Backpacking Tips and Tricks

Welcome to my full packing list of everything I brought on my Camino de Santiago journey! I walked the French Way route from León to Santiago in September of 2022. It was a journey for the mind and body. It allowed me to meet people of different cultures, explore various landscapes, and focus on my five senses for hours of the day. I hope this packing list helps you prepare for your journey. Below is a list of the items I packed for the Camino. When I embarked on my journey, my bag weighed 12.8 pounds (5.8 kg), excluding snacks and water. I’ve created YouTube videos explaining each item in-depth. I hope this information proves valuable for your pilgrimage, and I trust you’ll find it beneficial.  Now, let’s explore the items I used throughout my trip! Packing List Essentials –Osprey Sirrus 36 Backpack – The Osprey Sirrus 36 is a versatile and comfortable backpack perfect for the Camino. It offers great support and an adjustable fit, making long walks easier on your back. –S-hook Carabiners – These carabiners come in handy for attaching items to your backpack, like water bottles, headphones, or shoes, freeing up space inside your bag. –Passport Pouch – A passport pouch keeps your important travel documents safe, dry, and easily accessible. -Passport – Your passport is crucial for identification and any unexpected border crossings while backpacking multiple countries. –Pilgrim Credential – This is your official record of the journey, and it’s essential for gaining access to albergues (hostels) along the Camino. –Wallet (Credit Card, Debit Card & Euros) – A wallet with both your credit/debit card and some Euros provides financial flexibility for any expenses or emergencies you may encounter. -Guidebook by John Brierley (Paperback/Kindle) – John Brierley’s guidebook is a trusted resource for Camino walkers, offering insights into routes, accommodations, and local attractions. Technology on my Packing List -Phone – Your phone can be a lifeline, serving as a camera, navigation device, and a way to stay connected with fellow pilgrims. –SIM Card – A local SIM card helps you stay connected without exorbitant roaming fees. This will allow you to access maps, translations, and stay in touch with loved ones. –Headphones – Having headphones allows you to listen to music or podcasts without disturbing fellow pilgrims. Shoes to Bring –Women’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes – Durable and waterproof hiking shoes provide comfort and support, keeping your feet dry even in wet conditions. –Chacos – Sandals are a must for allowing your feet to breathe during rest stops and in albergues, offering relief from your hiking shoes. Using these as shower shoes is really beneficial too! Packing Accessories –Platypus 3L water bladder – Staying hydrated is vital on the Camino, and a water bladder ensures you have easy access to a good water supply. –Plastic smart water bottle – Carrying an extra water bottle provides flexibility and a backup water source, especially if you’re in areas where refilling the water bladder isn’t convenient. This is nice to have after walking all day too if you use a bladder for your pack. –Sun Bum 30 SPF chapstick – Protect your lips from sunburn and dryness with SPF chapstick. –Nuun hydration tablets – These tablets provide an easy way to replenish electrolytes and stay energized on the trail. –Emergen C – Emergen C packets can help boost your immune system and provide a refreshing drink after a long day of walking. –Goodr polarized sunglasses – Goodr sunglasses offer eye protection with style, ensuring your eyes are shielded from the sun’s glare. –American needle cap – A hat is nice to have in the sun and rain to protect your face. –Gone for a run fleece hat – A fleece hat is essential for staying warm during colder nights, especially in the shoulder seasons on the Camino. Clothes to Pack –Coalatree trailhead adventure pants – These versatile pants are perfect for hiking, offering durability and comfort. –LuluLemon lightweight cinched hem hiking shirt – A lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt designed for hiking keeps you cool and dry during your walks. –LuluLemon Fleece hiking 1/4 zip pullover – A fleece pullover keeps you warm in colder conditions and can be easily layered. This was a MUST for me as I walked in September and I only brought a sleeping liner. –LuluLemon Cargo super-high rise hiking shorts 8″ – These high-rise shorts are practical for warm days and offer extra storage with the cargo pockets. –Columbia PFG long sleeve – A long-sleeve shirt with built-in sun protection is perfect for sun-exposed hikes, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. -Black EMS techwick t-shirt built in SPF – Another sun-protective shirt helps you stay comfortable and sunburn-free. –Old navy active black spandex – Spandex are versatile and comfortable, suitable for various activities, including hiking. These ones are my personal favorite! -EMS rain jacket – A rain jacket ensures you stay dry during wet conditions. It rained less than I expected, but I was grateful I brought one.  Undergarments to Pack -Two darn tough socks – Darn Tough socks are known for their durability and comfort, making them ideal for minimizing blisters during long walks. -Two smart wool socks – Smart Wool socks provide warmth and moisture-wicking properties, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. -Check out these anti-blister socks!! -Five moisture-wicking underwear – Moisture-wicking underwear is essential for minimizing discomfort and chafing on the trail. –Nike high sports bra and Nike white sports bra – Comfortable and supportive sports bras are essential for long-distance walking, providing necessary support during your journey. Bedding Necessities –Alps liner bag – A liner bag is much smaller than a sleeping bag so it is easier to pack. You can layer up on clothing while sleeping instead. I was really happy with this specific one! –Sleeping eye mask – A sleeping eye mask can be a lifesaver in hostels or other shared sleeping environments. –Ear plugs – Earplugs are essential for drowning out noise from fellow travelers. Toiletries to Pack –Foldable backpack – A foldable