Mis Amigas: After reading, listening, watching and determining... here is my ever-evolving Camino de Santiago: Frances pack list for walking September, 2023. I'm 5'8, 127 lbs, 64 yrs. young.
*I just updated the list based on very good feedback from many pilgrims. Thank you for your input! I realized I don't need the sleeping bag liner. I added new photos. Only thing still missing is: cell phone/charger/outlet, laundry line, reflective tape, laundry soap sheet, contact lenses/reading glasses and my vitamins/electrolytes. Also, not pictured are poles--which I'll purchase when I get there. The total weight without poles is approx. 12 lbs. roughly 5.44 kilos **some of the items you see, i.e. castor oil, will be put into those small plastic containers. I photographed them just for reference. I am planning to go with a friend and stay in semi-private rooms (still researching). I could not get any sleep if in an Albuergue filled with people. We all have our strengths and weaknesses! We will all find our strides as we journey along--some slower, some with a specific focus, some with the goal to achieve in a certain time. No one is wrong. No one is right. My packing list may be right for me and not for you. So do your own soul searching for your needs and wants and tailor your Camino accordingly. At the same time, listen to the wisdom of those who have traveled before us. I drew from a number of other's lists and combined that with my personal one. Feel free to email any thoughts, suggestions or corrections info@hearts-gate.com. I am not a blogger or paid to endorse any products, fyi. I make $0 on these notes! I see that many of these items have gone up in price. You can take your time, if you have time, and scout out the prices. I often waited until I found the items on sale and then grabbed them! Check back for updates and changes. Buen Camino! Jody September Weather in Santiago de Compostela Spain
Daily high temperatures decrease by 6°F, from 75°F to 69°F, rarely falling below 61°F or exceeding 85°F. October Weather in Santiago de Compostela Spain Daily high temperatures decrease by 7°F, from 69°F to 61°F, rarely falling below 55°F or exceeding 79°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 4°F, from 53°F to 49°F, rarely falling below 41°F or exceeding 59°F. For reference, on July 30, the hottest day of the year, temperatures in Santiago de Compostela typically range from 58°F to 76°F, while on February 7, the coldest day of the year, they range from 41°F to 54°F. * I am also packing with the consideration of the 10 hours on the airplane and in airports and spending some time in Paris before and after where I want to be comfortable and warm. |
BACKPACK: Osprey Tempest 34L $135.76
I chose this size because of my height (5'8") and from learning that anything bigger may be too heavy.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LNYVQPM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Backpack liner: I've heard you can use a large trash bag to line the backpack. I see Osprey and a few others have BP liners. The other option is to have a smaller one at the bottom for your sleeping bag/clothes. I might consider this. I already have a rain cover, but that won't help if I set down my backpack. It's entirely possible we will see rain in September/October. I also heard that you could just use a trash bag for the lower items such as sleeping bag/clothes. Something to think about. Or maybe use two bags.
Waist/Fanny Pack - Osprey $25 purchased from Osprey website Ultralight Stuff Waist Pack - Shadow Grey. This will hold my cell phone, chapstick, money, passport, ID, tissues, possibly a powerbar--although there are places on the backpack for those.
https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/daylite-waist-DAYLTWSTS21_779.html
RAIN COVER: Osprey rain cover made for the pack $37
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M45HHNM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
SHOES:
Altra Lone Peak Trail Shoes $99.95 size 9
I purchased a 1/2 size bigger than my regular shoe size. They fit great! I've been training in them and my feet feel amazing.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09M8FJ6C9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Keen Sandals $71.97 size 9 (I decided to go up a size after receiving the 8.5s, to allow for swelling)
Croc Kadee II Sandals $24.76 size 8. I chose these because they are super super light weight and I wanted something for shower and possibly hanging around shoe. They are also surprisingly comfortable and don't take up much room in the bag.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0888SJTRP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Balega Endura Mens/Womens socks $12 (2 pairs)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H3Z85J3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
BEDDING/SLEEP:
Ecoopro Sleeping Bag 1.45lbs. $29.99 Warm weather bag (55-60•)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011AZ3O9W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Sleep Mask$15.99 (I saw someone use their buff for a sleep mask--thinking about that!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S5Q826U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ear Plugs $9.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X26Z1L2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pillow Case by Sealy. Renew zippered pillow protector with charcoal. Moisture wicking, hypoallergenic, odor absorbing. $5.99 (TJX). I will pack clothes inside of the case and use for a pillow if needed. I'm a bit picky about where I lay my head, so probably will use this.
