Among Camino walkers, the biggest debates aren’t usually about routes or daily distances. Instead, they often center on two things: footwear and the Camino packing list. The more research you do, the more opinions you’ll encounter—and the more conflicting advice you’ll hear.
So, with some trepidation, we wade into the topic of packing. What follows is based on our own experience. As always, your Camino packing list is personal, and there is no single “right” way to pack for the Camino de Santiago.
The Weight of It All
On one point, nearly everyone who has walked a kilometer of a Camino route agrees: less is better.
Most experienced pilgrims recommend keeping your pack at 7 kilograms (about 15 pounds). This can feel impossible for those used to packing for vacation trips longer than a week. However, managing pack weight is one of the most important factors in staying comfortable and injury-free on the Camino. Each item you put in your pack adds up—especially over long days of walking day after day.
Choosing the Right Pack
Pack selection goes hand in hand with pack weight. Modern hiking packs come in an overwhelming variety of sizes, shapes, and designs. Fit can matter almost as much as it does with footwear.
Many people underestimate a pack that fits properly. A proper fit can help you avoid back and hip pain. Getting hands-on advice from an outdoor equipment supplier, trying packs on in person and learning how to adjust the straps to your body can make a significant difference in comfort.
Pack size is another key consideration. Many first-time Camino walkers start with packs in the 50–80 liter range. When you pack for the Camino de Santiago a pack of that size encourages you to bring more than you need. In our experience, a smaller pack is usually better. Less space means less temptation to carry unnecessary items. We recommend considering a pack in the 30–50 liter range.
The Camino Packing List – What to Wear
The length of your Camino may influence how much you bring, but the general rule is simple: pack clothing you can rotate, handwash, and dry overnight.
A typical packing list might include:
- 2–3 pairs of wicking socks (wool is preferable)
- 2–3 quick-dry, short-sleeve shirts
- 1 pair of hiking pants (vented or zip-off); quick-dry nylon works best
- 1 long-sleeve shirt for cooler days or evenings
- A microfleece or lightweight down vest for warmth
- A rain poncho (more on this below)
- A pair of flip-flops or other lightweight sandals for evenings to let your feet breathe
Layering is key as the weather conditions can change frequently over the course of a day of walking. Comfort in the evening post walk helps you recover and prepare for the next day.
Rain Poncho or Raincoat?
Rain protection is a necessity for your Camino packing list. While October, November, March, and April are the wettest months, rain can be a factor year-round.
The main decision is between a raincoat with a pack cover or a full rain poncho. When we pack for the Camino de Santiago we include a good-quality poncho that extends to the knees and fits over both you and your pack. For us this is a non-negotiable.
The advantage, in our experience, is coverage. Rain runs down the poncho directly to the ground, keeping your core warm and dry and the rain poncho also acts as an excellent windbreak. A raincoat may keep your upper body dry, but the water runs down onto your legs, leaving your lower half wet and cold.
Some people dislike the extra fabric and movement of a rain poncho, but for us, the “umbrella effect” it provides is invaluable.
Other Items to Consider in the Camino Packing List
What you consider essential to pack for the Camino de Santiago is personal. That said, here are a few items to consider for comfort and convenience:
- Vaseline and bandages for blisters and hot spots—essential for most walkers
- A two-prong plug adapter (France, Portugal, and Spain); some also bring a battery pack, though we’ve never needed one
- Laundry detergent sheets, which are lightweight and convenient for handwashing (note that European laundromat machines include detergent)
- Evening wear, such as jeans or a skirt
- Hiking poles or walking sticks, which many find helpful for stability and rhythm; However, we urge you to practice with them before packing them — poles are among the most commonly discarded Camino items
- A small journal, for those who like to write as part of their reflection process
- A water bottle. A water bottle is essential for your Camino packing list because you need water on the trail and using a bottle reduced plastic waste.
Bag Porting Service: Is It Cheating?
Bag porting services are popular along Camino routes, with at least one option available on most routes and the Spanish postal service offering services on the most remote routes.
Some Camino purists discourage the use of a bag porting service, arguing that they lessen the pilgrimage experience. However, your Camino is your own. If using a bag porting service allows you to walk more comfortably and enjoy the journey, then you should consider using these services.
That said, even if you use a bag service, as you pack for the Camino de Santiago your must pack light. Most bag porting services have weight and size limitations. Furthermore, living simply and carrying less remains one of the guiding principles of the Camino.
For more information and tips on walking the Camino visit our Instagram @The Caminoist.
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