Pilgrim Tips & Packing List Camino de Santiago: What you need to know beforehand, what you need to take, and what you can leave at home.
Reviews (176)
The complete basic guidebook for planning and initiating your Camino.
There are lots of books about lots of trails, and the Camino is no exception. However, I was just looking for a simple book that describes the Camino in general terms, and the logistics involved if someone wanted to hike part or all of it. This book fit the bill perfectly. Written by someone who not only has hiked this trail, but has also assisted other pilgrims with their successful journeys, it doesn’t have any unnecessary “fluff”. It covers all of the basics, from planning to packing to hiking and living on the trail.
Good book on the basics, A little helpful on my walk.
This is a short, useful book with the occasional clever line or interesting anecdote to help you start preparing for your pilgrimage. Though the information could be found in forums or blogs, here it is gathered together for an easy read. A lot of the information is basic preparation for people who have never done or researched a long-distance hike before. If this is you, this book is for you, just don't buy the paperback like I did. Buy the cheaper kindle version. I do have one problem with the suggestions in this book. I have not hiked The Way before, but I disagree with the author's recommendation for footwear. Hiking boots are heavy! There are many who believe that the support that they provide actually increase the chance of injury from a fall because they restrict natural movement. Also, waterproof shoes never stay dry. They hold in water and sweat, then take forever to dry. This is why people who thru hike places like Pacific Crest Trail tend to wear trail runners now. These running shoes grip well, breathe, dry somewhat quickly, and are super light. The downside is that trail runners don't last as long, but they should last longer than the 780km of The French Way. Perhaps this form of shoe wear is just not popular in Europe yet or at the time the book was written (published in 2013). I'm currently deciding between trail runners and broken in hiking sandals for my walk this summer. This is just my opinion, as the saying goes "hike your own hike." Overall, I recommend that future pilgrims read this. Buen Camino! Update: I noticed on my Camino that most Americans under 30 were wearing trail runners, and were quite happy with them. My feet were happiest with socks and sandals. A great look I know, but hey I'm happy when my feet are happy. I suggest reading the book still. It was useful in prepping for my Camino, just remember to listen to your body and enjoy the journey.
I found this book to be easy to read and I liked the format
I found this book to be easy to read and I liked the format. If you have never backpacked, you will find it very useful. If you are an experienced backpacker and traveler, you probably don't need this book. I agreed with the writer on packing light, but we differed on a few subjects. I found my headlamp to be very useful for packing my stuff. Some pilgrims don't arise till late and it's nice to pack up without turning on the overhead light. Also, do pack a LITTLE emergency food, especially for day 1 if you are going from St. Jean to Rosensvalles. It's a long day and starting out with some snacks is a great idea, as, yes, there ARE stores in Spain, but there are some long stretches without any stores.
Excellent
Thanks for your comprehensive information and advice The book is a great service for the understanding and preparation for the Camino Being a novice peregrine ( 5 Camino ) I appreciate very much you knowledge and support for the future peregrines Again thank you and Good Bless you
Straight forward information, easy read.
It was of importance to me to read a book on the Camino from the perspective of a female just to make sure there wouldn’t be anything I might miss or do incorrectly. The reading style was easy and fun and got me even more pumped up to prepare for and then walk the Camino. Thank you!
Most practical
I have now read at least six books on the topic of walking the Camino de Santiago as I continue to dream of/plan my own pilgrimage. I found this book to be the most helpful so far in terms of practical information.
Practical Down-to-Earth Guide for the Camino de Santiago
Yates and Hnatiuk's guide,
IF YOU ARE EVEN THINKING ABOUT IT, READ THIS BOOK.
reading for the second time. S.Yates has great insight and a honest concern for those with honest questions about walking across Spain. if after reading her book you still have questions, just ask on her forum. she will answer. if you are thinking of doing ANY overnight hiking, anywhere, READ HER BOOK.
Great practical "how-to" guide for any Camino
I found this guide very helpful because it addresses how to pack, how to choose a backpack, footwear, clothing, and all the other items that will be necessary for the Camino de Santiago. It answers many questions that new folks that want to walk The Way would have, like myself. This is not a guide that will show you which route to take, there are many, or what the mileage is between stages but a more practical guide of "how-to" do the essentials, prepare the items that you will need, and what to expect as you walk. Myths are dispelled and a common sense approach is used throughout the book. I love the little anecdotes from other peregrinos (pilgrims) that are sprinkled though the book. It helps to drive the point home to use common sense and pack light. You could find this information in the many forums that are out there but this book makes it so easy to get that same information that I wish I would have had it when I first started researching. It would have saved me a ton of time. Do yourself a favor and buy it. It makes for a great read as it is very informative but not in a dry manner, as sometimes guides can be. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to do their own Camino de Santiago.
Great Beginner's Guide for the Camino!
I got this book after learning about the Camino De Santiago on a travel show. I was immediately in love with the idea of making the trek. It's a great pocket guide to have with you on the way, and very light weight. At this point I am not sure if I will ever get to make the trek, but it is a very informative read nonetheless!
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