrims ask is: “What should I wear, and what kind of shoes should I bring?”
You’ll find hundreds of tips, debates, and packing lists online – but our philosophy is simple:
In most cases, you already have everything you need.
When it comes to footwear, one thing matters above all – don’t bring anything new!
The Camino is not the time to try out brand-new shoes. Wear the ones you’ve already walked at least 50 kilometers in – and not just around the block, but on longer, multi-hour walks.
If your shoes weren’t comfortable after 15 km, they won’t magically become better after 300.
Remember: the shoe must fit your foot – not the other way around. If you forget this, you’ll quickly become familiar with… blisters.
Besides your main shoes, always bring a second pair for rest time – light sandals, flip-flops, or something similar.
They’re essential in albergues (where you’re not allowed to enter wearing trail shoes) and also perfect for walking around town after your daily hike.
Your feet will appreciate the change, and you’ll enjoy the feeling of lightness.
Personally, I always carry hiking sandals – they’re ideal for afternoon city strolls, and they let your feet “breathe” after long hours of walking.
Clothing – Less Is More (and You Probably Already Have It)
Just like with shoes, the same advice applies: don’t buy new gear unless you really have to.
Everything you plan to wear on the Camino – start wearing it now. Test it, wash it, wear it in the rain, sweat, and wind. That’s how you’ll truly know what works for you.
Choose your clothes based on the time of year – spring, summer, and early autumn call for lighter layers, while in late autumn and winter you may need some extra warmth.
Regardless of the season, the Camino’s weather can be unpredictable – mornings can be cool, and evenings can suddenly turn cold.
So it’s always smart to have a warm top or a light jacket, even in summer.
Our recommendation:
Bring two full sets of clothes – one you wear, and one in your backpack.
A third? Most people pack it “just in case,” but it’s really not necessary. Extra clothes just mean extra weight.
The Camino is not the middle of nowhere – almost every day you’ll find a place to wash and dry your clothes, either by hand or in a machine.
And if something’s still damp – sun and wind will do their job while you walk.
The same goes for underwear: two pairs are enough. Wash them daily and forget about the “just in case” pile.
Your back will thank you.
When packing, think functionality, lightweight fabrics, and quick drying.
The Camino quickly teaches you: every extra gram means a little more tiredness by the end of the day.
Socks – Small but Essential
t might sound trivial, but socks are just as important as your shoes.
They are literally the second layer between your skin and the kilometers you’ll walk – and often make the difference in the battle against blisters.
As with everything else, two pairs are enough – one to wear, one to dry. Anything more is unnecessary weight.
My tips:
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Choose high-quality socks, preferably made from natural materials.
It may sound odd, but wool is great even in summer – it wicks moisture, regulates temperature, and reduces friction. -
Avoid thin, synthetic socks – after just a few hours, you’ll feel the moisture and the rubbing.
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If possible, get “2-in-1” socks – the inner layer is soft against the skin, while the outer layer is sturdier.
This design reduces friction inside the sock rather than between sock and skin – which means: no blisters.
Good socks might seem like a small detail, but after 20 kilometers in the sun, you’ll realize they were one of the best investments you made for your Camino.
Sleeping Bag – Essential, But Keep It Light
Most albergues provide pilgrims with a disposable bed sheet and pillowcase, which you throw away in the morning.
Some also offer blankets, but you can’t always rely on that – especially outside of peak season or in more basic accommodations.
So the golden rule is:
don’t start the Camino without a sleeping bag.
What to look for:
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Standard sleeping bags might seem light at first, but they often weigh around 1 kg and take up a lot of space in your backpack.
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If possible, get a lightweight and compact sleeping bag – ideally under 500–600 g.
There are many options on the market, but keep in mind: the lighter and smaller, the higher the price.
Still, over time – it’s worth it.
How warm does it need to be?
You don’t need a bag for Himalayan expeditions. For the Camino, all you need is:
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A comfort temperature rating of around +10°C
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Most albergues stay above 12–15°C, even in early spring or autumn.
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If you get cold easily – just wear a long-sleeve shirt and socks, and you’ll be fine.
Tip: Choose a sleeping bag that dries quickly, washes easily, and comes with a compression sack – it’s the best combo for pilgrims.
