Camino de Santiago Packing List: What to Bring

Wondering what to pack for the Camino? You don’t need much — just enough to stay clean, comfortable, and a little bit prepared. This list focuses on the essentials: the things most pilgrims find genuinely useful, plus a few optional items depending on your needs. Whether you’re walking the Norte, Francés, or any other route, this is a great place to start.

Universal Camino Packing List

Essentials – Gear & Daily Use

• Backpack
  Your main companion. Around 30–40L is usually enough — try this option, depending on your needs.
• Small daypack or packable tote
  Handy for short walks without your main pack, or for grocery runs once you settle in. (e.g., this packable daypack)
• Trekking poles
  Save your knees on the downhills and give your arms something to do. (example)
• Water bottle
  Staying hydrated matters more than you think — even when it’s cloudy.
• Travel spork or lightweight utensil set
  Great for picnics or quick meals when you're too tired to hunt for a restaurant. (example)
• Headlamp
  Perfect for early starts or navigating dark albergues without waking everyone up. (example)
• Phone
  Map, camera, translator, journal, flashlight… pilgrim multitool.
• Phone charger
  Don't forget the cable too! Outlets can be in odd places.
• Power bank
  Especially useful on long stretches between towns or when staying in basic hostels.
• Safety pins
  Surprisingly versatile: hang laundry, patch gear, or secure your towel to your backpack.
• Reflective gear
  Helpful during early mornings or cloudy days to keep you visible near roads.

Hygiene & Cleaning

• Quick-dry travel towel
  Folds up tiny, dries fast, and won’t stink like a regular towel. (example)
• Toothbrush
  Nothing fancy — just small and lightweight.
• Toothpaste
  Travel-size to start, then refill along the way.
• Tissues or toilet paper
  Always keep a small stash — restrooms can be… unpredictable.
• Castile soap
  Gentle enough for skin and wool clothes, and good for laundry too - especially merino wool. One bar, many uses.

Clothing

• 2–3 t-shirts (quick-dry or merino)
  Comfort matters. Quick-dry synthetics are easy to wash; merino keeps smells at bay. Men’s / Women’s
• 2–3 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic)
  The difference between happy feet and blisters. Merino wool is a pilgrim favorite. merino option
• 2–3 pairs of underwear
  Wash one, wear one, have a backup. Choose comfort and fast drying. Men’s / Women’s
• 1–2 pairs of hiking pants
  Durable, lightweight, and better than jeans. Convertible ones give bonus versatility. Men’s / Women’s
• 1 long-sleeve shirt
  Layers are key. This one’s for cooler mornings or sun protection. Men’s / Women’s
• Rain poncho or rain jacket
  Weather happens. A lightweight poncho can cover both you and your pack. (poncho example)
• Lightweight insulating layer (e.g. thin puffer jacket or fleece)
  For chilly mornings or high-altitude towns — men’s puffer / women’s puffer work well.
• Hat or sun protection
  The Spanish sun is no joke. Bring a brim.
• Flip-flops
  Your feet will love the freedom after a long day in shoes. Also great for showers.
• Comfortable walking shoes (e.g. regular sports shoes or trail runners)
  Go with what you’ve broken in.

Sleep

• Sleeping bag or sleeping bag liner
  Some albergues provide blankets, others don’t. Match this to the season. Liner / Ultralight sleeping bag
• Earplugs
  The snorers are out there. Trust us.
• Sleep mask
  Lights go on early — or stay on late. A mask helps. (example)

First Aid & Medications

• Antiseptic
  For cuts, scrapes, and the occasional Camino mishap.
• Moleskin or blister treatment
  Lifesavers if you start to feel a hotspot. Don't wait too long.
• Tape (cloth or paper)
  Lightweight and perfect for wrapping feet or securing bandages.
• Bandages
  A few small ones are enough. You're not opening a clinic.
• Small scissors
  For trimming tape, bandages, or thread — TSA-compliant scissors are best.
• Ibuprofen or other pain reliever
  For sore muscles, headaches, or inflamed joints.
• Nail clippers
  A surprising number of foot issues start with neglected toenails.

Other Items

• Credencial (pilgrim passport)
  Get it stamped daily, and you’ll earn your Compostela at the end.
• Zip-loc bags
  Great for organizing toiletries, electronics, snacks, or soggy socks.

🧍 Optional / Personal Items

These depend on your body or preferences, but might be essential for you:

• Sports bras (2)
  Choose breathable, quick-dry options for comfort during long days. Women’s model
• Razor or electric shaver
  If staying groomed keeps you feeling human. manual / electric
• Personal hygiene supplies
  Bring what you’ll need for your cycle; rural shops may not stock your preferred products. pads, tampons, or menstrual cup