Let’s get one thing straight: your backpack is your life on the Camino. For the next few weeks, everything you need—clothes, gear, first-aid supplies, snacks, and that one luxury item you swear you can’t live without—will be on your back.

And if you overpack? You will regret it.

I promise you, by Day 3, that just-in-case outfit, extra-large bottle of shampoo, and hardcover book you thought would be a great companion will feel like bricks dragging you down. At some point, you will either mail stuff home, leave it behind at an albergue, or curse yourself for not listening when everyone said: pack light. But do not worry—I have got you covered. Here is what you actually need, what you can leave behind, and a few hard-earned lessons from pilgrims who learned the hard way.

The Packing Golden Rule: Keep It Under 10% of Your Body Weight

You will hear this rule again and again: your pack should not exceed 10% of your body weight (or ideally 7-8% if you can manage it).

For most people, that means 6-9 kg (13-20 lbs) fully loaded, including water.

“But what if I’m strong?” It does not matter. After walking 25 km (15 miles) a day, even the toughest person will feel the weight. Trust me—lighter is always better.

The Absolute Essentials (AKA, What You Cannot Walk Without)

These are the non-negotiables. Forget anything else, but do not forget these:

Backpack (24-36L) – Large enough to fit your essentials, small enough to keep it light. Try it on with weightbefore you leave.

Shoes – Trail runners, lightweight hiking boots, or sturdy walking shoes. Whatever you choose, break them in before you go.

Socks (4 pairs max) – Good wool or moisture-wicking socks will save your feet. Cotton = blisters.

Sleeping Bag Liner – Not always needed in summer, but hostels often only provide blankets. A lightweight liner keeps you warm and keeps bedbugs away.

Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder – At least 1L capacity. Refill often.

Pilgrim Credential (Credencial) – This is your pilgrim passport, needed for staying in albergues and proving you walked the Camino.

Phone and Charger – Communication, navigation, journaling—everything can be done on your mobile.

Clothing (Keep It Simple!) – The rule of three: 1 to wear, 1 to wash, 1 to dry. That means:
• 3 shirts (moisture-wicking, quick-dry)
• 2 pairs of pants/shorts/leggings
• 3 pairs of underwear (quick-dry)
• 1 lightweight fleece or jacket
• 1 rain jacket or poncho (ESSENTIAL in Galicia)

First-Aid Kit (Small but Mighty) –
• Compeed or Leukotape for blisters
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen (your best friend)
• Band-aids and antiseptic wipes
• Any personal medications

Toiletries (Minimalist Edition) –
• Travel-size everything
• Solid shampoo bar (lasts longer, no spills)
• Quick-dry towel
• Toilet paper or tissues (You’ll thank me for this)

Sun Protection – Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. The Spanish sun does NOT play around.

A Positive Attitude – The most important thing in your pack.

The “Nice to Have” (But Only If You Have Room)

These are optional, but they can make life easier:

Sandals or Flip-Flops – Perfect for letting your feet breathe in the evening.

Walking Poles – If you have knee issues, they help a LOT on hills. (Buy them in Spain to avoid airline hassles.)

Earplugs and Sleep Mask – You WILL sleep in a room with snorers. It is unavoidable.

Stuff Sack or Dry Bag – Keeps your things organized and dry.

Notebook or Journal – If you like writing, the Camino is full of moments worth remembering.

Small Knife or Spork – Handy for cutting fruit, cheese, or picnic lunches.

The “You Will Regret This” List

Too Many Clothes – You will not need five shirts. Laundry is easy.

Jeans – Heavy, take forever to dry, miserable in rain. Leave them at home.

Big Bottles of Toiletries – A travel-size tube of toothpaste lasts longer than you think.

A Giant First-Aid Kit – Pharmacies are everywhere. You do not need a full emergency room in your pack.

Books – They are heavy. Read on your phone or swap books at albergues.

Camping Gear – Unless you plan on wild camping (which is difficult in Spain), leave the tent and stove at home.

Expensive Electronics – A phone is enough. You do NOT need a laptop, drone, or giant camera. (And yes, I have seen people carrying all of these.)

Headlamp – Not needed—your phone flashlight is sufficient.

Tiny Laundry Kit – these things are generally provided for you at laundromats.

Less is More

Every pilgrim has their own packing philosophy, but almost everyone wishes they had packed less by the end. The Camino is about simplicity, and you will quickly learn that you need far less than you think.

At some point, you will meet a fellow pilgrim who has ditched half their stuff and is now walking with nothing but a tiny backpack and a huge smile. That is when it will hit you: freedom comes from carrying less.

So, before you pack that extra “just in case” item, ask yourself: Do I really need this? Or am I just afraid of being uncomfortable?

Because the truth is, the Camino will make you uncomfortable at times—tired, sore, maybe even questioning your life choices on a particularly brutal hill. But it will also show you that you are stronger than you think, and you need far less than you imagined.

And that, my friend, is part of the journey.

Buen Camino.