Backpack – Your Loyal Companion
On the Camino, your backpack is your home on your back – so it needs to be practical, comfortable, and – the smaller, the better.
Considering today’s airline baggage fees, the ideal backpack size is between 30 and 35 liters. Most models in that range are about 55 cm tall – small enough to count as carry-on luggage, saving you extra charges.
And if you pack smart, everything fits.
If you’ve followed the previous tips about clothing and footwear, you already know that two sets of clothes are enough – which means you can easily go with a smaller pack.
For years, I used a 35L frameless backpack – and it was perfect. Light, simple, but it required careful packing to fit comfortably against my back.
This year I’m switching to a framed model, since my old one finally reached its last 1000 km. Just keep in mind that a frame usually adds 800g to 1kg.
And when you start counting every gram (and you will on the Camino), that’s not negligible.
Pro tip: bring at least one spare buckle clip (plastic strap fastener). They tend to snap when you least expect it, and finding a replacement in the middle of Spain isn’t always easy.
Most modern backpacks also have a compartment for a hydration system (water bladder) – very handy, especially on stages where refilling bottles isn’t frequent.
And finally, remember:
your backpack doesn’t need to be the biggest – just the smartest-packed.
The less you carry, the lighter you walk, and the more you enjoy.
Trekking Poles – Your Third and Fourth Legs on the Way
At first glance, trekking poles might seem like a fashion accessory – but anyone who’s walked the Camino knows:
they’re not a luxury – they’re a necessity.
A good pair of poles takes hundreds of kilos of strain off your back and knees over the course of a day. Even more importantly – they double your stability.
Instead of two, you now have four points of contact – and you’ll notice the difference on your very first climbs and descents over rocky terrain.
I personally use lightweight aluminum poles – they’re more durable than carbon and have proven to be reliable.
Since you can’t bring them into the airplane cabin, I usually send them ahead by mail to the albergue or hostel where I’ve booked my first night.
I always plan to spend one acclimatization day in town before I start walking – so the poles are already waiting for me.
I usually include a small folding knife in the package too – perfect for cutting an apple, bread, or whatever you find along the way.
You can buy poles at the start of the route (e.g. in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port), but the selection is often limited, and prices are usually higher than at home. That’s why I recommend buying them in advance and getting used to them during practice walks.
A few useful tips for using poles:
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The wrist strap is not decoration: slip your hand upward through the loop and then grip the handle – this allows the strap to take the pressure instead of your grip.
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The top of the pole helps during descents – lean on it gently, but avoid sharp pressure.
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Handles made of cork or special foam are much more comfortable – you’ll be holding them for hours, and sweaty plastic can quickly become a problem.
If you’ve never used trekking poles before, try them on a few long walks before your trip –
on the Camino, they’ll become an essential part of every step.
A Pharmacy on Your Back – Only What You Truly Need
On the Camino, you’ll see pilgrims carrying a mini-pharmacy – creams, pills, sprays – as if they’re planning to open a field clinic.
But the truth is simple: you won’t use most of it, and whatever you actually need can be bought along the way.
My advice:
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Bring one tested painkiller, like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
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If you wish, add a broad-spectrum antibiotic, but only after consulting your doctor.
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If you take daily medication, of course, bring what you need.
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Personally, I always carry activated charcoal – my stomach can be a bit “delicate”, so it’s a precaution I recommend if you have similar issues.
Everything else – blister plasters, anti-chafing cream, antiseptic – is available in almost every town along the route.
There’s no need to carry a 30-day supply.
Water – It Flows Almost Everywhere
On the Camino, there’s no need to panic about water.
Almost every village has a public fountain, and in most cases the water is drinkable and safe.
Sometimes, albergue staff will even recommend that you fill up from the outdoor tap, because it’s better than the kitchen faucet – and they’re not joking.
Of course, you can buy bottled water in shops, but over time that’s unnecessary – financially and environmentally.
How much water do you need?
As a rough estimate:
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0.5 liters per hour of walking (depending on temperature, backpack weight, and pace)
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For a typical stage of 20–25 km, that means at least 1.5 to 2.5 liters per day
In summer or on routes with fewer water points – plan for more.
