The Camino de Santiago is an iconic journey that attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the world each year.

These ancient paths, filled with history, spirituality, and natural beauty, are much more than a simple walk—they are a transformative experience that challenges the body, mind, and soul.

Therefore, before embarking on this unique adventure for the first time, it is essential to be well-prepared and informed.

Firstly, you should research which Camino you are going to choose. Then, follow some (if not all) of the tips we have gathered in this article.

This article aims to provide the fundamental information you need to know, based on our experience, before starting the Camino de Santiago. This way, you will take another step towards ensuring that your adventure is not only successful but also deeply enriching.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

1 – What is the Best Backpack for the Camino de Santiago?

First of all, there is no such thing as the “best backpack” universally. Instead, there is an ideal model, which should be chosen based on your height and personal needs.

Here are some essential features to consider when choosing a backpack for the Camino de Santiago:

1. 1.  Maximum Capacity of 20 to 30 Liters - It may seem small, but it's more than enough for most needs. A larger capacity might lead to packing unnecessary items.
   2. Hip and Chest Straps - These straps help distribute the weight of the backpack across your body and provide greater comfort. The hip strap(the first to be adjusted) should be positioned above the iliac crests and tightened to ensure the backpack is properly supported. Then adjust the shoulder straps nd the top and bottom buckles. If the backpack is well-adjusted, the straps should barely touch your shoulders. Finally, adjust the chest strap to prevent the backpack from swaying as you walk.
   3. Camel Bag division - While not essential, a compartment for a hydration reservoir (camel bag) makes it easier to access water during your walk, avoiding frequent stops to fetch water from your backpack.
   4. Man VS Woman Backpack - The body structure of women is different from that of men, particularly in terms of height and back width. Therefore, choosing a backpackdesigned specifically for your gender can improve fit and comfort.

 

2 – What to Pack in Your Backpack?

First and foremost, you should keep in mind that every extra gram will turn into an extra kilogram by the end of the day. And two kilograms extra by the end of the second day, and so on. It is very important to minimize your load, as less really is more in this case.

That beeing said, it doesn’t matter if you’re doing the Camino in 5 days, 15 days, or even a month. The principle remains the same, and we are in the 21st century, where almost everywhere has a laundry service or accommodation with laundry facilities. In the worst case, soap and water can be found almost anywhere to freshen up your clothes.

The rule you should follow is that your backpack should not weigh more than 10% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 70 kg, your backpack should weigh 7 kg.

Thus, what we consider essential to carry in your backpack is:

1. 1. First aid kit Bandages for blisters, adhesive bandages, antihistamines, ibuprofen, paracetamol, Betadine, petroleum jelly.
   2. 4 pairs of socks - For longer stages, we recommend changing socks to keep your feet dry.
   3. 2/3 pairs of pants/shorts/leggins
   4. 2/3 pairs of t-shirts/tops
   5. 2/3 pairs of underwear
   6. 1 pair of sandals/flip-flops to use in shower and on the street 
   7. Water bottle
   8. 1 Jacket - windbreaker or fleece
   9. Electrolytes - To dissolve in water and drink throughout the day to prevent cramps and muscle fatigue.
   10. Caloric and Protein Snacks
   11. Toiletry Kit - All in one Soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, deodorant
   12. Phone Charger and power bank
   13. Hiking Poles - Some may consider these optional. However, based on our experience, they are essential, saving your knees and preventing your hands from swelling.

Depending on the month you plan to walk the Camino, you may also need to bring:

1. 1. Sun screen
   2. Hat
   3. Sun glasses
   4. Rain Poncho

However, your choice of accommodation also affects what you should pack. If you plan to stay in public hostels, you will likely need to add to this list a sleeping bag (or sleeping sheet) and a bath towel.

Also, you may have noticed that we didn't mention pajamas, and this was not an oversight. While pajamas may not weigh much, every gram counts. Therefore, our tip is to bring comfortable clothing that you can sleep in. In other words, your pajamas will be the clothes you plan to wear the next day.

 

What is the Best Footwear for the Camino de Santiago?

