10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting the Camino de Santiago
The Lessons I Learned the Hard Way
When I first set foot on the Camino de Santiago, I thought I was prepared.
I’d read countless blogs, watched YouTube videos, and even practiced walking around my neighborhood with my backpack.
But the truth is, there were so many things I didn’t fully understand until I was actually out there — walking mile after mile, day after day.
The Camino is magical, yes, but it’s also challenging in ways you can’t fully grasp until you’re on the trail.
Today, I want to share the 10 things I wish I knew before walking the Camino de Santiago.
My hope is that these lessons will help you avoid some of my mistakes and make your own journey even more meaningful.
1. The Camino Is as Much Mental as It Is Physical
I expected sore feet and tired legs, but what I didn’t expect was how mentally demanding the Camino would be.
Some days, the walk felt endless, and drug on for hours, while the sun beamed down on us. –Other days, I battled self-doubt: “Wow, this is really tough. Can I actually make it to Santiago?”
What Helped Me:
Breaking each day into smaller sections, focusing on just making it to the next village or café. (I dreamed of an ice cold Aquarius con Limon. My new addiction.)
Practicing mindfulness while walking, noticing the beauty around me instead of counting the miles. The scenery is aboslutely stunning.
Journaling at night to process the emotions that came up during the day.
Related Post: The Complete Packing List for the Camino de Santiago (What You Really Need)
Sheep grazing on the Pyrenees Mountains
2. Pack Half of What You Think You Need
I thought I had packed light. Spoiler alert: I didn’t.
On Day 1, as I climbed the Pyrenees with sweat pouring down my back, I swore I’d toss half my gear at the next stop.
The rule of thumb is no more than 10% of your body weight, but honestly, even that felt heavy at times.
My Essentials:
Two to three pairs of quick-dry socks and shirts
One to two pairs of lightweight pants and shorts
Rain gear
Minimal toiletries
A tiny first-aid kit
For a detailed packing breakdown, check out my Ultimate Camino Packing List and Gear and Gifts.
3. Start Slower Than You Think You Should
In my excitement, I pushed myself too hard during the first few days.
By Day 3, I was nursing an enormous blister— not a great way to begin a 500-mile journey.
My Tip:
Start with shorter mileage (10-12 miles/day) for the first week.
Take a rest day after your third day of hiking.
Let your body adjust before increasing distance.
Listen to your feet. They will tell you when enough is enough!
4. Good Shoes Matter More Than Anything Else
If there’s one piece of gear to invest in, it’s shoes.
Blisters are the number one complaint I heard from fellow pilgrims — and they can end a Camino faster than you think.
What Worked for Me:
Trail runners instead or heavy hiking boots
A half-size larger than normal to allow for swelling. I went even bigger, as my toes needed the extra space on the decline.
Quality moisture-wicking socks, they are essential.
I also carried a small blister kit with Compeed, tape, and antiseptic wipes, which saved me more than once.
Check out my recommendations for Men’s Boots and Shoes and Women’s boot and shoes.
Great rain gear is essential.
5. The Weather Is Wildly Unpredictable
I walked through sun, rain, wind, and even hail — sometimes all in the same day.
The Camino’s weather can change on a dime, especially in the mountains.
My Tip:
Always pack a lightweight rain jacket and a sun hat.
Layer your clothing so you can adjust quickly.
Check the forecast each morning but be prepared for surprises.
6. Don’t Skip Breakfast
On my first few mornings, I hit the trail without eating, thinking I’d grab something at the next village.
Big mistake.
Some stretches have no services for hours, and I quickly learned that a hungry pilgrim is not a happy pilgrim.
Easy Breakfast Options:
A banana and nuts
Energy bars
Croissant
A café con leche with toast when available
Every once in a while you might get lucky with a beautiful breakfast buffet.
Related Post: How to Get Your Pilgrim Passport and Compostela Certificate in Santiago
7. Your Camino Will Be Unique to You
It’s easy to get caught up comparing your journey to others.
Some pilgrims walk 25 miles a day, others take frequent rest days. Some stay in luxury hotels, others in basic albergues.
The beauty of the Camino is that there’s no “right” way to do it.
Walk at your own pace, make your own choices, and don’t feel pressured to match someone else’s style.
8. The Camino Community Is Pure Magic
Before I started, I didn’t realize how strong the pilgrim community would be.
Strangers became friends. Fellow walkers encouraged me on tough days and vice versa.
Even simple gestures — a shared meal, a kind word — reminded me that we were all on this path together.
Camino Connections:
Join communal dinners whenever you can.
Don’t be afraid to start conversations with fellow pilgrims.
Some of my conversations with complete strangers are my greatest Camino treasures.
Remember: some of the best memories happen off the trail.
9. Rest Days Are Not a Sign of Weakness
At first, I felt guilty for taking a rest day.
But pushing through exhaustion only made me slower in the long run.
Rest Day Tips:
Choose a beautiful town to explore, like Burgos or León.
Do laundry, stretch, and refuel your body.
Journal your thoughts and reflect on how far you’ve come.
Related post: Top 15 Must-See Towns Along the Camino de Santiago, perfect for rest days.
We took a rest day in the city of Logrono, famous for their tapas bars.
10. The Finish Line Isn’t Really the End
Arriving in Santiago de Compostela is incredible.
I cried as I stood before the cathedral, overwhelmed with gratitude and disbelief.
But what surprised me most was how much the Camino stayed with me long after I went home.
The lessons, friendships, and memories continue to shape me every single day.
The Camino doesn’t end in Santiago — it lives on in your heart.
Final Thoughts: Your Camino, Your Story
Walking the Camino de Santiago was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
It challenged me, changed me, and gave me a deeper appreciation for both the journey and the destination.
If you’re preparing for your Camino, I hope these tips help you start with confidence and excitement.
Remember: it’s your Camino — walk it in the way that’s right for you.
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How to Decide Which Camino Route is Best for You
When choosing your route, consider these factors:
Your Fitness Level
Beginners may prefer the Camino Portugués or shorter stages of the Francés.
Experienced hikers looking for a challenge might love the Camino del Norte.
Desired Experience
For a social journey, the Francés is ideal.
For peace and reflection, try the Portugués.
For natural beauty and adventure, go Norte.
Time Available
Francés: Plan 30–35 days for the full route.
Portugués: 10–25 days depending on starting point.
Norte: About 35–40 days for the full distance.
Season and Weather
Spring and fall are best for walking any route.
Summer can be crowded (Francés) or hot (Portugués).
Norte can be wet but stunning in spring and summer.
My Personal Take
As someone who deeply loves the Camino and its history, I believe each route has its own magic.
The Francés is the classic choice, rich with tradition and pilgrim camaraderie.
The Portugués offers a more meditative, peaceful walk with coastal beauty.
The Norte is breathtaking and wild, perfect if you crave both challenge and solitude.
If this is your first Camino, you can’t go wrong with the Francés or Portugués. If you’re seeking your second or third journey, consider the Norte for a completely different experience.
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Final Thoughts
Whichever route you choose, remember that the Camino is about the journey, not just the destination.
Take time to savor the landscapes, the food, the friendships, and the quiet moments of reflection along the way. Whether you walk the bustling streets of Pamplona, the serene paths of Portugal, or the rugged coastlines of the north, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims before you.
Call-to-Action:
If you’re ready to begin planning your own pilgrimage, check out my post: “Stage by Stage: The Camino de Santiago Francés Route Breakdown”
Blessings to you,
Renae