Makareta's Camino Packing Guide: What I Learned the Hard Way (So You Don't Have To)
G’day, fellow pilgrims and dreamers! If you’re here, you’re probably staring at your wardrobe wondering how to cram a month-long walk across Spain into one backpack without turning into a human pack mule. I get it—I did the Camino de Santiago in 2023 with a **35-litre pack**, a pair of decidedly **not-HOKA boots**, and way too much optimism. My pack started heavy (thanks to “just in case” nonsense) and got lighter as I posted stuff home or ditched it in albergue donation piles. Lesson learned: the Camino provides, and overpacking is the fastest way to misery.
This guide’s from my own blisters and triumphs—raw, sarcastic, and practical. I’m a Queensland nana in my 50s+, so it’s geared toward us “seasoned” walkers (lighter loads, joint-friendly gear, no ultra-minimalist nonsense). Aim for **under 10% of your body weight** (mine ended around 7-8kg including water). Quick-dry everything, multi-use items, and remember: towns have shops!
The Big Three: Backpack, Boots, and Sleep
**Backpack**: 30-40 litres max. Mine was 35L—perfect for everything without tempting overpack. Hip belt pockets are gold for phone/credentials. Rain cover essential (or poncho that covers pack).
**Boots/Shoes**: Break them in! I regretted cheap ones—blisters galore. Trail runners (HOKAs) or lightweight hikers for most; sandals (like Tevas) for evenings/showers. 2-3 pairs wool socks (Darn Tough or similar—no cotton!).
**Sleep Setup**: Silk or lightweight liner (bed bugs rare but real). Earplugs (snoring albergues are a symphony from hell). Eye mask. Quick-dry microfiber towel (packable, fast-drying).
Clothing: Less is More (Quick-Dry or Bust)
Pack for 2-3 days—wash nightly. Layers for variable weather.
- 2-3 quick-dry T-shirts (one long-sleeve for sun).
- 1-2 pairs convertible pants/shorts or leggings.
- 1 lightweight fleece or puffer (evenings cool off fast).
- Rain jacket/poncho (pit zips a bonus).
- 3-4 pairs underwear (ex-officio or similar—washable).
- 2 sports bras.
- Hat, buff, gloves (if spring/fall).
- Evening outfit: Double as sleepwear (leggings + tee).
No jeans, cotton, or “town clothes”—you’ll live in hiking gear.
Toiletries & First Aid: Small and Smart
Decant into tiny bottles. Bar soap/shampoo for multi-use.
- Toothbrush/paste, deodorant, sunscreen (high SPF).
- Minimal makeup (if any—sweat wins).
- Compeed/blister patches, Vaseline (prevent chafing), basic meds (ibuprofen, bandages).
- Feminine products (tampons/pads—available but pack starters).
- Quick-dry towel, clothesline/pegs.
Common mistake: Full-size bottles. I ditched half mine in week one and carried a 600ml empty water bottle.
Essentials & Nice-to-Haves
- Credential (pilgrim passport) + scallop shell.
- Phone + charger, European adapter, power bank.
- Water bottle (fountains everywhere).
- Poles (joint-saver for us over-50s).
- Headlamp, whistle.
- Small day cash, cards.
What I Regretted Packing (Don't Do This)
- Too many clothes—“just in case” outfits I never wore.
- Heavy guidebook (apps like Wise Pilgrim better).
- Gadgets galore (left the Kindle—phone sufficed).
- Cotton anything (takes forever to dry).
The Camino’s not wilderness—you’ll buy sunscreen, snacks, even socks along the way. Trust it.
Final tip: Train with your packed bag. If it hurts at home, it’ll kill on the Meseta. Pack light, walk far, laugh often. Buen Camino—you’ve got this!
If this helped, grab my book *Walk in My Shoes* for the full story, or *A Pilgrim’s Journal* for prompts to plan yours. Questions? Email hello@apilgrimsjournal.com.
Makareta (Margaret)
Your sarcastic Camino nana