CLOTHING
Columbia zip off trail pants $49.66 size 6 long
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L1RBVJA/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ininji Lightweight Toe Socks $14 (1 pair)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X8QJQCY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Buff -Cashmere $17.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P88FVK8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Fruit of the Loom Panties $11.98 (saw someone else had these...) 3 pairs
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JM77RWK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
32 Degree Long Sleeve Base Layer $8 from their website
Skirt it's actually a skort. Lightweight (XS) dri-fit
Bras 2 lightweight bras
Leggings Lululemon leggings $100 (these were a gift--I'd never spend that much on leggings!)
T-Shirt 2 dry fit.
Tank Top super lightweight dri-fit
Sarong $8 purchased in Hawaii. To multi-use: scarf, skirt,dress, shawl, blanket.
JACKETS
Rain Coat by Outdoor Ventures. Light weight, waterproof. $49.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YCBTBQ6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Puffy CoatI have a cheapy hooded super lightweight puffy. It rolls up into the hood and weighs nothing.
Fleece Columbia Park View Grid Full Zip Jacket $29.98 This took some research and I'm still on the fleece fence. I found a Columbia Trail Fleece lightweight full zip. It's cozy and warm and I think this will be good. I was told not to get a hood so it won't bulk up behind my back by the backpack and also so it's easy to take off without removing my backpack.
https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-park-view-grid-full-zip-fleece-jacket-1959711.html?mid=em&eid=RTM&nid=COL_US_OrderConfirmation&cid=en_US&sc_src=email_11015&sc_lid=3672971&sc_uid=kJO348Vk33&sc_llid=5052159&sc_eh=89c719d44cf791251
Style #: 1959711 Color: Cirrus Grey, Heather Size: S
Windbreaker Super super lightweight Patagonia windbreaker. Only bringing because it literally weighs nothing and is a nice light layer.
MISC. ITEMS
Hooks: Caribeners, S hooks (Hardware store)
Packing sacks (TJX) I plan to use dry bags for important items.
Soap dish with a little rack to allow soap to dry
Hat - Adidas lightweight packable brim hat $17 (TJX)
Hiking Poles. I plan to buy these in SJPP, as I've heard you cannot fly with them unless checked luggage.
Replacement Rubber Tips Set for Trekking Pole Walking Hiking Sticks Tips Protectors
Patches for backpack to personalize
Water bottle - lightweight plastic 32 ounce. After much thought, this is my decision. I'm not fond of the bladder system and heard it's easy to get water frequently and no need to carry that much.
Reflective tape (possibly for the backpack)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/CaminoBuddySystemForWomen/posts/3481600798743564/?comment_id=3482717841965193&reply_comment_id=3483082445262066¬if_id=1676765599010909¬if_t=group_comment_mention
Guidebook (probably will get the online app) I've heard Wise Pilgrim and Bierley are the two best.
Bright shoelaces to help differentiate your shoes and so no one takes them!
Sunglasses Gear Box lightweight $39.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VB74CVN/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Laundry Line Travel clothes line (need to get one)
Spork (probably good idea for me, since I'm plant based and a picky eater!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QF5QRU6/?coliid=I3KF4ZQN3QX57U&colid=12SIZQES8GJ2&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
TOILETRIES/SHOWER
Shampoo/Body soap bar. I'm making this from scratch with my fav ingredients. I will cut small pieces to use sparingly & to keep dry.
Deodorant (small lightweight)
Oil/Rub Castor oil/vaseline/coconut oil/tiger balm (one or more of these)
Tissues small packet
Baggies small plastic bags, variety sizes (everyone says you will want to have these)
Sunscreen/Moisturizer
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Laundry Soap Sheets This is a new thing and they work great. (they can be cut up for small batches)
Chapstick
Contacts/Reading Glasses
Razor
Microfiber Towel $12.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L88DDQC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
MEDICATIONS PLUS
Arnica
Tylenol (I'm allergic to other pain meds)
Zyrtec allergy med
Magnesium/Electrolytes
Vitamins
Melatonin
Personal meds
Benadryl (?)