My system:
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One 2L hydration bladder – in the backpack, with a tube for easy access
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One 500 ml bottle – filled with water and electrolytes (powder or tablets).
A great option on hot days, when you lose more salt or feel tired.
Tip: Drink regularly, don’t wait to feel thirsty.
On the Camino, it’s better to sip every hour than try to chug a liter later.
Your body likes balance – just like your steps on the Way.
Hygiene – Simple and Functional
As with everything on the Camino, less is more when it comes to hygiene too.
There’s no need to carry a full bag of toiletries – just a few practical, lightweight items to cover the essentials.
Here’s what proved most useful:
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2-in-1 soap – a small bottle of liquid soap for both body and clothes.
A 100 ml travel-size bottle is more than enough (and airplane-friendly). -
Microfiber travel towel – quick-drying, lightweight, and compact.
Medium size is perfectly adequate. -
Wipes (wet and dry) – useful for freshening up when there’s no shower, or for trail emergencies.
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Mini hand sanitizer – a small gel or spray (30–50 ml), always within reach.
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Toothbrush and toothpaste – travel-sized.
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Nail clipper, tweezers, small scissors – for blisters, splinters, or other surprises.
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A small amount of toilet paper or tissues – practical for early-morning nature breaks.
All of this fits into a small toiletry bag weighing no more than 300–400 grams.
Avoid packing makeup, nail polish, full-size shampoo bottles, or a ten-pack of razors…
The Camino teaches you that cleanliness is about function, not luxury.
Electronics – What You Really Need on the Camino
On the Camino, technology is a tool, not the purpose.
Everything you truly need fits in two pockets – so staying minimalist is wise: the less you carry, the longer your battery lasts, and the less you have to worry about.
Here’s the gear that proved most useful:
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Smartphone – not just for communication, but also as your camera, map, guidebook, and notebook.
Bring a durable case, and if possible, a waterproof pouch or bag for rainy days. -
Charger and cable – a standard set, ideally with a longer cable (sometimes the outlet is far from your bed).
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Power bank (10,000 mAh or more) – a lifesaver when outlets are scarce, especially in the first few days when you’re taking more photos and using GPS.
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Plug adapter – if you’re not from the EU, or walking with someone who isn’t.
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Small flashlight or headlamp – useful for early starts or quiet evenings in the albergue (and better than using your phone’s flashlight).
Avoid bringing laptops, tablets, or extra gadgets – the Camino is not a digital adventure, but a physical and spiritual one.
If you want to document your journey, consider writing by hand in a small notebook – it’s lighter, more personal, and doesn’t need charging.
Documents and Money – Simple, Safe, and Accessible
You don’t need many documents on the Camino, but what you do carry should be securely stored and easy to access.
The best option is to keep everything important in a waterproof pouch or zipped case, always close to you – not buried at the bottom of your backpack.
What to bring:
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ID or passport – depending on your country of origin.
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Pilgrim passport (credencial del peregrino) – the document that proves you’re a pilgrim.
You collect stamps (sellos) in it, and at the end of your walk, it lets you receive the Compostela.
It can be obtained from associations, churches, or at the start of the route. -
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance.
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Money:
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Cash (EUR) – many albergues, small shops, and bars don’t accept cards.
Carry enough cash for 3–5 days. -
Card (Visa/Mastercard) – useful in cities, ATMs, or for online bookings.
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How to carry it:
I personally use a small aluminum case to store my card and about €100 in cash, kept in a hidden pocket in my trousers.
For payments, I use Google Pay on my phone whenever possible – it’s faster, safer, and I don’t have to pull out my wallet.
Extra tips:
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Keep money and cards in two separate places – one on your body, the other hidden in your backpack.
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Consider using a money belt or a discreet body pouch.
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Photograph all important documents and cards and email them to yourself or save them to the cloud –
in case of loss, this can make replacement much easier.
Sleeping and Reservations – When Should You Book (and When Not)?
One of the most common questions future pilgrims ask is:
“Do I need to book accommodation in advance?”
The answer depends on when, where, and how you walk – but in most cases, you don’t need to book anything ahead.
How does it work on the Camino?
The Camino de Santiago has a well-developed network of accommodation – from basic municipal albergues to private hostels, guesthouses, and hotels.
