What to Pack for the Camino de Santiago: 2026 Checklist

Everything you really need for the Camino — without carrying too much weight

One of the first questions people ask when planning a pilgrimage route is what to pack for the Camino de Santiago. The answer depends on several factors: the time of year, the route you choose, the type of accommodation, your hiking experience, and whether you will carry your backpack yourself or use luggage transfer services.

At Santiago Ways, we have spent years helping pilgrims from all over the world organise their Camino, so in this guide you will not only find a complete checklist, but also practical advice to help you pack smart and avoid unnecessary weight.

What to pack for the Camino de Santiago (quick summary)

For the Camino de Santiago, you need a lightweight backpack with technical clothing, waterproof layers, well-worn shoes, documentation, sun protection, and a small first-aid kit.

The key is not bringing more things, but bringing only what you really need and adapting your packing list to the season, the route, and the type of trip you are planning.

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Before packing: the golden rule of backpack weight

If you are walking the Camino

Try to keep the total backpack weight — including water — between 8% and 10% of your body weight.

If you are cycling the Camino

Although weight distribution works differently on a bike, travelling light will still make the experience much more comfortable.

The most important idea

On the Camino, you will regularly find pharmacies, supermarkets, and shops along the route. There is no point starting with a 12–15 kg backpack “just in case”.

Three tips before deciding what to pack

1. Remember that you will find services along the route

On most Camino routes, you will pass through towns with supermarkets, pharmacies, and shops.

If you need something specific, it is often easier to buy it during the trip rather than carrying it from day one.

2. Bring things you would not mind losing or leaving behind

On longer routes, it is common to lose items, forget clothing somewhere, or even decide to get rid of part of your luggage to walk more comfortably.

If you need to reduce weight, you usually have several options:

• Use luggage transfer services
• Send excess items home by courier
• Donate or leave behind what you no longer need

3. There is no perfect backpack for everyone

You will find endless packing lists online. Focus on those that explain why each item matters, and adapt your list depending on:

• The route you choose
• The time of year
• Your hiking experience
• The type of accommodation

Someone walking the Camino del Norte in autumn does not need the same equipment as someone doing the Portuguese Camino in summer.

What NOT to pack for the Camino de Santiago

One of the most common mistakes is bringing too many things “just in case”.

Avoid packing:

• Too many clothes
• Large toiletry bags
• Unnecessary duplicates
• Heavy books
• Items you probably will not use

The lighter your backpack is, the more you will enjoy the Camino.

Essential Camino de Santiago packing checklist

Documents and money

• Passport or ID
• Health card or travel insurance
• Pilgrim Credential
• Bank card
• Some cash
• Booking confirmations on your phone

Clothing (layering system)

The best strategy is to wear lightweight layers that you can combine depending on the temperature.

Essentials:

• 2 technical t-shirts
• 1 lightweight mid-layer
• 1 waterproof jacket or windbreaker
• 1–2 pairs of trousers
• 3 pairs of technical socks
• 2–3 sets of underwear
• Cap or buff

Footwear and foot care

Footwear is probably the most important part of your gear.

Essentials:

• Well-worn hiking shoes or boots
• Flip-flops for showers and resting
• Anti-chafing cream or Vaseline
• Blister plasters
• Regular plasters

Never use brand-new shoes on the Camino.

Basic first-aid kit for pilgrims

You do not need a large medical kit — just a practical one.

Recommended:

• Gauze
• Medical tape
• Antiseptic
• Painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication
• Electrolyte salts (especially in summer)

Hygiene and rest

• Mini toothbrush and toothpaste
• Small soap or solid soap
• Sunscreen
• Microfibre towel
• Earplugs

Electronics and safety

• Mobile phone
• Charger
• Small power bank
• Waterproof pouch for documents and phone

What backpack should you use for the Camino de Santiago?

Your backpack and footwear are the two most important pieces of equipment.

Your backpack should be:

Comfortable

With padded shoulder straps, chest strap, and hip belt.

Lightweight

Ideally around 1.5 kg when empty.

Adjustable

It should fit closely against your back to distribute weight properly.

The right size

Do I need a sleeping bag?

It depends on your accommodation.

Hostels and albergues

A lightweight sleeping bag or sleeping bag liner is usually recommended.

Hotels and guesthouses

Normally you will not need one, as bedding is provided.

Are trekking poles worth it?

In general, yes — especially if you are not used to walking long distances.

Trekking poles help to:

• Distribute weight better
• Reduce impact on the knees
• Improve stability

If you do not use them on flat sections, you can attach them to the outside of your backpack.

Qué llevar según la época del año

Useful extras that barely take up space

Some small items can make a big difference during the Camino:

• Laundry bag
• Small pegs or travel washing line
• Mini moisturiser
• Emergency snack

Conclusion

Packing properly can make a huge difference to your Camino de Santiago experience.

Travelling lighter, choosing the right clothing, and adapting your equipment to the route and season will help you walk more comfortably and enjoy every stage much more.

Remember that you will usually find shops and services along the Camino, so there is no need to carry extra weight “just in case”.

¡Buen Camino!