Charcoal or probiotic
Compeed $18.48
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RHZBXTG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
ELECTRONICS
iPhone
Apple Watch
Charging cords
Multiple USB Wall Charger, [22W/4.4A] LENCENT 4 Port USB Travel Power Adapter, All in One Worldwide Cell Phone Charger With UK US EU European Australia, International Block Cube Plug for iPhone & IPad
TRAVEL
Airline ticket
Train ticket
Bus/Taxi
Hotel in SJPP (1 night)
STILL THINKING ABOUT - but none of these items would amount to a significant weight change
Gators some say just use plastic bags if needed, as might not need at all
Charging unit I probably won't get one, as my iPhone stays charged for long periods and I can use airplane mode.
Phone plan It was suggested to use WhatsApp for making calls, texts, etc. This requires wifi, but maybe that's a good thing--keep me off the grid longer. I'm considering getting a back up plan for emergency phone use from Verizon. In case I need to call for a hotel or who knows what. I'm not anticipating being on my phone while walking. Photos can upload on the cloud once at our stopping point. I'm open to your thoughts here!
Tote bag for carrying into town, out to dinner, etc. Something very lightweight and very packable
Baseball Cap I've heard that it is helpful to have a cap if it rains to keep the wet off your face. Apparently the floppy hat doesn't cut it!
Headlamp - may or may not take one. The one I ordered never arrived. Still deciding whether to get another one.
I chose this size because of my height (5'8") and from learning that anything bigger may be too heavy.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LNYVQPM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Backpack liner: I've heard you can use a large trash bag to line the backpack. I see Osprey and a few others have BP liners. The other option is to have a smaller one at the bottom for your sleeping bag/clothes. I might consider this. I already have a rain cover, but that won't help if I set down my backpack. It's entirely possible we will see rain in September/October. I also heard that you could just use a trash bag for the lower items such as sleeping bag/clothes. Something to think about. Or maybe use two bags.
Waist/Fanny Pack - Osprey $25 purchased from Osprey website Ultralight Stuff Waist Pack - Shadow Grey. This will hold my cell phone, chapstick, money, passport, ID, tissues, possibly a powerbar--although there are places on the backpack for those.
https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/daylite-waist-DAYLTWSTS21_779.html
RAIN COVER: Osprey rain cover made for the pack $37
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M45HHNM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
SHOES:
Altra Lone Peak Trail Shoes $99.95 size 9
I purchased a 1/2 size bigger than my regular shoe size. They fit great! I've been training in them and my feet feel amazing.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09M8FJ6C9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Keen Sandals $71.97 size 9 (I decided to go up a size after receiving the 8.5s, to allow for swelling)
Croc Kadee II Sandals $24.76 size 8. I chose these because they are super super light weight and I wanted something for shower and possibly hanging around shoe. They are also surprisingly comfortable and don't take up much room in the bag.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0888SJTRP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Balega Endura Mens/Womens socks $12 (2 pairs)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H3Z85J3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
BEDDING/SLEEP:
Ecoopro Sleeping Bag 1.45lbs. $29.99 Warm weather bag (55-60•)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011AZ3O9W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Sleep Mask$15.99 (I saw someone use their buff for a sleep mask--thinking about that!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S5Q826U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ear Plugs $9.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X26Z1L2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pillow Case by Sealy. Renew zippered pillow protector with charcoal. Moisture wicking, hypoallergenic, odor absorbing. $5.99 (TJX). I will pack clothes inside of the case and use for a pillow if needed. I'm a bit picky about where I lay my head, so probably will use this.
CLOTHING
Columbia zip off trail pants $49.66 size 6 long
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L1RBVJA/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ininji Lightweight Toe Socks $14 (1 pair)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X8QJQCY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Buff -Cashmere $17.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P88FVK8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Fruit of the Loom Panties $11.98 (saw someone else had these...) 3 pairs
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JM77RWK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
32 Degree Long Sleeve Base Layer $8 from their website
Skirt it's actually a skort. Lightweight (XS) dri-fit
Bras 2 lightweight bras
Leggings Lululemon leggings $100 (these were a gift--I'd never spend that much on leggings!)
T-Shirt 2 dry fit.
Tank Top super lightweight dri-fit
Sarong $8 purchased in Hawaii. To multi-use: scarf, skirt,dress, shawl, blanket.
JACKETS
Rain Coat by Outdoor Ventures. Light weight, waterproof. $49.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YCBTBQ6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Puffy CoatI have a cheapy hooded super lightweight puffy. It rolls up into the hood and weighs nothing.
