Packing for Your Camino Journey

From quiet village paths to the grand arrival in Santiago de Compostela, packing thoughtfully makes the pilgrimage lighter and more meaningful. Bring sturdy, broken-in walking shoes, extra socks, and quick-dry clothing you can wash along the way. Add a light rain poncho, a refillable water bottle, and a daypack — and you’ll be equipped for both the miles ahead and the reflections they inspire.

CLOTHING:

Year-Round Essentials

  • Comfortable walking shoes (broken-in sneakers or light hiking shoes)

  • Extra socks & blister care (walking daily for miles)

  • Lightweight pants or skirts

  • Quick-dry clothing (you’ll likely hand-wash)

  • Sleepwear and undergarments

  • Light jacket or sweater (cool evenings even in summer)

  • Swimsuit (for the Dead Sea and hotel pools)

  • Hat and sunglasses (for sun protection)

Spring & Fall (March–May, Sept–Nov)

  • Light layers — temps vary from 50–75°F (10–24°C)

  • Light rain jacket or travel umbrella

Summer (June–August)

  • Extra breathable clothing (linen, cotton, moisture-wicking synthetics)

  • Sun sleeves or thin long-sleeved shirts for the hot sun

  • Sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings

Winter (Dec–Feb)

  • Warm sweater or fleece

  • Waterproof jacket (rain is likely)

  • Closed-toe shoes or boots

  • Scarf, hat, and gloves (mornings and nights can dip into the 40s°F / single digits °C)

TOILETRIES & HEALTH:

  • Sunscreen (high SPF)

  • Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

  • Prescriptions & medications in original containers

  • Band-aids & blister care (moleskin, tape, blister patches)

  • Travel-size toiletries (shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrush, etc.)

  • Laundry supplies (sink stopper, travel detergent, clothesline or travel clips)

DOCUMENTS & MONEY

  • Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond travel dates)

  • 2 photocopies of passport (packed separately)

  • Camino Pilgrim Credential (for stamps along the way)

  • Airline/train tickets & tour documents

  • Small daypack for daily walking (lightweight and comfortable)

  • Credit card + some euros in cash

  • Travel insurance card/information

TECH & GEAR

  • Smartphone & charger

  • Plug adapter (Spain uses Type C plugs, 230V)

  • Refillable water bottle (1 liter or larger)

  • Trekking poles (optional, but many pilgrims use them)

  • Lightweight headlamp or small flashlight (for early starts)

  • Notebook/journal (for reflections)

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

  • Light rain poncho or pack cover (rain is common in northern Spain)

  • Quick-dry towel

  • Snacks (granola bars, trail mix)

  • Travel pillow & eye mask (for hostels)

  • Ziplock bags or dry bag (to protect electronics near rain)

  • Portable power bank

  • Laundry bag for dirty clothes

  • Earplugs (hostel dorms can be noisy)