Travel with Rain

Walking the Camino de Santiago is as much a journey of simplicity as it is of discovery. One of the most common lessons pilgrims share is that you don’t need nearly as much as you think. Packing smart, especially as a woman means balancing comfort, practicality, and lightness. Here’s a guide to help you pack what you truly need while keeping your backpack manageable.

Clothing Essentials

• 2 quick dry t-shirts or tops – breathable and lightweight.
• 1 long-sleeve shirt – for layering or sun protection.
• 2 pairs of hiking pants/leggings – one can be worn while the other is washed.
• 1 pair of shorts
• Light fleece or sweater – mornings and evenings can be chilly.
• Rain jacket/poncho – absolutely essential on the Camino.
• 3-4 pairs of underwear – quick-dry if possible.(I only brought 2 pairs, I brought 1 pack of 60 Ultra Thin pads, so instead of washing underwear, I just replaced them everyday)
• 1 sports bras – comfortable and supportive.
• 3 pairs of hiking socks + 1 pair of liner socks – reduce blisters.
• Sleepwear(I didn’t bring any with me on the Camino)
• Buff or scarf – multipurpose (sun, warmth, or modesty in churches).
• Winter coat (Winter season)

Footwear

• Broken-in hiking shoes, running shoes or boots – never bring brand new footwear.
• Lightweight sandals or flip-flops – for evenings, showers, and letting your feet breathe.
  (I didn’t bring one, I went bare foot in the evening at the Albergues)

Toiletries & Personal Care

• Travel-sized shampoo/conditioner/body wash (or a multi-purpose bar).(I brought shampoo, conditioner and multi-purpose bar for face and body wash)
• Lightweight microfiber towel.
• Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF.
• Feminine hygiene products (tampons or pads).
• Small pack of tissues & wet wipes.(I brought some facial makeup wipes with me, and used them to wipe my face when I didn’t take a shower)
• Basic first aid kit (blister care is a must).
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant.

Gear

• 30–40L backpack with good support.
• Lightweight sleeping bag or liner (depending on season).
• Water bottle or hydration system.(I didn’t bring one with me. I reused the plastic water bottle)
• Trekking poles (Good for additional support and photo posing)(I brought one with me, but it was a hassle to carry them.)
• Headlamp for early starts or bad weather.
• Earplugs (you will definitely need them at the Albergues).
• Sleep mask (you will sleep better, trust me)
• A few clothespins. (useful for hanging socks or underwear)

Extras

• Journal or small notebook.
• Phone + charger.
• Lightweight power bank.
• Small lock for hostel lockers. (I didn’t bring one. Most places have lockers that can lock by inserting a one euro coin)
• Lightweight crossbody bag or small purse for evenings in town.(I brought a tote bag with me, it was extremely easy for me to fold and tuck away inside my backpack)

Final Thoughts

The Camino teaches that less truly is more. Every extra item feels heavier after a few days of walking, so resist the temptation to overpack. Remember: Spain has pharmacies, grocery stores, and chino(Chinese)  shops, you can find almost anything you could possibly need at the Chinese shops on the Camino.

Buen Camino!