Similar to the backpack, there isn't a single "best footwear" for the Camino de Santiago. Instead, the best footwear is the one that you find most comfortable for being on your feet for several hours. Some people do the Camino in sandals, others in sneakers, and some in specialized hiking shoes. It all depends on your sensitivity and preference.

What you should NEVER do is wear new shoes for this adventure. And when we say never, we really mean NEVER!

Here are some tips that are quite personal, as we're talking about feet and comfort, and obviously, everyone knows their own feet better than anyone else.

1. 1. Low-Cut vs. High-Cut Boots – Which is Better? - In our experience, high-cut boots offer more ankle stability, reducing the risk of sprains, and are better suited for rainy conditions. However, they are warmer, heavier, and if your legs tend to swell, high-cut boots might feel too tight and cause discomfort. Avoid making the mistake of wearing boots with loose cuffs, as this can cause friction on your heels, leading to painful blisters.
   2. Hard Sole vs. Soft Sole – Hiking Shoes vs. Sneakers - From our personal experience, hard soles are preferable because they prevent the soles of your feet from feeling the irregularities of the terrain, thereby reducing extra strain on your feet. This is especially important if you have very sensitive feet. If your feet are not extremely sensitive, running shoes might be suitable for you.
   3. Non-Slip Sole - Again, this is a very personal opinion. Since the Camino de Santiago features various types of terrain, we recommend being prepared for all of them. Non-slip footwear can be very helpful on some types of surfaces and may help prevent falls.
   4. Shoe Size - If you need to buy new shoes for the Camino, choose a size slightly larger than your usual size, as your feet will inevitably swell during the walk.

Just as important as your footwear are your socks.

Socks play a crucial role in protecting your feet during this adventure, and let’s face it, your feet are your most valuable asset.

Here are some essential features that socks for such a challenge should have:

1. 1. No seams
   2. No reinforced elastic at the cuff
   3. Snug fit
   4. Reinforcement in the toe and heel areas
   5. Made from the most natural materials possible (we are fans of merino wool socks)

Extra Tip - If you sweat a lot from your feet and your socks can't keep them dry, consider changing your socks along the way or placing a sanitary pad over the insole for extra absorption and cushioning. Note that you may need slightly larger shoes to accommodate this additional padding.

 

4 – What Documents Should I Bring?

To complete the Camino de Santiago, you don’t need much documentation. In fact, you only need your National ID Card or Passport.

However, we also recommend bringing your European Health Insurance Card (CESDor buy a travel insurance, just in case in need to go a clinic or hospital, and also the Pilgrim’s Credential which gives you discounts on accommodation and meals, and grants you access to the Compostela Certificate.

Nevertheless, don't forget your bank card, so you can cash out some money and pay for your meals and accommodation

 

5 – Should I Book Accommodation for the Camino de Santiago?

Well, it largely depends on what you want to experience on this journey. However, we can say that if you plan to walk the Camino during peak times or festive seasons, it is best to book in advance to avoid any risks. This is especially true if you want a reasonably comfortable place to sleep.

However, keep in mind that if you choose to stay only in Public Hostels, they do not accept reservations and operate on a “first come, first served” basis. This means accommodation is granted in the order of arrival. Additionally, these hostels generally do not provide bed linen (only a blanket or duvet), towels, or breakfast.

On the other hand, not booking accommodation gives you more freedom and allows you to finish your stage whenever you want without being tied to a pre-booked place.

This is perhaps, along with a higher cost, one of the downsides of booking accommodation. You are obliged to finish your stage at the reserved accommodation.

In any case, whichever option you choose, take a look at our article that includes some accommodations along the Portuguese Central Route of the Camino.

6 – What is the Best Time to Do the Camino de Santiago?

We know that many people can only undertake the Camino de Santiago during summer vacations, which means high temperatures, long lines in supermarkets, crowded paths, and bustling cities.

However, if you are fortunate enough not to have your vacation locked to August, consider choosing months like May, June, July, September, or October. During these months, temperatures are milder, the Camino is pleasantly populated, and merchants have more time to attend to you.

Outside these months, particularly March and April, can also be good options, though the weather may be a bit more unpredictable and there might be fewer accommodations available in more rural areas.

If rain and cold are not an issue for you, winter months are also a viable option. However, you need to be very attentive to accommodations, as many may not be operating during this time.

