Packing list: the lighter, the better

How heavy should your pack be?

Under 10 kg—and the lighter, the better.

• Official advice from Galicia: keep your pack under 10 kg and bring only the essentials; your pack should sit flush against your back, with the weight close to your body's center.
• Many pilgrims aim for 10% of their body weight—for example, around 6 kg if you weigh 60 kg (before water and food).

Everything in your pack walks with you for 5–7 hours every single day. If you are hesitating over whether to bring something, you probably don't need it.

What matters most?

A pair of well-broken-in shoes. Official guidance specifically warns against starting the Camino in brand-new shoes.

• Walking shoes: Well-fitting hiking shoes or trail runners that you have already worn on at least a few long walks.
• After-walk footwear: Flip-flops or sandals for the shower and evenings.
• Socks: 3 pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks without raised seams. Merino wool or wool blends are the most popular choice: they stay warm, wick sweat, and resist odors. Galicia's official guide also recommends bringing an extra pair of wool socks if you wear boots. If your feet sweat easily, change into a dry pair mid-walk.

How many sets of clothes?

Wear one set, pack one set, and wash daily. You can do laundry at the albergue in the afternoon, and quick-dry clothes will be dry by the next morning.

• 2–3 quick-dry tops
• 1–2 pairs of pants or shorts
• 1 warm mid-layer (fleece or light down jacket)
• Waterproof jacket or poncho (it can rain year-round in Galicia)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Underwear to change into

What to bring for sleeping and washing up?

• Lightweight sleeping bag or sleeping bag liner
• Earplugs and eye mask
• Quick-dry towel
• Travel-sized toiletries

What goes in a small first-aid kit?

• Blister plasters (hydrocolloid dressings), band-aids, and small scissors
• Sunscreen
• Any regular personal medications

What other small items?

• Headlamp (for early morning starts)
• Water bottle or hydration bladder, 1–1.5 L
• Clothespins or safety pins
• Phone, charger, power bank, and plug adapter (Spain and Portugal use Type C and Type F sockets)
• Passport, credencial (pilgrim passport), travel insurance details, credit card, and a bit of cash

What extra gear do you need in winter?

If you are walking between November and March, add warmer layers, gloves, a warm hat, and more reliable rain gear.

Key points

• Keep your pack under 10 kg—ideally around 10% of your body weight.
• Wear broken-in shoes and moisture-wicking wool hiking socks.
• Wear one set of clothes, pack one, and wash daily; you can buy almost anything else along the way.

In CaminoGO

You can toggle POI categories on the map to find pharmacies, supermarkets, and water points along the trail. Before you pack, check out Foot care: how to prevent and treat blisters.