Packing for the Camino de Santiago can be overwhelming. With so many gear lists out there, it’s easy to overpack—or worse, forget something essential. The truth is: you don’t need as much as you think!
This ultimate Camino packing guide will help you pack light, stay comfortable, and avoid unnecessary weight—whether you’re walking the Portuguese Coastal Camino, the Camino Francés, or any other route.
💡 Goal: Keep your pack under 10% of your body weight to walk pain-free and comfortably every day!
🎒 The Golden Rules of Packing for the Camino
✔️ Pack light! Carrying too much weight is the #1 mistake pilgrims make.
✔️ Everything should have a purpose. If you might use it, leave it behind.
✔️ Layer your clothing. No need for heavy jackets—layers work best!
✔️ Choose lightweight, quick-dry fabrics. Avoid cotton; go for merino wool or synthetic materials.
✔️ Break in your gear before you go. New shoes + new backpack = disaster!
Now, let’s get into the must-have gear for your Camino!
Camino Packing List: Clothing & Footwear
🔹 The key? Less is more! You’ll be washing clothes daily, so you only need two sets of hiking outfits.
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
| Moisture-wicking T-shirts | 2 | Merino wool or synthetic. No cotton! |
| Hiking pants/shorts/leggings | 2 | Lightweight & quick-dry. |
| Underwear | 2-3 | Fast-drying (merino wool or synthetic). |
| Hiking socks | 2-3 pairs | Avoid blisters—choose wool or synthetic! |
| Fleece or lightweight jacket | 1 | Essential for chilly mornings. |
| Rain jacket or poncho | 1 | Camino weather can be unpredictable! |
| Sleepwear | 1 | Lightweight for albergues. |
| Buff or hat | 1 | Protects against sun & cold. |
| Sandals or flip-flops | 1 pair | For albergues & post-hike comfort. |
💡 Pro Tip: Want to go ultra-light? Bring just 2 outfits—one for walking, one for sleeping, and wash daily!
Choosing the Right Footwear
Your shoes can make or break your Camino experience. Here’s what you need:
✔️ Hiking shoes or trail runners – Lightweight, breathable, and well broken-in.
✔️ No heavy boots – Most Camino routes don’t require them.
✔️ Waterproof shoes? Only if you’re walking in wet seasons (fall/winter).
✔️ Test them! Walk at least 100 miles in your shoes before starting the Camino.
🔗 Recommended Reading: Complete Footwear Guide for the Camino
The Best Backpack for the Camino
Your backpack should be 30-40L and weigh no more than 10% of your body weight when packed.
✔️ 30-40L backpack – Big enough for essentials, small enough to avoid overpacking.
✔️ Hip belt & chest strap – Takes pressure off your shoulders.
✔️ Water-resistant – Or bring a rain cover.
✔️ Ventilated back panel – Keeps you cool on hot days.
💡 Pro Tip: Pack your backpack and go on a 10+ mile walk with it to see how it feels before the Camino!
🔗 Recommended Reading: Best Backpack for the Camino
Sleeping Gear for Albergues
If you’re staying in public albergues, you’ll need basic sleeping gear:
✔️ Sleeping bag liner – Lightweight & packs small.
✔️ Earplugs – Albergue snoring is real!
✔️ Eye mask – Some albergues leave the lights on.
💡 Pro Tip: Most albergues provide blankets, so a sleeping bag isn’t always necessary unless walking in winter.
Essential Camino First Aid Kit
Walking 15-20 miles per day can lead to blisters, muscle pain, and soreness. Here’s what to pack:
✔️ Blister care: Compeed, Leukotape, antiseptic wipes.
✔️ Pain relief: Ibuprofen, paracetamol.
✔️ Muscle recovery: Tiger Balm, Deep Heat.
✔️ Elastic bandages: For knee/ankle support.
✔️ Electrolyte tablets: Prevent dehydration.
💡 Pro Tip: Pharmacies (farmacias) in Spain & Portugal stock everything, so don’t overpack first-aid supplies.
Camino Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget
✔️ Trekking poles – Reduce knee strain, especially on descents.
✔️ Water bottle (1-2L) – Refillable to avoid plastic waste.
✔️ Power bank – Albergue outlets fill up fast.
✔️ Guidebook or offline maps – Google Maps isn’t always reliable.
✔️ Ziploc bags – For organizing and keeping things dry.
✔️ Small travel towel – Lightweight & quick-dry.
💡 Pro Tip: Cash is king on the Camino. Many small towns don’t accept cards, so carry some euros with you.
What NOT to Pack for the Camino
Overpacking is one of the biggest mistakes new pilgrims make. Leave these items at home:
❌ Jeans or heavy clothes – Too bulky and slow-drying.
❌ Too many clothes – You only need 2-3 outfits!
❌ Big bottles of toiletries – Travel-size is enough.
❌ Heavy books – Use an e-reader or Camino apps.
❌ Too much food – There are plenty of stores along the way.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about an item, don’t bring it! You can always buy things along the Camino.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Pack Smart & Walk Happy!
Packing light is the key to enjoying the Camino pain-free. Stick to the essentials, test your gear beforehand, and remember—you can always buy things along the way!
✔️ Keep your backpack under 10% of your body weight.
✔️ Test your shoes & gear before starting the Camino.
✔️ Only pack what you truly need—less is more!
