Introduction

Packing your backpack properly is one of the most important decisions before walking the Camino de Santiago. Carrying too much weight can lead to injuries and unnecessary fatigue, while forgetting the essentials can also complicate the experience. In this guide you will find a practical and realistic list of what you really need to take on the Camino, based on the experience of thousands of pilgrims and adapted to different times of the year.

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Quick checklist of essentials

To walk the Camino de Santiago you only need: a comfortable backpack, suitable footwear, two changes of technical clothing, a rain jacket, basic toiletries, a simple first aid kit, the pilgrim credential, and your mobile phone with charger. Everything else is optional or can be bought along the way.

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Essential documents

Before you set off, make sure you bring:

• Pilgrim credential (essential for hostels and for receiving the Compostela).

• ID card or passport.

• Health card or travel insurance if you come from abroad.

• Some cash, although nowadays almost everything can be paid by card.

Always keep your documents in a waterproof bag inside your backpack.

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Recommended clothing for the Camino

The key is not to pack a lot of clothes, but the right ones.

Basics

• 2 technical T-shirts

• 2 pairs of trekking socks

• 1 lightweight long pair of trousers

• 1 pair of shorts

• 1 fleece or thermal layer

• 1 rain jacket or poncho

With this you can wash every day and rotate clothes without any problem.

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Footwear: the most important decision

Good footwear makes the difference between enjoying the Camino or suffering through it.

• Trekking shoes or lightweight hiking boots that are already broken in

• Sandals to relax after each stage

• Flip-flops for showers

Never start the Camino with brand new shoes. Use them for at least 2–3 weeks beforehand.

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Hygiene and basic first aid kit

Take only what is essential:

Toiletry kit

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Travel-size shampoo and shower gel

• Sunscreen

• Moisturising cream

First aid kit

• Plasters and blister pads

• Disinfected needle or pin

• Ibuprofen or paracetamol

• Vaseline or anti-chafing cream

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Useful technology on the Camino

You don’t need much, just the basics:

• Mobile phone with offline maps

• Charger

• Power bank

• Headphones (optional)

Nowadays you can find power sockets in most accommodations along the Camino.

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What NOT to take on the Camino de Santiago

Knowing what to leave at home is just as important as knowing what to pack.

Avoid:

• “Just in case” clothes

• Heavy books

• Hair dryers

• More than one extra pair of trousers

• Unnecessary valuables

Golden rule:

If you are unsure whether to take something, you probably don’t need it.

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Frequently asked questions

How much should a backpack weigh for the Camino de Santiago?

Ideally, your backpack should not exceed 10% of your body weight. For most pilgrims this means between 6 and 8 kilos, including water. The lighter your pack, the lower the risk of injury and the greater your daily enjoyment.

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Do I need to carry a sleeping bag?

It depends on the time of year and the type of accommodation. In summer, a sleeping bag liner is usually enough, but in spring or autumn many pilgrims prefer to carry a lightweight sleeping bag for extra comfort and hygiene.

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What clothes should I take for the Camino in spring?

In spring, the best option is to dress in layers: a technical T-shirt, a light fleece, and a waterproof jacket. Mornings can be cold and afternoons warm, so versatility is key to adapting to changing temperatures.

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Can I buy what I need along the Camino?

Yes. Along the Camino you will find shops, pharmacies, and supermarkets in almost every stage. There is no need to start with everything from home; many things can be bought on the way if you need them.