If there’s one mistake that the majority of first-time Camino de Santiago pilgrims make, it's packing too much. If you’re going to carry your belongings with you, the backpack should be as light as possible, meaning the packing list should be essentials only.
What earns a place in your backpack
Footwear
First and foremost, your footwear. While some people like to also bring some lightweight flip flops, you only really need one pair of shoes, which should be your trusty boots that you’ve broken in at least a few weeks before your trip (this helps avoid blisters, ask me how I know). To pair with your boots, invest in some proper walking socks, ideally made from merino wool or a similar moisture-wicking material. Three or four pairs is enough, as you can simply wash them up as you go.
Clothing and accessories
The same goes for your clothing! Opt for breathable, quick-drying options. You don’t need to bring too many options: 2 pairs of lightweight walking trousers or shorts (depending on the weather), 3 short or long-sleeve tops, 3-4 pairs of underwear, 1 waterproof outer layer, 1 jumper or fleece, 1 sun hat / cap, a pair of sunglasses, and some light pajamas. Many pilgrims also bring a casual outfit to wear in the evening or on a day off, such as a dress or a nicer shirt.
Toiletries
When it comes to toiletries, keep it to the absolute essentials. Include your toothbrush, small toothpaste, a small deodorant, sunscreen, moisturizer, mini hairbrush, lip balm, and multi-use bar soap (although this is usually not needed if you’re staying in hotel rooms). You may also bring a couple of make up products, but avoid anything too big or heavy (ideally travel-sized minis and plastic containers over glass containers – it’s all about the weight).
Small first-aid kit
The one necessity that many pilgrims forget is a small first-aid kit. The kit should have all of your everyday pills as well as painkillers and allergy medicine, plasters and blister treatment products, antiseptic wipes, dressing pads and tapes, moleskin padding, and a small pair of scissors and tweezers.
Packing changes depending on your route and season
How much you actually need will depend on which route you're walking. If you’re doing the Camino Frances from Sarria, you’ll only need to pack for about a week away. Meanwhile, someone doing the full route from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port will have to think a month ahead and may want to include additional items, like a shaver or a book. More remote routes will also have stretches with limited shops and services, so your food and water supplies need to be more thoughtful, too.
The time of year will also change your packing. A summer walk along the Camino de Santiago will be all about breathable clothing and sun protection, whereas a winter one will require warmer and waterproof layers. Keep in mind, however, that weather can be unpredictable on the trail, and even warmer seasons can bring wind and rain unexpectedly.
Why more pilgrims are using luggage transfers
The general rule of thumb that most pilgrims follow is to keep the whole pack under roughly 10% of your own body weight, which for most people on average lands somewhere between 7 and 12 kg, fully loaded. Remember, this includes any water and snacks you will be carrying each day.
So, although that’s definitely manageable, an increasing number of walkers are opting for the more convenient option - luggage transfer services that move your pack from one hotel to the next each morning. You may ask your Camino de Santiago agency to organize this for you with reputable local operators. With this, the packing list remains very similar, but you have much more wiggle room for non-essential items.
Getting it right
Packing just the right amount of stuff is tricky, but getting it right will make your Camino experience that much more enjoyable. One final tip? Don’t leave it to the last minute!
Buen Camino!