Embarking on the iconic pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago is a transformative experience. As you walk through picturesque landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich history, and connect with fellow pilgrims, taking care of practicalities like laundry becomes an essential aspect of the journey. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about doing laundry on El Camino de Santiago, including frequency, cost, and other helpful details.
Frequency of Doing Laundry
While embarking on El Camino de Santiago, the frequency of doing laundry largely depends on personal preferences and circumstances. Pilgrims often find opportunities to wash their clothes every few days at various accommodations along the route. Honestly, I ended up washing my clothes every day since I did not bring much. Albergues, in particular, offer laundry facilities, allowing walkers to refresh their clothing as needed. However, it’s advisable to plan strategically, considering factors like weather conditions and availability of laundry services. During warmer months, the need for frequent washing might be more pronounced due to increased sweating. Carrying a small supply of quick-dry clothing can also extend the time between laundry sessions. Additionally, choosing accommodations with laundry facilities or utilizing local laundromats can offer flexibility in managing laundry needs. Ultimately, finding a balance between carrying extra clothing and planning laundry stops ensures a comfortable and hygienic journey.
Options for Washing Your Clothes
a) Coin-operated Laundromats: Many towns along the Camino have self-service laundromats equipped with washing machines and dryers. These facilities offer a convenient option for pilgrims to wash their clothes. Keep some coins handy for operating the machines.
b) Albergue Facilities: Most albergues (pilgrim hostels) provide basic laundry facilities, including hand-washing sinks and clotheslines. This option is suitable for those who prefer washing their clothes manually. During my trip, we hand-washed our clothes almost every single day as they got sweaty fast. On days when we arrived later, like 5 pm, our clothes were something still damp on the clothesline or not fully dry. This is likely the option you will do daily, but it is nice to use a coin-operated machine once a week just for the extra cleaning since you will likely have limited clothing options.
c) Laundry Services: In some towns, you’ll find businesses that offer laundry services to pilgrims. They typically charge by weight or per item. This option saves time and effort, especially for those who want a break from manual labor.
Cost of Laundry
The cost of laundry services or using laundromats can vary. On average, expect to pay around €3-€6 for a load of laundry in a self-service laundromat. Laundry services may charge around €5-€10 per kilogram or have set prices per item. It’s always advisable to inquire about the prices beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Tips and Essentials:
a) Carry Essential Laundry Supplies: To facilitate hand-washing, pack biodegradable laundry detergent strips and clothespins (these are SUPER helpful to have on hand). These items will come in handy when washing your clothes in sinks or albergue facilities.
b) Plan Ahead: Take note of towns or cities with laundry facilities along your route. It’s useful to consult guidebooks, fellow pilgrims, or online resources to determine where you can find suitable options for doing laundry.
c) Time Management: Plan your laundry days strategically to ensure you have clean clothes when needed. Consider the weather forecast, the availability of facilities in upcoming towns, and your walking schedule.
d) Quick-Drying Clothing: Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothing materials such as synthetic or moisture-wicking fabrics. This allows for faster drying times, reducing the risk of damp or musty-smelling clothes during your pilgrimage. You can look at my packing list to see what I brought for my journey.
Practicalities
While El Camino de Santiago is a spiritual journey, practicalities like laundry are essential for your comfort and hygiene along the way. Whether you choose self-service laundromats, albergue facilities, or laundry services, budgeting time and money for laundry needs will ensure you have clean clothes during your pilgrimage. Remember to pack essential laundry supplies, plan ahead, and embrace the simplicity of washing clothes on the Camino.
Enjoy your Camino journey!
-Buen Camino-
Not all those who wander are lost. -TTT
Helpful information about the Camino de Santiago:
https://stingynomads.com/camino-de-sa…
https://caminoways.com/camino-de-sant…
(Note: Prices and availability mentioned in this blog are based on general information and may vary. It’s always recommended to confirm the latest details and costs during your Camino preparations.)
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