The Camino de Santiago (Camino de Santiago in Spanish) is the most famous spiritual pilgrimage in the world which has as its destination the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, a region of Spain, erected in homage to Saint James the Greater. It is an itinerary made up of different routes throughout Europe that lead everyone to Santiago. In this online guide, you will find all the most important and essential information to go backpacking.
In the Camino de Santiago it is very important to know what to bring , in order not to make mistakes in clothing and equipment and to have a beautiful experience in serenity. Getting to Santiago de Compostela lightly is possible. The Camino de Santiago , which was once exclusively a pilgrimage route to reach the Sanctuary of the Apostle St. James in Santiago de Compostela, is now faced by many even if only for adventure or personal challenge . Its original length is 800 km , but it can vary by choosing alternative routes or destinations closer to the goal, it already implies a strong predisposition to "physical suffering", typical of walkers who are determined to tackle challenges that require a mix of endurance, courage, curiosity and determination. To make the journey at its best, it is therefore advisable to choose what to bring with you.
Camino de Santiago: what to bring to do it relaxed and safe
The key is to have a good workout base to make the most of the Santiago's walk. They are, therefore, precisely the legs to be the first and most essential "thing" to take with you: legs trained to climb and descend with Average distances of 20-25 km per day , although mostly flat.
Shoes and socks for the Camino de Santiago
Equally important are the feet that will be protected with suitable socks and of good quality, but above all breathable to prevent sweat from baking the skin, making it easier for blisters to form. In addition to the socks you need a pair of hiking boots to walk safer and protect your feet from rain or muddy ground, which you encounter along the way. Sometimes, however, they are considered a bit too tiring if you are not used to wearing them for a long consecutive time. There are those who prefer then Lighter trail shoes , which have a resistant sole for steep, unpaved and stony paths, but also soft to cushion every blow, step by step.
We also recommend a pair of sandals to wear in moments of rest to let your feet breathe flip-flops or slippers for the moment shower (practical and quick to dry, they take up little space).
The ideal clothing for the Camino de Santiago
How to dress to walk the Camino de Santiago? The classic will do just fine trekking clothing ( here we explain how to dress for summer trekking ) , consisting of shorts and long trousers , depending on the weather and made with light materials, to make them easily washable. For those who want to can also buy the 2 in 1 trekking pants or so-called zip-offs : basically long, but thanks to a zip or buttons you can detach the lower part, shortening them comfortably. For the part above, Breathable T-shirts (essential for not sweating), microfleece , and in general waterproof jackets . If you are cold, bring a few more sweatshirts to protect yourself properly or always bet on technical clothing , which can guarantee you the right degree of comfort.
What backpack to take on the Camino (and what to put in it)
For the Santiago's walk it is also fundamental choice of backpack , so that it is truly an aid in the journey and not a load that increases fatigue. A backpack to carry on your shoulder Not should exceed 10% of your body weight and it is essential that it is equipped with a t elo that protects it from rain and of wide, padded and adjustable shoulder straps . Once worn correctly (we explain it here ), the backpack must contain underwear (at least one daily change), spare socks , one sweatshirt or one fleece sweater , one T-shirt , a pant, a k-way , a towel, a pillowcase, a sleeping bag and a pair of flip flops .
Here we explain how to choose the trekking backpack.
Clearly everything is related to scheduled period for the way. The busiest period is usually summer when the weather is drier, the days are longer and, therefore, even the backpack, for the same weight, can hold more things as it is lighter. Some, on the other hand, prefer the spring like ideal season, because temperatures are not extreme and there is less congestion. Finally, do not forget a first aid kit , even if the viable routes are all well served by shops, small supermarkets And pharmacies .
Other useful items for the Camino de Santiago
Other useful items can be there flask or thermos (here the best water bottles and thermos ) , a pair of sunglasses , a capellino and gods trekking poles , excellent if in light alloy and foldable. Useful may be the money belt to keep money and documents, to be worn at the waist or around the neck.
La Compostela
To conclude, in order to be able to flawlessly travel the Santiago's walk not to forget the credentials . They will serve in all hostels for pilgrims / travelers . It is possible to request them directly in the structure from which you start the Way or before the trip at the associations of the "Friends of the Camino de Santiago". Completed the route (at least the last 100 kilometers to Santiago on foot or the last 200 kilometers by bicycle) will allow the pilgrim, once arrived in Santiago, to receive the famous " Compostela ", or the official certificate , which is delivered prior verification of the stamps (affixed to the credentials) issued at all the stopping points of the route. Frame it like a bachelor's degree, it will forever be a well-deserved source of pride for the pilgrim / traveler / adventurer!
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