The Complete Packing List for the Camino de Santiago (What You Really Need)
Hey there, friends! If you’re anything like me, you’re probably counting down the days until your Camino adventure begins.
One of the biggest questions I get asked is, ‘What should I pack?’ — and believe me, I’ve learned the hard way what to bring (and what to leave at home!).
So grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s go through my complete Camino packing list together
Pack Smart, Walk with Freedom
When I was preparing for my first Camino de Santiago, I spent weeks obsessing over what to bring.
Would I need extra shoes? How many shirts were too many? Could I survive with just a 35-liter backpack?
On Day 2, climbing a steep stretch with sweat pouring down my back, I realized something important:
You don’t need as much as you think you do.
Whether you’re carrying your own backpack or using luggage transport services (like Camino Facil or Correos), this guide will help you figure out exactly what to pack.
The goal is to walk comfortably while keeping your load light and manageable.
We chose to do luggage transfer and only carry a day pack. It was a great decision.
Related Post: Top 15 Must-See Towns Along the Camino de Santiago
Ne carrying my daypack on The Camino de Santiago
Two Ways to Pack for the Camino
Your packing approach depends on how you’ll handle your gear each day.
Option 1: Carrying Your Backpack
If you plan to carry your pack every step:
Weight is your biggest concern.
Follow the 10% rule: Your pack should weigh no more than 10% of your body weight (including water and snacks).
Example: If you weigh 150 lbs, your pack should be no more than 15 lbs.
Pro Tip: Once packed, take a practice walk of 5–7 miles. If you’re uncomfortable, remove 2–3 pounds.
Option 2: Using Luggage Transport Services
If you’re staying in hotels or private rooms, you can arrange for your main bag to be transported each morning:
You’ll only carry a small daypack with water, snacks, valuables, and a light layer.
Your transported bag can hold extra clothing, comfort items, and toiletries.
This approach gives you more flexibility and comfort — perfect for those who want to enjoy the Camino without the strain of a heavy backpack.
Essential Packing List
Below, I’ve broken down what you’ll need depending on whether you’re carrying your own pack or using luggage transfer.
1. Backpack or Daypack
Carrying Your Pack:
Choose a 35–40L backpack with padded hip straps, adjustable chest strap, and built-in rain cover.Using Luggage Transport:
A 15–20L daypack is plenty for water, snacks, a light jacket, and essentials you’ll need during the day.
Related Post: Choosing the Best Camino Backpack
2. Clothing
For Everyone: The Basics
Stick to quick-dry, lightweight fabrics.
Use the “wear one, pack one” method to keep clothing minimal.
Core Clothing:
2 moisture-wicking short-sleeve shirts
1 long-sleeve sun shirt or light layer
1 or two pair lightweight hiking pants
1 pair hiking shorts
2–3 pairs moisture-wicking underwear
2-3 pairs quality socks (Darn Tough or Smartwool)
Lightweight quick dry sweatshirt or down jacket
Compact rain jacket or poncho
If Using Luggage Transfer:
You can add:
An extra pair of evening clothes (for dinners in town)
Lightweight pajamas or loungewear
Extra socks and undergarments
A casual dress or nicer outfit for rest days or special dinners
Pro Tip: Darker colors hide dirt and still look good in photos.
Print out The Ultimate Packing List
We loved using luggage transfer, it made it so much easier.
Our luggage with Luggage transfer tags on The Camino de Santiago
3. Footwear
Your feet will carry you to Santiago — choose shoes carefully!
Primary Shoes:
Trail runners or lightweight hiking shoes are ideal.Choose a half-size larger to accommodate swelling.
Break them in before your trip.
Secondary Shoes:
Flip-flops or sandals for evenings and shower use.
For Luggage Transfer Pilgrims:
If you have space, bring a pair of comfortable casual shoes for evenings out.
Related Post: The Best Shoes for Walking the Camino
4. Sleep Essentials
If staying in albergues (pilgrim hostels):
Lightweight sleeping bag or sleep sack (rated to 40°F / 5°C)
Inflatable travel pillow (optional but wonderful)
Earplugs and eye mask (hostel roommates can be noisy!)
If staying only in hotels or private rooms:
Skip the sleeping bag — sheets and bedding are provided.
You might still want an eye mask for better rest.
5. Toiletries & Personal Care
Keep this simple. You can buy anything you run out of along the way.
Must-Haves:
Toothbrush & travel toothpaste
Toilet paper tablets
Biodegradable soap (works for body and laundry)
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Lip balm with SPF
Quick-dry microfiber towel
Travel deodorant
Small brush or comb
If Using Luggage Transfer:
Shampoo, conditioner, or skincare products
Makeup or luxury toiletries (if desired, it looks pretty silly on the trail)
TIP: makeup on the trail looks silly. Leave it home or wear only on rest days.
Extra self-care items like a magnesium oil or Epsom salts.
Packing blister care and first aid supplies is a must.
Packing blister care and first aid supplies is a must.
6. First Aid & Foot Care
Blisters are the most common Camino injury.
Be prepared to care for your feet every single day.
Compeed blister pads
K Tape
Medical tape
Antiseptic wipes
Ibuprofen or pain relievers
Band-aids
Small scissors or nail clippers
Daily Ritual: Apply anti-chafing balm or Vaseline to your feet before walking to prevent blisters.
7. Electronics
Smartphone + charger
Lightweight power bank
European plug adapter
Headphones or earbuds
Optional for Luggage Transfer:
Kindle or e-reader
Camera with extra lens
Laptop or tablet for journaling or blogging
PRO TIP:Keep electronics in a waterproof pouch in case of rain.
Bring plenty of cash, the vendors greatly prefer cash.
Bring plenty of cash, the vendors greatly prefer cash.
8. Documents & Money
Non-negotiable items you must have with you:
Passport
Pilgrim Credential (Credencial) — needed for stamps and to receive your Compostela.
Debit/credit card and small cash (€20–50 daily)
Travel insurance documents
Copies of itinerary and reservation confirmations
Pilgrim Credentials/Passport for collecting stamps from cafes, albergues and hotels.
Related Post: How to Get Your Pilgrim Passport and Compostela Certificate in Santiago
9. Optional Comfort Items
Lightweight journal and pen
Small devotional or Bible
Favorite tea bags or snacks from home
Collapsible trekking poles (especially for steep climbs)
What NOT to Pack
No matter how you travel, here are things to leave behind:
Multiple heavy outfits for evenings
Large bottles of toiletries (buy as needed)
Sleeping pad (not necessary)
Heavy guidebooks (download digital versions)
More than one water bottle (refill often)
Rule of Thumb: If you hesitate or wonder whether you’ll use it, don’t bring it.
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Packing Tips for Success
Pack by category using packing cubes or zip-lock bags.
Keep rain gear and snacks on top for quick access.
If using luggage transfer, label your bag clearly with your name and destination each morning.
Test your gear on at least one 5–7 mile walk before you leave home.
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Final Thoughts: Lighten Your Load, Enjoy the Journey
Whether you’re carrying your pack or having it transported, the key is packing smart and staying flexible.
The Camino is about simplicity and freedom. The less you carry, the more energy you’ll have for what truly matters — the breathtaking landscapes, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable memories.
Remember, the Camino is not about suffering under a heavy load. It’s about walking with joy, one step at a time.
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Ready to start packing?
Download my free Camino Packing Checklist for a printable guide tailored to both packing styles.
Read my 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Walking the Camino for insider tips.
Follow Camino.Chronicles on Instagram for daily inspiration and Camino community stories.
Buen Camino, friends!
Renae