Camino de Santiago Packing List: The Complete Checklist

Camino de Santiago packing list: the ultimate checklist

Packing your backpack for the Camino de Santiago is one of the most important decisions of your pilgrimage. Carrying too much weight is the number one mistake first-time pilgrims make. This guide will help you bring only what you truly need.

The backpack

• Capacity: 35-40 litres maximum. You do not need more.
• Total weight: Between 7 and 8 kg including water and food. Never more than 10% of your body weight.
• Rain cover: Essential in Galicia, where rain is frequent year-round.
• Tip: Test your loaded backpack before you leave. Do at least two training walks with the actual weight you plan to carry.

Footwear: the most important decision

Your footwear makes the difference between enjoying the Camino and suffering through it. You have two main options:

• Hiking boots: Better ankle support, ideal if you carry weight or walk on uneven terrain. Essential in winter and rainy seasons.
• Trail running shoes: Lighter and more comfortable, they dry faster. Perfect for spring and summer. Increasingly popular among experienced pilgrims.
• Rest sandals: Bring lightweight flip-flops for after each stage. Your feet will thank you.
• Socks: 3 pairs of technical, seamless socks. Avoid cotton at all costs — it retains moisture and causes blisters.

Clothing: the layering system

The key is dressing in layers and choosing quick-dry synthetic fabrics:

• Base layer: 2-3 breathable technical T-shirts (no cotton)
• Mid layer: 1 lightweight fleece or softshell jacket
• Outer layer: 1 waterproof and breathable rain jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
• Trousers: 2 convertible trousers (zip-off legs for shorts)
• Underwear: 3 changes of technical fabric underwear
• Hat or cap: Sun protection is essential in summer
• Buff or neck gaiter: Versatile for cold, wind and sun protection

Basic hygiene

Bring only the essentials in mini or travel size:

• Biodegradable multi-purpose soap (works for body, hair and laundry)
• Sunscreen SPF 50
• Lip balm with SPF
• Vaseline or anti-chafing cream (Compeed blister plasters are a must)
• Microfibre towel (dries fast and packs small)
• Toothbrush and mini toothpaste

Pilgrim first aid kit

• Plasters and blister patches (Compeed)
• Needle and thread (for draining blisters)
• Anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen)
• Elastic bandage
• Antiseptic in single-dose sachets
• Antacid tablets

Electronics

• Phone: Your map, camera and guidebook in one. Download the Buen Camino or Gronze app for offline use.
• Power bank: Minimum 10,000 mAh. Some albergues have very few power outlets.
• Charger: A charger with two USB ports to charge your phone and power bank simultaneously.
• Head torch: A small headlamp for early morning departures before sunrise.

Essential documents

• Pilgrim credential (credencial): You can obtain it at the first church or albergue on the Camino. Required for stamping at each stage and obtaining the Compostela certificate.
• ID or passport: Valid identification is mandatory.
• European Health Insurance Card: If you are travelling from another EU country.
• Credit/debit card: Most places accept card payment, but carry some cash for small albergues and rural bars.

What NOT to bring

• Laptop or tablet (unnecessary weight)
• More than 3 changes of any garment
• Large cotton towel
• Paper books (use an e-reader)
• Pillow (some pilgrims bring a lightweight pillowcase instead)
• Hair dryer
• Too much food (there are shops and bars at every stage)

Final tip: send your backpack between stages

If the weight is too much, backpack transport services operate between stages for 5-7 EUR per transfer. Companies like Jacotrans or Correos del Camino collect your backpack from your accommodation and deliver it to the next one. It is a very popular option that lets you walk light and enjoy the Camino more.

At Casa Andaina in Palas de Rei, we help you arrange backpack transport and store any extra luggage you need to leave behind.