Fleece Columbia Park View Grid Full Zip Jacket $29.98 This took some research and I'm still on the fleece fence. I found a Columbia Trail Fleece lightweight full zip. It's cozy and warm and I think this will be good. I was told not to get a hood so it won't bulk up behind my back by the backpack and also so it's easy to take off without removing my backpack.
https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-park-view-grid-full-zip-fleece-jacket-1959711.html?mid=em&eid=RTM&nid=COL_US_OrderConfirmation&cid=en_US&sc_src=email_11015&sc_lid=3672971&sc_uid=kJO348Vk33&sc_llid=5052159&sc_eh=89c719d44cf791251
Style #: 1959711 Color: Cirrus Grey, Heather Size: S
Windbreaker Super super lightweight Patagonia windbreaker. Only bringing because it literally weighs nothing and is a nice light layer.
MISC. ITEMS
Hooks: Caribeners, S hooks (Hardware store)
Packing sacks (TJX) I plan to use dry bags for important items.
Soap dish with a little rack to allow soap to dry
Hat - Adidas lightweight packable brim hat $17 (TJX)
Hiking Poles. I plan to buy these in SJPP, as I've heard you cannot fly with them unless checked luggage.
Replacement Rubber Tips Set for Trekking Pole Walking Hiking Sticks Tips Protectors
Patches for backpack to personalize
Water bottle - lightweight plastic 32 ounce. After much thought, this is my decision. I'm not fond of the bladder system and heard it's easy to get water frequently and no need to carry that much.
Reflective tape (possibly for the backpack)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/CaminoBuddySystemForWomen/posts/3481600798743564/?comment_id=3482717841965193&reply_comment_id=3483082445262066¬if_id=1676765599010909¬if_t=group_comment_mention
Guidebook (probably will get the online app) I've heard Wise Pilgrim and Bierley are the two best.
Bright shoelaces to help differentiate your shoes and so no one takes them!
Sunglasses Gear Box lightweight $39.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VB74CVN/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Laundry Line Travel clothes line (need to get one)
Spork (probably good idea for me, since I'm plant based and a picky eater!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QF5QRU6/?coliid=I3KF4ZQN3QX57U&colid=12SIZQES8GJ2&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
TOILETRIES/SHOWER
Shampoo/Body soap bar. I'm making this from scratch with my fav ingredients. I will cut small pieces to use sparingly & to keep dry.
Deodorant (small lightweight)
Oil/Rub Castor oil/vaseline/coconut oil/tiger balm (one or more of these)
Tissues small packet
Baggies small plastic bags, variety sizes (everyone says you will want to have these)
Sunscreen/Moisturizer
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Laundry Soap Sheets This is a new thing and they work great. (they can be cut up for small batches)
Chapstick
Contacts/Reading Glasses
Razor
Microfiber Towel $12.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L88DDQC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
MEDICATIONS PLUS
Arnica
Tylenol (I'm allergic to other pain meds)
Zyrtec allergy med
Magnesium/Electrolytes
Vitamins
Melatonin
Personal meds
Benadryl (?)
Charcoal or probiotic
Compeed $18.48
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RHZBXTG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
ELECTRONICS
iPhone
Apple Watch
Charging cords
Multiple USB Wall Charger, [22W/4.4A] LENCENT 4 Port USB Travel Power Adapter, All in One Worldwide Cell Phone Charger With UK US EU European Australia, International Block Cube Plug for iPhone & IPad
TRAVEL
Airline ticket
Train ticket
Bus/Taxi
Hotel in SJPP (1 night)
STILL THINKING ABOUT - but none of these items would amount to a significant weight change
Gators some say just use plastic bags if needed, as might not need at all
Charging unit I probably won't get one, as my iPhone stays charged for long periods and I can use airplane mode.
Phone plan It was suggested to use WhatsApp for making calls, texts, etc. This requires wifi, but maybe that's a good thing--keep me off the grid longer. I'm considering getting a back up plan for emergency phone use from Verizon. In case I need to call for a hotel or who knows what. I'm not anticipating being on my phone while walking. Photos can upload on the cloud once at our stopping point. I'm open to your thoughts here!
Tote bag for carrying into town, out to dinner, etc. Something very lightweight and very packable
Baseball Cap I've heard that it is helpful to have a cap if it rains to keep the wet off your face. Apparently the floppy hat doesn't cut it!
Headlamp - may or may not take one. The one I ordered never arrived. Still deciding whether to get another one.