Camino De Santiago Packing List

🥇 1. Standard Pilgrim Using Accommodations (Albergues/Hostels)

This is the most common way people walk the Camino—sleeping in albergues or small inns along the route. Most pilgrims follow the Camino Francés or Camino Portugués, and many even use bag transfer services (like Correos or Pilbeo), which makes traveling ultra-light even easier.

🎒 Backpack Size:

• 30–40L pack (ideally under 7kg/15lbs when full)

✅ Essential Gear List:

Clothing:

• 2 moisture-wicking t-shirts

• 2 pairs of lightweight walking pants or shorts

• 1 lightweight fleece or merino wool jumper

• 2–3 pairs of moisture-wicking socks

• 2–3 pairs of underwear

• 1 long-sleeve shirt for layering

• 1 lightweight waterproof rain jacket (or poncho)

• Sleepwear or comfy clothes for evenings

• 1 set of clothes/shoes for after walking (flip flops or lightweight sandals)

Footwear:

• Well-broken-in trail runners or lightweight hiking shoes

• Optional: sandals or Crocs for showers and after walking

Accessories:

• Sun hat or cap

• Sunglasses

• Lightweight scarf or buff

• Walking poles (optional but helpful)

• Lightweight daypack or foldable tote (for valuables if using bag transfers)

Toiletries (travel-sized):

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant

• Quick-dry towel

• Shampoo/soap

• Sunscreen (high SPF)

• Lip balm with SPF

• Basic first aid kit (blister care is essential!)

• Earplugs and sleep mask (trust me, albergues can be noisy)

Other Must-Haves:

• Refillable water bottle (or hydration bladder)

• Passport + Pilgrim Credential

• Guidebook or Camino app

• Small flashlight or headlamp

• Clothesline and travel detergent for laundry

• Universal adapter (for charging devices)

Optional Luxuries:

• Lightweight Kindle or book

• Journal and pen

• Compact power bank

• Lightweight travel pillow

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🥈 2. Long-Distance Trekker (Self-Sufficient, Long Routes)

If you're tackling more isolated routes like the Camino Primitivo or Via de la Plata, or planning 30+ km days, you’ll need a few extras for comfort and safety.

🎒 Backpack Size:

• 40–50L (aim to keep it under 10kg/22lbs)

🧭 Additional Gear to Bring:

• Extra pair of socks and underwear

• Extra t-shirt (especially if washing less frequently)

• Power bank with solar panel (some stretches have limited outlets)

• Lightweight thermal layer for colder mornings

• Small first aid kit with compression bandages and electrolytes

• Lightweight emergency bivy sack or space blanket (especially in remote areas)

Still sleeping in albergues? Awesome. But with longer distances, you’ll appreciate gear that prioritizes comfort and recovery, like compression socks, lightweight foam roller balls, or extra snacks.

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🥉 3. No Accommodation (Camping All the Way)

Going fully off-grid? Brave choice! This is for pilgrims who plan to wild camp or use official campsites along the route. It's the most gear-heavy setup.

🎒 Backpack Size:

• 55–65L (Expect ~12–14kg or 26–30lbs fully packed)

🏕️ Extra Gear You’ll Need:

Camping Gear:

• Lightweight tent or bivy

• Sleeping bag (3-season if going spring or autumn)

• Sleeping pad (inflatable or foam)

• Camping stove + fuel (check local restrictions)

• Lightweight cookware (pot, spork, mug)

• Lightweight food stash (pasta, oats, nuts, etc.)

• Collapsible bowl and cup

• Reusable shopping bag for groceries

Water & Hygiene:

• Water filtration system or tablets

• Biodegradable soap

• Small trowel (for toilet purposes in nature)

• Wet wipes or baby wipes

• Rubbish bags (pack it in, pack it out!)

Navigation & Safety:

• Detailed map or offline GPS app

• Compass (if you're old-school)

• Emergency whistle

• Headlamp with extra batteries

Camping does limit your albergue options—some won’t let campers use showers or bathrooms—so pack accordingly. Also, wild camping is illegal in some parts of Spain, so check your route’s regulations!

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💡 General Tips for All Pilgrims

• Pack light. Seriously, aim for no more than 10% of your body weight.

• Test everything before you go. Walk with your full pack on short hikes to spot potential problems.

• Break in your shoes—never bring new shoes on the Camino!

• Layer wisely. Weather can change fast, even in summer.

• Leave space in your pack. You’ll likely pick up small items or food along the way.

• Pack your sense of humor. You'll need it more than that extra gadget.

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🔁 Packing List Summary