When I first set out for Santiago back in the XX century, the «gear» landscape was vastly different. There were no ultra-light synthetic fabrics, no sophisticated GPS apps, and certainly no luxury luggage transfer services. We carried everything on our backs—heavy cotton shirts, bulky sleeping bags, and leather boots that took weeks to break in.

Fast forward thirty years, and while the technology has changed, the fundamental philosophy of the Camino remains the same: The Camino provides, but only if you don’t weigh yourself down.

At Northwest Incoming, we’ve seen thousands of pilgrims begin their journey. The most common mistake? Packing for «what if» instead of packing for «what is.» Based on our experience, here is our guide to packing like a seasoned expert.

The Golden Rule: The 10% Principle

In the 90s, we learned the hard way that every extra ounce feels like a pound after twenty miles. The modern rule of thumb is that your pack should never exceed 10% of your body weight. However, as an agency that understands the needs of the modern traveler, we also know that many of our clients prefer luggage transfer services.

Even if you aren’t carrying your full suitcase, «packing light» is still a spiritual discipline. It allows you to move with agility and focus on the landscape rather than your belongings.

Footwear: Your Most Important Investment

If you invest in nothing else, invest in your feet. In my early days on the trail, heavy mountain boots were the norm. Today, we recommend a high-quality pair of trail runners or mid-cut hiking boots (with Gore-Tex waterproofing if not walking in the summer months).

• A “pro” Tip: Never, under any circumstances, start the Camino with brand-new shoes. We advise our clients to walk at least 100 miles in their chosen footwear before arriving in Spain.
• The Sock Secret: Forget cotton. Cotton traps moisture and causes blisters. Look for merino wool blends (like Smartwool or Darn Tough). They naturally wick away sweat and stay odor-free—a blessing for you and your fellow pilgrims. We also like those modern technical socks (or hiking socks).

Layering for the North of Spain

Northern Spain is famous for its «four seasons in one day» climate. You might start a morning in the Galician mist and end the afternoon under a scorching Castilian sun.

1. Base Layer: Moisture-wicking t-shirts (synthetic or merino).
2. Mid Layer: A lightweight fleece or a «puffy» down vest.
3. Outer Layer: A high-quality rain jacket or a heavy-duty poncho that covers both you and your pack. today, breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex will keep you happy during those inevitable Galician showers.

The «Spiritual» Essentials

Since many of our travelers join us for a journey of faith, we suggest leaving room for items that nourish the soul. Just a couple of them could be:

• A small journal: To record reflections after a long day of walking.
• A «Stone» from home: A long-standing tradition is to carry a small stone from your home and leave it at the Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross), symbolizing the burdens you wish to leave behind.

Why We Prioritize Local Establishments

Part of our packing philosophy involves knowing what not to bring because you can find it better in Spain. Instead of packing a month’s supply of heavy toiletries or snacks, we encourage you to visit the local pharmacies and «ultramarinos» (small grocery stores).

By buying your sunblock, blister kits (look for the brand Compeed—it’s a life-saver!), and daily snacks in the villages you pass through, you are practicing sustainable tourism. You are putting money directly into the hands of the families who have kept the Camino spirit alive for centuries. Plus, there is no better «recovery drink» than a freshly squeezed orange juice or a café con leche in a stone-walled village square.

What to Leave at Home

• Heavy Books: Switch to an e-reader or use the time for silence and contemplation.
• Too Many Gadgets: The Camino is a rare chance to unplug.
• Jeans: They are heavy, they don’t dry, and they are uncomfortable for long-distance walking.

The Northwest Incoming Touch

Our team of guides has seen every type of gear imaginable. When we design your custom itinerary, we don’t just give you a generic list; we look at the time of year you are traveling and the specific route you’ve chosen. A pilgrim on the mountainous Primitive Way in October needs different gear than someone on the Portuguese Way in June.

Ready to pack your bags?

We’ve spent thirty years learning the secrets of the trail so you don’t have to learn them the hard way. Let us handle the logistics and the heavy lifting while you focus on the footsteps.

Don’t forget asking us for our » Packing List» before packing for your Camino.