Most pilgrims stay in albergues – affordable, simple places, often meant exclusively for pilgrims.
In many albergues, the rule is: first come, first served. There are no reservations.
Doors usually open around 1–2 PM, and whoever arrives then, signs in and gets a bed.
When does it make sense to book in advance?
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For the first night – I personally always book my first night.
The trekking poles I send by mail are already waiting at reception (I ship them at least 10 days earlier).
Also, I often arrive in the city late in the day due to travel, and it’s not ideal to start walking immediately.Instead, I prefer to sleep and start fresh the next morning – when beds are easier to find in the next stage.
If you start walking late in the afternoon, you might see the dreaded sign: completo (full). -
In peak season (July–August) – if you’re walking then and have set stages, it can be helpful to book private places 1–2 days ahead.
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If you arrive late in the day, or have specific needs (e.g. lower bunk, quieter room, private space).
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In larger cities (Pamplona, Logroño, León, Santiago…) – if you want a better location or more privacy.
Mailing Gear and Camino Logistics
If you’re flying, you know the problem – trekking poles and pocket knives aren’t allowed in carry-on luggage.
My tried-and-tested solution: I send them ahead by mail to the place where I’ll spend my first night.
How I do it:
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When I book accommodation, I contact the hosts and ask if they can receive a parcel.
So far, no one has ever said no. -
I write my full name clearly on the package, along with the hostel’s address, so they know who it’s for.
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I use standard postal service – it usually takes just 3–4 days, and I always plan to spend one extra day in the citybefore starting the walk.
Boxes and packaging:
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In Spain, Correos (the post office) sells ready-to-use cardboard boxes, 60 cm long – perfect for trekking poles.
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Pro tip: In Santiago, avoid the main post office – the line there can take over an hour!
Instead, look for a small branch (there’s one just 50 meters before the credencial office) – it’s usually empty and much faster.
Bonus tip:
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I also include a small folding knife in the package – since it’s not allowed on flights.
This way, everything’s waiting for me, ready for Day 1 – no airport stress.
Extra advice:
If you have extra gear you don’t want to carry, Correos offers a service to send parcels to Santiago – they’ll hold your items until you arrive.
Ideal if your backpack is too heavy, or you have something you only need at the end.
Backpack Transport Between Stages – A Great Option When You Need Relief
Although most of the time we walk the Camino with a backpack on our shoulders, there are days when your back hurts, blisters appear, or you simply need a break – without quitting the walk.
In such moments, backpack transport between stages is a simple, affordable, and well-established service all along the Camino.
How does it work?
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Every albergue (or hotel/hostel) has ready-to-use envelopes for backpack transport services.
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On the envelope, you fill in:
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your name
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the name of the accommodation where you’ll be staying the next day
(if you’re not sure yet, just write a popular albergue in the next town – the bag will wait for you there)
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Insert the agreed amount (usually €5 to €7, depending on distance and provider) into the envelope.
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Attach the envelope to your backpack with the provided tie.
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Leave your backpack in the designated pickup area (usually the hallway) by 8:00 AM.
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When you arrive at your next destination – your backpack is already waiting for you.
When to use this service:
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If you’re having issues with knees, back, or blisters
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If you want to walk light for a day or two with just the essentials
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If you’re tired and want to enjoy the scenery without the weight
Reminder:
There’s no shame in using this service. The Camino isn’t a competition in carrying weight – it’s a journey meant to be sustainable and personal.
What matters is that you keep walking – and if a day without your backpack helps you do that, then it’s the right choice.
And Finally – Don’t Worry, Just Walk
After reading all these tips, it’s easy to think the Camino is complicated, that you need to know a hundred things.
But the truth is the opposite – the Camino is simple.
There’s no perfect checklist or ideal preparation.
Something will always be missing, something will be extra, something will surprise you.
And that’s exactly where the real beauty of the Way begins.
This guide is here to help you take your first steps – but the Camino will teach you through walking.
Some things you’ll let go of, some you’ll keep – and the most valuable ones, you’ll carry back inside you.
So – don’t wait to be perfectly ready.
Pack the essentials, leave room for experience, and start walking.
Step by step. Day by day. No rush.
And remember: you are not alone.
On the Camino, you’ll find community, smiles, support – and the healing silence.