 

7 – Is It Safe to Do the Camino de Santiago Alone?

Generally speaking, and based on our experience, the people who undertake this journey have a single goal: to complete it peacefully. You shouldn’t encounter many problems with other pilgrims. However, as they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, we advise you to stay vigilant, keep your guard up, and trust your instincts.

Let’s see what you should do to stay safe during the Camino.

1. 1. Use tour Senses - If you are walking alone, keep all your senses alert, especially in more rural and remote areas. Avoid walking with headphones in your ears and keep a friend or family member updated on your location. If you meet another pilgrim, join them.
   2. Theft/Robbery/Fraud – Robberies are not common on the Camino, but there are some reports, usually affecting those walking alone. Theft occurs more frequently in hostels, especially when they are crowded. Therefore, keep your valuables in hard-to-access places and try to carry them with you at all times. When you stop to rest, never leave your backpack unattended. Fraud can also happen, often involving people posing as pilgrims asking for money for food or accommodation.
   3. Violent Crimes – The murder of an American in 2015 is the only recorded violent crime on the Camino de Santiago and serves as a reminder that it's always best to play it safe. As mentioned earlier, if you are alone, keep in touch with your accommodation, friends, or family about your expected arrival times and whereabouts. This way, if something goes wrong, they will know and can alert the authorities.
   4. Signage of Camino - Some routes are better marked than others. However, a common difficulty is when you reach a large city where, amidst many visual stimuli, the arrows are often overlooked. App's like Wikiloc include stages of various routes, and with a premium subscription, you can download them. It’s always good to have a GPS map on your phone as it’s easy to miss an arrow.

 

8 – How Much Money Will I Spend on the Camino de Santiago?

There is no concrete answer to this question. However, we can provide you with an estimate, per day.

Firstly, it’s important to note that there are two ways to do the Camino: as a Pilgrim and as a “Turigrim” (a term coined by our dear Treking Leader Edmur).

Neither approach is right or wrong, contrary to what you might read elsewhere. Let’s explain the differences.

So, the most economical way to do the Camino is as a Pilgrim. This means staying exclusively in Public hostels, which are often “free,” with a tip left at your discretion. Even if they are paid, the cost is approximately 10 Euros per night.

Since there is no breakfast provided, you can buy only what you need from supermarkets.

Furthermore, Meals, if eaten at restaurants or snack bars that accept the pilgrim credential, may cost around 10-15 Euros per full meal.

You can plan to spend an average of 50 Euros per day if you wish to experience the Camino exclusively as a pilgrim.

On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more comfort, you might opt for a more “Turigrim” experience. This means booking accommodations in hostels or private hotels that include bed linen/towels and breakfast (or other meals). For basic and non-luxurious accommodations, you can expect to pay between 30 to 50 Euros per night. A full meal in restaurants that do not accept the credential might cost around 25 to 30 Euros per meal.

In this mode, you could spend between 80 a 110 euros per day.

If you desire even more comfort, or if your health or physical condition no longer permits it, you can hire a luggage transfer company, allowing you to walk with only a small backpack with water and snacks. experiencia ainda com mais conforto, ou porque simplesmente a tua saude ou preparação fisica já não o permitem, podes contratar uma empresa de transfer de bagagem, para que assim faças o teu Caminho apenas de mochila com água e snacks.

9 – How to Physically Prepare for the Camino de Santiago?

Proper physical preparation is essential for a successful Camino. Don’t be fooled into thinking that being physically active means you don’t need to prepare.

A good physical preparation should be gradual and ideally start about 3 months before (depending on the length and characteristics of the Camino route you’ve chosen).

However, this is just our recommendation, as we don’t know your individual fitness level. If in doubt, consult a sports professional.

Start your preparation with 5 km of walking on asphalt (the more times per week you can do this, the better), and then gradually increase to 10, 15, and 20 km each week. If you can go beyond 20 km, that’s great, as some stages exceed 20 km, but for training purposes, 20 km is more than sufficient.

Although, if you are an active person, you should bypass asphalt training and start incorporating mixed/uneven terrain into your practice. However, we understand that finding non-asphalt terrain can be challenging in urban areas.

