Researching your chosen route and getting good advice for the Camino in advance, even creating a timetable, can greatly enhance your experience. Knowing the towns you will visit, their traditions, and the surrounding landscapes will make the journey more rewarding.
It is highly recommended to contact an Association of Friends of the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela, of which there are more than 50 across Spain. These associations provide valuable information and sell the credencial, a document that serves as a pilgrim’s passport. This must be stamped at least once per day at a hostel, an establishment, or a church. The credencial is essential for staying in public and some private pilgrim hostels. Upon arrival at the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago, it serves as proof of completion and allows you to obtain the Compostela.
Pilgrims encounter a variety of surfaces—tarmac, concrete, gravel, pebbles, earth, clay, and limestone—making footwear selection crucial. The ideal choice is a pair of shoes that are neither too heavy nor too light, offering flexibility, stability, and cushioning.
Trekking shoes and trail running shoes, often used by mountain runners, are excellent options. They are lighter and more flexible than traditional hiking boots while providing better shock absorption. Their soles are tougher than those of standard running shoes, offering greater resistance to impact and the weight of a rucksack.
Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex fabric helps keep feet dry while wicking away perspiration. While hiking boots offer better ankle support and protection from stones, they are heavier, tend to overheat the feet, and can be uncomfortable on tarmac. Experience suggests that trekking or trail running shoes are the best starting point for most pilgrims.
Investing in a high-quality rucksack is essential—it is the pilgrim’s shell, the home carried on your back. A capacity of 40 to 50 litres is ideal. The larger the rucksack, the heavier it will be, both empty and once packed. When full, it should weigh no more than 10% of your body weight—for example, someone weighing 70 kg should carry no more than 7–8 kg. Exceeding this limit can lead to strain, overloading, or muscle fatigue.
A good rucksack should have reinforced stitching, padded shoulder straps, lumbar support, and adjustable hip and chest straps. It must also be adjustable to fit your body properly. The straps should be tightened so that the weight sits on your back rather than your shoulders.
A waterproof cover is essential for protecting your rucksack in wet weather. Many rucksacks include one, but not all are effective—some soak through quickly. In such cases, it may be worth purchasing a more durable, separate rain cover.
In addition to the clothes you are wearing, this might be your summer gear:
This is not an exhaustive list, but it does contain some of the most important items you will most likely need.
For the colder months, winter socks, T-shirts, and trousers will do. You should also bring a hat, buff, and gloves. The light jacket should be replaced with a waterproof windbreaker. This is the most expensive part of the outfit, but it is well worth spending your money on quality clothing. Fleece leggings to wear under your trousers or even to sleep in are a good idea.
In winter, it is advisable to wear a layering system: a very breathable thermal vest as the first layer, a long-sleeved technical T-shirt as the second layer, and a windbreaker as the last layer.
Backpack on your back, pole in hand, and off you go!
Physical Preparation
Before embarking on the Camino, engage in physical training suited to your abilities. Plan your walking stages realistically, pacing yourself to avoid overexertion. Take regular breaks based on your physical condition and never push yourself to the point of exhaustion
Sun Protection
Avoid direct sun exposure, especially on your head, to prevent sunstroke and heat exhaustion. Wear a hat or cap for protection.
Minimize walking during peak sunlight hours (midday) to reduce the risk of sunburn and dehydration.
If you’re not accustomed to the climate, allow time for gradual exposure to the sun.
Use high-SPF sunscreen, moisturizing creams, and UV-protective sunglasses.
Safety for Cyclists
If cycling the Camino, always wear a helmet and a high-visibility vest to ensure safety on the road.
Hydration & Food Safety
Drink only bottled or verified public drinking water; avoid water from rivers, streams, or fountains unless its safety is confirmed.
Stay hydrated by consuming at least 2 liters of water per day. Isotonic drinks with sodium and potassium can help replenish electrolytes in healthy adults.
Eat four to five smaller meals daily, focusing on fresh food rather than one large meal.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with safe drinking water.
If carrying pre-prepared food, ensure it is properly stored to prevent spoilage.
Personal Hygiene & Foot Care
Shower daily and dry off thoroughly to maintain hygiene and prevent fungal infections or skin irritation.
Avoid sharing personal hygiene items such as razors or tweezers.
Foot care is crucial to avoid blisters: wear clean, dry, well-fitting cotton socks and ensure they do not cause chafing.
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