Look for a nearby mountain or rural area with mixed terrain. This will help prepare your mind for the challenges of the Camino. If you can find an area with mixed terrain and slopes, that’s even better, as you’ll encounter steep inclines on the Camino and need to be prepared for them.

Once you’re comfortable with 20 km on uneven terrain with inclines, it’s time to add weight to your backpack. Return to the initial 5 km, but now with mixed terrain and inclines, and gradually increase the distance each week.

If you are a completely sedentary person (although we have an example in the family that contradicts what we are about to say), you should start your training even earlier, as you’ll need to begin walking at a slower pace.

As a final test, you can always plan a short hiking getaway (2 to 3 days) in an area near you. Besides being excellent training, you also get to explore a new destination.

And remember, do your training in the footwear you’ll be using on the journey. If it’s new footwear, this tip is essential to break them in.

 

10 – How to Prepare Psychologically for the Camino de Santiago?

Once we decide to go on the Camino de Santiago, we start thinking about everything involved: physical preparation, planning, how many stages, which route to choose, among many other questions. But while we think about preparing our bodies, we must not forget that we also need to prepare our minds. This is not just a walk or a stroll in the park.

With that in mind, and without claiming to have a definitive mental preparation guide for the Camino (since there isn't one), there are some questions you should consider before starting the journey.

1. 1. What is my purpose for doing the Camino? Is it a promise? A personal challenge? For sport? Defining your purpose gives you inner strength and aligns your expectations.
   2. Am I prepared to step out of my comfort zone? Going to an unfamiliar country alone, staying in shared accommodations with basic conditions and no luxuries? Talking to strangers if I need help? Respecting others' rest and pace? And if something happens, will I be able to manage on my own?
   3. Am I ready to adapt to new customs and traditions? Am I open to new experiences, whether they are culinary, social, or cultural?
   4. Am I ready to deal with negative thoughts? The journey might seem overwhelming: "There's still so much left," "I'm so tired," "I'm scared," "I haven’t slept at all," "Why did I come alone," "I don’t think I’ll make it to the end."
   5. Can I learn life lessons from the less pleasant moments? Will you find good things in the bad experiences, or will you be frustrated and upset?

The Camino changes us significantly. But more than changing us, it teaches us to appreciate what we take for granted in daily life, such as our family, our home, our comfort, and even our food. It teaches us humility, tolerance, and solidarity. It shows us that the most beautiful things in life are found in simplicity and personal growth

And just because you’ve made it this far, we have not one but two Extra Tips for you regarding transportation.

11 – Where to Leave Your Car to Start the Camino?

This will depend on where you start the Camino, but since many people begin in Porto and Valença, here are some suggestions for these cities.

However, the ideal option is always to use public transportation.

In Porto, some of the places we suggest are:

• • Live Student in Ameal
  • Churrasqueira do Ameal
  • Pilgrims Hostel of Porto
  • Train or tube Stations

In Valença, some of the suggested places are:

• • GNR (Police) and Fire Department (by prior arrangement)
  • Main Avenue
  • Accommodation parks

As a last resort you can use the website Parkopediawhich provides information on numerous parking options in various cities, including the final cost of parking for your stay.

12 – How to Return from Santiago de Compostela?

Transportes Públicos

Public transportation is always the most economical option for returning from Santiago de Compostela. You have two choices:

• • Train - However, there is no direct train from Santiago to Portugal, so you will need to change in Vigo to another train or take a bus. Visit the Trainline website for more information.
  • Bus - This may be the best option as it is direct and much faster. Two companies provide this service Flixbus and ALSA

Private Transportation

• • Private Transfer - If you are traveling with a group, for example, 8 people, a private transfer might be more beneficial as you can set your own schedule and pick-up and drop-off locations. The extra cost for the transfer will definitely be compensated by the added comfort. If you need this service, you can contact us.
  • Family or friend - If you have a family member or friend who has never visited Santiago, it’s a great opportunity to invite them to explore Santiago and bring you back. Don’t forget to treat them to a nice dinner in return.

If, despite these excellent tips, you still don’t feel confident enough to do the Caminho de Santiago alone, fear not. Have a look at ourtours here